Trustees volunteer roles

Chair - Finance and Audit Committee

Community Action Suffolk, CAS is the county’s leading infrastructure organisation for the Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprise (VCFSE) sector.  CAS is currently seeking a Chair for the Finance and Audit Committee.

The role

To provide effective leadership, the Finance & Audit Committee Chair must have a clear understanding of the committee’s duties and responsibilities; be able to commit the necessary time and be available on urgent financial matters.

 The Chair of the Finance and Audit Committee will be supported by a small committee of trustees and Head of Finance.  Meetings are quarterly and held at our office in Ipswich or alternatively online.

Role responsibilities:

• excellent working knowledge of finance and audit practices and internal control functions and risk management  frameworks
• develop understanding of the organisation and its financial structure
• sound judgement and professional scepticism

The person

 This is a role for an experienced qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or similar), who shares our vision and has a proven ability in strong leadership, organisational and financial matters. They will be someone who is motivated, pragmatic and demonstrates sound commercial and business acumen and have the requisite business, financial, communication skills to be the Chair the Finance and Audit Committee. Any knowledge of the insurance industry would be beneficial but not essential.

You will enjoy the opportunity to support an important charity in Suffolk dedicated to improving opportunities for all, ensuring a strong and thriving VCFSE sector and that our county is one where every voice counts to make Suffolk the best place to live and work.

You’ll work collegiately with our trustees and in partnership with our Chief Executive, ensuring strong accountability to the board as a whole. There’ll be scope for professional development as well as personal reward in running the charity. In summary, its an opportunity to make a real difference.

Remuneration

Like most not-for-profit board roles this position is unremunerated, however expenses can be claimed where appropriate.

If you would like an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please contact Belinda Couldridge to arrange a conversation with the Chair of Trustees or the Chief Executive.

 To apply, please provide the following via email:

• A comprehensive CV including details of two referees.
• A supporting statement, explaining how you believe your skills and experience match the requirements of the role description and person specification.

BRANCH TRUSTEE - RETAIL MANAGEMENT (RSPCA OXFORDSHIRE)

We are looking for a volunteer who have expertise in retail management. You will gain new skills and experience as a Branch Trustee whilst enabling us to help more animals.

Overview of the Branch Trustee – Retail Management.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person, who could devote their time to oversee charity shop agreements with another branch and to begin the process of implementing charity shops in our area. 

Alongside passing on your expertise, this opportunity will give you the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental, alongside fellow trustees, in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long term aims.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 1-2 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether the trustee takes on additional duties.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for over 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

Through our numerous campaigns, we seek to raise standards of care, and awareness of issues, affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!

The RSPCA Oxfordshire Branch

The Oxfordshire Branch was founded in 1875, it is one of the branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which is run by our Operations Manager and a team of volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA.

The main activity of our branch is on rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals rescued by the Inspectors from cruelty and neglect, we also to help members of the public with financial assistance for their animals for neutering, microchipping and unexpected veterinary fees.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – Retail and Income Generation

· Assist the Branch Manager in maximising the profitability of the Branch’s three charity shops. 

· Work with the Branch Manager to explore any potential for expanding the retail operation by researching the potential for further charity shops.

· Support the Branch Manager in establishing the Branch’s e-commerce operation via online sales platforms such as eBay.

· Work with other trustees, the Branch health and safety provider and the Branch Manager to ensure the charity shops meet health and safety standards. 

· Explore other ways to generate income for the Branch and work closely with the Branch Manager to put these ideas into action.

Core Branch Trustee responsibilities

· Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.

· Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.

· Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).

· In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.

· Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.

· Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives.

· Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.

· In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer

We are committed to creating a Board which is representative of our society and in particular, our community and surrounding areas so encourage people from any background to apply for any of our opportunities.

Alongside retail operations and income generation experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

BRANCH TRUSTEE – HR & EMPLOYEE RELATIONS

Branch Trustee – HR & Employee Relations (RSPCA Chatham)

This is an exciting opportunity to pass on your human resources and employee relations expertise whilst helping the RSPCA; promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty, reach out to more supporters, and influence how we do things.

Overview of the Branch Trustee - HR & Employee Relations

As a HR & Employee Relations expert you would be supporting the branch by helping them maintain and develop staff throughout the organisation. You would play a key role in advising Trustees on the long-term and strategic direction of human resources and contributing towards policy setting.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

Through our numerous campaigns, we seek to raise standards of care, and awareness of issues, affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!

The RSPCA Medway West Branch

The RSPCA Medway West Branch is one of the branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which is run by volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA, we are currently going through the process of changing our status to CIO.

The main activities of our Branch are:

•  Helping people on benefits and low-income to afford veterinary bill.
•  Providing support for people to neuter their animals.
•  Providing support to the inspectorate to help get animals treated.
• Access to a pet food bank, working alongside local human foodbanks.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – HR & Employee Relations

•  Advise Trustees on the long-term vision and strategic direction for investment in human resources.
• Support the Branch grow, maintain, and develop staff throughout the organisation.
• Contribute to HR policy setting, strategic direction, goal and target setting, and evaluate performance against targets, budgets, plans and charitable objectives.
•  Ensure that HR activities and interventions are linked to the RSPCA Medway West Branches charitable objectives and complement the company culture.
•  Advise on and help improve management of HR.
•  Ensure the Board of Trustees properly remunerates staff, reviewing and rewarding performance and development opportunities.
• To work with the Branch Manager to review current HR management arrangements and provide guidance on HR strategy and short and long-term direction.
• Receive progress reports on HR and any recurring staffing issues.

Core Branch Trustee responsibilities

•  Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).
•  In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
•  Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
•  Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives.
• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
•  In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are committed to creating a Board which is representative of our society and in particular, our community and surrounding areas so encourage people from any background to apply for any of our opportunities.

Alongside Human Resources experience, including a CIPD membership, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee – HR & Employee Relations

•  We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by regional and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
•  A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

Practical considerations

• Please also note that to become a Trustee, you will need to be aged 18 or over and a member of our branch for three months before you are eligible to be elected.
• Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year.
• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and read the Charity Commission’s guidance for individuals on who cannot be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.
• References will also be required.

We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch!

Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need.

About Reall

Reall is an innovator and investor in climate-smart affordable housing for people living on low incomes in urban Africa and Asia.

Reall seeks to improve the lives of under-served households in African and Asian cities by building and increasing access to green, resilient, affordable homes.  We’re doing this because homes aren’t just a fundamental human right; they unleash unimaginable human potential to shape a future of gender parity, climate resilience, clean air, renewable energy, and socio-economic justice.

The Role

· To enter into an engaged and proactive relationship with Reall, providing strategic oversight and leadership across the housing, finance, and emerging markets sectors to drive the achievement of our ambitious goal.

You will have the following skills, knowledge, and experience:

· UK-based senior academic who can significantly enhance our credibility in data and evidence initiatives as well as our broader portfolio.

· Proven experience and success in areas such as climate, gender, financial inclusion,

· Senior academic research, along with a strong alignment with Reall’s values, vision, and mission.

· A minimum of three years’ relevant experience as a board member or trustee in a not-for profit organisation or social enterprise.

· At least three years’ relevant experience working at a senior level in one of the key skills areas identified.

· Experience working in the context of African and/or Asian markets.

· An understanding of and commitment to international development and social enterprise.

· An understanding of the requirements of good governance in a not-for-profit organisation such as Reall.

· An understanding of risk management principles and their applications in managing a business.

· An understanding of good HR and/or organisational development practice.

· An effective communicator to inspire people to engage with Reall’s work.

· An understanding of the impact of diversity and inclusion on corporate performance.

· A commitment to giving the necessary time and effort to engage effectively with the work of Reall.

The successful candidate will be expected to attend their first Board meeting on 22nd September.

Full details are in the job description, person specification and recruitment pack, which are available by clicking through to apply for this role.  Please note that you must have the right to live and work in the UK to be eligible to apply for this role.

Candidates wishing to apply should submit a CV (including comprehensive details of key achievements and responsibilities) along with a covering letter which fully addresses the competencies outlined in the role description and person specification on our website. 

The closing date for applications is 5.00pm on Sunday, 29th June.

We are looking for enthusiastic people to join our trustee committee and help shape and deliver animal welfare in the East and South East London areas.
 

The RSPCA East London and Havering Branch aims to align its core objectives with those of the National RSPCA — specifically: to rescue, rehabilitate, rehome, and protect animals.

The RSPCA East London and Havering Branch CIO (the "Branch") is seeking to appoint new Trustees to join the Branch Trustee Committee. This is an exciting time for the Branch as we aim to grow and enhance our services across East and South East London.

What does the Branch do?

Our Branch covers postcodes within East and South East London (those beginning with E or RM). We operate boarding facilities where we care for, rehabilitate, and rehome cats rescued by RSPCA Inspectors.

We are an independent charity, working in partnership with the National RSPCA, a separate charity. Together, we deliver the RSPCA's mission — focused on frontline animal welfare and community engagement.

As an independent branch, we fundraise and manage our resources independently to deliver animal welfare services. We receive some financial support and guidance on best practices from the National RSPCA to ensure we comply with Charity Commission regulations.

Future Plans

In the coming years, our plans include:

· Developing and executing plans for sustainable income growth 

· Building out our volunteer and supporter network

These plans are continuously reviewed and developed by the Branch Trustees to ensure we focus our efforts on helping as many animals as possible.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds with experience or skills in any of the following areas:

· Accounting

· Marketing and Communications (including social media, PR, websites)

· Fundraising (including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications)

· Local community and supporter engagement

· Charity growth and development

· Veterinary or animal welfare

· Volunteer management

Alongside relevant experience, we’re looking for people who are committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and share our passion for animal welfare. You should be a creative, innovative team player, bring a fresh perspective, and be able to turn ideas into action.

We are particularly interested in hearing from individuals who live or work in the areas we cover (E or RM postcodes), or who can travel to London for Branch meetings and fundraising activities.

What can we offer in return?

We offer all Trustees:

· Support from both the RSPCA team

· A platform to utilise your skills and experience to shape the charity and directly impact local animal welfare

· An opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones while making a real difference

· A chance to expand your professional and personal network by working with like-minded people

Practical Considerations

Please note:

· You must be based in London or can have regular access to London to join our fundraising activities

· You must be aged 18 or over and a UK tax resident to join the Trustee Committee

· You must be a member of our Branch before you are eligible to be co-opted or elected as a Trustee

· Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year

· Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed

· Trustees must sign a Declaration of Willingness to Act and confirm they are not disqualified from being a Trustee (more information is available on the Charity Commission website)

What difference will you make?

As a Trustee, you will:

· Help shape the strategy and direction of the Branch

· Contribute your unique skills and experience to decision-making

· Work as part of a collaborative and motivated team

· Develop your own skills or pass them on to others

Together, we can make a significant impact on animal welfare in our community.

Please include also a cover letter explaining why you are interested in this role and detailing your relevant skills, knowledge, experience, and motivation.

St John Ambulance Cymru has ambitious plans in place and a new strategy. We are seeking a new trustee with experience of Marketing and Communications to join our board.

We require someone with a strong background in marketing and/or communications at a senior level, who understands the challenges of marketing and communications in Wales. This knowledge will support our leadership team in developing and delivering an effective strategy to enhance our brand presence and audience engagement.  An understanding of marketing regulation and governance is key, alongside experience in public relations and digital outreach to ensure that the charity’s message and impact resonate with a wide audience.

In this role you will be helping, supporting and guiding us on our journey, willing to be a strong advocate for the charity and having the skills and expertise to steer the charity towards achieving our strategic priorities. You will also of course live our values of Compassion, Quality, Inclusion and Integrity.

St John - Worldwide

St John is an international charity with 900 years of history that in modern times provides first aid, health care and support services in over 40 countries around the world. Together the 44 Priories make up the Order of St John.

St John - in Wales

St John Ambulance Cymru (SJAC) is an independent Priory within the Order of St John. We are a working Order of Chivalry of the British Crown with His Majesty the King as its Sovereign Head, which is accredited to the United Nations.

We are Wales’ leading first aid charity. Our new 2025-2030 Strategy has the mission of “Wales as a Community of Lifesavers”.In order to do this we have 4 strategic objectives:

1. Experience: We want to be the best volunteering offer in Wales. We want our St John people to have the best experience, training, leadership, and equipment.

2. Maximising the potential of our Children and Young People.

3. Increasing our focus on Community Education.

4.  Making St John more inclusive and sustainable.

We work closely with NHS Wales and the Welsh Ambulance Service University Trust (WASUT), We provide on-site first aid and medical services at events across Wales from local events in your community to international sporting and cultural events.

In order to do this we have around 2000 St John People, a mixture of employees and volunteers as well as around 800 Children and Young People.

For more information and the Trustee Recruitment Pack please visit the St John Ambulance Cymru website.

trustees meet four times a year and treasurer may need a day a month (spread over the month) for finances.

We are seeking an experienced finance professional to provide strategic guidance on treasury management and support the Foundation with long-term financial modelling. The ideal candidate will also be comfortable engaging with the detail, offering practical advice on management accounts, and contributing to robust financial oversight.

As Martingale transitions to an independent charity, we anticipate this role evolving into that of Treasurer, with key responsibilities for year-end accounts and reporting to the Charity Commission. While experience with charity accounts is preferred, it is not essential. Martingale Foundation is currently incubated by Purposeful Ventures, which sets the investment strategy and manages the Foundation’s scholarship funds (approximately £5 million). An external finance consultancy has also been appointed to support financial administration.

When Martingale becomes an independent charity, the Finance Trustee will collaborate closely with the Head of Strategy and Operations to develop an investment strategy that aligns with our organisational goals and mission. The investment decisions will need to maximise the impact of held funds while maintaining a low risk profile to safeguard future Scholarships.

Requirements:

• Experience in senior finance roles
• Professional finance qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA)
• Knowledge of treasury management
• Ability to convey complex financial information to non-finance stakeholders
• Experience of working with a rapidly growing organisation, and building appropriate finance systems 
• Familiarity with grant reporting and donor compliance requirements (desirable) 
• Familiarity with charity accounting and SORP (desirable)

Job Description:

• Advise on Martingale’s budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis, and finance reporting where needed ahead of quarterly Board meetings
• Provide expert advice to the Board on Martingale as a going concern, ensuring Board members without a finance background have a full and fair understanding of the Foundation’s financial status
• Build organisational resilience by supporting long-term financial planning
• Support Martingale in its transition to an independent charity by helping to design an investment strategy and appropriate systems and processes to ensure effective financial controls
• Ensure effective monitoring and management of risk

Your Legacy Starts Here

Become SUNSHINE's Founding Charity/Company Secretary on our Board of Trustees!

This isn't just a volunteer role; it's an invitation to ignite a movement.

SUNSHINE is a brand new, 100% volunteer-run charity, born from a fervent belief that no one should face loneliness alone. We are on the cusp of bringing immense joy, genuine connection, and vital community spirit to countless lives. But to truly shine, we need YOU.

We're looking for a meticulously organised and dedicated individual to join our passionate Board of Trustees as our founding Charity Secretary / Company Secretary – the very architects of SUNSHINE's future. As a founding Trustee, you won't just advise; you'll build, shape, and drive the essential administrative and governance framework of a charity set to transform lives.

This is a challenging, yet incredibly rewarding opportunity to leverage your expertise at a pivotal moment. Imagine the profound satisfaction of knowing your meticulous guidance directly establishes our operational backbone, ensures our legal compliance, and enables our growth, creating a lasting impact on community wellbeing.

We urgently need a Charity Secretary with exceptional organisational skills and a burning desire to make a difference.

Your crucial role will be to:

• Be the backbone of our governance, ensuring meticulous records and efficient board operations from day one.

• Ensure legal compliance with the Charity Commission and other regulatory bodies, safeguarding our charity's future.

• Manage vital administrative processes, from preparing meeting agendas to accurately minuting discussions and decisions.

• Uphold transparency and accountability, providing the structural integrity for SUNSHINE to thrive.

Why step up now? Because this is your chance to be part of something truly special from its very inception. Your administrative leadership will directly enable SUNSHINE to get formally set up, registered, and launch the vital programmes that will change lives by fostering connection and combating isolation.

Are you ready to build a brighter future, one life-changing connection at a time? Are you passionate, dedicated, and committed to taking on this powerful challenge with flexible hours?

Your legacy of robust governance and community impact awaits.

Whether you are an experienced trustee or wanting to take your first step at Board level we would like to hear from you.

What will you be doing?

Cheltenham Almshouses and Aid owns and manages four sets of almshouses in Cheltenham, made up of a number of cottages dating back to 1914, flats (within a conservation area) and a converted large Edwardian house. Many of the properties we own are of older stock and there is a constant challenge to keep the buildings well maintained in line with current regulations whilst continuing to provide comfortable and affordable living. 

The charity aims to provide warm, safe, secure homes at an affordable cost for local people in housing need. Residents range in ages from 55 to 100 years.

Cheltenham Almshouses and Aid is run by a board of voluntary trustees, and administered in accordance with schemes prepared by the Charity Commission. The day-to-day supervision is undertaken by the Clerk (32.5 hours per week) and the Administrator (5 hours per week)  The charity is not registered as social housing.

We are looking for people to join our board of trustees to help take Cheltenham Almshouses and Aid forward.  We would particularly welcome those with experience of finance and investment. 

We have recently built four new wonderful apartments within a conservation area and may possibly in the future look at extending our current stock of properties with more new builds.

We have a healthy balance sheet and would look to new trustees to guide the charity with new investment opportunities.

Many thanks for your time reading this.

What are we looking for?

• Building and conservation, property and maintenance
• Health and Safety within housing
• Finance 
• Leadership 
• Communications and Marketing

What difference will you make?

This is an amazing opportunity to give a small amount of time, whilst knowing you are making a real difference to the lives of our residents. 

With you are on board as a trustee we can ensure that the Almhouses continue for many, many more years, helping those less fortunate by providing safe well maintained homes in wonderful communities, whilst ensuring the long term financial stability, governance of the charity and to help formulate the vision for the future.

Before you apply

Please apply through Reach in the first instance. Interviews will be in person at a convenient location, representatives from the board of trustees will be present with the Clerk.

Federation of Scottish Theatre (FST) have an exciting new opportunity to join their Board of Trustees. In a bold step toward broadening our vision and impact, FST recently updated our governing documents to welcome Non-Executive Directors from outside our membership. This change opens the door to fresh ideas, diverse expertise, and valuable insights from beyond the arts—strengthening FST’s leadership and enriching our work. We are particularly interested in candidates with backgrounds in finance, public policy and research, and legal and/or finance. 

FST are actively working to build a Board and staff team that reflects the richness and variety of the communities we serve, believing that diversity fuels creativity and strengthens leadership. We’re looking for curious, and collaborative thinkers—people who bring different perspectives and challenge the status quo. We particularly welcome applications from people of colour, gender-diverse individuals, disabled people, and others whose voices have historically been underrepresented in our sector. This is a space where your voice matters—and will be heard.  

What’s Involved 

The Board of Trustees work on a voluntary basis and meet four times a year. We welcome candidates from all over Scotland and can facilitate online attendance at meetings as required.   

Role of a Trustee:  

1. To play a key role in the development of the FST vision, contributing to the strategic leadership, sound management and proactive development of the organisation.  

1. To ensure that the FST principles of good and proper governance continue to be upheld, and to fulfil duties and responsibilities in line with the organisation’s Memorandum and Articles of Association.  

1. To ensure that FST protects its future through robust policies, risk management, accounting procedures, internal controls and systems and to ensure that these are audited and reviewed in line with all regulatory and legal requirements.  

1. To attend and contribute to Board meetings and the Annual General Meeting.  

1. To work closely with the Chair and all other Trustees and to advise on major issues to the Board as required.  

1. To work constructively with the Chief Executive, and as appropriate with senior management and the wider staff, to ensure that FST delivers on its core vision, mission and business plan.  

Additional information about the responsibilities of being a Trustee can be found on the website of Scottish Charity Regulator - more information in the job pack.

What We’re Looking For 

We are looking to recruit two Co-opted Board members over the coming months.   

Following a recent review of Board membership, we have identified the need for new Trustees and are looking for candidates with skills and experience in each of the following areas:  

• Financial – Strong financial background, ideally with expertise in charity and not-for-profit accounting and experience working with small charities 

• HR/Legal - Senior level experience in HR and/or the legal landscape surrounding employment with knowledge of of best practices in people management, organisational culture, and employment law—particularly within the charity or arts sector 

• Public Policy and Research - Senior experience in public policy and research, ideally within Scotland. For example, you may have worked on developing policy positions, conducting sector-specific research, or creating tools to influence change at a national or local level 

As well as the skills and experience aligned to one of the two candidate opportunities described above, we expect all Board members to embrace the following qualities :  

1. An understanding of (or willingness to learn) the culture sector  

1. Advocacy experience  

1. Sound analytical and problem-solving skills  

1. Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of colleagues and stakeholders  

1. An understanding of access, inclusion, diversity and equal opportunities issues  

1. Experience of working effectively as part of a team, project group or committee  

1. Good, independent judgment  

1. An ability to think creatively  

1. Awareness of risk and the need to balance ambition with sustainability  

1. Ability to conduct oneself with integrity, objectivity, and honesty  

Recruitment timeline   

The deadline for applications is 10am on Tuesday 22 July 2025.   

You will receive a response from FST by 6pm on Friday 25 July 2025.   

Interviews will be held from w/c 28 July onwards depending on individual candidates' availability.  

About the opportunity

We are seeking committed vegetarians and vegans to join our volunteer board of trustees.

Vegetarian for Life (VfL) is the only UK charity specifically dedicated to supporting older vegetarians and vegans. If you share our belief that all older people should be enabled to maintain their chosen diet and lifestyle, have access to trusted information, and enjoy good quality plant-based food wherever they live, this role may be of interest to you.

Our trustees work with the CEO of VfL and its operational team to ensure strong governance and help realise the strategic aims of this unique and growing charity. Since its formation in 2007, VfL has earned widespread respect for its advocacy, training, and resources that support dignity and choice in later life.

In line with our new Vision for 2030, we are looking to strengthen our board with a new trustee who brings experience of business development and income generation. This role is ideal for someone who understands how values-led enterprise can fuel social change.

We are particularly interested in individuals with experience in:

• Social enterprise or ethical business growth

• Developing new income streams or commercial partnerships

• Consultancy, training, or service-based models

• Scaling mission-aligned products or services

You’ll work alongside a committed board and leadership team as we seek to build VfL’s long-term sustainability – including enhancing our earned income to complement strong reserves and existing financial support.

Experience of charity governance is welcomed but not essential. More important is a strategic mindset, commercial insight, and a strong commitment to VfL’s mission.

The role of trustee is a voluntary one, with expenses paid when incurred in connection with the role. The board meets quarterly, mainly via video conferencing, with at least one in-person meeting annually in Manchester. Meetings are held on Saturdays, with additional (short) discussions scheduled by arrangement when needed.

Our Vision for 2030

Business Development
We will be the go-to resource for those supporting older veg*ns – driving best practice in catering and care. VfL accreditation will be recognised as the mark of excellence, with plant-based options not just available but expected. We will strengthen the skills, confidence, and networks needed to support individuals and communities.

Supporter Services
We will be the trusted first point of contact for older vegetarians and vegans across the UK – offering responsive, personalised support. VfL will empower individuals, foster community, and help shape a broader nationwide shift toward plant-based living at all life stages.

Research and Policy
We envision a future where the rights of older vegetarians and vegans are protected in law, regulation and practice –given equal status to faith-based diets and recognised as central to dignity, identity and person-centred care. VfL will lead in building the evidence base and advancing understanding of the barriers older veg*ns face.

To be considered for this role

You should have the experience outlined above and a passion for VfL’s mission. You should be able to articulate how your skills can help further our strategic aims, especially around enterprise and sustainability.

To apply

Please send a covering letter along with a CV of no more than 2 pages FAO CEO, Amanda Woodvine. We usually offer an informal conversation about the role prior to a formal recruitment process.

Purpose: 

Charity law requires all charity trustees to prepare accounts for their charity. An independent examination is a form of external scrutiny that provides a limited check on specific matters.
Registered and excepted charities with income less than £25k must have an Independent Examination unless the accounts are audited. 

Requirement:

An independent person whom the trustees reasonably believe to have the requisite ability and practical experience to carry out a competent examination of the accounts.
Must be a member of one of the accountancy bodies listed in the Charities Act

Key tasks:

Well verse with Commission’s Directions and guidance as independent Examiner 
To provide an independent scrutiny of the accounts and, in this way, help maintain public trust and confidence in charities.
Ensure; No evidence was found of a lack of accounting records; Nor of the accounts failing to reflect those records; Nor of the accounts failing to comply with the relevant legislation
Liaising with the trustees to ensure the accounting records are available 
Agreeing responsibilities with the trustees, for example, who will prepare the accounts and file them with the Commission
Agreeing a timetable for the examination with the trustees 
Ensuring the examination takes place at a time when trustees and key staff are available to answer any questions that may arise

Key results/objectives:

At the conclusion of the independent examination the examiner makes a report to the charity trustees. Charity law requires the examiner’s report to comment on three specific things: 
the accounting records kept, whether the accounts agree with those records,  and whether the format of the accounts is correct. 

Reporting to: Joy Mason - CEO

Trustee Role

Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Bristol (mix of online, blended in person meetings)

Are you passionate about mental health and wellbeing? Do you want to make a meaningful impact in your community? ​Our client Second Step, a leading not-for-profit organisation rooted in Bristol and operating across the South West of England, now seeking a Trustee to join the Board. ​

Second Step has been promoting mental health and wellbeing for over 30 years, supporting individuals and communities to build brighter futures. ​ They specialize in recovery-focused, trauma-informed services for people with complex needs, including mental health challenges, homelessness, and substance misuse. ​ Their vision is a world where everyone affected by mental health problems can create a positive future. ​

The Role: As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the strategic direction of Second Step, ensuring they deliver high-quality, sustainable services. ​ You will work collaboratively with other Board members to oversee governance, financial planning, risk management, and organisational performance. ​

Who we’re looking for: ​

· Success in contributing to decision making at a strategic level.

· Motivating people to deliver the vision, aims and objectives.

· Senior professional and/or management experience, including business planning and budgeting.

· Experience in mental health delivery at a senior strategic/operational level (desirable)

· Personal experience of using mental health services (desirable)

· From a protected characteristic (desirable)

This is an exciting time to be part of Second Step, as a Trustee, you will have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of those they support while gaining valuable experience in governance and leadership. ​

Time Commitment: Approximately one day per month

Applications are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or religious belief, sex or sexual orientation, gender reassignment, disability or age, and maternity, marital or civil partner status. We particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups.

Further information and an application pack can be requested via email FAO Sandy Hinks or Leighann Beck quoting ref MC2603