Trustees volunteer roles

Refugee Action has spent over 40 years supporting refugees and people seeking asylum to live with dignity and build safe, fulfilling lives in the UK. We stand up for rights, challenge injustice, and work alongside communities to create lasting change. 

Our current strategy is our most ambitious yet. We are delivering innovative services that refuse to compromise on best practice, strengthening and supporting hundreds of community-based organisations, and advocating for systemic change – intentionally led by the voices of people with lived experience. 

We are proud to have a majority of trustees with lived experience of forced displacement, and to be on a continuing journey to embed anti-racism into all we do. The Board is united in its mission, committed to inclusive governance, and determined to meet the challenges of a complex political and funding environment. 

Refugee Action is seeking a new Chair (or Co-Chairs) who can lead the Board into our next chapter – someone with governance experience, sound judgement and a deep understanding of commitment to the rights of refugees and people seeking asylum through their own lived experience of forced displacement. You will work closely with our Chief Executive to steer the organisation through both opportunity and challenge, helping ensure we remain bold, independent and effective in all we do. 

You will be the right candidate if you share our values, can bring your understanding of your own lived experience of forced displacement, and apply this to help shape the future of Refugee Action.  

Closing date: midnight, Sunday 12 October 2025. 

Please note that the deadline for applications has been extended to midnight Sunday 12 October 2025.

We are seeking new Trustees to help guide our next chapter. We are particularly keen to hear from people with experience in fundraising, finance, property, charity management, or with lived experience that reflects the voices of our members. We also warmly welcome applications from younger people, those from UKME/Global Majority Heritage backgrounds, and people with disabilities, who are currently under-represented on our Board. This is a rewarding opportunity to use your skills and insights to strengthen a much-loved community charity and shape its future.

1. About Katherine Low Settlement
Katherine Low Settlement is a much-loved, busy charity that has been at the heart of the
community in Battersea, South West London, since 1924. Our recent-released
documentary, The Heart of Battersea – 100 Years of Katherine Low Settlement, brings our
century of work to life through the voices of members, staff and volunteers.
We support local older people and children, young people and their families from
sanctuary-seeking backgrounds. With an annual turnover of around £1m, our small team
of 32 mostly part-time staff, along with over 120 volunteers run a range of our own
community services. We campaign for social change and we support other charities and
communities to thrive. Our building is used for community activities and events by
over 500 people a week, and our rooms are available for hire at affordable rates. KLS is
funded from supporters, trusts and foundations which enable us to achieve our goal to
reduce poverty and isolation and bring Battersea together.
The Settlement is situated on Orville Street and Battersea High Street and aims to serve
the communities of SW11 and SW8, which includes areas of significant deprivation
alongside some of the most prosperous neighbourhoods in the country. Its vision is to
bring people together, to discover a common humanity in the process and to work together
for some of the most vulnerable people in London.

2. The Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees is the legal guardian of Katherine Low Settlement to ensure that
KLS complies with its governing document (Memorandum and Articles of Association),
charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
The Board of Trustees is responsible for directing the Settlement’s strategy and vision, for
overseeing the work of its Chief Executive and Staff, and for settling policy, administering
its finance and offering advice and support in the delivery of services. The board is
currently made up of seven serving members, and has vacancies for up to three new
Trustees, to a maximum of ten. Trustees are appointed by the Annual General Meeting for
a period of three years, renewable by mutual agreement.
Gaps we’re looking to fill
The Trustees have identified gaps in its membership in terms of experience of fundraising,
finance, property, charity management and the voice of Settlement members. The board
also recognises that it lacks diversity and lived experience, particularly in representation by
UKME/Global Majority Heritage people, younger people and those with disabilities. Most of
all we are looking for willing and able trustees who are aligned with our vision, mission and
values and who are committed to this local community of Battersea.

3. Key Responsibilities of Trustees
Trustees are expected to:
▪ Formulate and review regularly the strategic aims of the Settlement in accordance with
its legal objects, and to ensure the policy and practices of the Settlement are in keeping
with its aims.
▪ Monitor the performance of the charity against the agreed strategic aims.
▪ Ensure that the Settlement functions within the legal and regulatory requirements of a
charitable organisation and strives to achieve best practice.
▪ Act as guardians of the charity’s assets, tangible and intangible, taking all due care
over their security, deployment and proper application.
Within that broad responsibility, shared among the Trustees, the main tasks and
accountabilities include:
a) Formulating and reviewing strategic aims
▪ Ensure the Settlement has a clear vision, mission and strategic plan, and that there is a
common understanding of these by Trustees and management.
▪ Work with management to formulate the business, operational and other plans
necessary to support the vision, mission and strategic objectives.
▪ Agree and review the Chief Executive’s annual and longer-term objectives, to ensure
that these support the vision, mission and strategic priorities.
▪ Agree policies which support the vision, mission and strategic priorities of the
Settlement, and monitor their implementation.
▪ Follow best practice as recommended by the Charity Commission.
b) Monitoring Performance
▪ Appoint the Chief Executive and ensure there is appropriate investment in their
professional development.
▪ Agree the method for measuring objectively the progress of the Settlement in relation
to its vision, mission and strategic priorities, business plans and annual targets, and to
receive regular reports from the Chief Executive and senior staff on the performance of
the Settlement.
▪ Ensure that the views of members on the Settlement’s performance are regularly
gathered and considered by the Board.
▪ Hold the Chief Executive to account for the management and administration of the
Settlement.
▪ Ensure that the Chief Executive receives regular, constructive feedback on their
performance in managing the Settlement and in meeting annual and longer term goals.
c) Legal and Regulatory Compliance
▪ Ensure that the Settlement complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.
▪ Has a sound grasp and awareness of its duty of care in safeguarding and that policy
and practice are aligned to make the Settlement a safe place for members, especially
children and vulnerable adults.
▪ Understand the rules and constitution that govern the Settlement, and to review the
effectiveness of such rules and constitution periodically.
▪ Agree the levels of delegated authority, whether to the Chief Executive, the Chair, ViceChair and Treasurer of the Board, or to other groups or individuals.
d) Guardians of the Settlement’s Assets
▪ Ensure that the Settlement has satisfactory control systems and procedures for holding
in trust for the beneficiaries all monies, property and other assets.
▪ Ensure that monies which are invested on behalf of the Settlement are well-managed,
within the constraints of the law and ethical and other policies laid down by the Board.
▪ Ensure that the major strategic and operational risks to which the Settlement is
exposed are reviewed annually and that systems have been established to mitigate
these risks.
▪ Ensure that the income and property of the Settlement are applied for the purposes set
out by law and for no other purpose, and with complete fairness between people who
are eligible to benefit.
▪ Ensure that intangible assets such as organisational knowledge and expertise,
intellectual property and the Settlement’s good name and reputation are properly
safeguarded.
e) Promotion of the Settlement and Engagement with Stakeholders
▪ Be prepared to act as an ambassador for the Settlement when asked to by the Chief
Executive or Chair of Trustees, and to work within an agreed brief.
▪ Attend events as an ambassador for the Settlement, to network and promote the work
of the Settlement.
▪ Seek at all times to raise awareness of the work of the Settlement to potential
beneficiaries.
▪ Assist with fundraising and awareness-raising through appropriate speaking and
networking events, with support and training as appropriate.
4. Recruiting Trustees with particular experiences
As part of a regular process of self-audit, the Trustees have identified a particular need to
recruit Trustees with experience of:
▪ Fundraising – from the perspective of either charitable trusts or high net worth
individuals or both, to help maximise our chances of success in fundraising activities
▪ Finance – to be a second finance Trustee, in addition to the Treasurer
▪ Property and general management – to help us to maintain, refurbish and develop
plans for our historic building
▪ Charity experience – to bring knowledge of financial and operational management in
that sector
▪ Lived experience - Ensuring the perspective of volunteers, members and alumni is
represented in decision making
Although the Board is very effective, it lacks significant diversity, which diminishes its
capacity to be even more effective. The Trustees would therefore particularly welcome
interest from those from UKME/Global Majority Heritage backgrounds, younger people and
people with disabilities, all of which are under-represented on the Board.

5. Person Specification
Expressions of interest are invited, in writing, with examples of experience in these areas :

Essential Experience & Skills

• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
• Ability to contribute to the strategic vision and direction of KLS
• Ability to work as an active and vocal part of the Trustee board
• Effective communicator – both verbal and written 
• Willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries 
• Committed to KLS’s mission, vision and values and its work 
• Knowledge of Battersea / Wandsworth

No prior experience is needed. Full training and support will be given.

6. Further Information

• Katherine Low Settlement is committed to equal opportunities.
•  All offers to volunteer at Katherine Low Settlement are subject to two satisfactory references, which is standard KLS policy applicable to all roles. KLS may ask for an enhanced DBS check.
• You will adhere to matters of confidentiality concerning this role and the KLS team.
•  An induction is given. This includes sharing KLS policies and procedures relevant to each post. 

National Ugly Mugs (NUM) is seeking people with a passion for sex workers’ rights and
safety to join our Board of Trustees.

About NUM and the role of trustees
NUM is a UK-wide charity working with sex workers to end all forms of violence against them. We design and deliver safety tools, carry out research, and provide specialist support services for people in adult industries. We serve sex workers of all genders, ages, abilities, cultures, and modes of work. Our secure digital reporting and alerting system warns communities about dangerous individuals, while our experiential support staff and trained Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) offer one-to-one, trauma-informed advocacy. We ensure sex workers have the information and resources they need to make informed choices about their lives.

Our wellbeing drop-in service (first launched in Glasgow) has now expanded to Manchester and London, alongside the addition of our dedicated vocational support programme for people looking to transition, diversify, or leave sex work. Our racial justice programme reclaims narratives on sex work and race through in-depth conversations, research, and collaborations between racialised sex workers and anti-racist activists, focusing on experiences across five key areas of public life. We conduct research, deliver education packages for professionals, and advocate for policy change to improve safety, rights, and recognition for sex workers across the UK.

We place lived experience at the heart of all services and decision-making, ensuring our
work reflects the needs, priorities, and expertise of the communities we serve.

Trustees at NUM play a vital role in helping us fulfil our core mission of ending all forms of violence against sex workers. They support NUM as an organisation and the members of the NUM team by providing support, advice and guidance through our day-to-day operations and the overall strategic vision of the charity. Some of that takes place at quarterly trustee meetings, where the CEO reports on NUM’s work and brings decisions and choices to the board for discussion and advice, and some takes place between meetings when individual trustees have skills or experience that can support team members and have the time to take on a supportive or mentoring role. Our current trustees bring with them a wide range of
experience from sex worker organising and advocacy, media and public engagement,
campaigning and social justice, academia, finance, and other aspects of the third sector.
They also oversee legally required duties such as approving the annual report, reviewing
risks and finances, and ensuring the charity complies with the law and meets its charitable
objectives.
Trustee roles are voluntary positions. However, NUM will pay for any reasonable expenses incurred as part of the role.

Who we’re looking for
The most important thing is that you believe in NUM’s work and want to join us to help us
continue this. We need people willing to volunteer their time to shape our practice and our services, and guide the charity as we continue to meet the needs of sex workers across the UK.

We particularly welcome applications from those with:

• Lived experience within sex worker communities
• Legal expertise (particularly relating to organisations, governance, and charity law)
• HR expertise (including recruitment, compliance, and employment law)
• Fundraising and income generation expertise

This experience may come from trustee roles, management positions in third-sector organisations, or other relevant voluntary or lived experience. You don’t need prior trustee experience — what matters most is commitment, skills, and a willingness to learn.

We value skills, competencies, and lived experience over job titles, and encourage applicants to draw on the full range of their background — including voluntary roles or sex work-based examples from their working history. We are looking for people who understand the realities of working within a charity and who can bring fresh ideas, insight, and expertise to support NUM’s mission.
If you don't have the specific skills listed above but believe you could contribute in other ways, we’d be happy to hear from you — please get in touch to discuss.

We are looking for Trustees who are proactive and solutions-focused. Individuals who, when they see a challenge, are willing to take the lead in mobilising others and driving practical action. Someone who doesn’t wait to be asked, but steps in with energy, clarity and a positive mindset to help move things forward collectively for NUM and in the pursuit of our
charitable goals.

Other skills and attributes that we would like from any prospective trustees are:

• A strong commitment to the mission and core values of NUM
• A high degree of integrity
• The ability to think strategically and plan for the future with good judgement
• Critical thinking skills
• Creativity
• The ability to work well as part of a team to collectively make decisions surrounding
• NUM’s future work, vision and strategy
• A willingness to undertake any necessary training
• An understanding of safeguarding
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of being a charity trustee

We know that great boards bring together a mix of perspectives, skills, and experiences - both lived and learned. We’re especially keen to hear from people whose voices are often underrepresented in leadership, including (but not limited to) people with experience in the sex industry, people of colour, LGBTQIA+ people, disabled people, people under 30 years old, and those from working-class backgrounds. If you care about our mission and meet the core criteria, please consider applying - even if you don’t tick every single box.

The responsibilities of trustees at NUM include:

• Attend four regular board meetings a year (online and/or in person)
• Advise on, and help develop, organisational strategy and delivery, including policies that fall within your expertise
• Ensure compliance with governing documents and the law
• Ensure accountability to funders, NUM members and wider movement
• Maintain proper fiscal oversight, signing off and scrutinising reporting against budgets
• Oversee the management of risks to NUM’s funding, reputation and delivery
• Exemplify NUM’s values and culture through ways of working and interacting
• Maintain effective board performance (including appointing new board members)
• Effectively work with, and respect the expertise of the NUM staff and volunteer team

We estimate that the role will require approximately 1–2 days per month, including quarterly meetings and some responsiveness between these. The standard term for a Trustee is 3 years.

Are you passionate about supporting young people and giving back to your community?

Whether you have experience in fundraising, governance, building corporate partnerships, or simply a willingness to get involved and make a difference – we’d love to hear from you! 

About us 

We’re part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, a national youth organisation empowering 12- to 20-year-olds through flying, adventure training, sports, and leadership development. 

West Mercian Wing supports over 900 cadets across 27 Squadrons in Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, the Black Country, and overseas in Cyprus. 

Each squadron has a committee, a team of trustees who support the squadron by overseeing governance, fundraising, and building community partnerships. Trustees are vital in ensuring squadrons can continue providing incredible opportunities for cadets. 

Squadrons in this sector 

• 124 (Hereford City) Squadron, Suvla Barracks Army Reserve Centre, Harold Street, Hereford, Herefordshire, HR1 2QX
• 1002 (Ross-on-Wye) Squadron, Alton Lane, Ross on Wye, Herefordshire, HR9 5NB 
• 151 (Leominster) Squadron, 115 Bridge Street, Leominster, Herefordshire, HR6 8DZ 

Why become a trustee? 

Volunteering as a trustee isn’t just about helping others - it’s about growing yourself too! 

• Gain valuable experience in leadership, governance, and fundraising. 

• Expand your network and become part of a supportive team. 

• Make a lasting difference to young people in your community. 

• Shape the future of an organisation with a rich legacy. 

What’s involved? 

Meetings are structured but friendly, typically every three months for around two hours. A typical agenda includes: 

• Updates from the Chairperson, Treasurer, and Squadron Commander 

• Funding requests and financial decisions 

• Future planning, upcoming events, and key priorities 

• Opportunities to contribute based on your skills and interests 

Beyond meetings, involvement is flexible depending on your availability and expertise. 

What we’re looking for 

We welcome all backgrounds and skill levels, but we’d particularly love to hear from those with experience in: 

• Fundraising 

• Governance & charity compliance 

• Corporate partnerships 

No military background or youth work experience is required—just enthusiasm, reliability, and a passion for making a difference! 

Opportunities for progression 

Trustees can take on leadership roles within their squadron, support squadrons at sector or wing level, or even contribute to regional and national RAF Air Cadets governance. Some trustees also transition into squadron volunteer roles, working directly with cadets. 

To join us, you’ll need to 

• Be 20 years or older 

• Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years 

• Attend an evening meeting every three months (varies by squadron) 

• Bring enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to support young people. 

Typical joining process: 

1. Submit an expression of interest. 

2. We’ll invite you to visit your chosen squadron to learn more. 

3. Complete a simple online application if invited. 

4. Undergo a DBS and background check. 

This process usually takes a few weeks, depending on availability and checks. 

Ready to make an impact? 

If you’re excited about supporting young people and helping your local squadron thrive, we’d love to hear from you!

Chair of Trustees – School Library Association
Location: Remote, with occasional in-person events
Time commitment: One day per week
Term: 3-year term (term renewable once; a maximum of six years)

Remuneration: Voluntary (expenses reimbursed)
Deadline to apply: 25th September

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for reading and equity in education? Do you want to help shape the future of school libraries and support the next generation of readers?

This is a pivotal moment for the School Library Association (SLA). With a new CEO, a refreshed staff team, and bold plans to launch a new organisational strategy, we are looking for a dynamic and ambitious Chair of Trustees to join us.

We punch well above our weight as a small national charity with big ambitions. You will be joining at a time of transformation, as we strengthen our funding pipeline, build corporate and strategic partnerships, and grow our visibility on the national stage. We recently represented the SLA at Downing Street for the Government’s Year of Reading, and the opportunity to drive systemic change in support of school libraries has never been greater.

We are looking for a Chair who:

• Brings strategic leadership and sound financial oversight
• Can support and challenge the CEO in equal measure
• Has strong relationship-building skills and ambassadorial presence
• Is excited to help shape a new strategy and governance structure
• Shares our passion for reading, education, and inclusion

If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you.  Download the recruitment pack and apply by 25th September 2025.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that ESS Education and Support Services achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that ESS Education and Support Services has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable ESS Education and Support Services to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Duties:

· Support and provide advice on ESS Education and Support Service’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

· Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

· Oversee ESS Education and Support Service’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

· Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

· Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

· Review and approve ESS Education and Support Services’ financial statements.

· Provide support and challenge to ESS Education and Support Services’ CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

· Keep abreast of changes in ESS Education and Support Services’ operating environment.

· Contribute to regular reviews of ESS Education and Support services’ own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

· Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect ESS Education and Support Service’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

· Contribute to the broader promotion of ESS Education and Support Services objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge, and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when the trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

What we are looking for

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

ESS Education and Support Service are looking for Trustees from the following backgrounds: Legal, Financial.

Personal skills and qualities

· Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.

· Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.

· Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.

· A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

· Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

· Willingness to lead according to our values.

· Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Terms of appointment

Terms of office

· Trustees are appointed for a 3 year term of office, renewal for 2 further terms to a maximum of 9 years.

· This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Time commitment

· Attending 6 Board meetings annually. Currently meetings are held virtually.

· Attending charity events and other such commitments.

We are looking for new Trustees at Jessie May who share our passion and values, and who can bring expertise, insight and challenge to support our future.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Jessie May achieves its core purpose. They provide leadership, overseeing management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that Jessie May has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable the organisation to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission of, 'Providing the very best care and support possible, at home, for children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions and their whole families – for the whole journey in life, at the end of life, and in bereavement.'

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

DUTIES

• Support and provide advice on Jessie May’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

• Approve operational strategies and policies, monitor and evaluate their implementation.

• Oversee Jessie May’s financial plans and budget, monitor and evaluate progress.

• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

 • Ensure that key risks are continually identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

 • Review and approve Jessie May’s financial statements.

 • Provide support and challenge to Jessie May’s CEO and the senior leadership team in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

 • Keep abreast of changes in Jessie May’s operating environment.

 • Contribute to regular reviews of Jessie May’s own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

 • Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Jessie May’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.

• Contribute to the broader promotion of Jessie May’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when the trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

A basic level DBS check is required for this post, in addition to two references. Jessie May is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.  We are particularly interested in hearing from people who have lived experience related to the services we provide to families.

We are looking for a Trustee who is passionate about arts and social justice, who wants to make a difference and is able to compliment our Board of Trustees, Artistic Director, and Executive Director as we work together to develop the impact and profile of Cardboard Citizens.

We are looking for strategic thinkers and committed collaborators who are passionate about the arts and social justice.

We especially welcome those who can bring lived or professional experience in areas such as communications, campaigning, public engagement, fundraising, or media- skills that will help us grow our public profile and deepen the impact of the stories we tell.

We believe that the need for Cardboard Citizens is as urgent as it ever has been with the current external environment and the challenges for our communities with experience of homelessness and poverty.

Whilst we'd like to hear from applicants from a range of backgrounds and experiences, we are particularly keen to hear from those with skills in any of the following areas:

• Digital, New Media
• Communications / public relations
• Environment & Sustainability
• Development
• Strategic partnerships

The general attributes we're looking for in a potential Trustee include:

• Good judgement
• An ability to think creatively and strategically
• An ability to collaborate and work as part of a team
• Effective interpersonal skills
• An active commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion
• An ability to command trust and respect
• An understanding and acceptance of a Trustee's legal duties and responsibilities
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort required.

Trustees will be required to:

• To serve an initial term of 4 years, with the possibility of re-appointment until 8 consecutive years' service has been reached.
• To attend 4 x 2-hour Board Meetings a year, committee meetings as required, as well as an annual Away Day.
• To attend events, performances, workshops and other engagements, to gain a full experience of the breadth of Cardboard Citizens work.
• To sit on one of the Board's Committees.
• To provide specialist advice and expertise as required and appropriate.
• To advocate and champion Cardboard Citizens' work, values, ambition, and strategic direction.

Challengers Trustee

Join Challengers as a Trustee

Make a real impact in the lives of disabled children and young people.

Challengers is seeking three enthusiastic, committed individuals to join our Board of Trustees. We’re particularly interested in candidates with experience in:

· Governance

· Digital marketing & media

· Business strategy or finance

· Medical background

Most importantly, we’re looking for people who believe in inclusion and the power of play.

About Us
Challengers is a charity dedicated to providing inclusive play opportunities for disabled children and young people. Founded in 1979, we remove barriers to play, support families through respite, and build supportive communities. Our vision is a world where all children can play together freely.

Your Role as Trustee
You’ll contribute to the strategic direction and governance of Challengers, ensuring we deliver our mission effectively. You’ll work with a passionate Board and Senior Leadership Team.

Key Responsibilities

• Uphold and support the mission, values, and strategic aims of Challengers.
• Contribute actively to Board discussions and decision-making with independent judgment and strategic insight.
• Support and challenge the Chief Executive and leadership team to deliver the charity’s objectives effectively.
• Champion the work of Challengers externally by attending events and acting as an ambassador.
• Ensure legal, financial, and regulatory compliance as outlined in the Charity Commission’s guidance for trustees.
• Engage with and support the implementation of projects and initiatives.

Time Commitment

· 4 early evening Board meetings per year (in person)

· Participation in 1 sub-committee (4 meetings per year)

· Attendance at the AGM and at least one event annually

This is a voluntary, unpaid position, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Leadership and governance of a grant-making trust which supports communities in Luton and also causes that benefit children and young people in the rest of the UK

What will you be doing?

Are you passionate about improving the outcomes of disadvantaged children and young people across the UK?  Are you interested in supporting the communities and local organisations of Luton?

The Steel Charitable Trust really wants to hear from people who are enthusiastic, have a philanthropic mindset and a willingness to involve themselves in aspects of charitable work that they may or may not currently know much about.

The Steel Charitable Trust is looking for a new Trustee to help provide the governance and leadership needed as we roll out our new five-year strategy. Suitable candidates are likely to have skills in all or some of the following, gained through professional or voluntary experience:

• governance
• strategic development and planning
• general/operations management

The role does not offer remuneration, but all necessary expenses are reimbursed.

The Trust has two grant-making strands (each of them accounting for about 50% of its annual grant giving):

• Luton Matters: designed to bring benefits to Luton and its residents, in recognition of the Trust's roots in Luton; expressions of interest are invited for this strand, and Trustees select which organisations will be invited to make a full application.
• UK Under-26: supporting charities that work with young people up to the age of 25 in any part of the UK except Luton. The UK Under-26 strand is moving to a by invitation only model in 2026. 

Trustees with lived experience of the causes the Trust currently supports or the challenges faced by the town of Luton and its varied communities are also most welcome.

The Steel Charitable Trust is an endowed UK-registered charity (272384) that makes grants of around £1.4m a year, to UK-registered charities and for charitable purposes.  The Trust is committed to good governance and seeks to reflect the UK's diverse and multicultural society.  Since its foundation in 1976 the Trust has given £37 million in grants to charities across the UK. Its website contains a full history of the Trust including its strong connection to Luton.

What are we looking for?

Applicants should be able to demonstrate experience of leadership and decision-making. More details are available in the role description.

The following qualities are key to being a good Trustee:

• a willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
• a commitment to the organisation
• an understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship 
• strategic vision
• good, independent judgement and integrity
• an ability to think creatively
• the ability to read and understand management reports
• the ability to research and ask probing questions
• a willingness to speak their mind
• being comfortable in a decision-making environment where often a consensus needs to be reached from differing views
• the ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• organised and self-motivated
• general competence using IT 

What difference will you make?

Not only do Trustees make the key decisions in the strategic direction of the Trust, they also actively take part in grant-making decisions, connecting them directly with organisations that deliver work on the ground.

Before you apply

Please apply through Reach in the first instance, highlighting your relevant experience and what interests you about the role. If longlisted, you may be asked to complete a short application form so that we can bring together candidates from various platforms.

First interview date for long-listed candidates (on Teams): Friday 3 October 2025; Interview date for short-listed candidates (in London): Monday 13 October 2025

Join Us as a Trustee – Shape the Next 20 Years of Impact

Next year, Dorset Reading Partners proudly celebrates 20 years of transforming lives and making a real difference to the young people that we support on an on-going basis. Over two decades, we’ve achieved considerable success in helping young people develop their love of reading and schools see tangible improvement in their literacy results. Now, as we mark this milestone, we’re embarking on an exciting new chapter. With ambitious plans for growth, innovation, and deeper impact, we are looking for inspiring new Trustees to join our Board.

As a Trustee, you will:

• Play a vital role in guiding our strategy and vision for the future.
• Bring fresh perspectives and skills to help us evolve and thrive.
• Champion our mission and ensure we continue to deliver lasting change.

We’re seeking people who are passionate about our cause, committed to good governance, and excited to help shape what the next 20 years will look like. Whether you bring expertise in finance, marketing, fundraising, or digital innovation, or, simply a deep belief in our mission, your contribution will matter. If you want to be part of a charity at a pivotal moment—honouring our past while shaping a bold future - we’d love to hear from you.

This is a voluntary role - but the rewards of making a difference are priceless.

Ideally, we would like to receive expressions of interest by 30th September 2025, but we will always welcome future contact. 

Support inclusive spirituality, education, and compassionate leadership

OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation is a registered educational charity, founded in 1996, that promotes inclusive spirituality and serves people of all faiths, and none. We train open-hearted adults to serve their communities as interfaith ministers, celebrants, and spiritual companions, supporting life’s important moments through ceremony, ritual, and compassionate care.

Organisational purpose

To benefit the public by the education of mature adults in:

• the core principles of the world’s religions, faiths, and spiritual traditions;

• principles and methods of forgiveness, reconciliation and peace-making;

• and the practice of non-denominational spiritual and pastoral service in the community.

Our Vision

is a world in which humanity awakens into an inclusive global spirituality that encompasses us all in the field of love and life.

Our Mission

is to work towards evolving consciousness in the world, by facilitating open-hearted people to awaken to inner leadership and their capacity for forgiveness, reconciliation, and peace-making.

We are currently seeking new Trustees to join our Board and help shape the future of our organisation. We're especially interested in individuals with experience in marketing, legal affairs, HR, adult education, fundraising, finance, or IT.

This is a meaningful opportunity to:

• Help guide an organisation where spiritual exploration meets learning, where inclusive communities flourish, and where people are supported to offer spiritual care with courage, compassion, and understanding.

• Contribute your professional skills in a nonprofit trustee role aligned with your values

• Help grow an organisation at the intersection of education, spirituality, and social transformation

What We’re Looking For:

We welcome applications from individuals with experience in any of the following areas:

• Marketing, communications, or branding

• Charity law or legal compliance

• Fundraising, development, or grant-writing

• Finance, accounting, or business planning

• Human Resources or organisational development

• Education or curriculum development

• Interfaith ministry, chaplaincy, or spiritual direction

That said, please don’t be discouraged if you don’t tick every box. If you feel inspired by our values and can uphold our Code of Ethics, we warmly encourage you to apply or get in touch for a conversation! 

You do not need to be a OneSpirit minister or graduate, we welcome interest from both alumni and the wider community.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a values-led, inclusive team committed to compassion and transformation

• Support a charity making a meaningful impact in spiritual education and interfaith work

• Develop new skills in nonprofit governance and strategic leadership

• Connect with a thoughtful, heart-centred network of trustees, staff, and ministers

Commitment to Inclusion:

We believe our strength lies in the richness of our differences. We are wholeheartedly committed to building a Board that reflects the diverse communities we serve, across race, gender, age, sexuality, ability, culture, faith, identity, background, and lived experience.

Whether your path has been traditional or unconventional, whether you’re seasoned in governance or bringing your voice to a boardroom for the first time, you are welcome here.

If you feel called to contribute, we would be honoured to hear from you.

Interested in Joining Us? 

At OneSpirit, there are many ways to contribute to a more compassionate and connected world. Whether through leadership, service, or spiritual growth, your presence makes a difference.

If you feel drawn to our mission and want to offer your time, wisdom, and heart to OneSpirit’s future, we’d love to hear from you. 

You can learn more about our team, our work, and our organisation on our website.

Curious about the training we offer? Come and train with an organisation committed to spiritual exploration, nurturing inclusive communities of care, and creating spaces where understanding and belonging can flourish. Explore the Cherry Tree Pathway, our two-year ministry and spiritual development training, and begin your journey today. Learn more about our training from our website.

We currently have a vacancy for a Trustee on the Board of the Mosaic Learning Trust, based in Standish, Wigan.

Our Trust comprises three schools across Wigan and Lancashire. We’re looking for someone passionate about making a genuine difference to children’s education and school experience.

Our Board brings together professionals from a wide range of backgrounds – whether your expertise lies in Human Resources, Marketing, Legal Services, Community Engagement, or another sector, your skills could help shape the future of our schools and improve outcomes for all our students. Prior experience in education isn’t necessary, as we provide full training and support.

This is a voluntary role, and we welcome interest from anyone who feels they have the skills and time to contribute. Being a Trustee is both rewarding and impactful – it’s a meaningful way to give back to the local community while developing valuable board-level experience.

Emmaus Norfolk and Waveney is a local and impactful homelessness charity which provides, for up to 52 people (companions) who have been homeless and experienced the trauma this can cause, with a home, meaningful employment and subsequently the ability to make equitable life choices and take action towards living authentic, settled, healthy and fulfilling lives in the wider community. 

We are one of 29 Emmaus Communities across the U.K. which form part of Emmaus UK, which is a federated charity and in turn part of the wider Emmaus International Movement. 

Our current Chair of Trustees is due to come to the end of their term in the middle of next year and we are looking to appoint a Chair (Designate) to takeover and lead the delivery of our ambitious strategic plan. 

We are committed to diversity and equality and are a secular organisation and warmly encourage applications from all faiths, ethnicities, abilities, sexual orientations and gender identities.  Above all we are currently looking for applicants who are passionate about helping and developing others and would warmly welcome people with lived experience of homelessness.  We are particularly interested in applicants who have experience in one or more of the following areas of expertise: 

• P.R., fundraising and building effective partnerships. 
• Social housing and benefits. 
• Leading customer facing enterprises. 
• Managing social care, support and mental health services.

Your primary role will be to provide sound governance to our charity and working with the Board of Trustees, C.E.O., committed management team and companion representatives, set its strategic direction and oversee its delivery, whilst ensuring adherence with its charitable objectives, purpose, values and governing documents. 

In return you will get the satisfaction of seeing and helping people develop their ambitions, increase their self-esteem and make a positive contribution to the wider society.  You will also gain valuable experience in charity governance and strategic leadership together with opportunities for personal and professional development 

Full induction training will be provided, together with reasonable travel expenses. 

We are located in the tranquil South Norfolk countryside and any in-person meetings that are required will normally be held at our Ditchingham site. 

The time commitment is approximately 10-12 hours per month, including attendance at meetings.