Trustees Volunteer Roles

Home-Start Portsmouth is looking for a new Chairperson to lead our Board of Trustees and contribute to the development and success of the charity.

Home-Start Portsmouth supports families with young children through their most challenging times. Our vision is a world where no parent feels alone in the critical task of raising children.

The charity is part of the Home-Start UK federation of more than 80 Home-Starts.

Through our expert staff team and local community of more than 100 trained volunteers, we offer practical and emotional support to parents and families by spending time in their homes, running parenting programmes and offering stay and play groups, and school-readiness programmes in the community.

In 2022-23, we supported 1,394 families through projects and community groups, and 788 children. Our volunteers delivered almost 17,000 hours of support to families.

It's an exciting time to join the charity as, this year, we are on target to triple income, have doubled the staff team and are offering services to many more families in the city.

The role

We are looking for a strong and passionate Chair to lead and enable the Board of Trustees at Home-Start Portsmouth (made up of eight Trustees and CEO).

You will support us in developing and delivering a focused and robust rolling three-year business plan, to deliver on all governance requirements, and to be a highly visible member of the community.

Find out more

Please see the information document for a full role and person specification.

Home-Start Portsmouth supports a diverse range of families across the city, and we are keen to diversify our Board to reflect the families we support. We actively seek and encourage applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) individuals, and men, as we are underrepresented in these areas.

If you have the experience we are looking for, and want to get involved in something meaningful locally, we'd love to hear from you.

For a conversation about the role or to express your interest, please contact Home-Start Portsmouth Trustee Iain Cooper before 29 February 2024.

Belong is an established, award-winning criminal justice charity with a vision of hope, rehabilitation and recovery for survivors and perpetrators of crime. We work with multiple stakeholder organisations to develop a more humane and effective criminal justice system. Through engaging with our mentoring, restorative justice, psychotherapy and training interventions, individuals and communities achieve positive, lasting change.

Belong wishes to appoint a new Chairperson to our Board of Trustees. We invite applications from individuals experienced in criminal justice and organisational leadership, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

As the Chairperson of our Board you will be passionate about Belong’s vision and motivated to help drive Belong forward on its mission. An organised, energetic and reliable leader, you will support the Board of Trustees and CEO to realise the highest vision for Belong’s success. A fluent and persuasive communicator, you will represent the organisation publicly as well as internally and build relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders. You will be familiar with financial and risk management processes for medium to large organisations.

The role of Chairperson is a voluntary, non-executive appointment. The role requires a commitment of approximately two days per month, with the capacity to flex upwards should the need arise.

Belong fosters an inclusive and welcoming culture where all aspects of diversity are key to the charity’s success. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, lived experience of the criminal justice system and from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds.

Belong’s Values

Inspiration - Genuinely believing that people can change, heal, and rehabilitate. Focusing on individual’s strengths and abilities. Role modelling evidence-based practice amongst other professionals.

Respect - Accepting people as they are. Being consistent, open and honest with people. Challenging harmful beliefs and behaviour.

Empowerment - Giving people the skills to move forward and take ownership of the future. Enabling people to talk about their experiences. Encouraging people to voice their needs and set goals.

Perseverance - Providing long term support when this is needed. Working through setbacks with people. Understanding that lasting change takes time.

Restoration - Restoring hope and self-worth Re-building relationships. Promoting a culture of hope within criminal justice systems.

Chairperson Role, Responsibilities and Attributes

The Chairperson leads the Board of Trustees and sets its agenda in consultation with the CEO. Their role is to enable Trustees to fulfil their responsibilities for overall governance, risk management and strategic direction. The Trustee Board is responsible for proactively engaging with and understanding Belong, its service users and the wider criminal justice landscape. Trustees must always uphold the best interests of Belong’s service users, ensuring that the charity achieves its charitable aims whilst abiding by charity law and other relevant regulations. The Chairperson supports and empowers the CEO to lead the organisation so that it achieves its vision, mission and aims, whilst remaining sustainable and ethical.

In supporting the trustee board and CEO, the Chairperson is responsible for:

• Acting as an ambassador and spokesperson for Belong when appropriate.
• Creating meaningful and productive working relationships with the CEO, senior leadership team and trustees.
• Providing empowering, supportive line management to the CEO.
• Chair and facilitate trustee board meetings effectively, ensuring that decisions are made fairly and in the best interests of Belong’s service users.
• Supporting the trustees to have a sound understanding and oversight of the organisations finances, including reviewing annual budgets and financial policies.
• Facilitating annual performance reviews for each trustee and for the CEO.
• Leading and developing the board of trustees and CEO including inductions, training and succession planning as appropriate.
• Supporting other trustees to arrange and effectively chair quarterly subcommittees on risk and resilience, finance and fundraising and communications.

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact us via the details on our website. To apply for this role, please submit a CV and covering letter using the link below. Please note that we are not able to consider applications submitted without a CV or covering letter. 

Chair of Trustees

Role description:

We’re looking for someone with experience of working as a chairperson to join us as our Chair of Trustees, to help provide excellent leadership and ensure that everyone remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes.

About YBTC:

Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour Charity began in 2003. It was originally named ‘Andrea’s Gift’, set-up in memory of Andrea Key, who died from a brain tumour aged 42.  Our vision is to cure a devastating disease that affects so many people, of all ages and background. Whilst we’re working to find a cure, we provide the best patient and family support network we can. We fund dedicated research projects across Yorkshire into treating and curing child and adult brain tumours to try to change those statistics for the better. At the same time, we support patients, carers and their loved ones who are impacted by this devastating disease now through our specialist support services.

Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour is currently unincorporated. We are currently undergoing the process of moving the charity structure to a CIO, which will provide limited liability for Trustees to third parties. This process will take approximately 6 months to complete, and our current reserves policy is to cover 6 months of expenditure.

What we’re looking for:

Personal competencies

The YBTC Chair of Trustees is expected to demonstrate all the following personal competencies and the capacity to apply these to the strategic development of a local charity:

Commitment

· Ability to understand and accept the duties and liabilities of being a Chair of Trustees

· Empathy with the vision, mission and strategic development of YBTC

· A willingness and ability to devote the necessary time and effort

Focus

· Ability to think and apply knowledge strategically and give direction to board policy-making.

· Ability to think creatively

· Ability to keep mission-focused

· Developing the board of trustees including induction, training, appraisal and succession planning

· Ability to analyse and evaluate management information and other evidence

· Willingness to listen and learn

Communication and team working

· Chairing and facilitating board meetings

· Representing the charity at functions and meetings

· Bringing impartiality to decision-making

· Ability to communicate clearly and sensitively and to take an active part in discussions

· Addressing conflict within the board and within the organisation, and liaising with the Charity Director to achieve this

· Ability to influence and engage

· Working with the Charity Director to plan meeting cycles and plan agendas

· Ability to lead a group effectively

· Willing to express their own opinion in a reasoned way, while also listening to the views of others

· Ability to challenge constructively and ask questions appropriately

Accountability

· Liaising with the Charity Director to keep an overview of the organisation’s affairs and to provide support as appropriate

· Ability to exercise sound and independent judgement

· Checking that decisions are implemented

· Willingness to make and stand by collective decisions, including those which may be unpopular

· Ability to manage difficult and/or challenging situations, sitting on appointment and disciplinary panels as required

· Ability to maintain confidentiality on confidential and/or sensitive information

· Leading the process of supporting and appraising the performance of the Charity Director

Skills and Experience

Management and Governance

· A chairperson’s role of a similar organisation

Specialist Expertise

· Charity Finance or Operations

· Fundraising

· Research Funding and the development of YBTC’s current funding strategy

· Patient Support & Service

· Human Resources or Legal

· PR, Marketing & Communications

Caberfeidh Horizons is a vibrant social enterprise, working with adults and young people who have  learning disabilities, at the heart of their local community. We are looking for a new Chair and Trustees to join our Board. Applicants must live within the Badenoch and Strathspey area.

Our mission is to improve the future prospects of the adults and young people we work with by providing training, work experience and social opportunities to increase their confidence, health, life skills and community involvement.

We currently run three shops in Kingussie, a Charity Shop, Bookshop and Community Hub. Between them, they sell everything from books, clothes, children’s toys, furniture, bric-a-brac and more. Our main shop, The Hub also houses the Community Food share. For further information about who we are and what we do, please visit our website.

Trustees are appointed on a voluntary basis, and do not receive any remuneration. As a board member you will play a critical role in the future governance of the charity.  You will help to oversee the activities of the charity ensuring it remains compliant with regulations, help to set strategic development and help to shape its future.

This is a great opportunity for individuals with a passion for supporting our cause and gives the potential for the development of new/existing skills, to meet new people and support our community and to enhance the lives of those we support.

We are looking for people with H.R, I.T, Legal, Governance, Leadership, Strategic Planning and Fund Raising skills, who believe that they can really make a difference to our community. If this is you we would love to hear from you, contact details as per our website.

The closing date for these posts is on-going.

Healthwatch Lambeth is looking for a new Chair of Trustees to be a credible and effective ambassador for the organisation in Lambeth. Healthwatch Lambeth is the independent champion of local people who experience or need health or social care. Its vision is that people have their health and social care needs heard, understood and met. To achieve this vision HWL works to bring the voices and experiences of local people to bear in decision making.

HWL is governed by a Board of trustees which provides effective, skilled oversight and direction to the organisation. The Board is a supportive group who will work closely with a new Chair to ensure HWL fulfils its vision and responsibilities.

The successful candidate will be excited at the prospect of joining HWL and working with a passionate and experienced staff team, as well as a skilled and committed Board, to raise HWL’s profile, ensure it is strategically positioned to influence and advocate for improvement in health and social care.

Due to the current Chair of the board's term ending in early 2024, Healthwatch Lambeth wishes to recruit a Chair of the board. We are also seeking new members to the Board of trustees including trustees with HR experience, finance experience and other skills relevant to Healthwatch Lambeth's work. We are particularly interested in appointing trustees who reflect the diversity of our borough. If you have not been appointed to a board role before, we encourage you to apply and we will provide mentorship and training to ensure you can fulfil the role. 

Please do not hesitate to ask any questions and if you think this could be for you.

Application instructions

You are welcome to speak informally with the CEO or present Chair to find out more. 

Please send a CV and covering letter explaining why you are interested in applying for the Chair role by midnight on 7th March.

Please get in touch if you are interested in a general trustee role.

Appointment process

Following receipt of your application, we will arrange an informal discussion with our Chair and CEO. The next stage is we will then interview individuals with 2 or 3 board members and if successful we will take up references. Following this, a recommendation will be made to the board on your appointment, and if successful you will be co-opted to the board and then formally elected at our AGM.

We are looking for a Lay (external) Trustee to join our Board of Trustees with strong financial experience and who is also able to commit to Chair our Finance, Audit & Risk Committee. This is an incredibly exciting time to join Imperial College Union. This year we launched our new strategic plan, designed to guide our charity to become a highly effective, impactful and sustainable organisation. Joining us means joining a Board responsible for the strategic direction of our charity. Being a trustee in a students’ union is an extremely rewarding experience. You will get the opportunity to work in close partnership with student representatives, many of whom are just embarking on their leadership journey. This is a fantastic opportunity to mentor and support our future leaders, imparting your own experience and industry knowledge to help them develop and thrive.

The Organisation

We are an exciting, inclusive membership charity and our core purpose is to represent, support and empower all 24,000 students studying at Imperial College London. We work in close partnership with Imperial College London and are proud to deliver services to support students studying at one of the world’s truly outstanding higher education institutions.

Imperial College Union is one of the oldest students’ unions in the UK. We exist to support and empower Imperial students, to ensure they get the most from their university experience. There is so much that makes Imperial College Union special. We are lucky to work in a historic campus environment located in a bustling, beautiful part of London. Imperial students are some of the highest performing and dedicated students in the world. They are hugely committed to their university education and want to get the most from their experience. This means they are incredibly engaged and keen to participate in the activities we offer.

More information about Imperial College Union can be found on the website. 

The Role

We are interested in receiving applications from individuals keen to provide strategic direction to our organisation and work with us to ensure we develop and thrive in the future. As a trustee you will focus on:

• Helping ensure that we comply with any charity law, rules and regulations governing our work

• Actively contributing to Board discussions to provide clear strategic direction for our charity

• Helping to promote the values and safeguard the reputation of Imperial College Union

• Working collaboratively with other trustees and our Managing Director to contribute to the effective and efficient operations of our organisation

• Ensuring our charity’s governance is of the highest standard.

Person specification

In addition to the above, we would like to receive applications from individuals experienced in these areas: 

· Strong financial acumen including financial planning, management, and strategy

· Familiarity with financial reporting requirements and regulatory compliance

· Knowledge of financial and broader risk management and the ability to identify and mitigate potential risks

· Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information to members of the Board and other stakeholders

· Understanding and acceptance of the role’s legal duties and responsibilities

· Collaborative mindset to work within a team environment

· Commitment to the charity’s objectives, aims and values and willingness to devote sufficient time to carry out responsibilities

Please download the Candidate Information Pack for further information.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about joining the Imperial College Union board and believe you have the skills and experience we are looking for, please apply with the following:

• An up-to-date CV

• A supporting statement of no more than 2 sides of A4, detailing why you would like to be considered, your relevant experience and expertise and what you think you can bring to the role.

All applications are being handled by our recruitment partner, Trustees Unlimited (part of the Russam group).

If you have any difficulty uploading your application or if you would like to have an informal and confidential discussion about the role, alternatively please contact Melissa Baxter at Trustees Unlimited/Russam.

Closing date for applications: Friday 3rd May 2024

Interview with Imperial College Union: Monday 20th May 2024

We hope you will join us on our journey.

CMTUK supports people living with the group of neurological conditions known as Charcot Marie Tooth Disease (CMT). The board is seeking members to enhance the board and is keen on increasing its diversity.

Who we are

CMTUK supports people living with Charcot Marie Tooth Disease and related conditions. It is a small charity with four part time members of staff, based in Christchurch, Dorset. Trustees are from across the UK.

The role

The CMTUK board meets 5 times a year, these are mostly online with at least one of these meetings in person, usually the evening before the annual conference (This has been during April/May in West Midlands). Trustees may be based anywhere within the UK (travel/accommodation to meetings is reimbursed if required).

The CMTUK board is seeks new trustees who will be active within the board and willing to sit on at least one committee (finance, communication, youth, research, strategy). The board is particularly interested to receive applications from those with experience of health / law.

As a prospective trustees you should be non-judgemental and able to work as part of a team, communicate effectively, and use your skills and experience to inform decision making and benefit the charity.

​

The Green House Bristol is looking for a new Chair of Trustees to join our Trustee board. As Chair of Trustees, you will play a critical leadership role and ensure the Trustee board functions effectively. 

Overview of the role 

3 in 20 girls and 1 in 20 boys will experience sexual violence before they turn 18. Yet, with access to the right help, children and their families can heal and recover. The Green House offers this lifeline, delivering the only specialist service to children, young people and families who have experienced sexual abuse living in Avon and Somerset. 

We are currently recruiting for a new Chair of Trustees to join our Trustee board. As a Trustee of The Green House, you will play a crucial role in setting the strategic direction of the charity and ensuring good governance. You will contribute to ensuring that the charity fulfils its mission, operates effectively, and remains accountable to survivors of child sexual abuse, and their families.

In addition to the general duties as Trustee, as Chair you will be in a leadership role: overseeing the Trustee board, acting as a spokesperson and ambassador for the charity, and working closely with The Green House’s CEO. 

Please note that you will also be appointed as a Director of The Green House, reflecting our registration as both a charity and a Private Limited Company. 

Why join us? 

The service The Green House provides is distinct in four ways: 

1. We are evidence-based, with everything we do guided by research and best practice 

1. We are led by the voices of young people and their families 

1. We are centred on community and connection

1. We are focused on the transformational power of the creative arts in helping survivors to rebuild their lives 

This has resulted in a distinct service that ensures children have access to timely, specialist support services that are right for them.

Although The Green House delivers a local service, the work we do is increasingly leading the way in changing the national response to child sexual abuse – from delivering national training on pre-trial therapy to our involvement in the Upfront Survivors project.

It is an exciting time to join us as we embed our new service model, deliver a new strategy, and look to increase both our local and national visibility. You will be joining an ambitious team who work tirelessly to improve the lives of children, young people and families who have experienced sexual abuse.

About you 

You will need previous experience acting as a Trustee, but it is not essential to have experience as a Chair of Trustees. We are looking for you to demonstrate: 

• Commitment: A deep passion and commitment to work alongside survivors of sexual abuse and their families. 

• Integrity: That you uphold the highest ethical standards. 

• Strategic Thinking: An ability to contribute to ‘big picture’ thinking. 

• Financial Acumen: The ability to understand financial statements and budgeting. 

• Collaboration: A recognition of the need for The Green House to act alongside partners and survivors, and for the Board to function as a collective. 

• Advocacy: A willingness to represent the charity and advocate on The Green House’s behalf. 

• Communication: The ability for you to communicate your area of specialism to other members of the board with different specialist knowledge. 

• Time Commitment: The ability to consistently devote time to the role. 

We value a wide range of experiences and specialisms, and our work is research-led and evidence-based. We welcome and encourage those with lived experience to apply. We know that there is no ‘us’ and ‘them’ and that many of The Green House’s team are themselves survivors of sexual abuse and/or have wider lived experiences that offer huge value to the work we deliver. 

Duties of all Trustees 

• Prepare for and attend Board meetings, using your skills, expertise, and knowledge to contribute to discussions. 

• Participate in setting the charity’s strategic direction. Contribute to decision-making on key matters, including long-term planning, financial sustainability, and program development. 

• Provide support, learning and challenge to The Green House’s CEO. 

• Ensure The Green House acts in line with its governing document and complies with all relevant laws and regulations. 

• Ensure the charity lives its values (hope, creativity, and connection), delivering accountability to children who have experienced sexual abuse and their families. 

• Monitor operational progress against The Green House’s new strategy. 

• Ensure the charities financial and wider resources are being used effectively and treated with care. 

• Ensure all relevant policies and procedures are in place and are being implemented. 

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

• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect The Green House’s interests, to the exclusion of your own personal and/or any third-party interests. 

• Proactively represent The Green House, building the charity’s visibility and reputation. 

Duties of the Chair 

• Provide strategic leadership to the charity and the Board, ensuring that The Green House achieves its mission.

• Work in partnership with the CEO, offering challenge and support towards our goals. 

• Act as Line Manager to the CEO and conduct annual appraisals of the CEO. 

• Lead the board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation. 

• Plan and chair monthly board meetings. 

• Act as a spokesperson and ambassador for The Green House. 

Terms of appointment 

Terms of office 

• Trustees are appointed for a three-year term of office, with renewal for two further terms to a maximum of three years. 

• This is a voluntary position, but all reasonable expenses are covered. 

Time commitment (Approximately 2-4 days a month) 

• Attend monthly Board meetings. These are typically held on a Thursday evening at 6pm. Most meetings are virtual although we do meet in-person on a quarterly basis. 

• Line Management and Appraisal of the CEO (1 hour every 6 weeks; 1 hour annually). 

• Additional time is needed to take ownership of actions that arise from meetings (from supporting with recruitment and exit interviews where appropriate, to attending events on The Green House’s behalf). You will also need to be flexible in responding to emergent time-urgent issues when they arise. 

• We also ask Trustees to attend an initial induction day at The Green House, The Green House’s annual Festival of Activism against Child Sexual Abuse (1 day in early February) and spend a strategy day with the staff team (typically 1 day September). From time to time, depending on the nature of the Fundraising activity it may be necessary for Trustee’s to attend fundraising events/meetings with the CEO. 

EDI Statement  

The Green House actively encourages and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds. Having a diverse workforce would not only help us evolve as an organisation, but also help us better our inclusive practices for the various communities we serve. Because of this, we are particularly keen to receive applications from members of ethnic minority groups and individuals with disabilities who are currently underrepresented within the charity.   

We also understand that different barriers effect people with protected characteristics from accessing certain opportunities or experience. That is why we would like to offer any candidate living with disability that meets the minimum criteria a guaranteed interview.   

There is an optional Equal Opportunities form included for those living with disability to submit alongside their application to qualify for the guaranteed interview scheme. As well as in general for our internal diversity in recruitment monitoring, which can be sent to us at the same address alongside your application. This form will not be seen by the hiring panel.

The Generation Trust, based at Guy’s Hospital in London, seeks new charity trustees to support its mission of advancing scientific research and translating discoveries into clinical practice.

The Generation Trust was created in 1982 with the aim of raising funds to invest in genetic research, with a particular focus on the work of expert scientists in the Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics at Guy’s Hospital, London. Initially the charity raised about £2m and it currently has reserves of £700k. The charity has provided early support for a number of projects leading to better understanding of a number of disabling and life changing conditions.

The science of genetics continues to make exciting and rapid advances in the knowledge of human disease, helping to inform diagnostic practice and to develop new treatments.

The Department at Guy’s has played a key role in helping to move scientific knowledge ‘from bench to bedside’ in the NHS, advancing new methods of preventing or treating a range of life-changing and disabling conditions in both children and adults.

Modern DNA sequencing techniques at Guy’s have advanced understanding of the molecular origins and characteristics of breast cancer, leukaemia, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis and Huntingdon’s Disease as well as some of the rarer genetic diseases in children.

Funds raised by The Generation Trust have been used to invest in the early careers of the Department’s brightest young scientists, in PhD students or post-doctoral fellows, in pilot studies to ‘prime the pump’ for successful major grant applications and occasionally in capital projects to enhance the facilities of this world class research centre.

At the end of 2023, the Trust had reserves of about £700,000. The founders of The Generation Trust now hope to find the next generation of charity trustees to succeed them. We aim to recruit a small group who between them will have an interest in or, at least, a curiosity about the development of health science, cell biology, bio-informatics, DNA sequencing and genome analysis.

To sustain and grow the Trust we would like to add some expertise in investment management, charity governance and, ideally, access to wider networks of potential financial support in the City of London and elsewhere.​​

Volunteer Trustee

Become a Trustee at Katherine Low Settlement!

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? Do you have skills and experiences you're eager to share? Katherine Low Settlement (KLS), a beloved charity at the heart of Battersea, is seeking dedicated individuals to join our Board of Trustees and contribute to our impactful work.

About Us:

Established in 1924, Katherine Low Settlement has been a cornerstone of the Battersea community for nearly a century. As we celebrate our centenary year, we continue to be a beacon of support for children, young people, families, older adults, women, refugees, and newly-arrived communities. With a blend of dedicated staff and passionate volunteers, we offer vital community services, advocate for social change, and provide a space for over 500 individuals each week. Our mission is to reduce poverty and isolation while fostering unity in Battersea and beyond.

The Role:

As a Volunteer Trustee, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of KLS and ensuring our continued success. From overseeing governance to offering expertise in fundraising, property management, legal affairs, or HR, your contributions will directly impact the lives of those we serve. We're seeking individuals who are aligned with our vision, mission, and values, and who are committed to the vibrant community of Battersea.

Key Responsibilities:

- Formulate and review strategic aims in alignment with legal obligations and organisational objectives.

- Monitor the performance of KLS against agreed-upon targets and strategic priorities.

- Ensure compliance with charity law, regulations, and safeguarding practices.

- Act as stewards of KLS's assets, including finances, property, and organisational reputation.

- Promote the work of KLS and engage with stakeholders to raise awareness and support.

Recruiting for Diversity and Expertise:

Recognising the importance of diverse perspectives, we're actively seeking Trustees with experience in fundraising, property management, legal affairs, HR, or lived experiences as volunteers or community members. We particularly encourage applications from individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, including UKME/Global Majority Heritage, younger people, and people with disabilities.

Person Specification:

- Willingness to dedicate time and effort to KLS's mission.

- Ability to contribute actively to strategic discussions and decision-making.

- Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.

- Commitment to being available for staff support and enquiries.

- Knowledge or connection to the Battersea/Wandsworth community.

No Experience Necessary:

No prior trustee experience is required. We provide comprehensive training and ongoing support to ensure you thrive in your role and make a meaningful impact.

Join Us:

If you're ready to make a difference and be part of a vibrant, dedicated team, we want to hear from you. Together, we can continue Katherine Low Settlement's legacy of empowerment, compassion, and community cohesion.

To express your interest, please read the volunteering role pack for more details.

Become part of something meaningful. Join Katherine Low Settlement today.

In our new Chair, we are looking for someone with leadership experience and board level credentials who can help us strengthen and deepen our reach with stakeholders, communities, and funders. Ideally you will have some professional experience within the third sector or a personal connection with what we do.

However, wherever you are now, you will recognise how significant our organisation is within our community and will share our desire to further strengthen our impact and ensure we continue to be a sustainable provider of services to people with complex needs.

You will be a confident and positive leader and an ambassador on our behalf with the strategic acumen and emotional intelligence to promote our work and vision, and support our Managing Director, and our leadership team

Role Description

Objective

The Chair will hold the Board and Executive Team to account for YSS’s mission and vision, providing inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring that each trustee fulfils their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity. The Chair will also support, and, where appropriate, challenge the Managing Director and ensure that the Board functions as a unit and works closely with the entire Executive of the charity to achieve agreed objectives. He or she will act as an ambassador and the public face of YSS in partnership with the Managing Director.

Principal responsibilities

Strategic leadership

• Provide leadership to YSS and its Board, ensuring that the charity has maximum impact for its

service users.

• Support the Managing Director to lead and manage the organisation well, give regular feedback on performance and conduct an annual appraisal.

• Ensure that Trustees fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of YSS.

• Ensure that the Board operates within its charitable objectives and provides a clear strategic direction for YSS.

• Ensure that the Board is able to regularly review major risks and associated opportunities and satisfy itself that systems are in place to take advantage of opportunities and manage and mitigate the risks.

• Ensure that the Board fulfils its duties to ensure sound financial health of YSS (in combination with the lead finance Trustee), with systems in place to ensure.

Governance

• Ensure that the governance arrangements are working in the most effective way for YSS and that the Board regularly reviews major risks and associated opportunities.

• Develop the knowledge and capability of the Board of Trustees.

• Encourage positive change, where appropriate address and resolve any conflicts within the Board.

• Ensure that the Board of Trustees is regularly refreshed, reflects the wider population and service users of YSS and incorporates the right balance of skills, knowledge and experience needed to govern and lead YSS effectively.

• Work within any agreed policies adopted by YSS.

External Relations

• Act as an ambassador for YSS objectives and mission.

• Act as a spokesperson for YSS when appropriate.

• Represent YSS at external functions, meetings, and events (taking into account time commitments outside of the role).

Relationship with the Managing Director and the wider management team

• To work in partnership and support the Managing Director to ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission, and strategic direction.

• Support the Managing Director, whilst respecting the boundaries which exist between the two roles, ensuring regular contact in an open and supportive way with opportunity for professional development and external professional support when agreed.

Person Specification

In addition to the qualities required of a Trustee of YSS, the Chair must also meet the following requirements:

Personal Qualities

• Personal gravitas and clear leadership style to lead an ambitious charity and communicate a

sincere commitment to the mission and vision of YSS

• Exhibit strong inter-personal and relationship building abilities and be comfortable in a

leading role

• Strong networking capabilities that can be utilised for the benefit of YSS (particularly in the sectors and services that YSS cover).

• Ability to foster and promote a collaborative team environment.

• Ability to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours.

Experience - all essential

• Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation

• Successful track record of achievement through their career

• Experience of or appreciation of charity governance (or wider governance) and Civil Society and current issues affecting it, and working with or as part of a Board of Trustees

• Experience of chairing meetings and events and representing organisations externally from public platforms and through effective stakeholder management

Knowledge and Skills - all essential

• Broad knowledge and understanding of the charity sector and current issues affecting it.

• Leadership skills, ability to bring people together.

• A level of financial management and charity finance understanding.

• Good understanding of governance issues (ideally in a charity setting).

Terms of Appointment

Remuneration

The role of Chair is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable out of

pocket expenses can be claimed.

Location

YSS operates across Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and Warwickshire. Our offices are in Blackpole, Worcester.

Time commitment

Between 2 and 3 days per month. The YSS Board currently meet 6 times a year and holds 2 Audit & Risk committee meetings and up to 2 strategy planning days per year. The Chair is also expected to have regular meetings with the Managing Director and may, subject to an individual’s time commitments, represent YSS at essential events. All board members are encouraged to attend YSS events, including visits from our charity Patron and are welcome to make occasional visits to projects to see first-hand the work of YSS, the people supported, staff and volunteers.

The charity’s Chair (and board members) will be elected for an initial term of one year, after which they may be eligible for re-appointment for additional three-year terms, for a maximum of 10-year term.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

YSS is committed to equality of opportunity, supports and encourages underrepresented groups,

and values diversity.

Applications

Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Appointment is subject to eligibility in line with The Charity Commission criteria.

Good Vibrations is an award-winning, national arts organisation that changes lives through music. We work with some of the most vulnerable and hard-to-reach people in the UK, including in prisons, secure hospitals, and in the community. We are best known for using the Indonesian gamelan, a magnificent set of bronze gongs, xylophones and drums. We use communal music-making to support vulnerable people in challenging circumstances to develop transferable life and work skills and to forge fulfilling, constructive lives.

Our work currently involves a range of projects across the UK, including long-standing weekly music sessions at Bethlem and Lambeth hospitals, projects in around 12 prisons a year in England, and our Resonate programmes in Glasgow, Sheffield and Nottingham, which focus on those with disabilities and mental health issues in the community.

The Board of Trustees upholds the best interests of Good Vibrations, ensuring that we achieve our charitable aims whilst abiding by charity law and other relevant regulations.

Good Vibrations wishes to appoint a new Chair to our Board of Trustees who is experienced in organisational leadership, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.  The Chair supports and empowers the Board and CEO to lead the charity so that we achieve our vision, mission and aims, whilst remaining sustainable and ethical.

The Board of Trustees

Good Vibrations is a registered charity in both England & Wales (1126493) and Scotland (SC048860). The charity is governed by the Board of Trustees, which currently numbers five following the standing down of some long-term members.

The Board is vital in Good Vibrations’ governance and is responsible for setting directions in strategy and maintaining oversight over all activity. Trustees also play an ambassadorial role in raising awareness of our work.

The current board includes expertise in arts and culture, legal and charitable affairs, finance and academia, helping to ensure that we extend our knowledge of the issues and challenges we face.

Good Vibrations is regularly in receipt of funding from Arts Council England and Creative Scotland, as well as from the National Lottery and several other Trusts and Foundations. The Board is currently involved in creating the organisation’s next 5-year Business Plan. You can see our most recent Annual Report and Accounts here.

What are we looking for?

The position has become available following the standing down of the current Chair Nick Jolliffe, who has been with the organisation since 2018. The organisation has recently appointed a new CEO, and this is an exciting time of development for the organisation.

As our new Chair, you will help shape the next exciting phase of our future development as we commence our new strategic plan, and embed our newest Trustees within our established Board. Your leadership and commitment will ensure we continue to provide and extend our range of much-needed support and services to our beneficiaries.

The role of the Chair is a voluntary, non-executive appointment. The role requires a commitment of approximately two hours a week, with the capacity to flex upwards should the need arise.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Strong leadership skills that engage, inspire and motivate the Board, staff, freelance team and other external stakeholders.
• Genuine interest and commitment to social justice issues and improving outcomes and opportunities for marginalised people in our society.
• A proven track record in developing strategic initiatives and steering an organisation toward success
• Previous experience on the Board of a UK charity, or operating at a senior strategic leadership level in previous roles
• Knowledge about UK charity governance and commitment to maintaining high standards of governance and risk management in all areas including finance.
• Excellent communication skills and networking capabilities, and able to act as an ambassador for the charity and cause.
• Ability to commit time, interest and effort to conduct the role well.

How our Board works

Trustees meet quarterly at Board Meetings, either in person in London or online from 5.00pm – 7.30pm.  There is also an annual Strategy day in London.

In addition, a Finance sub-committee meets quarterly, looking in-depth at finance and other matters, before putting recommendations forward to the Board.

Trustees do not receive remuneration or other benefits, but all expenses can be claimed including those required to cover access needs such as sign language, interpretation, captioning or travel expenses. The full legal framework for Trustees is laid out in the Articles of Association, which were recently revised in 2022.

Trustees serve for an initial term of three years and will have the opportunity to be re-appointed for a second and final term (maximum of nine years).

What Responsibilities will you have?

Trustees ensure the good governance and smooth running of the charity, supporting the Chief Executive Director, the wider staff team, and our team of freelance facilitators.

ow there are lots of ways that someone can gain experience and insight, not just through professional experience. Having trustees with lived experience of the settings in which we work is essential to our work.

All Board members can have access to training and charity networks to benefit not only the charity, but individual’s personal development.

All Good Vibrations’ Trustees have responsibility for the:

• governance of the organisation in line with legal and financial requirements of the Charity Commission, OSCR, other regulatory bodies, and funders;
• appointment, including the approval of job descriptions and pay levels of members of staff; agreeing terms & conditions and employment procedures;
• recruitment of new Trustees;
• approval of Good Vibrations’ strategy, its business, and artistic plans, and use of resources;
• approval of budgets, annual accounts and financial strategies;
• approval of all policies ensuring that they are updated in line with law and best practice.

The Chair, as the leader of the Board of Trustees, has some additional responsibilities including:

• working with and line managing the CEO to develop the direction and strategy of the charity;
• conducting annual performance reviews for each trustee and the CEO;
• ensuring high standards of governance, risk management and strategic direction
• ensuring that all Trustees have the information available to carry out this task and monitor progress;
• leading and developing the Board of Trustees and CEO including induction, training and succession planning;
• support of the CEO in their role, including developing external relations with key agencies;
• working with other members of the Board to organise and populate sub-committees and short-term working groups;
• planning the cycle of Board Meetings and working with the CEO to set agendas and plan meetings;
• chairing and facilitating Board meetings effectively, encouraging discussion, summarising key points and ensuring decisions are made fairly;
• acting as a principal ambassador for the organisation at Board level and developing external relationships for the benefit of Good Vibrations

Before you apply

Good Vibrations is committed to becoming an organisation that reflects society and promotes diversity of thought and experience and inclusion of those who are historically underrepresented in leadership roles. We would particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of the contexts in which we work, including from people with a previous conviction.

For an informal conversation about the role prior to application, please contact us through details on our website.

Please note this post will require a Disclosure & Barring Service check (DBS) and references.

How to Apply

We welcome all applications but particularly those from individuals with lived experience of the criminal justice system, disability, including physical disabilities, sensory impairments, long-term health conditions, mental ill health, and autistic and neurodivergent people. We also encourage applications from those protected under the 2010 Equalities Act due to age, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.

We are interested to hear from those who may not consider a position like this due to social or financial disadvantage. Those with caring responsibilities and on low incomes are encouraged to apply, and we will work to make provision where possible.

To apply for this role, please submit a CV and cover letter detailing your interest through Charity Job. We will also accept applications in any preferred format (including audio or video).

The closing date for this position is 14th May 2024 with interviews to be held on the week of 20th May.  Any access requirements will be met.

We are looking for a new Trustee who is willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board. The Care Workers' Charity supports social care workers across the UK by providing mental health and wellbeing support, financial support in the form of crisis grants, and signposting applicants to other organisations and resources.

We are particularly looking for trustees who:

• have expertise or experience in industries apart from the care sector, or
• have experience of fundraising, or
• have charity experience, or
• have marketing experience, or
• have finance experience

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that The Care Workers’ Charity achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity and ensure that The Care Workers’ Charity has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Where they have specific expertise such as fundraising, they work with the CWC team, providing coaching or connections in order for us to raise funds to enable us to support as many care workers as we can. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable us to grow and thrive.

As a small charity, there will be times when the trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, representing the Charity, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise. Our trustees have a key role in risk management, working with the staff team to identify and manage risks.

Our Board meetings are mostly remote with one held face-to-face each year in London and occasionally we ask trustees to represent the Charity at events or award ceremonies, or at stakeholder events which are held close to the trustee's location.

Duties:

• Support and provide advice on The Care Workers’ Charity’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee The Care Workers’ Charity’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 The Care Workers’ Charity’s financial statements.
• Provide support and challenge to our CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.
• Keep abreast of changes in our operating environment.
• Contribute to regular reviews of The Care Workers’ Charity’s own governance.
• Attend Board meetings (mostly remote and possibly one being face-to-face), adequately prepared to contribute to discussions and respond promptly to requests for required action.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect The Care Workers’ Charity’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.
• Contribute to the broader promotion of The Care Workers’ Charity’s objects, aims and reputation by applying their skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

Please read the attached document which gives additional details, and includes a link to what being a charity trustee involves, eligibility requirements and the main duties and requirements of trustees.

PLEASE NOTE: Previous applicants need not apply

GSTTKPA is going through an exciting period of change. As a result, we are seeking to recruit a new Chair to support our ambitious and innovative change programme, so we can continue to achieve the aims and objectives of the charity.

The Chair role provides leadership to the organisation and the Trustee board by ensuring that everyone remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes in order to ensure that GSTTKPA moves forward and continues to benefit kidney patients in the future.

The Chair will also need to set the strategy for the charity for the next few years which is vital for ensuring that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, the new post holder must understand that all the Trustees have a collective responsibility. This means that the Chair and the other Trustees must always act as a group and not as individuals. 

As a Trustee, the new Chair must have a commitment to equality; celebrate diversity and be responsive to the needs of different groups and individuals within GSTTKPA and the wider community. In return, the successful applicant will join a warm and friendly team that works collaboratively to support each other as well as our kidney patients.