Trustees Wanted Volunteer Roles in Birmingham

Become a Trustee at Sunrise Multicultural Project

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community?

We are looking for dedicated, enthusiastic individuals to join our Board of Trustees and help guide the future of Sunrise Multicultural Project.

As a trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping our strategy, ensuring we stay true to our mission, and supporting the development of initiatives that promote inclusivity and integration. We are seeking individuals with a range of skills, backgrounds, and experiences – whether in community work, finance, governance, fundraising, or marketing – who share our commitment to empowering minority groups and fostering a more connected, diverse community. 

If you are eager to contribute your time, expertise, and passion, we would love to hear from you!

Barking Mad Dog Rescue are seeking to recruit two trustees to help us take our charity forward.  We have big ambitions.

Who we are

We are a UK registered charity (1160985) that operates two shelters in Constanta district, Romania, with around 350 dogs and puppies.  They are cared for by our small, effective Romanian team of paid workers, who run operations there. In the UK, our charity operates through a team of dedicated volunteers. They manage adoptions, fundraising, marketing, social media and charity promotion.

What we do

Dog welfare is low on the political and public agenda in Romania and life is hard for many street dogs, particularly since the introduction of the 2013 killing law. This, alongside poor uptake of spaying/neutering, means an endless stream of stray and abandoned dogs; pregnant mums, puppies, the old, the sick and the surplus to requirements. This is where Barking Mad Dog Rescue steps in. We work in our local community to educate, spay/neuter, rescue and where possible rehome.

We have made huge strides in dog welfare in our local Romanian community over the past ten years of operation. People are: bringing their pets for neutering and encouraging neighbours to do so; reporting sick, injured and abandoned dogs in need to us; caring for street dogs who live nearby; and, in some cases, adopting dogs in need. Since our establishment in 2015, we have rehomed approximately 3,000 dogs in the UK, Germany and other EU countries.

The future – growing our ambitions

This year we have an exciting opportunity to start to build a new more spacious shelter on land we own, which was kindly purchased for us by a generous donor. With this, come opportunities to work more closely with our local community, to have enhanced facilities for our dogs and shelter team, and to expand our ambitions for what we want to achieve as a charity.

Who we are looking for

To support us to take these exciting next steps, we are looking for two additional trustees who are passionate about dog welfare, willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking and expertise on our board. We are particularly hoping to attract trustees with proven business backgrounds and strong business networks and experience, experience of fundraising and/or with construction or large-scale capital projects, who will take a keen interest in understanding about our work, and helping us to grow and thrive.  

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 Barking Mad Dog Rescue.

·    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.

·    Willingness to bring their expertise and networks to help Barking Mad Dog Rescue determine and deliver its goals

·    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.

Time commitment

·    Attending four Board meetings annually (evenings). Meetings are held remotely.

·    Providing additional time and expertise via e-mail, ad hoc meetings as relevant

·    Membership of working groups where relevant, to support the charity and its projects (time commitment agreed as part of working group set-up)

Find out more

A role descriptor for the position is attached

You can read more about our charity and our work on our web-site

If you would like an informal conversation about the role ahead of applying, please e-mail us and we will get back to you to arrange a convenient time.

We are honoured to be supporting the wonderful Crohn's and Colitis UK to recruit three new Trustees to join their board.
 

THE CHARITY

We’re the UK’s leading charity for Crohn’s and Colitis. Right now, over 500,000 people in the UK are living with a lifelong condition that can profoundly affect their quality of life. And because of the stigma surrounding their conditions, thousands are suffering in silence. But we are here to support and champion a better future. Our vision is for improved lives for people with Crohn’s and Colitis today, and in the long term, a world free from Crohn’s and Colitis altogether.

Our community look to the charity to help them navigate their way through complex health issues and support their needs wherever they live, whatever their background and whoever they are. This is our job - whether it’s lobbying for health leaders, providing vital information, or reducing the stigma around the conditions, we’re here for them
 

TRUSTEE OPPORTUNITY

The charity are looking to appoint three Trustees and have identified the following skill areas of interest;

• HR experience - Ideally leading HR strategy, ensuring legal compliance, delivering L&D strategy, pay & reward frameworks and fostering a positive work culture
• Policy, Influencing & Public Affairs experience - ideally working in policy, influencing and/or public affairs. We would also welcome media partnerships and media campaigns experience
• Fundraising strategy and implementation experience - Ideally at Fundraising Director level or have undertaken this role prior to moving to a broader role. Ideally you will have an understanding of a broad range of income generation with experience of leading supporter engagement strategies and successfully increasing reach

The charity are looking to improve the diversity on their Board, including ethnicity, socio-economic and applicants who have connections to underserved communities. They would also welcome applicants from Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, or the north of England. Most Trustees on the Board already have first-hand lived experience of Crohn’s and Colitis so new applicants for the role will not be required to have this experience.
 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensuring that the charity complies with its constitution, charity law and any other relevant legislation or regulations, works to fulfil its charitable objects and applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects.
• Contributing actively to the Board of Trustees’ role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and evaluating performance.
• Safeguarding the good name and values of the charity.
• Ensuring the effective and efficient management and administration of the charity.
• Ensuring the financial stability of the charity.
• Ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds.
• Employing and being responsible for the organisation’s staff
• Using any specific knowledge or experience they have to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions.
• Promoting the charity among their own contacts.

PERSONAL QUALITIES

• An empathetic interest in the work of the charity, its strategic objectives and the cause.
• Strong networking capabilities that can be utilised for the benefit of the charity, and the ability to attend relevant events when helpful or necessary.
• Good inter-personal and relationship building abilities, working collaboratively both internally with colleagues and ensuring contribution from colleagues into discussions, and externally with a range of stakeholders.
• Diplomatic, with the ability to negotiate, influence and convince through personal credibility.
• Values diversity and difference and operates with integrity and openness.

EXPERIENCE

• Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level.
• Experience of external representation, building new connections and managing a range of senior stakeholders across different sectors, including service users.
• Successful track record of leading the formulation and delivery of an organisational strategy.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

• The ability to provide leadership to and motivate staff and volunteers, bringing people together.
• Good understanding of governance issues.

HOW TO APPLY

Valued Recruitment is working exclusively with Crohn’s & Colitis UK to recruit for their Trustee Board. We are an ethical recruitment company, intent on hiring inclusively and transparently.

To apply, we welcome a CV and a 2 page (maximum) covering letter addressing your motivation for applying and your experience that is relevant to the role.

Accessibility is incredibly important to us at Valued Recruitment and at Crohn’s & Colitis UK. If you would like any accessibility amendments or support throughout the application and interview stage, please don’t hesitate to let us know. No question or request is too big or too small. We want this process to be comfortable and enjoyable and a chance for you to bring your best self to the process.

Closing date for applications: 5pm, Monday 31st March
Meeting with Chief Executive: Wednesday 30th April
Interview with Board Chair and Trustee panel: Wednesday 7th May

About the Chair of Trustee Role

Role Overview

The Chair of Trustees ensures effective governance and strategic direction for Rebuilding Lives UK. They provide leadership to the board, oversee decision-making, and act as a key ambassador for the charity. The Chair supports the Chief Executive while ensuring accountability and compliance with regulatory requirements. A key responsibility of the Chair is to ensure that all trustees are actively engaged in their roles, fulfilling their responsibilities, and participating in training.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the board to ensure strong governance, accountability, and strategic leadership.
• Ensure that all trustees actively fulfill their roles, contribute to decision-making, and engage with the charity’s work.
• Provide mentorship and oversight to the Chief Executive.
• Hold trustees accountable for attending training and participating in board activities.
• Ensure that safeguarding measures are implemented across the charity.
• Oversee board meetings, ensuring productive discussions and informed decision-making.
• Represent the charity externally and strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders.
• Support financial oversight, ensuring sustainability and compliance.
• Be actively involved in the charity’s operations where possible, offering support beyond governance.
• The Chair plays a key role in providing strategic direction and supporting the CEO through regular mentoring and guidance. While the board collectively oversees the charity’s performance, the Chair works closely with the CEO to ensure they are supported in their role, offering insights and fostering a collaborative relationship between the CEO and trustees.

Who We Are Looking For

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Experience in chairing boards or senior governance roles.
• Strong strategic leadership and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).
• Minimum of 10 hours per month dedicated to board duties.

What You’ll Gain from This Role

Becoming a trustee with Rebuilding Lives UK is more than just a governance role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to creating real, lasting change. As a trustee, you will:

• Play a vital role in supporting survivors and helping them rebuild their lives.
• Be part of a passionate and driven team working towards a shared mission.
• Gain valuable leadership, governance, and strategic experience.
• Develop transferable skills in decision-making, safeguarding, and advocacy.
• Expand your professional network and engage with like-minded individuals.
• Have access to training and development opportunities to strengthen your expertise.

Mandatory Training Requirement

All trustees, including the Chair, are required to complete trustee governance and safeguarding training within the first three months of their appointment. Additional training will follow as needed.

Terms of Appointment

The Chair serves an initial one-year term, with the option for renewal up to a maximum of three years.

Voluntary Role

All voluntary roles are subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.

This is an unpaid remote position (UK Based); however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. 

Time Commitment:

• 10 hours per month, including:
  • Monthly board meetings (held via Zoom).
  • Providing strategic leadership and guidance to the CEO.
  • Annual half-day strategy session and leadership planning.
  • Regular check-ins with trustees to ensure engagement and accountability.

We have a fantaastic opportunity for you to join our Board of Trustees in a growing and expanding organisation that makes a difference in the lives of women and girls, preventing exploitation and trafficking and advocating for a life of freedom, dignity and empowerment.

Emerge Worldwide is a humanitarian organisation whose purpose is to advocate and raise awareness against sexual exploitation and sex trafficking, focused on women and girls. Our activities provide interventions, tools and resources in prevention work, as we seek to end it everywhere. 

We help and support those suffering trauma, and who are victims of sexual exploitation and sex trafficking and empower survivors of this horrific crime, to go on and live independent successful lives.

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. 

We are seeking passionate individuals to join our Board of Trustees, who will partner with us in our dedication and fight to combatting this heinous crime. We are keen to receive your application if you have human rights, fundraising, or sexual exploitation / sex trafficking experience.

We are keen to receive applications with experience in any of the following areas:

• human rights

• fundraising / income generation

• asylum seekers / refugees

• sexual exploitation / sex trafficking

Your experience will help to support Emerge Worldwide to engage in high-level discussions and actions, which will position and promote our voice and impact, create positive change within the humanitarian and modern slavery sectors and deliver on our purpose to end sexual exploitation and sex trafficking everywhere.

Duties

• Support and provide advice on Emerge Worldwide’s purpose, vision, mission, goals and activities. 

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

• Oversee Emerge Worldwide’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.

• Keep abreast of changes in Emerge Worldwide’s operating environment.

• Contribute to regular reviews of Emerge Worldwide’s own governance. Attend Board meetings and adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

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

• Contribute to the broader promotion of Emerge Worldwide’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.

Personal skills and qualities

• Enthusiasm and commitment to Emerge Worldwide vision, mission, purpose and work.

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities 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 with good governance.

• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussions. 

• Good independent judgement.

• A strong personal commitment to equality and diversity.

• Willingness to lead according to our values.

• Fulfilling the criteria of a charity trustee the essential trustee 

Terms of office

• Trustees are appointed for a minimum of 2 years of office

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

Time commitment

• Attending quarterly Board meetings annually - currently meetings are held remotely.

• Trustees are encouraged to attend all staff in-person meetings which run 3 times annually plus any relevant training days.

You will be part of a professional, friendly and skilled Board of Trustees.

We are a welcoming organisation, dedicated to creating a positive and engaging experience where you’ll feel valued, inspired, and empowered to bring your ideas to life.

Apply and help us end sexual exploitation and sex trafficking for good!

Application:

To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your motivation for the role and how your skills and experience make you a good fit. 

If you do have any questions, our HR Manager can arrange to speak with you or communicate with you by email.

Please note that we will request references, and a DBS check will be required due to the nature of our work.

We are looking for passionate individuals with a variety of skills and expertise. Currently, we are specifically looking for Trustees who can support the following areas:

Children & Young People
Digital & IT
Finance
Human Resources
Legal & Compliance

However, we will welcome applications from anyone who is keen to transform lives and join us on this exciting journey with us. You don’t need prior experience of sitting on a Board, a dance background or specific qualifications to become a Trustee. What matters most is your passion for supporting people with learning disabilities, your commitment to building a more equitable society and your willingness to contribute to our work, our vision and our future success.

Trustees play a crucial role in shaping what we do, helping us stay clear on our purpose and offering ideas that guide our organisation as we grow. We’re looking for Trustees who can bring fresh perspectives and valuable insights from their lived and professional experiences. We want our Board to reflect the diversity of our work, our participants, and our supporters.

We are based in Lancashire, with national and international reach, and we welcome applications for remote Trustees. We currently have Trustees based in Portugal and the Netherlands.

The role of Trustee is a volunteer role and is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable expenses for travel may be claimed.

The role requires attendance & contribution at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and four Board meetings per year (plus any required preparation and pre-reading). Quarterly Board Meetings take place mostly online and periodically in person at a North West location.

There will also be potential additional engagement in strategy work and sub working groups throughout the year and occasional representation of the charity at various events with key stakeholders.

About:

Changeworks is seeking Trustees with leadership experience that demonstrates strong strategic thinking, an entrepreneurial mindset, and an understanding of the complexities of governance within the charitable sector.

The Organisation:
Changeworks has a long history of delivering significant impact. By working with individuals, households, businesses, and other organisations, it prevents hundreds of thousands of tonnes of carbon emissions from damaging the planet each year.
In 2020-21, Changeworks’ efforts resulted in a reduction of £2.2 million in heating and electricity bills for people, alongside the installation of over 3,000 energy efficiency measures in homes.
Changeworks’ fuel poverty advice service also makes a tangible difference. Each year, it removes over 200,000 tonnes of lifetime carbon, creating a lasting impact on both people’s lives and the environment.

To learn more about Changeworks’ work, visit the website: Changeworks

The Role:
The purpose of these roles is to serve as statutory Trustees, providing strategic leadership, guidance, and governance oversight of Changeworks and its subsidiary organisations. Board members act individually and collectively to support the organisation’s strategic direction, ensuring it delivers on its mission to decarbonise Scotland’s homes and uphold its environmental and social values.

Person Specification
Senior Leadership Experience:
We are looking for individuals with leadership experience that demonstrates strong strategic thinking, an entrepreneurial mindset, and an understanding of the complexities of governance in the charitable sector. This could include:

- Senior management, executive, or non-executive roles in mission-driven organisations
- Experience serving on boards or committees in any sector
- A track record of leading teams through organisational transformation and growth
- Experience working with diverse stakeholder groups, including but not limited to social housing, local government, or minority groups
- Strategic Growth and Risk Management:

Candidates should demonstrate expertise in at least one of the following areas:

- Driving or enabling organisational growth and development
- Understanding risk management in complex organisations
- Good governance in regulated organisations
- A proven record of success in purpose-driven organisations

About the Trustee Role

Role Overview

Trustees play a key role in governing Rebuilding Lives UK, ensuring it remains compliant, sustainable, and impactful. We are particularly seeking individuals with expertise in legal, HR, safeguarding in domestic abuse sector or related fields, media, leadership and development, business development, housing, or construction.

Trustees are expected to be actively involved in the charity’s work, contributing beyond board meetings by engaging with staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries. Trustees must actively fulfill their governance responsibilities, contribute to decision-making, and participate in all required training.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to the strategic direction of the charity, ensuring decisions align with its mission.
• Ensure compliance with governance, financial, and safeguarding regulations.
• Support and oversee the Chief Executive while ensuring appropriate accountability.
• Promote and advocate for the charity through professional networks and personal outreach.
• Offer professional insight in areas such as experience in legal, HR, safeguarding in domestic abuse sector or related fields, media, leadership and development, business development, housing, or construction.
• Engage in fundraising and awareness-raising initiatives where possible.
• Be actively involved in the charity’s activities, providing hands-on governance and operational support.
• Trustees share collective responsibility for the charity’s governance, ensuring the charity’s mission is achieved and its operations are effective. Trustees support the CEO by contributing to strategic planning, offering expertise, and working together to provide the necessary oversight and direction for the charity’s growth and success.

Who We Are Looking For

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Strong governance and leadership skills.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).
• Experience in at least one of the following:
• Legal, HR, Safeguarding in Domestic Abuse sector or related fields, Media, Leadership and Development, Business Development, Housing or construction.

What You’ll Gain from This Role

Becoming a trustee with Rebuilding Lives UK is more than just a governance role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to creating real, lasting change. As a trustee, you will:

• Play a vital role in supporting survivors and helping them rebuild their lives.
• Be part of a passionate and driven team working towards a shared mission.
• Gain valuable leadership, governance, and strategic experience.
• Develop transferable skills in decision-making, safeguarding, and advocacy.
• Expand your professional network and engage with like-minded individuals.
• Have access to training and development opportunities to strengthen your expertise.

Mandatory Training Requirement

All trustees must complete trustee governance and safeguarding training within the first three months of appointment. Additional training will follow as needed.

Terms of Appointment

Trustees serve an initial one-year term, with the option for renewal up to a maximum of three years.

Voluntary Role

All voluntary roles are subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.

This is an unpaid remote position (UK Based); however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. 

Time Commitment:

• 8 hours per month, including:
  • Monthly board meetings (held via Zoom).
  • Active involvement in governance and decision-making processes.
  • Annual half-day strategy session to contribute to the charity’s direction.
  • Engagement in charity activities beyond board meetings, as appropriate.

Can you help give musical talent a chance?

Over the last 26 years our committed team of trustees, staff, volunteers and supporters have made Young Sounds UK one of the largest and most respected charities in music education. As we move into the next phase of our development, we’re looking for a committed chair with energy, passion and the time to continue to help drive us forward. The successful candidate will work closely with the CEO to ensure the charity continues to achieve its ambitions and will lead the board in delivering its responsibility for the overall governance and strategic direction of Young Sounds UK.

We want to hear from people who are passionate about and willing to advocate strongly for giving those young people facing the most barriers the support they need to fulfil their potential. We also expect candidates to demonstrate a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

If you think this may be you, please see our recruitment pack for more information and to apply.

If you’d like an informal chat with one of our current trustees, please email Young Sounds’ CEO.

STAMMA is seeking a Chair of the Finance Committee to join our Trustee Board.

STAMMA is a small, ambitious, award-winning charity working with a brilliant community keen to create space and respect for people who stammer.  Founded in 1978, and formerly the British Stammering Association, we’re a registered charity and a membership organisation. 

Stammering has historically been used to evoke humour or suggest inadequacy.  Little wonder that many who stammer face daily ignorance, discrimination and disrespect.  This can affect job prospects, mental health and cause social isolation.  It can result in making a GP appointment a nightmare, stop you accessing a service altogether and leave you feeling disbelieved.  We’re here to change that.

We want to create a world where there is space for people to stammer.  We’re at the start of a new 5-year journey, supported by the National Lottery, to create space for people who stammer.  Now couldn’t be a better time to join us.

CHAIR OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE DUTIES

While Trustees have ultimate responsibility for the organisation, including finance, the Chair of the Finance Sub Committee will support other trustees carry out their financial duties.

The Chair of the Finance Committee will support the board in maintaining an overview of the charity's affairs, ensure its financial viability and that the charity has policies and systems in place to ensure robust financial planning, implementation and reporting. 

They postholder will:

-     Work with the Finance Manager and CEO to compilate the annual report of accounts for submission to the independent examiner and quarterly management accounts for the Board.

-     Advise fellow Trustees on a regular basis of the financial status of the charity and where necessary recommend action

-     Maintain budgetary oversight with the CEO.

-     Ensure the charity complies with legislative and regulatory requirements with regards to financial matters and acts within the confines of its governing document.

-     Maintain sound financial management of the charity’s resources, ensuring expenditure is in line with the agreed budget and investment activities meet accepted standards and policies.

-     Chair the Finance Committee in line with the terms of reference and recommend and report findings, developments and recommendations to the Board of Trustees.

-     Ensure that the charity has an appropriate reserves and investment policies. 

-     Act in the best interest of the charity, our beneficiaries and future beneficiaries.

-     Formally present the accounts at the annual general meeting, drawing attention to important points in an accessible and easily understandable way. 

-     Maintain absolute confidentiality about all sensitive and confidential information received as a trustee of the charity.

TRUSTEE RESPONSIBILITIES

-  Ensure that the organisation pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its governing document, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy.

-     Ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and relevant legislation or regulations.

-     Ensure that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects.

-     Ensure that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets.

-     Safeguard the good name and values of the organisation.

-     Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place.

-     Ensure the financial stability of the organisation and protect and manage the property of the charity and the investment of the charity’s funds.

-     Follow proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of the Chief Executive.

In addition to these statutory duties, each trustee should use their skills, knowledge and experience to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This will involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the trustee has expertise.

EXPERIENCE & SKILLS NEEDED

-   A qualified accountant is preferred, but not obligatory.  Applicants should have experience of financial control and budgeting at a senior level.

-   Experience of charity finance, fundraising and pension schemes.

-   The skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences.

-   Prepared to provide challenge to the Board and CEO on financial projections and position.

-   Willingness to be available to the CEO and Finance Manager for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis.

-   Ideally, experience of Sage accounting.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

-   Commitment to the organisation. It would be brilliant if you stammer, but not essential.

-   Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.

-   Strategic vision.

-   Good, independent judgement.

-   Ability to think creatively.

-   Willingness to speak their mind.

-   Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.

-   Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.

ABOUT SPRINGBOARD

Springboard Youth Academy supports refugee and asylum-seeking young people who have recently arrived in the UK to help them succeed in the classroom and beyond. By combining participatory learning, life skills and holistic support into action-packed weekend, half-term and summer programming, we work to bridge the gap in support for young people left behind by the mainstream school system.

As educators and youth workers with years of experience working to offset the challenges these young people face, we launched a programme that helps young people develop their English language and self-advocacy skills whilst addressing their social and wellbeing needs, preparing them for mainstream education and helping them rebuild their lives in the UK.

We do this by providing interactive and engaging programming that combines English learning, life skills and practical and emotional strategies for young people on their journey to independence and adulthood. 

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

We are seeking a Chair to work with the Board of Trustees and Director to oversee Springboard's operations and strategic direction. We're looking for someone who thinks strategically and creatively, enjoys working collaboratively and wants to make a significant contribution to Springboard Youth Academy’s future, as well as the wider education and migration landscape.

We’re looking for people who share our love of high quality and participatory education, as well as our commitment to supporting and platforming displaced young people. We're keen to meet people who can bring skills, knowledge and both professional and lived experience that will help us continue to refine our delivery and grow. 

We are committed to nurturing a board that is representative, inclusive, anti-racist and commited to actively challenging the hostile environment and violent border regimes across all its work. We are interested in hearing from individuals with experience in governance, as well as those new to Trustee positions. We particularly encourage applications from those with personal experience of forced migration and leaving care. 

Responsibilities of the Chair include:

• Providing leadership for the Board of Trustees in their role of setting the strategy and policies for the organisation
• Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and setting the agendas
• Chairing and facilitating board meetings 
• Monitoring that decisions taken at board meetings are implemented
• Representing the organisation at appropriate events, meetings or functions  
• Liaising with the Director on organisational activity and providing support as appropriate 

Qualities:

• Strategic thinking
• Excellent communication skills
• Confidence and a willingness to speak their mind and ask challenging questions
• Teamwork and collaboration skills
• Understanding of safeguarding and confidentiality
• Understanding of the wider political landcape, abolitionist perspectives and commitment to challenging the hostile environment
• Independent judgment
• Commitment to making meetings inclusive and welcoming to Trustees with all levels of experience
• Advocacy and networking skills to help us build new relationships
• Willingness to offer expertise, skills and personal insight to support us
• Passion for championing work that centres newly arrived young people

TIME COMMITMENT

In line with all charities, Trustees are unpaid volunteers. Trustees must be able to commit to attending quarterly Board meetings and making time to read paperwork in advance of Board meetings. As a small charity, our resources are limited and Trustees are also asked to actively contribute their skills in relevant areas. As a guideline, Trustees must be prepared to offer a minimum of two hours per month to the charity. 

As Chair, you will be required to support with annual reporting to the charity commission, plan the agenda for board meetings and provide intermittent support to the Director. We also require new Trustees to spend one day on site during one of our programmes to get a feel for the work, as well as undertake Trustee and Safeguarding training, within the first three months of starting the role. Board meetings are currently held virtually, and, where possible, are arranged at least two months ahead. On occasion, Trustees will be required to respond by email or phone in relation to issues that arise outside of Board meetings. Travel costs will be covered if they are a barrier. 

Who we are

MS is a neurological condition affecting the central nervous system creating a wide range of symptoms which vary greatly from person to person.

We work with the MS community, supporting them to make the right choices for themselves about how to manage the impact of their MS and live a life as close as possible to how they wish.

The role
Following our most recent skills audit, we are looking to recruit two or three new trustees to
supplement our combined skill set.

Whilst we are keen to hear from people with a passion for supporting the MS community, we are open to applications from people that can bring specific skills where we have identified gaps also.These include, but are not limited to:

• Health/ holistic healthcare
• Legal
• Fundraising
• Hands on social media implementation and optimisation
• Data strategy and technology

Opportunity to join this ambitious, environmental charity at a crucial time to bring your knowledge of planning and strategic thinking to support our new 5-year strategy, at a time where London's green spaces are under increasing threat.

About CPRE London

Our mission to make London a well-planned, greener, climate resilient and nature rich city, which benefits everyone.

Our vision is that by 2035 London has become a well-planned, climate resilient, nature rich city. It is surrounded by a flourishing Green Belt, with a ring of trees and other habitats. It has an expanding network of green spaces, which are well used by all. Streets are greener and encourage walking and cycling. Development includes more affordable, well-designed homes with good facilities nearby to reduce car dependency and support Londoners to live low carbon, healthy lives.

England’s leading countryside charity comprises a National Office and 42 local CPREs, each operating as a distinct charity. At a national level, CPRE campaigns for a beautiful and thriving countryside that is valued, enjoyed and accessible to everyone.

At CPRE London our focus in 2025 is on the following areas::

• Creating an M25 of trees around the capital London Tree Ring Project
• Highlighting the importance of the Green Belt in a climate and nature crisis
• Establishing 10 New Parks
• Expanding and strengthening London Friends of Green Space Network and GoParks London

These are in addition to our core case work supporting local campaigners stand up to threats to local green spaces and the environmental, health and well-being benefits these bring. More details about CPRE’s work is on our website.

Role of Trustee

The Trustee board is the principle governing body of CPRE London and is collectively responsible for the leadership and direction of the charity.

As a Trustee your role includes:

• Developing and overseeing implementation of our strategic plan to help us to deliver our vision.
• Offering independence, external perspective, skills and challenge
• Mentoring and supporting the staff and volunteers.

What we are seeking: Although keen to appoint dedicated Trustees offering a breadth of skills who share our aims, the Trustee board have identified key areas where specific knowledge and experience would be welcomed to complement the existing team:

Knowledge, skills and experience of housing policy and/or the planning system and planning law, relevant to ensuring that we encourage and influence planners and developers to maximise use of using housing stock, other buildings and brownfield sites in the creation of genuinely affordable housing, and that development is in line with our vision for London. Additional, useful background knowledge for any of our trustees includes:

• Technical knowledge of ecology / horticulture / forestry
• Experience with an environmental organisation or charity but this is not essential.

To best represent London’s diverse community on our Boards of Trustees and ensure all residents benefit from our green space advocacy, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Commitment:Estimate 1-2 days per month plus 4 board meetings

The Trustee board meets four times a year at our London office in Farringdon with meetings starting at 18.00 and generally finishing by 20.00. There may be ad hoc commitments in between the board meetings. In the autumn, the Trustees and staff attend a one-day off-site strategy meeting in the Greater London area. Trustees are also encouraged to attend the AGM.

All Trustees usually serve a three-year term of office from election at the annual AGM and are eligible for re-election for up to a further three years. 

What difference will you make?

Opportunity to contribute to our new strategic plan and help steer the direction of CPRE London for the next 5 years. Your chance to influence through teamwork: working with the Director, staff, and other trustees to ensure that the charity’s strategy is achieved and modified as necessary to embrace new ideas or changes in circumstances; optional involvement with our team of dedicated volunteers.

Deadline: 2nd April 2025

2025 is a pivotal time for our small, family centred Charity as we move into our 22nd year. This year our Board will be defining our new mission and preparing for implementation. We're seeking new trustees to join us to contribute to our new mission and define the Charity's direction as we conclude our first mission in late 2025.

The Muscle Help Foundation (MHF) is a small multi-award winning, family-centred charity, delivering both in-person and virtual interventions and experiences in the UK - these moments-in-time are called Muscle Dreams, designed specifically for children & young people (8-28yrs) with the muscle wasting disease, Muscular Dystrophy (MD).

MHF’s impact is felt by beneficiaries and their families across the UK – from improved confidence, greater self-esteem, and an increased sense of hopefulness to a powerful shared identity that connects families, giving a platform to share knowledge, memories and establish lasting friendships.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

We are looking for Trustees who have a passion to take the charity forward, to grow impact, to leave a personal legacy and to feel the sense of personal fulfilment from the time they volunteer.

AS A TRUSTEE, YOU WILL

• Have an opportunity to help improve the lives of children, young people and their families
• Contribute to the governance of our small, well respected, national charity
• Have strategic responsibility for a specific skill area
• Act as an advocate/champion in promoting the charity's work across your network
• Receive induction, support and training
• Bring your lived experience, in using and further developing your skills for the benefit of others
• Be a part of the team that will help the charity achieve its overarching 657 Muscle Dream mission

REQUIREMENTS + KEY CRITERIA

Commitment to the charity’s values, bags of enthusiasm, an understanding and passion for our work, great comms skills and a real desire to want to make a difference to the lives of our vulnerable community. You may have experience of living with muscular dystrophy, other disabilities or life limiting conditions, but this is not essential.

MAIN BOARD MEETINGS + EXPENSES

Trustee Board meetings take place virtually. They are usually 2hrs. Over and above this time commitment, trustees on average, depending on their role, may give additional time in being directly involved in occasional ad projects – MHF Trustees ‘own’ a ‘bucket’, in other words, an area of responsibility like HR, Fundraising, Safeguarding, Marketing, Finance, Digital, Risk or Campaign Management that allows an individual to bring their skills, experience and talents to the charity. Reasonable expenses will be covered.

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR – PERSON SPECIFICATION

• Absolute belief in the cause
• Desire to learn the trustee role, previous governance expertise is an advantage
• Excellent communicators with great listening, responding and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to both empower and challenge supportively.
• Strong commitment to equality, and an understanding of disability and how for example this may impact on the quality of life and life choices for disabled people and their families.
• Commitment and time to dedicate to the role and responsibilities of being a Trustee.
• Commitment to the charity’s vision, mission and values.
• Strong desire to make a difference to the lives of our vulnerable beneficiary community.
• Understanding of the context/environment in which the charity works - it is estimated that some 96% of MHF's beneficiaries are those with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), the most severe variant of muscular dystrophy - it is life limiting.
• Understanding the importance of ensuring public confidence and trust in the charity.
• Collaborative working (part of a team), using sound independent judgement and collective decision making.
• The capacity to grasp issues outside ones personal experience.
• The ability to think creatively both in terms of high level strategy and development.
• Commitment to equality and diversity with other trustees, staff, beneficiaries and other stakeholders.

WHAT DIFFERENCE WILL YOU MAKE?

To provide strategic leadership in line with our values and goals. Trustees will use their knowledge, skills, passion and experience to ensure that the charity achieves its objectives – as a Trustee, you will represent the interests of all stakeholders and act as an ambassador. 

AN AMAZING OPPORTUNITY TO BRING YOUR UNIQUE SELF

As an MHF Trustee, this is an exciting opportunity to bring your unique skill set to help the strategic progression of the charity in reaching its overarching goal to deliver 657 Muscle Dream interventions, that's one experience for every muscle in the human body, cherished moments-in-time that truly changes lives and give hope, and beyond as we reach this goal.

IN RETURN FOR YOUR COMMITMENT

• You will have an opportunity to help improve the lives of children, young people and their families
• Be part of a team all supporting the charity and rowing in the same direction
• Contribute to the governance of a national charity, that's worked tirelessly over the past 20 years
• Have your voice heard and listened to
• Attend events, meet beneficiaries & families and directly witness the impact of the charity’s work
• Have strategic responsibility for a skill area such as: HR, Fundraising, Corporate Partnerships etc
• Network with other like-minded individuals with common values
• Receive induction, support and training
• And much more…

INCLUSION - PROUD OF OUR BOARD DIVERSITY

Our greatest strength as a board and as an charity is in our community's diversity. We are particularly interested in hearing from applicants with diverse skills and experiences that reflect the diversity of our beneficiaries and welcome applications from first time Trustees.