Trustees wanted volunteer roles

We provide life choices for people with learning disabilities.

You can choose to help us improve them.

Options for Life is a dynamic not-for-profit charity based in Sandwell.  We are dedicated to empowering adults with learning disabilities and/or autism to boost their confidence, develop valuable skills, and live independently, enjoying the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.

We are committed to supporting our participants in making choices about their own lives. 

We provide our services in an area of significant deprivation; the Indices of Multiple Deprivation (2019) ranked Sandwell as the 12th most deprived local authority in England.  We own two purpose-built centres and employ 65 staff.

We want to support more people with profound or multiple learning disabilities and to develop new services to provide supported employment opportunities.  But to do this we need professionals who can guide and develop the charity’s strategy as Trustees.  Many of our current Trustees will complete their terms this year.  We particularly value financial and public administration skills and people with lived experience of disability. We believe in the strength of a varied board and welcome applicants from all walks of life, regardless of their previous Trustee experience.

Our Trustees are central to our success, and we need Trustees who share our desire to overcome years of prejudice. The financial situation is challenging, but the rewards are enormous.

Please make a choice to learn more about us.

Become a Trustee at Options for Life
Make a difference in the lives of adults with learning disabilities and/or autism.

Location: Sandwell, West Midlands
Commitment: Four Board meetings annually, plus the AGM, strategy day, and quarterly sub-committee meetings
Expenses: Reasonable travel expenses reimbursed

Are you passionate about creating a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive? Options for Life is looking for committed, values-driven individuals to join our Board of Trustees.

We are a vibrant, Sandwell-based charity that supports adults with learning disabilities and/or autism to live fulfilling, independent lives. Our services include community hubs, outreach, drop-ins, and access to a wide range of community-based activities. At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to choice, dignity, and empowerment.

The Role

As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in the strategic leadership and governance of the charity. Working closely with the Chair, CEO, and fellow trustees, you will help shape the future of our services, ensure we stay true to our mission, and uphold our responsibilities as a charitable organisation.

We are particularly interested in individuals who can bring:

• Strong strategic thinking and decision-making skills
• Experience in leadership, change management, HR, fundraising, safeguarding, health and social care, or community engagement
• A collaborative approach and willingness to contribute to discussions and decisions

Previous trustee experience is not essential—we welcome first-time trustees and provide full induction and support.

What You’ll Gain

• The opportunity to use your skills and experience for social impact
• Involvement in meaningful work that changes lives
• Personal and professional development through trustee training and networking
• A chance to work alongside passionate people and make a lasting contribution to your local community

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and particularly encourage applications from people with lived experience of disability, people from underrepresented backgrounds, and younger people seeking their first board experience.

Would you like to help govern and shape the work of your local Wildlife Trust whilst being part of a federation of 46 Wildlife Trusts in the UK and Wildlife Trusts Wales?

We are looking for people who share our vision and commitment of nature recovery to take up vacant positions on Gwent Wildlife Trust’s board of trustees. In particular, we are looking for a Company Secretary as well as trustees with financial oversight skills to succeed to Treasurer, however these are not the only requirements, applications for general trustee positions are also welcome.

· Are you committed to protecting and restoring our natural world?

· Do you enjoy working as part of a diverse team?

· Do you share our core values of commitment, integrity and inclusiveness?

· Are you willing to play your part in collaborating with other Wildlife Trusts?

· And are you able to give at least half a day of your time each month as a volunteer?

We’d love to hear from you if so.

Our activities and the communities we serve across Gwent are diverse and we want our Board to reflect this, and include a diversity of gender, colour, age, ethnicity, physical ability, sexual orientation and religious belief. We particularly need people with specific skills or experience including financial, secretarial, legal, governance, fundraising/marketing, people engagement, business and social partnerships, farming and conservation.

The Board is responsible for governance and the strategic matters facing the Trust, including finance and funding, programme development and HR with operational matters delegated to the CEO and our professional and committed staff team. Our Board meets every two months; a mix of in person and remotely or hybrid. Trustees need to devote some time in advance of these to read relevant papers so they can ask questions and provide strategic direction on plans and issues. In addition there are sub committees where trustees advise staff on key policy and operational matters.

If you join us, you will be part of a friendly and positive group of Trustees, helping to ensure a better future for the wildlife and people of Gwent as well as contribute to the Federation of Wildlife Trusts’ 2030 Strategy.

The Trust is a charity and a Company Limited by Guarantee. Trustees must be members of the Trust. Trustee appointments are voluntary and decided by the Trustees following a process outlined in our constitutional document.

Join us on a transformational journey

Be part of something powerful. As a Trustee on the Board of AfriKids UK, you’ll help shape the future of a proven, high-impact organisation that’s ready to go further. You’ll bring your ideas, insights and perspective to help us improve and grow for the children and communities we serve.

About AfriKids

AfriKids is an award-winning, locally-led charity dedicated to ensuring the rights of children in northern Ghana. Our mission is to help unlock the power of communities to ensure child rights, with a focus on helping people secure the means, motive and opportunity for every child to complete a quality basic education, as the most sustainable route out of poverty. Locally-led and internationally supported, we work hand-in-hand with local communities to design and deliver programmes that create lasting change for children, so they can thrive now and as the leaders of tomorrow. AfriKids UK exists to support this mission through faciliating access to international funding, partnerships, technical support and expertise — working in close collaboration with AfriKids Ghana, our independent local implementing partner.

The Role

With nearly 25 years of experience behind us, our Boards in the UK and Ghana are now helping to lead us through a period of transformational change, to impact more children than ever. We are seeking two more trustees to join the Board of AfriKids UK. As a Trustee of AfriKids, you will share collective responsibility for the governance and strategic direction of the charity, with guidance and support to learn about your responsibilities as a trustee if you have not been one before. Trustees play a crucial role in ensuring that AfriKids operates in accordance with its mission, values, and legal obligations.​ This is an opportunity to lend your unique knowledge, skills and experience to help advance our mission and make a difference for children. 

Become a Trustee

Are you passionate about making a positive impact in your local community?

Do you want to contribute your skills and expertise to a worthy cause?

If so, this could be the opportunity for you!

What does becoming a Trustee mean?

Becoming a Trustee is a hugely rewarding experience.

You will have the opportunity to shape the direction of our charity and make a real difference to the lives of others.

We welcome people from across Calderdale who are passionate about our community and/or early years education.

We particularly encourage applications from people of colour and under 30’s to ensure our board represents the communities we serve.

We are also encouraging those with leadership skills in marketing and communications, but welcome a diverse range of other skills and backgrounds.

As a member of our board, you will be be responsible for providing strategic guidance and oversight to ensure we are fulfilling our mission and achieving our goals.

You will have the opportunity to work closely with our dedicated staff, service-users and volunteers to make a positive impact in our community.

If you are looking for a meaningful way to give back and make a difference, we encourage you to apply.

Join us today and help create a better future for all generations.

Get in touch.

“I am proud to be a Trustee, helping to ensure we strive to achieve our vision of creating ‘a better future for all generations’. Our Trustees are representatives from all aspects of the community and are helping to shape the future for their communities. Want to help your community?

Then why not become a volunteer Trustee and make a difference?”David Eyers, Chair of the Board

EVERY WONDERED HOW YOUR SKILLS COULD TRANSFORM YOUNG LIVES THROUGH SPORTS? 
BECOME A TRUSTEE A DFY SPORTS - Level the playing field for young people through sport

Are you passionate about creating opportunities for the next generation? Want to use your skills to support a grassroots charity doing powerful work with young people in London? DFY Sports is looking for new trustees to help us grow, reach further, and have even greater impact.

Who we are

DFY Sports helps young people aged 4–15 from underserved communities flourish through sport. Based in Brent and active across surrounding boroughs, we deliver PE sessions, after-school clubs, holiday camps, football training, and run an ambassador programme connected to our founding sports agency, ISC.

We’ve grown fast—and we’re just getting started. As we scale over the next 1–3 years, we’re looking for passionate trustees to help shape that journey.

Why join us?

• Be part of a hands-on, diverse and ambitious team making a real difference in London
• Use your skills for social good and gain board-level experience
• Support a charity grounded in community, inclusion and action

Trustees meet quarterly (with pre-reads shared a week in advance). You’ll bring your experience and perspective to guide DFY’s future and support our mission at a strategic level.

Diversity matters to us

We’re especially keen to hear from people whose backgrounds reflect the communities we serve—including people of colour, women, those with disabilities, and individuals with lived experience of socio-economic disadvantage.

That said, this isn’t an exclusive requirement. We welcome all applicants who believe in our mission and want to contribute meaningfully. Our goal is to build a board that’s balanced, representative, and full of fresh ideas.

We’re currently looking for trustees in the following areas:

✅ Safeguarding

• Ensure safeguarding policies are robust, compliant and actively implemented
• Support our DSL to report risks, share learning and update the board
• Help shape a safeguarding-first culture across all activities

✅ Marketing & Communications

• Help define and strengthen DFY’s brand and public voice
• Grow our online presence and support outreach to media and partners
• Guide the team on strategic communications and storytelling

✅ Network & Fundraising

• Open doors to donors, sponsors and collaborators through your network
• Support events and campaigns that raise both funds and awareness
• Offer fresh ideas for sustainable income generation

✅ Finance

• Provide oversight of budgets, reporting, and financial controls
• Support long-term financial planning and risk management
• Ensure funds are well managed and spent with integrity

✅ Community

• Champion the needs and voices of the local community in Brent and NW London
• Build connections with local schools, grassroots groups and families
• Help us stay rooted, responsive and inclusive in everything we do

⚽ Your core responsibilities as a trustee will include:

• Attending quarterly board meetings
• Reading board materials in advance and actively participating
• Contributing to DFY’s strategic direction and key decisions
• Supporting your specific area of responsibility, as outlined above

You don’t need to have trustee experience, just care, commitment, and the willingness to bring your skills to a team working to create lasting change for young people through sport. Training and support can be provided.

Interested?

Apply now or pass this along to someone who’d be a great fit. We're excited to hear from people who want to make a difference and bring something fresh to the table.

About Beat

Beat is the UK’s eating disorder charity. Established in 1989 as the Eating Disorders Association, Beat’s mission is to end the pain and suffering caused by eating disorders—for all individuals, regardless of background, ethnicity, gender, age, sexuality, or class. The organisation recognises that achieving this mission requires a diverse and passionate workforce.

The Organisation

Beat provides nationwide support through its Helpline, encouraging and empowering individuals to seek help early, significantly increasing the chances of recovery. Support is available online and by phone, offering a space where individuals are heard, informed, and guided toward positive steps in their recovery journey.

Beat also supports the families and friends of those affected, equipping them with the skills and guidance needed to assist their loved ones while also caring for their own mental health. The organisation is driven by its vision to end eating disorder-related suffering, the impact it strives to make, and the collective commitment of its team.

The Role: Treasurer

The Treasurer will:

• Monitor the financial administration of the charity and report regularly to the Board of Trustees on its financial health, in alignment with best practice, charity law, and Beat’s governing document.

• Chair the Finance and Risk Committee, contributing to strategic development and strong governance as a trustee.

Person Specification

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Chartered Accountant status (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA) with professional experience in a business, social enterprise, or charitable setting.

• Strong empathy for and commitment to Beat’s mission, bringing energy and determination to support its goals.

• The ability to understand and contribute meaningfully to the organisation’s strategies and plans.

• A willingness to engage actively and constructively in Board meetings and communications, understanding the importance of collective responsibility.

• Leadership skills to chair the Finance and Risk Committee and support the full Board in fulfilling fiduciary duties.

• Enthusiasm for supporting fundraising activities and the willingness to use personal networks to benefit the charity.

Additional desirable attributes include:

• Expertise in financial strategy and planning.

• Familiarity with relevant legislation and regulations, including the Charities Act 2011, tax law affecting charities, and Gift Aid.

• Experience in producing and auditing statutory accounts.

If you want to make a difference to people living with a mental health condition then we’d love to hear from you!

About us

At The Mental Health Community we use our lived experience to build understanding and support for what it’s like to live and work alongside managing a mental health condition. 

We know that it can be difficult to get, or keep a job if your energy levels, how you’re feeling and your ability to go to a place of work every day are affected by a mental health condition like anxiety or depression. But we also know that having a sense of purpose and belonging can really help with the symptoms and impact that mental health conditions can have on you.

Our work is focused on helping people with a mental health condition who are in work or looking for work. We do this by supporting businesses to improve how they look after people, because we know that by creating inclusive and safe spaces at work we make it possible for people with mental ill health to stay in the workplace which helps keep them well and benefits the businesses too.

By joining our board you will be: 

• Making a lasting impact by helping us make more workplaces safe and inclusive for people with a mental health condition
• Shaping the future of our charity as we expand our services and reach more people who need our support
• Using your skills and experience for good by helping guide the strategic direction of our charity.

What we’re looking for

We are looking for at least 4 new trustees to join our team. Whatever your skillset, we’d love to hear from you and there are some areas where we need particular help:

· Treasurer: oversee our financial health, provide guidance on building long term financial plans to help us grow and ensure appropriate financial management.

· Marketing and Communications: strategic oversight of our marketing and communications, raising awareness of our work and reaching new audiences through digital strategies and media engagement.

· Fundraising: develop our fundraising strategy and income streams, including grant applications, corporate sponsorship and campaigns.

· Governance: guide us in operating transparently and effectively whilst maintaining high standards of governance in compliance with our governing document and charity law.

We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of mental ill health, young people aged 18-30, people of all socio-economic backgrounds, genders and people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.

About the role

As a board of trustees we meet remotely every 6 weeks, there may be some activity in between meetings so the estimated total time commitment is 4 hours every 6 weeks.

In addition to using your specific skills to develop how we work, all trustees share responsibility for:

· Developing our activities to help us achieve our purpose and positive impact,

· Making sure we are compliant with our governing document and the requirements of the Charity Commission, and

· Being an active member of the board to help us make good decisions

What you can expect from us

We are committed to supporting our Trustees: you can expect an induction to the organisation and trustee role plus any additional conversations and support you need to help you feel confident in your role.

Our meetings are relaxed and informal; there are no expectations of ‘business clothes’, technical jargon or having all the answers.

We welcome and support your preferences for the way we work together, how you like to receive information and how we can make it easier for you to participate actively in our discussions.

One more thing

We know that great trustees come from many backgrounds and with a variety of experiences and that’s great - we really value people who bring different perspectives and add new voices to our team.

But you might not feel you ‘check all the boxes’ as you read this advert or the role description, especially if you’ve been marginalised or excluded. We get it, and we’ve felt like that too. But we hope you’ll apply anyway because we’d love to hear from you and will take care to help you feel welcome and included.

For more information on the role please see the role description.

We are seeking a Trustee with experience and understanding around women’s rehabilitation and recovery needs, as we expand our work to support women in recovery.

About Hope and Vision Communities

Hope and Vision Communities provides supported, move-on accommodation in the Reading area for individuals who have successfully completed residential rehabilitation.

The charity was founded in 2020 by Tony Attwood, a former offender who broke free from the cycle of addiction, and the very judge who sentenced him, Peter Ross. Together, they recognized the urgent need for stable housing and a supportive community for men leaving addiction treatment. Having witnessed firsthand how many relapse at this critical stage, Tony developed a plan - one shaped by his own experiences and those of the men around him and who remain an integral part of the charity today.

What will you be doing?

As part of our three-year strategy, we are expanding our work to support women in recovery. We recognise that women’s support and accommodation requirements are different to those of men.

We are developing a response that reflects their unique experiences. We are in the early stages of planning this next phase of our journey and are seeking a Trustee to help bring this exciting vision to life.

We are seeking someone who can bring experience of women’s rehabilitation and recovery, or insight from the women’s sector more broadly. We value wisdom gained through both professional roles and lived experience.

This is an exciting opportunity to help us expand our work to provide vital support to women in recovery.

What are we looking for?

· Experience and understanding around women’s rehabilitation and recovery needs (e.g., addiction support, criminal justice system, mental health, trauma-informed care). This may have been acquired via professional roles or lived experience.

· Understanding of the unique challenges faced by women in recovery, particularly regarding domestic abuse, sexual violence, family relationships, motherhood / maternity and societal stigma.

· Understanding of the impact of trauma upon women, and a commitment to developing services that are trauma responsive.

· Passionate about championing the voices and needs of women in recovery, both within Hope and Vision and beyond.

· Commitment to co-production. A working understanding of how to embed it throughout all stages of service design and delivery.

· Commitment to Hope and Vision Communities’ mission and a passion for supporting people in recovery.

· Ability to provide strategic guidance and contribute to high-level decision-making.

· Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage constructively with other trustees and staff.

· Experience working in or with charities, particularly in governance or advisory roles.

Time Commitment

· Monthly Board Meetings (general catchup): 1-hour virtual meeting via Teams

· Quarterly Board Meetings (formal): 3-hour in-person meeting (remote attendance can be accommodated if needed)

· Annual Strategy Day: In-person meeting to discuss long-term planning and goals

· Occasional email or ad-hoc discussions to provide advice and insight as needed

For further details, please request a copy of the candidate pack.

Join our Trust with a unified vision for educational excellence as a Trustee and influence how our schools operate, improve and evolve.

Location: Hybrid / Peterborough and North Cambridgeshire

Time commitment: 4 board meetings + 3 committee meetings / year

Closing date: 9 a.m. Monday 9th June

Thomas Deacon Education Trust (TDET) is a thriving multi-academy trust serving over 5,500 pupils across seven academies, including primary, secondary, all-through and alternative provision schools. We are proud of our strong community focus and the work we do to empower communities through high-quality education across Peterborough and North Cambridgeshire.

We are now seeking passionate, high-calibre individuals to join our Board of Trustees, particularly those with expertise in finance and estates/infrastructure.

These are key appointments at a time of strategic transformation and increasing operational efficiency. You’ll help shape the future of our Trust, support the executive team and ensure we continue delivering high-quality education for all children and young people across our diverse communities.

Who we are

Our Trust was established to bring together local schools under a unified vision for educational excellence, community service and sustainable growth. We currently operate seven schools — five in Peterborough and two to the south in Cambridgeshire — across primary, secondary, all-through and alternative provision settings.

We have matured as an organisation, embedding centralised services (HR, IT, Estates, Finance), promoting stronger curriculum alignment across schools and building a sense of collective identity. Like all multi-academy trusts, we continue to face challenges, especially around funding, SEND provision and estate management, however, we remain committed to progress. All of our schools have been inspected in the last three years, and our improvement journey is well underway.

Our governance model is evolving. We’re reintroducing two subcommittees — Education Committee and Finance, Audit and Risk Committee — in 2025/2026. Trustees meet three times per year for full board meetings and three times for the Finance, Audit and Risk Committee and Education Committee.

Our high-performing board currently has a strong educational presence, with trustees drawn from school and higher education backgrounds. However, we are thin on numbers and underrepresented in critical areas.

Now, we are particularly seeking individuals from finance, business services and estates sectors to strengthen our ability to challenge, support and guide the Trust as it enters its next phase.

We do not stand still as a Trust. Our new Trustees will join at an exciting time as we undergo new complex estates projects (e.g., a multimillion-pound roof repair at Thomas Deacon Academy), evolving community partnerships and growing cross-trust collaboration. We are ready for the next step, and we need exceptional trustees to help lead the way.

About the role

As a Trustee, you will play a key role in the strategic leadership and governance of the Trust. This is a high-impact, voluntary role with real influence over how our schools operate, improve and evolve. Your focus will be to ensure that the Trust is delivering on its educational mission while remaining financially sustainable and operationally sound.

We are particularly looking to appoint individuals to:

• Join the Finance, Audit and Risk Committee or Education Committee
• Provide strategic and technical oversight of finance, audit, or capital/infrastructure projects
• Chair the Finance, Audit and Risk Committee, if suitably experienced

You’ll be part of a collaborative, values-driven board that works closely with a dedicated executive team. Your insights will help guide decisions around budget setting, estates investment, compliance and educational outcomes. You’ll need to commit to regular reading of board papers, engage in meaningful discussion at meetings and support the executive team with scrutiny and challenge.

Meetings are a mix of online and in-person formats, with the flexibility to accommodate professional commitments. While we have a strong preference for candidates based in or connected to Peterborough or Cambridgeshire, we are open to outstanding individuals from further afield who share our mission and can commit the necessary time and attention.

The role is voluntary, but the impact is profound: you’ll be helping shape the education, life chances and wellbeing of thousands of young people across the region.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking candidates with a passion for education and a deep commitment to public service. Your professional background might be in finance, audit, capital projects, or estates management, ideally with experience overseeing budgets, risk, or infrastructure in complex organisations.

We’re especially interested in individuals who can bring:

• Finance expertise (accounting, audit, financial oversight)
• Capital or estates experience (infrastructure, property, construction)
• Leadership experience within high-accountability or regulatory environments
• Strategic mindset, with the ability to interpret data, challenge assumptions and support sound decision-making

We would also value:

• Familiarity with multi-academy trusts or the Academy Trust Handbook
• Experience chairing audit or governance committees
• Links to our local communities in Peterborough and South Cambridgeshire

Equally important is who you are as a person: communicative, thoughtful, committed and unafraid to ask the difficult questions. We’re looking for trustees who bring a mix of professionalism and heart, who care deeply about equity, diversity and inclusive education and who want to make a tangible difference.

We are committed to building a board that reflects the rich diversity of our schools and their communities.

If you want to be part of a Trust that’s ambitious, community-rooted and on a clear improvement trajectory, then we would love to hear from you.

Peridot and Thomas Deacon Education Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

Join Us as Treasurer Trustee – Help Secure the Future of Sherwood Forest for People & Nature

Do you have strong financial acumen and are passionate about conservation and heritage? Since 1995, our charity has been at the heart of protecting and preserving the rich natural and cultural heritage of Sherwood Forest. Through dedicated conservation projects, community engagement, and educational initiatives, we work to restore threatened heathlands, expand woodlands, and inspire people to connect with this historic landscape.

With funding from the National Heritage Fund, we are embarking on an exciting programme to restore lowland heathlands across the Sherwood National Character Area. As Treasurer Trustee, you will play a vital role in ensuring the charity’s financial health, sustainability, and strategic growth—helping us make the most of our resources to continue this important work for future generations.

We have a high-performing staff finance officer so this is not a Treasurer role where you are required to do the book keeping. Instead you will be the key link between the staff team and the Board as you support your fellow Trustees in the performance of their governance duties and understanding of the charity’s finances.

You’ll be joining a passionate, committed and experienced board of trustees who are in close connection with our CEO led staff team. This is a fantastic opportunity to use your financial expertise to shape the future of a well-established charity. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to apply your skills in financial oversight, strategic planning, and governance - while making a real impact on the environment we would love to hear from you.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive board and welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including those with varied professional expertise and lived experiences. We encourage applications from individuals who can bring different perspectives to our work and help us better serve the communities we support.

If you would like an informal chat around the role, please contact our CEO, Helen (contact details on the next tab). To apply, please send your CV or Linkedin profile accompanied with a letter explaining why you want to become a trustee and what you hope to bring to the Board of Trustees.

The New Normal are seeking a Secretary to join our Board of Trustees! The primary responsibility is to act as the central point of contact for Board administration, ensuring compliance with governance requirements.

We are looking for a driven and diligent person to support TNN in it's mission to provide free-to-access peer support for a diverse range of grief experiences, communities and identities. 

Applicants should have the capacity to provide around 4 hours per month on a flexible basis, with some months quieter/busier than others.

We are seeking someone who has strong attention to detail, excellent organisational and administrative skills, proficiency in document management and record-keeping and excellent communication, both written and verbally. It's preferable that you will have experience with charity governance processes and compliance.

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and pathways. This is a voluntary role and responsibilities are listed in below Job Description.

[Due to the nature of the role and the work we do, the successful applicant will be required to undertake a DBS check. Persons will be shortlisted and appointed based solely on character, skills, qualifications and experience.]

Leeds Church Institute (LCI) is an ecumenical faith-based learning organisation, with an office in Leeds city centre.

LCI exists to be an active and progressive agent in city life for the benefit of all, working through events, publications and social media. It is a registered charity operating as a company limited by guarantee.

The Board of Trustees of the charity, also known as the LCI Council, serves as the board of directors of the company, and to help the organisation grow they are seeking experienced members of the public to join the LCI Council.

Due to a forthcoming retirement from the Board, the Trustees are eager to recruit someone with the financial skills and experience to serve as the organisation’s Treasurer, ensuring the organisation's financial health and stability. They will advise trustees on financial responsibilities, including the budget, and monitor the charity's finances, while also liaising with staff as needed. In addition, the Board’s most recent skills audit has shown that we would especially welcome applications from people who have professional knowledge and or experience in the area of communications. We are also keen to increase diversity within LCI’s Board, particularly welcoming expressions of interests from people with ethnic minority backgrounds, LGBTIQA+, people with disabilities and younger people as these are currently under-represented on our Board.

The Board helps the organisation’s Director and staff set the strategy and policies for LCI, supports the staff team fulfil LCI’s vision, mission and its operational plans.

Trustees are appointed for a three-year term of office, renewal for a further term of three years, with an additional further term under exceptional circumstances. This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

LCI Council meetings are held in the daytime on five occasions per year, with a separate (evening) AGM and two Staff / Council (daytime) away half-days.

If you believe you would add value to our board, we would be keen to hear from you. If you would like to have an informal chat to understand more about the organisation and the role, please email the Chair of the Board of Trustees, Revd Paul Maybury Similarly, if you would like to visit LCI, please also speak to Paul Maybury to arrange a suitable date to visit.

If you would like to apply for the position, please email Alistair Cheetham (Finance & Compliance Officer) who will send you the recruitment pack which contains further information about the organisation and the role of an LCI Council Member. As an inclusive charity, if you require any reasonable adjustments to help you with your application and through the assessment process, please let us know.

The role will necessitate a Disclosure and Barring Service DBS check.

Trustee

Unpaid Role (Voluntary role, but all reasonable expenses will be reimbursed)

Bristol / Home based

Part-time, fixed term (Initial 3-year term with an option to extend to a maximum of 9 years)

Closing Date: 30th May 2025

Our client is inviting applications to join its board of trustees. The Charity is seeking applications with specific professional backgrounds to supplement existing expertise on the board.

They are looking for Trustees with experience in Legal, Property, or Communications, though we welcome applications from all sectors.

They also want their Trustees to represent Bristol, so actively encourage applications from ethnic minorities, disabled people and anyone who identifies as part of a community that is underrepresented in the charity.

Background

The foundation's mission is to bring the club and community together.

The foundation works across Bristol, with a primary focus on Young People and families, areas of deprivation, and South Bristol.

The foundation delivers programmes and services that support people who feel that society has written them off. Their high-quality, targeted work focuses on three key areas: Health and Well-Being, Education and Employability, and Youth Engagement.

Current Position

The foundation has steadily grown its programmes and services over the last eight years. The Foundation is nearing the end of its 2022-25 strategy and plans to launch a new three-year strategy in 2026.

Skills and experience required

They welcome applications from any candidate who can demonstrate such expertise and skills as:

• Relevant professional qualifications, experience, and expertise with board-level or senior management experience
• Experience working closely with communities
• Experience working in Legal, Property, or Communications

Personal Specification:

Essential

• Understanding and accepting Trusteeship's legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities.
• Commitment to the charity’s objects, aims and values and willingness to devote time to carry out responsibilities
• Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims
• Good, independent judgement, political impartiality, and the ability to think creatively in the context of the organisation and external environment
• Good communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to respect the confidence of colleagues
• Balancing tact and diplomacy with a willingness to challenge and constructively criticise

Desirable

• Prior experience in committee/trustee work.
• Knowledge of the type of work undertaken by the organisation
• A wider involvement with the voluntary sector
• Experience in committee work

All Trustees are expected to uphold and represent the foundation’s purpose, vision, values and mission in a personal and professional capacity. The board of trustees will consider any applicant with the right skills and experience.

The successful candidate will be required to spend a minimum of 12 days per annum on work for the Foundation, including Board Meetings, the AGM, an annual 1:2:1 performance review with the Chair, and a yearly Board away day and at least 4 Board subcommittee meetings per year.

The trustee is expected to support and participate in some Foundation events throughout the year and provide ad hoc support to the team and Board as required.

The Foundation is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse Board of Trustees and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. We welcome applications from disabled people and those from ethnic minority backgrounds.

All suitably experienced applicants will receive consideration for these positions without regard to race, ethnicity, religion or belief(s), gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, age, or pregnancy or maternity.

The Foundation is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and adults at risk and requires all employees to share this commitment and promote the welfare of these groups.

Apply today with a CV to start your application.

Becoming a Trustee

Thank you for your interest in becoming a Trustee with Citizens Advice Cheshire West. This information pack should provide you with useful and important information about our organization and what it means to be one of our Trustees. 

Citizens Advice Cheshire West Aims 

• To ensure the right advice for everyone, ensuring people do not suffer because they do not understand their rights and responsibilities, or because they are unable to express their needs effectively.
• To improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives by campaigning about issues that affect our clients and influencing decision-makers locally and nationally.

Our vision

• To be THE go-to charity for advice & support in Cheshire West

Our mission

• We advise, support and empower people to improve their lives
• We are accessible and known to all for the best, impartial advice
• We influence policy for a more equal and inclusive society

Our values

• We care about what we do and the people we work with
• We champion justice, fairness and equality
• We adapt to keep pace with a changing world

What skills/experience do you need to have?

You don’t need any specific qualifications or skills but you’ll need to:

• Understand and accept the responsibilities and liabilities of being a trustee.
• Be non-judgmental and respect views, values and cultures that are different from your own.
• Have good listening, verbal and written communication skills.
• Be able to exercise good independent judgement.
• Have good numeracy skills to understand accounts with the support of the Treasurer.
• Be willing to learn about and follow the Citizens Advice aims, principles and policies, including confidentiality and data protection.
• Be willing to undertake training for your role.

What’s in it for you?

• Make a positive impact for local people by ensuring Citizens Advice Cheshire West is sustainable and able to meet the needs of the community.
• Build relationships with staff, volunteers and other trustees.
• Build on your governance, leadership and strategy skills.
• Increase your employability.

And we’ll reimburse expenses too.

Citizens Advice Service

The Citizens Advice service is made up of national Citizens Advice and a network of around 290 local Citizens Advice members. 

The Citizens Advice service is based on four principles:

• Independent - We will always act in the interests of our clients, without influence from outside bodies
• Impartial - We don’t judge our clients or make assumptions about them.  Our service is open to everyone and we treat everyone equally.
• Confidential - We won’t pass anything on what a client tells us, or even the fact they have visited, without permission.
• Free - No client has to pay for any part of the service we provide.

We help resolve people’s problems by accessing a large electronic information system to ensure our clients are given accurate, up-to-date information on their rights and responsibilities. We also aim to change policies and practices that affect our clients, and we call this Research and Campaigns.

What does Citizens Advice Cheshire West do?

Citizens Advice Cheshire West provides general and specialist legal help to everyone in the Cheshire West area.

We give advice to help people overcome the problems they face, in areas such as benefits, debt, employment, housing, relationships and immigration.

We use our knowledge about our clients’ problems to identify trends and campaign to improve the policies and practices that affect people's lives.

We have specialist services including money advice, welfare rights, and energy advice, Help to Claim and Pension Wise service. 

Our local service has over 100 trained volunteers and paid staff.  We deal with over 15,000 clients each year, via face to face interviews, over the telephone and through email & webchat.

Our aim is to provide “impartial advice to everyone on their rights and responsibilities”, irrespective of who they are and what background they are from. We encourage all staff and volunteers to welcome diversity, to respect the individuality of each person and value their contributions.

Everyone that uses or needs our service needs to know that we are free, impartial, confidential and independent. We want people to feel comfortable using our service, know that they can get advice when they need it and receive a good service that meets their needs.

What does a trustee have to do?

• Complete an induction.
• Gain and maintain an awareness of how Citizens Advice Cheshire West operates.
• Read papers for Board meetings and attend 7 meetings per year.
• Be willing to work on projects with other trustees and/or paid staff.
• Attend 1 Trustee Development Day per year.
• Take an active discussion during board meetings and work with other trustees to: 
• set policy and strategy direction, set targets and evaluate the performance of Citizens Advice Cheshire West;
• Make a positive impact for local people by ensuring Citizens Advice Cheshire West is sustainable and able to meet the needs of the community;
• Build relationships with staff, volunteers and other trustees;
• seek the views of all sections of the community and monitor how well the service meets the needs of the local community;
• ensure that the service plans for the recruitment and turnover of staff and volunteers; and 
• review its own work and how effectively it operates including action for improvement.
• monitor the financial position ensuring that it operates within its means and objectives, ensuring that there are clear lines of accountability for day to day financial management;
• ensure that all the finances and supporting financial control systems are in order including that full financial records are kept for all transactions, that money is only spent for the purpose given, and that proper financial controls are in place to safeguard the organisation’s resources;

How much time do you need to give?

• There are at least 5 two-hour Trustee Board meetings per year, usually held between 5pm and 7pm.
• 1 day per year to attend a Trustee Board Development Day.
• Trustees may be asked to attend additional meetings from time to time, including during office hours.

Valuing inclusion

Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and we particularly welcome applications from disabled people, people with physical or mental health conditions, LGBT+ and non-binary people, and people from Black Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities.

If you are interested in becoming a trustee and would like to discuss flexibility and how we can support you, please contact us. 

Contact details

If you would like to discuss the role further please contact Nicki Berg, Head of People:

To apply 

To apply, please download and complete our application form on our website.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.