Trusts Officer Volunteer Roles in Manchester

Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You will give talks in person or virtually, sharing your own story to improve understanding of sight loss to local service providers and community groups. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to improve accessibility and inclusivity, creating a world without barriers. What you’ll be doing: • Giving talks to groups of people to raise awareness of sight loss in your local community by sharing your story to audiences, for example, local businesses, community and voluntary groups. • Delivering talks to raise awareness of RNIB services as a trusted source of support for blind and partially sighted people • Representing RNIB as an Ambassador for the Community Connection service What you’ll gain from the role: • An opportunity to give something back. • A chance to build a strong community. • A sense of achievement through the difference you make. • A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people • An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies. In return for donating your time we will provide: • A supportive route to building your confidence in presenting and sharing your story with an audience. • A rewarding experience. • A great Induction and training. • A supportive manager. • Regular updates and catchups. • Expenses. • An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.

Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You will give talks in person or virtually, sharing your own story to improve understanding of sight loss to local service providers and community groups. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to improve accessibility and inclusivity, creating a world without barriers. What you’ll be doing: • Giving talks to groups of people to raise awareness of sight loss in your local community by sharing your story to audiences, for example, local businesses, community and voluntary groups. • Delivering Talks to raise awareness of RNIB services as a trusted source of support for blind and partially sighted people • Representing RNIB as an Ambassador for the Community Connection service What you’ll gain from the role: • An opportunity to give something back. • A chance to build a strong community. • A sense of achievement through the difference you make. • A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people • An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies. In return for donating your time we will provide: • A supportive route to building your confidence in presenting and sharing your story with an audience. • A rewarding experience. • A great Induction and training

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• • Lived experience of issues affecting blind and partially sighted people • Be comfortable speaking to different audiences to share your story, or a willingness to try with our support. • Able to communicate effectively. • Have an outgoing, friendly approach to meeting new people.

LeanOnMe

Mental Health for youth empowered by AI.

LeanOnMe addresses pressing social and environmental challenges by tackling the growing mental health crisis among Adolescents and Young Adults (AYAs), particularly those aged 16-25. In today’s increasingly complex world, AYAs face numerous mental health challenges that impact their well-being, education, and social integration. Some of the critical issues we address include:

Mental Health Crisis in AYAs: The mental health of young people is deteriorating at an alarming rate. Globally, 1 in 5 adolescents suffers from a mental health condition, with conditions like anxiety and depression on the rise. The impact of this crisis is profound—by 2030, mental health costs are expected to reach $6 trillion, with a significant portion of this burden falling on young people. The increasing prevalence of mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, creates a significant social challenge, as many AYAs are left without adequate resources or support​​. Key Drivers of Mental Health Deterioration: Digital media consumption, academic and social pressure, economic uncertainty, and social isolation are some of the key factors contributing to this crisis. AYAs are particularly vulnerable to the pressures created by social media, the increasing competitiveness of the academic environment, and societal issues like climate change, trust deficits, and inequality. As a result, AYAs often experience heightened anxiety, depression, and stress​​. Barriers to Mental Health Support: Despite the growing need, the current mental health support system is inadequate to meet the demands of AYAs. Many young people face barriers such as: Lack of availability of professional support High costs of therapy Inaccessibility of real-time mental health assistance Stigma associated with seeking help These barriers leave many AYAs dealing with their mental health issues in isolation, leading to long-term negative impacts on their education, career prospects, and quality of life​​. Environmental and Societal Challenges: Beyond individual mental health concerns, broader societal issues, such as climate change, economic instability, and distrust in institutions, exacerbate the mental health challenges faced by AYAs. These factors create a sense of uncertainty and hopelessness among young people, further driving the need for accessible, reliable mental health support​​.

The Need for Instant, Affordable, and Real-Time Support: AYAs require an immediate response to their mental health needs, but professional help is often unavailable, unaffordable, or inaccessible. LeanOnMe fills this gap by offering a 24/7 AI-enabled mental health solution, delivering instant, customized support through a familiar platform like WhatsApp. This not only ensures accessibility but also reduces the stigma associated with seeking mental health support. LeanOnMe’s AI bot provides real-time conversations, offering emotional support, stress management techniques, and career advice specifically tailored to the challenges faced by AYAs, particularly during stressful times like exams​​. In summary, LeanOnMe’s solution addresses the urgent social and environmental challenges of the growing mental health pandemic among AYAs by providing accessible, affordable, and stigma-free support. This bridges the gap between the challenges they face and professional help, helping young people manage stress and build resilience through real-time AI-enabled support.

LeanOnMe offers a 24/7 AI-driven mental health support platform, tailored specifically for Adolescents and Young Adults (AYAs) aged 16-25. Our solution directly addresses the gaps in mental health care by providing instant, affordable, and accessible mental health support through a conversational AI bot on platforms like WhatsApp, where AYAs are most comfortable. 

Grant Researcher & Application Assistant

Role Description

Role Overview: Help us find and apply for grants that support mental health initiatives or startups like ours. You'll assist in researching grant opportunities, preparing simple application documents, and working with our team to submit proposals.

Key Responsibilities:

Research potential grants and funding opportunities for mental health projects. Draft and organize basic application materials. Keep track of deadlines and application statuses.

Weekly Time Commitment

4-6 hours per week remotely

Duration of Volunteer Role

One-off project

Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You will give talks in person or virtually, sharing your own story to improve understanding of sight loss to local service providers and community groups. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to improve accessibility and inclusivity, creating a world without barriers. What you’ll be doing: • Giving talks to groups of people to raise awareness of sight loss in your local community by sharing your story to audiences, for example, local businesses, community and voluntary groups. • Delivering Talks to raise awareness of RNIB services as a trusted source of support for blind and partially sighted people • Representing RNIB as an Ambassador for the Community Connection service What you’ll gain from the role: • An opportunity to give something back. • A chance to build a strong community. • A sense of achievement through the difference you make. • A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people • An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies. In return for donating your time we will provide: • A supportive route to building your confidence in presenting and sharing your story with an audience. • A rewarding experience. • A great Induction and training. • A supportive manager. • Regular updates and catchups. • Expenses. • An opportunity to connect with other volunteers. 

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• • Lived experience of issues affecting blind and partially sighted people • Be comfortable speaking to different audiences to share your story, or a willingness to try with our support. • Able to communicate effectively. • Have an outgoing, friendly approach to meeting new people.

Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You will give talks in person or virtually, sharing your own story to improve understanding of sight loss to local service providers and community groups. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to improve accessibility and inclusivity, creating a world without barriers. What you’ll be doing: • Giving talks to groups of people to raise awareness of sight loss in your local community by sharing your story to audiences, for example, local businesses, community and voluntary groups. • Delivering Talks to raise awareness of RNIB services as a trusted source of support for blind and partially sighted people • Representing RNIB as an Ambassador for the Community Connection service What you’ll gain from the role: • An opportunity to give something back. • A chance to build a strong community. • A sense of achievement through the difference you make. • A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people • An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies. In return for donating your time we will provide: • A supportive route to building your confidence in presenting and sharing your story with an audience. • A rewarding experience. • A great Induction and training. • A supportive manager. • Regular updates and catchups. • Expenses. • An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• • Lived experience of issues affecting blind and partially sighted people • Be comfortable speaking to different audiences to share your story, or a willingness to try with our support. • Able to communicate effectively. • Have an outgoing, friendly approach to meeting new people.

Join our board as a treasurer: help us navigate a path to a sustainable future

Are you a finance professional with a passion for making a difference?

CMV Action are seeking a proactive and committed treasurer to join our board of trustees, bringing financial expertise and strategic guidance to help our charity navigate a challenging period.

About CMV Action

CMV Action is the only charity in the UK providing support and information to families affected by congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV). Congenital CMV is the most common viral infection that can affect babies before birth, with potential long-term health impacts such as hearing loss, developmental delays and vision loss. It can also cause miscarriage and stillbirth.

As many as 1 in 200 newborn babies are born with congenital CMV.  The majority of these will not have any symptoms.  However, around 1 in 1,000 born in the UK every year will have permanent disabilities as a result of congenital CMV – around 900 children every year.  As congenital CMV is a relatively unknown condition, it is a common misconception that it is rare.  It is in fact more common than Down’s syndrome, Toxoplasmosis, Spina Bifida or Cystic Fibrosis.

Despite the prevalence and potential severity of congenital CMV, awareness and knowledge are alarmingly low among healthcare professionals, parents and the general public. One of our key roles, therefore, is to develop and deliver resources and training for healthcare professionals, run public awareness campaigns, and collaborate with researchers and policy makers to improve outcomes for those affected by congenital CMV.

The Role

As treasurer, you will play a key role in overseeing the financial health of our charity and ensuring we are well-positioned to continue our work. You will work with us to ensure that the charity complies with its governing document, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.This is an opportunity to make a significant difference by contributing your financial expertise to help us develop and implement a sustainable funding strategy.

What we are looking for

We are seeking a Treasurer who shares our values and can bring the following skills and experience to our board:

• Financial expertise: A background in finance, accounting, or financial management, with a qualification in line with a recognised professional body (e.g., ACCA, CIMA, ICAEW). Experience in charity finance is highly desirable.
• Proactive and purposeful: Ability to think strategically, explore new financial pathways, and drive change to support the charity’s long-term viability.
• Collaborative spirit: Strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to working closely with others to build a sustainable funding strategy.
• Accountability and integrity: A commitment to honest, transparent, and ethical financial management and reporting.
• Evidence-based decision making: An analytical mindset, using data and research to guide financial decisions that support our mission.
• Commitment to inclusivity: A passion for ensuring that our work is accessible and equitable for all, embracing the diverse needs of those affected by congenital CMV.

Salary: N/A This is an unpaid volunteer role

Location: UK-based. Meetings are held in London, Manchester, Bradford, and Birmingham

About Refugee Action

Refugee Action exists to work with refugees and people seeking asylum who’ve survived some of the world’s worst regimes. We are a national charity with more than 40 years’ experience of empowering people who’ve survived some of the world’s worst regimes to secure the protection and support that they need to live with dignity and respect and build a new life in the UK. We do this by providing expert advice and casework, building the capacity of partner organisations and campaigning on the policies that affect them.

Our new 2030 Strategy

We have recently launched our new 2030 Strategy; you can read more here.

Everyone involved in developing our new strategy was clear that if we want to create the future that refugees and many people in the UK want, we must demolish the hostile environment. It’s an environment that manifests itself in the racist rhetoric of our leaders and the systems they create; systems that are dehumanising and complex, which segregate people and sap their spirit. Our current leaders may be stooping to new lows with their words and policies, but they are simply repeating the behaviour of previous Governments. The hostility has been ramping up for years. And that hostility is rooted in a racialised logic that underpins the entire asylum and immigration system.

As a trustee of Refugee Action

You will be responsible for developing and guiding the strategic direction of the organisation and steering the long-term stability of the charity. You will need to persuade, influence and communicate effectively with the rest of the board.

We are interested in talking to anyone who can demonstrate the ability to think strategically and the integrity to take on this important role.  Please don’t be discouraged if this isn’t something you’ve done before, or if you don’t meet all elements of the role specification; we will provide mentoring and training to support new Trustees to understand their role. Please do consider applying if you have the courage and enthusiasm to encourage, challenge and support us to be the best we can be.

All our trustees are committed to being actively anti-racist and removing the barriers to power for people with lived experience. You will need to be committed to and demonstrate an understanding of shifting power to people with lived experience, anti-racist practice and decolonisation.

Treasurer trustee:

We are currently looking to appoint a trustee to join the Board of Refugee Action.  This role will be the lead Trustee for our Treasurer work to advise and guide Trustees in the charity’s financial management to enable the board to fulfil their responsibilities.

This role will:

• Advise the board on the budgetary implications of strategy and ensure that strategy is optimal for Refugee Action to be a sustainable and successful going concern.
• Ensure statutory financial responsibilities are met and report formally to the board on the annual Auditor’s report and accounts.
• Lead on the boards duty to ensure proper accounting records are kept, and financial resources are properly controlled and used.
• Work with and support staff in Refugee Action with financial responsibility, in order to be satisfied that the financial information presented to the board is comprehensive and accurate.

Specialist skills, knowledge & experience for this role:

Essential

• Experience of working in a senior financial role: setting budgets, working with management accounts, financial controls and risk assessment systems.
• Ability to work with auditors with a good understanding of the financial obligations of charities.
• Ability to effectively guide and support Finance staff.

Safeguard and promote the values and mission

• An understanding of, and empathy for, the needs of refugees and asylum seekers and of their communities
• Commitment to Refugee Action’s (RA) vision, purpose and values and to act in a manner consistent with these
• An understanding of the importance of RA being responsive to the needs of its beneficiaries and of their wider communities
• Determine the Strategy and Structure
• Experience of setting, monitoring and reviewing strategic plans so as to be able to ensure any Refugee Action plan reflects the charity’s values and mission and that progress is being achieved
• An understanding of how an organisation remains sustainable

Be effective, responsible and accountable

• As part of the Trustee board, be able to ensure that the organisation is using its resources appropriately (comply with legislation and ensure the organisation can account for its activities)
• An understanding of and ability to review key areas of risk for Refugee Action to ensure appropriate policies and controls are in place
• Ability to review organisational policies and practices

 Make sure the board of Trustees functions effectively

• An understanding of the role of Trustee and the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities attached to it
• An understanding of the role of the Hon Officers (Chair, Vice Chair and Treasurer) and those of the Chief Executive and his/her management team
• A commitment to prepare for and attend Trustee meetings
• Ability to analyse information and, in an appropriate manner, challenge when necessary
• Ability to recruit and induct other Trustees where necessary

 Overall duties of Trustees

 Statutory duties

• To ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
• To ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document for public benefit
• To ensure the organisation uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects: the organisation must not spend money on activities that are not included in its own objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are.
• To contribute actively to the board of Trustees’ role in giving firm strategic direction to organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets
• To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation
• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation
• To ensure the financial stability of the organisation
• To protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity’s funds

Other duties

In addition to the statutory responsibilities outlined above, other duties may include

• Lead and provide guidance to the board in a given area of expertise
• Meet with donors and any other stakeholders to represent Refugee Action and its beneficiaries
• Keep up to date with Refugee Action’s services to clients, Influencing and Fundraising work
•  Attend 5 meetings a year– 4 board meetings and 1 away day.
• Read and scrutinise board papers before a meeting so as to be able to contribute fully in the meeting
• Occasional participation in a working group
• Occasional participation in staff interview, disciplinary or grievance panels

Funding

Refugee Action’s board of Trustees has approved a three-year budget for Refugee Action, to accompany our 2030 strategy. A core priority for us in this period is to diversify our income and to ensure that public support enables us to be a sustainable charity in the long-term so that we can deliver on our ambition for a fairer society for refugees.

Our income in the current year 2024-25 will be around £7.78 million. Around 43% is donations of individuals and other grant giving bodies. As this support will be central to Refugee Action’s future, we aim to increase this source of income, and we have started investing in our public fundraising activities to achieve it. We also rely on grants from Trusts and Foundations and contract income from local authorities. The income we get from local authorities is for our resettlement services, providing integration support to refugees from Ukraine and elsewhere to enable them to rebuild their lives during their first 12 months in the UK.

Your experience via paid work or volunteering

How you meet the skills knowledge and experience outlined in the person specification – remember, don’t be discouraged if this isn’t something you’ve done before, or if you don’t meet all elements of the role specification; we will provide mentoring and training to support new Trustees to understand their role.

We ask that you provide information using a maximum 3-4 A4 pages – you are not required to use 4 pages.

Those with lived experience as a refugee are particularly encouraged to apply

Closing date: 23:59 on Sunday 27 October 2024

Interviews: 14 November 2024 (on Zoom)

Refugee Action only operates in the UK, so all roles are UK-based.

Do you want to make high quality, inclusive relationships and sex education a reality for all children and young people? Join us! 

Read on to find out about our trustee vacancies. The information contained in this document is also available from our website here. 

About the Sex Education Forum

The Sex Education Forum is the voice of Relationships and Sex Education (RSE) in England. First established in 1987, we have helped support generations of educators and campaigned successfully for the introduction of compulsory Relationships and Sex Education in all schools. 

In 2021 we established ourselves as an independent charity. We have a team of six staff, who work remotely, and are passionate about RSE. We have more than 70 Partner organisations and hundreds of members, who we bring together regularly, mostly through online events. We have formed a partnership with the youth-led organisation Make it Mandatory so that we can support each other to meet our shared goal to extend inclusive RSE to post-16 and make a difference to the lives of young people. 

What we do

Now that RSE is compulsory, we are focused on ensuring that children and young people get the good quality RSE lessons they have been promised, and that educators have the skills and knowledge necessary to provide inclusive RSE. One of the services that we offer is high-quality RSE training for teachers, foster carers and other youth professionals.

The experiences and voices of young people are central to our work. Some young people, especially those who are marginalised, are still missing out on RSE so we’re paying particular attention to addressing those gaps. We work closely with young people to design and launch our annual Young People’s RSE Poll. This gives us more data about the experiences of young people and what needs to change. 

About the board of trustees

Our board is made up of between 8 and 12 volunteers who are all passionate about the work of the charity and committed to ensuring all children and young people can access high quality, evidence-based and inclusive Relationships and Sex Education. Our trustees each bring different skills and types of experience, and are valued for their contribution. 

Being a trustee can be very rewarding, because you see the impact that your advice has on the working of our charity. You get to develop yourself and gain skills, and have the chance to help shape what we do and how we do it. Crucially, trustees help us stick to our values and principles and in doing so, make sure that we fulfil our commitment to making RSE accessible to all young people.  

Who are we looking for 

We are looking for up to four new Trustees to join our current Board. We are keen to recruit people with fundraising, financial management, lived experience or youth participation expertise. We would like to encourage more young trustees (aged 18 years old and above) to join our board. Read the role description below and don’t feel you have to tick all the boxes. If you have some of these skills to offer please give it a go. 

Sex Education Forum Trustee role description 

1. Help develop the Sex Education Forum’s overall strategy to meet our charitable objectives, and evaluate our performance in meeting these objectives.  
2. Keep informed about the activities of the Sex Education Forum and wider issues of RSE policy and practice which affect our work.
3. Bring to the fore the needs and perspectives of the diverse children, young people and educators that the Sex Education Forum seeks to support, and ensure that our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion vision and action plan is implemented and reviewed.
4. Be part of the trustee team, who must ensure the financial stability of the Sex Education Forum and that our funds and resources are only used for pursuing our charitable objectives.
5. Contribute to good governance of the Sex Education Forum, for example by taking part in regular discussions and monitoring of organisational risks.
6. Attend meetings and be part of at least one sub-committee, reading papers in preparation for meetings and carrying out the actions you agree to (travel expenses will be paid when meetings are held in person)
7. Use your skills, knowledge and experience  to help the Board of Trustees reach good decisions. 

This is the role for all trustees on our board. We are also recruiting for four different areas of skills and expertise. 

Youth participation role

This role is our internal expert on participation and youth inclusion, providing staff and trustees with guidance and support on how to meaningfully and effectively involve young people in the design and delivery of SEF’s work. We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience designing and delivering participation programmes enabling young people to have a stronger voice within an organisation
• Has experience supporting staff or other adults build their skills and knowledge of working with young people
• Has strong anti-oppressive practice and experience supporting the participation of marginalised, minoritised and racialised young people, including by challenging the systems and structures that impact them the hardest
• Has an understanding of safeguarding 

Lived experience role 

You might have recently received RSE at school or college and feel that you can support the board in championing the needs of our beneficiaries (children and young people) in everything we do. We are looking for someone who: 

• Knows what a positive difference it makes to have inclusive, high quality RSE
• Has experience speaking up for inclusive, high quality RSE for themselves or others 
• Understands relationships and sex education issues through their own life experience 
• Wants to ensure that marginalised, minoritised and racialised people are fully included in RSE and the running of the Sex Education Forum 

Finance role

This role will provide the financial management skills to support Sex Education Forum’s financial health and sustainability and who can bring financial insight to our team. This role offers the opportunity to grow into a more formal Treasurer position. We are looking for someone who will:

• Bring their financial/accounting knowledge to work with the Chief Executive in overseeing the financial operations of the charity.
• Collaborate with the Chair and Deputy Chair of the board to ensure the charity meets its financial governance responsibilities.
• Ensure that appropriate accounting and financial management systems are in place. 
• Lead on supporting the Chief Executive with banking related matters, including being an authorised signatory.
• Collaborate with the Chief Executive to ensure that adequate and regular financial reports are presented to the board.

Fundraising role 

This role will bring fundraising experience to help us secure funds that will drive our sustainability and increase our impact. Sex Education Forum is at a pivotal moment for growth so we are looking for someone who can:

• Strategically evaluate where fundraising aligns with the Sex Education Forum’s mission and objectives, ensuring that it supports our broader business plan
• Identify and actively pursue funding opportunities for the Sex Education Forum within statutory, charitable trusts and corporate settings. 
• Advise on the development of funding proposals, providing support to the CEO
• Provide oversight of Sex Education Forum’s fundraising activities to ensure they are carried out in an ethical, transparent, and legally compliant manner 
• Provide written and verbal communication skills to assist in the creation of funding proposals, grant-writing experience not mandatory but would be an asset

Time commitment 

Approximately 1-2 hours per week (for example this could be meetings, responding to emails) and attendance at six board meetings per year. At least two of these meetings are held in London, the others are online. Meetings last two hours (online) and around three hours when we meet in person. 

Is this role for me? 

Previous experience as a Trustee is not required. You can apply if you are 18 years old or above. We are particularly keen to hear from applicants that represent the diversity of young people and educators that Sex Education Forum seeks to support. Full induction will be provided. Travel expenses to attend trustee meetings in London are provided. 

How to apply

If you are interested in applying, please complete the application form and email it to us by the closing date (28 October). If you believe you have what it takes to do the job but don’t match every point on the role description, that’s fine - we welcome your application and will be happy to consider it. If you need help with the application or have an access requirement, please get in touch.

For more information about the role

If you would like an informal chat about the role, our Trustees and Chief Executive are very happy to help. Please contact Lucy Emmerson, Chief Executive.

More about the Sex Education Forum 

For more details about the Sex Education Forum, please see our website, Instagram, LinkedIn, the profiles of our current board of trustees and our Young People’s RSE Poll. Our certified accounts are available from the Charity Commission. 

The information in this document and the application form is available from our website here. 

Closing date for applications: Midnight, 28 October 2024

Interviews: Friday 15th November 2024 

We hope you will consider joining us at this exciting time for the organisation.

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.

The Coroners' Courts Support Service (CCSS) is a registered Charity whose trained volunteers give emotional and practical support to bereaved families and other witnesses attending an inquest.

We need volunteers to provide emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending Inquests at Coroners' Court. Our volunteers at court also provide help and assistance to the Coroners' Officers, as and when required.

We are looking for reliable, supportive people with excellent communication skills. A mature and calm attitude is needed in order to be able to talk to people during a sometimes bewildering and emotional experience. Volunteers must be willing to undergo a period of observations and shadowing, as well as attend a 3 day training course. A minimum commitment of one day (9:00am - 5:00pm) per fortnight is asked for. Training and mentoring is provided and travel expenses to the court are reimbursed.

New volunteers should possess good communication and listening skills and the ability to empathise with people they support.

We're recruiting for new members of ReachOut's Board of Trustees, as well as members of our governance committees. 

If you’re passionate about supporting young people from under-resourced communities to thrive, and you have the skills and experience to help shape and guide our organisation to achieve our vision, we’d love to hear from you. 

We’re currently recruiting for the following roles:

• Trustees.
• Committee members for our Programmes and Impact Committee and Finance, Audit and Risk Committee.

For more information on the roles please download our information pack. 

Could you be our new Chair of Trustees? Or could someone in your network be?

Alopecia UK is a small but perfectly formed charity. We have a passionate and dedicated board of trustees, and we are looking for someone to join as our Chair.

Who we are

Alopecia UK is a small national charity working to improve the lives of those affected by alopecia through aims of Support, Awareness and Research. Despite being a small charity we are still the largest alopecia charity in the UK with big ambitions to develop and grow further.

Alopecia UK was founded in 2004 and registered with the Charity Commission of England & Wales in September 2005. Registration with the Scottish Charity Regulator took place in February 2014.

The role

​Our Chair of Trustees is responsible for chairing our four trustee meetings each year (two face-to-face, two virtual) and ensuring that Alopecia UK pursues its stated objectives and complies with its governing document.

Founded in 2004, we work to help adults, young people and children affected by alopecia. This includes those with alopecia, as well as their loved ones. We are a small charity, with an annual income under £500,000, working nationally across the UK, led by CEO Sue Schilling.

We have a fantastic and dedicated staff team and board of Trustees, as well as a loyal network of volunteers and supporters. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate and innovative applicant to be part of a small yet dynamic charity and make a lasting difference to the lives of those affected by alopecia. We are currently undergoing a strategic review and are looking for a Chair who can lead our board of Trustees in our next phase of growth.

To enjoy this role you don’t need to be affected by alopecia but you do need to care and be committed to our mission to improve the lives of those who are.

We are looking for someone with the following skills and attributes:

• A commitment to the charity’s mission to improve the lives of those affected by alopecia
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. We estimate the time commitment is approximately 1-2 days a month.
• Strategic vision and experience with trustee or corporate boards, or as a Chair
• Good, independent judgement
• An ability to think creatively and generate ideas
• The confidence to challenge, question and speak their mind
• An ability to effectively chair meetings, ensuring all voices and opinions are equally considered
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Trustees are encouraged to participate in charity campaigns and attend flagship events e.g., our Big Weekend and Alton Towers trip. Trustees are not paid, but out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed. Trustees serve at least three years.

AUK CEO Sue Schilling says, “The role of Chair is critical to the wellbeing and performance of the charity. Our Chair of Trustees has several roles working as a leader, supporter, devil’s advocate, and mentor. I am looking forward to working in partnership with our new Chair, on a shared vision for the direction of the charity that is built on confidence, trust and synergy.”

If you feel like you could be a good fit for this role, applications are currently open. You can find our Chair Recruitment Pack, which includes the full role description and person specification.

The position will remain open until filled.

About the opportunity

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

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

Our trustees work with the CEO of VfL and its operational team to ensure good governance and realise the strategic aims and development of this unique charity. VfL has experienced sustained growth and impact since it was formed in 2007 and is highly respected for the breadth and quality of its work across care, advocacy, and catering sectors.

We are a small board who regularly review skills and experience across our membership to ensure we optimise our effectiveness in supporting the charity. In anticipation of members completing their tenure in 2025, including our present chair/vice-chair, we seek new trustees to sustain VfL’s success and progress in the years ahead. While interested in diverse backgrounds, we would be especially keen to hear from those with specific experience in any of the following:

• Working in health, nutrition, social care relating to older people (voluntary or statutory sector).
• Previous or existing role as trustee of a charity or organisation connected to supporting older people.
• Roles relating to capacity building or business development.

The role of trustee is a voluntary one although expenses are paid when incurred in connection with the role. The board meets quarterly, mainly via video conferencing but with at least one meeting a year in Manchester where VfL is based. Full board meetings are held on a Saturday. Some communications occur between meetings (usually by WhatsApp or email) and occasionally additional (short) meetings are required to make decisions timeously – these will always be scheduled by arrangement with members.

To be considered for this role 

You should have the skills and experience outlined above and be committed to the aims of VfL. You should be able to articulate the contribution you believe you can make to furthering these aims.

Our Vision for 2025

Business Development

• 1 in 6 UK care homes will be a member of VfL’s UK List. 1 in 100 will be VfL accredited. The first port-of-call for help and advice for those supporting older veg*ns.

Research and Policy

• A key voice in the 'choice and dignity' debate about care homes and their residents.

Supporter Services

• Responsive to the wishes, hopes and aspirations of all veg*ns in later life across the UK. Their first port-of-call for help and advice. Actively supporting the trends for reduction in meat consumption across all age groups.

To apply 
Please send a covering letter along with a CV of no more than 2 pages FAO Chair, Dr Barbara Sharp. We usually offer an informal chat about the role to applicants in the first instance prior to a formal recruitment process including interview.

About this opportunity

We are seeking a committed vegetarian or vegan interested in taking up the role of Chair on our Board of Trustees.

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

Our trustees work with the CEO of VfL and its operational team to ensure good governance and realise the strategic aims and development of this unique charity. VfL has achieved sustained growth and impact since it was formed in 2007 and is highly respected for the breadth and quality of its work across care, advocacy, and catering sectors.

In anticipation of our current Chair completing her tenure in 2025, we currently seek someone who has the potential to lead our small board and sustain its effectiveness in supporting VfL towards further progress in the years ahead. Ideally, the candidate will have at least 3 years’ experience in Governance and an understanding of the sector within which VfL operates.

The role of Trustee is a voluntary one although expenses are paid when incurred in connection with the role. The board meets quarterly, mainly via video conferencing but with at least one meeting a year in Manchester where VfL is based. Full board meetings are held on a Saturday. Some communications occur between meetings (usually by WhatsApp or email) and occasionally additional (short) meetings are required to make decisions timeously – these will always be scheduled by arrangement with members.

To be considered for this role 

You should have the skills and experience outlined above and be committed to the aims of VfL. You should be able to articulate the contribution you believe you can make to furthering these aims.

Our Vision for 2025

Business Development

• 1 in 6 UK care homes will be a member of VfL’s UK List. 1 in 100 will be VfL accredited. The first port-of-call for help and advice for those supporting older veg*ns.

Research and Policy

• A key voice in the 'choice and dignity' debate about care homes and their residents.

Supporter Services

• Responsive to the wishes, hopes and aspirations of all veg*ns in later life across the UK. Their first port-of-call for help and advice. Actively supporting the trends for reduction in meat consumption across all age groups.

To apply 
Please send a covering letter along with a CV of no more than 2 pages FAO Chair, Dr Barbara Sharp. We usually offer an informal chat about the role to applicants in the first instance prior to a formal recruitment process including interview.

We are seeking to appoint a Trustee Safeguarding Lead to provide strategic oversight and leadership for the organisation, particularly in the area of Safeguarding.

The purpose of your role is to work alongside the other trustees to ensure that the Association is working towards its charitable purposes, is complying with all applicable rules and laws, and is making best use of its resources to achieve its aims.

Whilst safeguarding is the responsibility of all trustees, as Trustee Safeguarding Lead, you will  provide support to the CEO and the Operational Safeguarding Lead in their operational roles, promoting safeguarding within the organisation and our affiliated Nightlines, providing a strategic, advisory and governance role.

Being a charity trustee with the Association is a rewarding experience and gives a unique opportunity to support and shape a national mental health charity at the highest level. Now is an exciting time to join us as we have recently transitioned from a volunteer-led organisation to a staff-led model, which is opening up new opportunities. 

Trustees have legal responsibility for the Association’s management and administration. They are ultimately responsible for the Association’s work and are accountable to both the Association’s legal members and its regulators such as the Charity Commission for the good governance of the Association.

Trustees take considered and informed decisions in the best interests of the Association. Trustees are not expected to be experts on all areas of their work but are expected to seek guidance and support where necessary and to bring their own knowledge and experience to contribute to discussions.

You can find out more about being a Charity Trustee from the Charity Commission, the Scottish Charity Regulator and the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland.