Volunteer counsellor volunteer roles

RNIB's Sight Loss Counselling Team is an established team of telephone counsellors. Accredited by the BACP, we offer free and confidential counselling and emotional support to people affected by sight loss. Volunteers will either be qualified counsellors/psychotherapists; having completed a BACP accredited training or equivalent OR be students in the final stages of counselling or psychotherapy.

How often will I be needed?

• 4 Hours per Week

Key requirements

• This role requires 2 references and a criminal record check: DBS Enhanced PVG Scotland Adults Access NI Enhanced

Location

Region

• West Midlands, Wales, Northern Ireland, North West, North East, East Midlands, East of England, South East, Scotland, Greater London, Yorkshire and the Humber, South West

Home based

• This role is home based

Additional location information

• Our service is completely remote and therefore home based. You will be able to gain clinical hours towards your counselling qualification;

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 16 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• Ability to communicate clearly;Approachable & empathetic nature;Effective listening skills;Friendliness, enthusiasm and reliability;Work with wide range of people

Childline Volunteer Counsellor- Someone who wants to make a difference to children’s lives by being there to listen when they feel they have no one else to turn to. As a Childline counsellor, you’ll be there for young people and listen to them as they open up about whatever is worrying them, whether it’s bullying, abuse, self-harm or family relationships – you’ll be there to support them.

What you’ll do

You’ll volunteer in our Leeds Childline base, offering counselling support to children and young people over the phone or through our 1-2-1 online chat. Your supervisor will help you develop and evaluate your counselling skills. After your initial training, you will be able to help young people as well as identify when a child or young person may be at risk, but don’t worry a supervisor will be on hand to give you plenty of support.

What you’ll get

You’ll receive training sessions over 12 weeks to prepare you for the role. When you start your regular shifts, a supervisor will be around all times to support you. Every shift includes a briefing and debriefing alongside other volunteers. Supervisors will also give you regular one-to-one support and group supervisions.

What we’ll need from you

Signing up to be a Childline counsellor is a big commitment and requires lots of training so, we do ask people to stay in the role for a minimum of one year.

We’ll also need to do some routine safeguarding checks, including an enhanced criminal record check and at least two satisfactory references with at least one covering a period of five years or more with no gaps. It’s nothing to worry about, and we can answer any questions you have about this.

Who’s right for the role?

While we think this role is suitable for a whole range of people, we are particularly looking for those with the following qualities and experience.

• Passionate about helping young people and children
• Great communication skills
• Empathetic and perceptive
• able to think on your feet
• works well within a team
• emotional resilience

Why volunteer with us?

Not only will you gain valuable experience throughout your volunteering journey, you’ll also have access to useful resources including a catalogue of online training, discount portal and NSPCC inMind – an online mindfulness resource.

You’ll be fully supported throughout your volunteer journey with us and will have a dedicated key contact should you have any questions along the way.

We are currently offering student placements to individuals looking to work with children and young people aged 5-18 years old. As part of the placement, we provide training and resources to help grow your counselling practice, and offer you clients with a wide range of issues. 

Key Details:

• Placement Requirements: Must be able to work with 5-18 year olds.

• Location: Commuting required to Hornchurch, Essex, with additional rooms in Waltham Forest and Redbridge offered over time. We do not offer remote-only placements.

• DBS Check Required

• Application Deadline: Application will be reviewed in July, with placements starting in September

To apply, please visit our website to complete the Application Form on our website and email your CV to us. We look forward to hearing from you!

Volunteer Psychotherapist

Will you share your counselling or psychotherapy skills?

We're looking for one qualified counsellor/psychotherapist or someone with over 100 supervised clinical hours.

Ideally, we would like someone with some experience of working with women from ethnically minoritised backgrounds

Making a difference

Your Impact?

You will join Hopscotch Women’s Centre during a critical and growth period and your expert knowledge and experience will be invaluable to the happiness of our team. You will have a key role in supporting front line staff who may be in need. With your help we hope to expand our voluntary therapy services to ensure the team receive high quality psychological support that they may not have been offered before in any workplace

What you will gain? 

You will be a part of our small, friendly, forward-thinking charity team, focused on reaching service users who are vulnerable. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a real difference in our team members’ lives through caring psychological support

Job Description

As a Volunteer Counsellor/Therapist you will provide:

· Online/telephone counselling/therapy support services to individual staff members in Hopscotch, who may be in need. The team have access to reflective supervision and external clinical supervision but sometimes need personal support for issues they are facing

· One-to-one counselling sessions online or by phone. With your recognised counselling qualifications, accreditation, insurance and experience you will be an asset to our small charity team

In this role you’ll be able to develop your counselling and therapy skills within an organisation which is person-centred and fiercely trauma-informed

What the role involves

This role may vary depending on needs, but is likely to include:

• Working with individual team members, as needs arise, over and above their clinical supervision. The team member may be experts in health and social care, domestic violence, mental health issues, or any of our other services
• Undertake an assessment session, followed by time-limited counselling with an integrative approach based on humanistic values (via Zoom or phone) to our staff, offering each up to 6 sessions
• Maintain succinct, relevant session notes and store these securely
• Maintaining client confidentiality, upholding data protection and equal opportunities principle
• Attend your own monthly supervision in line with your professional body’s code of ethics, to ensure safe working practices
• Completing paperwork for a DBS check with Hopscotch

What you need for this role

Essential

• Be a member - including student membership - of one of the recognised organisations (see below)
• Level 4 Diploma qualification as a minimum (or be studying towards one)
• Certificate in online counselling such as How to Do Counselling Online by Open University & BACP
• Minimum of 100 hours of supervised counselling hours
• Evidence of professional indemnity insurance and clinical supervision
• Able to keep people’s personal data safe
• Willing and able to provide counselling via Zoom from a private location with a stable WiFi connection
• Able to support a minimum of one team member a week and we request a minimum commitment of one year

Desirable

• Degree or Masters in Counselling, Counselling/Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy
• Knowledge of the issues facing ethnically minoritised women and high pressured work environments
• Committed to our values
• Approachable, presentable and compassionate

The Process

Please do share your CV and a cover letter with us. We will interview as applications come in.

If successful, we will arrange for receive your documentation including qualifications, references, insurance and supervision, before arranging an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service DBS

Recognised Organisations You Must Be A Member of:

• British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP)
• United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)
• National Counselling Society (NCS)
• British Psychoanalytical Council (BPC)

Please contact us if you have any questions

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Will you share your counselling or psychotherapy skills as a child & young person's (CYP) counsellor or therapist to join an online counselling service for young patients with a pain condition (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome)? We’re supporting patients, relatives, partners and carers affected by a debilitating condition; Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).

We're looking for qualified paediatric/child & young person counsellors, psychotherapists or psychologists ideally with some experience of working with chronic pain patients, who may want to volunteer their skills supporting our young service users and help develop a psychological support service. 

As a Volunteer Child/Young Person's Counsellor/Therapist you’ll be providing remote online counselling/therapy support services to young people aged 5 to 18 who are vulnerable, many of whom are isolated and in need of mental health services. You’ll be providing one-to-one counselling sessions online or by phone. With your recognised counselling qualifications and experience you will be an asset to our small charity and to our young services users. We will also consider therapists who are in need of a placement.

Depending on your qualifications, skills and experience, volunteer child counsellors / therapists provide person centred counselling (general talking counselling), integrative, pluralistic including or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), ACT and EMDR for young CRPS patients.

We are needing to expand this service to support our young clients as it has rapidly received a high number of referrals. People can be referred both by health or legal professionals as well as having parents/guardians referring them to the service.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your paediatric counselling skills, organisation, communication and team working skills. If you have experience in younger children please do get in touch.

Most importantly you’ll be providing essential services that help make sure no one has to face CRPS alone. Be the hope for CRPS.

What the role involves

This role may vary depending on needs, but is likely to include:

• Undertake a child client assessments, followed by therapy (via Zoom or phone) to our clients, offering up to 20 one hour (or 45 mins age dependant) sessions for each client plus 4 assessments

• Providing one-to-one therapy sessions to young patients aged 5-18 (we will consider therapists who can only support primary or secondary school age)

• Update our database with the client’s basic information and session attendance

• Maintain succinct, relevant session notes and store these securely

• Attending and participating in meetings
• Project monitoring, creating, reporting and outcomes evaluation procedures

• Attend CPD training to ensure your knowledge stays current

• Participating in regular meetings with the Clinical Lead
• Maintaining client confidentiality, upholding data protection and equal opportunities principle

• Attend monthly internal group Supervision to ensure safe working practices

We can support you to develop the skills you need for this role, including an induction. You will have a chance to discuss your role and any additional needs with us.

What you need for this role

Essential

• Be a member of one of the recognised organisations (see below)
• Level 4 Diploma level qualifications as a minimum, Degree or Masters in Paediatric Counselling, Counselling/Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy, Play Therapy, Dance & Movement Psychotherapy or Art Therapy 
• Minimum of 100 hours supervised
• Proof of professional indemnity insurance annually - we may consider paying this as an expense but commitment to the charity is required
• A valid DBS certificate (enhanced version), which is less than three years old and renewed every three years (the charity can provide where necessary)
• Able to keep people’s personal data safe

• Willing and able to provide counselling via Zoom from a private location with a stable WiFi connection

• Able to support a minimum of 2 child or young clients a week, being two hours of your time for counselling sessions plus time for administration. We ideally hope you to offer the charity a commitment of six months.

Desirable

• Personal or professional Knowledge or experience of chronic pain or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
• Previous experience as a chronic pain or CRPS paediatric counsellor or psychologist 
• Committed to our values
• Willing to develop skills and experience
• Enjoy working as part of a team
• Effective administration skills, planning and organisation skills
• Approachable, presentable, enthusiastic

We welcome trained paediatric counsellors, child therapists and counselling/clinical psychologists who are willing to give their time to support our valuable work.

Once we’ve assessed your application, you may be invited for interview. If you are successful, we will arrange for you to have an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service DBS or Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) check.

Recognised Organisations

• British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP)
• British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapists (BABCP)
• Complimentary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC)
• General Hypnotherapy Register (GHR)
• British Society for Clinical Hypnotherapists (BSCH)
• National Council for Hypnotherapists (NCH)
• United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)
• The National Hypnotherapy Society (HS)
• National Counselling Society (NCS)
• Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC)
• The Association for Professional Hypnosis and Psychotherapy (APHP)
• National Register of Hypnotherapists & Psychotherapists (NRHP)

Making a difference

What impact will the opportunity have?

You will join the charity during a critical and challenging period as the service is rapidly expanding and your expert knowledge and experience will be invaluable to our success. You will have a key role in not only developing a counselling service for younger clients but also ensure we provide counselling services and mental health support to our young child CRPS patients who are in need of our support and inclusion on a regular basis. With your help we will expand our support and mental health services to ensure our service users receive mental health support that they may not have been offered.

What's in it for you as the volunteer? 

You would be a part of our small, friendly, forward-thinking charity team, focused on reaching people affected by this rare, painful and debilitating chronic pain condition and to provide them with psychological support whether they are patients, their partner, relatives, friends or carers. As this service is continually developing, you would have a key role in developing a young person counselling programme and to complement our support services that we offer. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a real difference in a child's life which is already isolated and painful, who may not have received any psychological support.

Are you passionate about making a real difference for people affected by cancer? Tenovus Cancer Care is seeking new Trustees to help guide our charity at a pivotal moment in our history.

We’re especially keen to hear from individuals with experience in:

· Finance, audit & risk management

· Digital

· Retail

· Fundraising

· Business / entrepreneurship

· Health inequalities

For over 80 years, Tenovus Cancer Care has been giving help, hope, and a voice to people affected by cancer across Wales. Each year, we support thousands of people through our dedicated nurses, counsellors, and benefits advisors - and with cancer diagnoses rising, our work is more critical than ever.

We are eager to expand our diversity and are committed to building a Board that reflects the broad communities we serve.

A copy of our Trustee Recruitment Pack is attached.

Deadline: 21 August 2025

Interviews: 9-11 September 2025

Are you ready to help shape the future of men's mental health and self-improvement in the UK?

MINDSET, is a new UK charity on a mission to empower men by providing a safe space to talk, learn, and build crucial life skills. As we prepare for launch, we're seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to join our Board of Trustees.

This is an exceptional opportunity to play a pivotal role in establishing our charity, guiding our strategic direction, and ensuring we deliver meaningful impact to men across the country. We are looking for individuals who share our vision and values and can bring diverse skills and perspectives to our Board.

What you'll do as a Trustee:

• Provide strategic leadership: Help set the charity's direction, develop long-term plans, and ensure our activities align with our mission and vision.

• Ensure good governance: Oversee the charity's compliance with legal and regulatory requirements (Charity Commission, Companies House, etc.).

• Oversee financial health: Work with the Treasurer to ensure sound financial management, responsible use of funds, and fundraising strategy.

• Champion our cause: Act as an ambassador for Mindset, advocating for men's mental health and promoting our work.

• Support operational delivery: Provide guidance and oversight to the charity's operations, ensuring programs are effective and impactful.

Who we're looking for:

We welcome applications from individuals with a genuine commitment to our cause. While we are building a diverse board, we are particularly keen to hear from those with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Charity Law & Governance: Understanding of charity regulations, compliance, and best practice.

• Financial Management/Accountancy: Essential for the Treasurer role or general financial oversight.

• Mental Health Expertise: Professionals (e.g., therapists, counsellors, psychologists) or individuals with significant experience in mental health support or peer facilitation.

• Fundraising & Income Generation: Experience in grant writing, corporate partnerships, individual giving, or events.

• Marketing, Communications & Digital: Building brand awareness, managing online presence, and engaging with diverse audiences.

• Safeguarding & Risk Management: Ensuring the safety and well-being of our beneficiaries and volunteers.

• Lived Experience: Individuals with personal experience of mental health challenges and recovery, offering invaluable insight into our beneficiaries' needs.

What we offer:

• A unique chance to be a founding member of a significant new UK charity.

• The opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of men across the country.

• The chance to use your skills and experience to contribute to a vital social cause.

• Networking opportunities with like-minded individuals and sector professionals.

Commitment:

Trustees will typically attend Board meetings (e.g., quarterly, with additional ad-hoc meetings as needed during the setup phase) and contribute to sub-committees or specific projects based on their expertise. While this is a volunteer role, it requires a serious commitment to the charity's success.

Ready to lead with us?

If you're ready to contribute your skills, time, and passion to empower men and build a brighter future, we encourage you to apply.

Romsey charity looking for volunteer Trustees – do you have some time to spare to support this long-established and well-known local cancer support charity?

Romsey Cancer Support Centre (Jane Scarth House and Jane’s Charity Shop) is looking to appoint two Trustees. Applications from people with experience in finance and fundraising are specifically welcomed. We would be looking for someone to start as soon as convenient and to serve for an initial term of 3 years.

All the information about our charity and what is involved in being a Trustee with us can be found in our Information Pack. 

If you are interested, have questions or would like to know a bit more about what is involved then please contact Bridget Brook by email giving your email and phone number and we will arrange to have a call or meet up.

This recruitment round does not have a closing date and we will be interviewing and appointing as we receive applications.

Re-Vision is a small charity based in Queen’s Park, London, founded in 1988. We run professionally accredited part-time courses for adults to train as Counsellors and Psychotherapists and are looking for Trustees to join our Board.

Who we are

Re-Vision is a registered charity. It is a small, not for profit counselling and psychotherapy training organisation providing outstanding, in-depth training with a soulful perspective. We also offer a low cost community counselling service to enable access to mental health services for those who might otherwise not find this affordable.

The role

We are juggling a number of important strategic imperatives. We have highlighted the need to improve resilience, to look ahead at future plans for our physical environment, to continue to provide an inclusive and rewarding experience for our students, trainers and staff, to maintain and build on the unique soulfulness and richness of our training, and to build our bursary fund to help to increase accessibility to our training.

We are keen to find trustees willing to help us with these challenges. We are particularly keen to involve people with financial or marketing skills, and people who have been involved in facilitating or helping small organisations faced with the challenge of retaining core values during periods of change. This is an exciting period of change for Re-Vision and could be a good time for those with experience in strategic planning or change management to get involved, even if only for a fixed term.

We are currently looking to recruit Trustees with experience in:

• Finance and financial strategies – able to contribute to scrutiny of financial information, understand accounts and budgets.
• Diversity and inclusion policy and implementation
• Marketing and website expertise
• Facilities and property management
• Strategic planning or change management experience would be desirable

You might have previous non-exec or trustee experience, or you might be looking for your first Board/Trustee role, possibly as you think about moving on to paid non-exec roles in the future. Whatever your situation, you will be keen to make an important contribution by supporting a really worthwhile organisation. You will care about understanding our culture and values and enjoy the challenge of helping this organisation continue to thrive.

Charity Trustee

You and Me Counselling are currently recruiting volunteer trustees to complement the committee members already in their role.

This is a home working role and will be for immediate start.

Our charity

You and Me Counselling is a charitable organisation established in 2011. We are a counselling and psychotherapy service based in Hornchurch, Essex that works with children, young people, adults, and their families in the boroughs of Havering, Barking & Dagenham, Redbridge, and Waltham Forest. Our counsellors and therapists work both within schools and from our counselling rooms located in Hornchurch and Ilford.

You and Me Counselling are an organisational member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP). This means we are fully governed by the BACP’s Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions.

Job Description

As a trustee you will need to:

• Acknowledge emails at least once a day.
• Give a minimum of one hour per week to the role.
• Attend quarterly trustee meetings online.
• Ensure that You and Me Counselling pursues its stated objectives
• Ensure there is regular review of changes that might affect the organisation (political, financial, demographic, etc.)
• Ensure that the charity complies with charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Monitor finance to ensure that the charity applies its resources exclusively for its charitable objectives.
• Uphold the good name and values of You and Me Counselling.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place.
• Ensure the financial stability of the organisation.
• Supervise, support and appraise the chief executive officer.
• Hold the chief executive officer to account for the management and administration of the charity.
• Ensure that the organisation acts in accordance with employment law and exercises a duty of care to its employees.
• Identify major risks to the organisation and put systems in place to mitigate or minimise the risks.
• Ensure that the organisation has a governance structure that is appropriate to a charity of its size/complexity, stage of development, and its charitable objectives
• Regularly review your own training needs and create an expectation of continuous professional development throughout the organisation.
• Ensure that trustees have an agreed code of conduct and comply with it, and that there are mechanisms for the removal of trustees who do not abide by the principles stated therein.

Person Specifications

All trustees should demonstrate the following skills and values:

• A commitment to the organisation.
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
• Good, independent judgement.
• An ability to think creatively.
• A willingness to speak their mind.
• An understanding and acceptance of their legal duties and responsibilities as a trustee
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
• Ability to evaluate and interpret management information and other data.

Specific Skills

The ideal candidate would have one of more of the following:

• Experience in charity law and governance
• Experience in charity fundraising
• Knowledge of counselling or psychotherapy (as a therapist or client)
• Experience in accounting or financial management
• Experience in business development
• Experience in social media or marketing
• A parent of a young person who has experience of mental health issues

The Guildford Institute is looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated individual to serve as Chair of its Board of Trustees. This important role offers the opportunity to shape the future of a charity that has been a pivotal part of the community for over 130 years.

Based in our beautiful Grade II listed building since 1892, we provide the local community with accessible cultural education and opportunities to build meaningful connections with others.

We’re seeking a distinguished leader with the following qualities: 

• Leadership & Governance

• Passion for the Arts, Education & Community

• Strategic Thinking

• Financial Acumen

• Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion 

Play a vital role in guiding The Guildford Institute to continue to grow, secure its longevity and thrive.

Additional Documents:

Please read our Candidate Brief to find out more about us and the role of the Chair.

Supporting Women Through Pregnancy and Pregnancy Loss

Position: Trustee (Voluntary)
Location: Hybrid – meetings held online and in-person- Warwickshire
Time Commitment: 5–10 days per year ( Daytime, some Saturdays and evenings)

Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Closing Date: 30th September 2025

Interviews: October 2025 

About the Role

A national pregnancy and pregnancy loss support charity is seeking compassionate and strategic individuals to join its Board of Trustees. The organisation supports women and families facing unexpected pregnancy or the heartbreak of pregnancy loss, providing care and practical help at a time when it is needed most.

New Trustees will join a dedicated team committed to guiding the charity’s future direction and ensuring that its services remain impactful, ethical, and accessible. Trustees play a vital role in decision-making and oversight, helping the organisation remain strong, sustainable, and rooted in its mission of compassionate support.

Key responsibilities include:

• Contributing to the development of long-term strategy and vision
• Ensuring strong governance, legal compliance, and financial oversight
• Providing guidance and challenge to the senior leadership team
• Advocating for the organisation’s values and those it serves
• Attending quarterly board meetings and supporting sub-committees

About the Ideal Candidate

The charity is looking for individuals who are deeply committed to supporting women in vulnerable circumstances. Prior trustee experience is not necessarily required — what matters most is a caring outlook, sound judgment, and the ability to think strategically.

Applicants from all backgrounds are welcome, especially those who bring professional expertise or lived experience in the following areas:

• Fundraising and donor engagement
• Philanthropy

• HR, governance, or finance
• Digital systems, marketing, or communications
• A service user
• Housing or social care
• Helpline support
• Community outreach and safeguarding

Those with experience supporting vulnerable groups, leading organisations, or advocating for underrepresented voices would be particularly valuable. Above all, Trustees should share the charity’s belief that no one should face pregnancy or loss alone.

About the Organisation

This well-established charity supports thousands of people each year across the UK. Its services include free counselling, supported housing for women in crisis, practical help such as baby goods, and a national helpline. The organisation also plays a key role in public education around pregnancy and pregnancy loss.

The charity’s ethos is rooted in dignity, compassion, and respect. It holds nationally recognised quality standards and works in collaboration with trusted partners to deliver care that is both professional and heartfelt.

Why Join the Board?

This is a meaningful opportunity to help shape the future of an organisation that walks alongside women and families during some of the most challenging times in their lives. Trustees will bring their expertise, time, and heart to ensure these vital services continue to grow and reach those who need them most.

Relevant backgrounds might include:

Charity Trustee, Support Worker, Counsellor, HR Manager, Volunteer Leader, Programme Manager, Community Engagement Officer, Non-Executive Director, Communications Specialist, Strategic Consultant, or Safeguarding Advisor.

A message from our Chair of Trustees – Andrew Carter

Thank you for your interest in joining the team at Off The Record South East Hampshire (OTR).

This recruitment pack provides the information you need to apply to be a Trustee including:

• Details of our vision, mission and values.

• Information about the work we do, our impact and our future plans

• An overview of our organisational structure

• Information about the role and expectations of our trustees

If you would like any further information about the role before applying, please advise in your cover letter and she can arrange an informal chat with me.

We look forward to receiving your application.

Best wishes,

Andrew

Chair of Trustees

OTR

A message from our CEO: Corniche Plumridge

As the chief executive,  my role and the trustees is all about teamwork and support. I'm here to bring Off The Record’s strategic vision to life by sharing accurate and timely information, making sure they have what they need to make great decisions. In return, the trustees provide valuable guidance and oversight, helping us stay on track with our organisation's mission.

ADVERT

Are you passionate about young people's wellbeing?

Off The Record (OTR) are looking for new trustees to join our Board of Trustees.

Our vision is to support young people’s mental health to fulfil their potential for a brighter future.

We believe that young people should have more control and influence in how services for them are managed and changed, by being part of the organisation that develops the services that support their community.

We particularly want to attract applications from young people, people who identify as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent and disabled, and people of colour, because they are under-represented in our Trustee team.

Off The Record (OTR) is an independent charity based in the Havant Borough. We have been supporting young people and their families in Southeast Hampshire and surrounding areas since 1977.

We offer free 1-2-1 and family counselling, group work services for those 11 to 25 and support for their families, we deliver a young carer programme to young people ages 8 to 25.

This is an opportunity to really make a difference to the lives of young people in our community!

We are actively seeking trustees from all areas of life,

You will play a crucial role in guiding the governance of OTR. You will work collaboratively with other members of the Board of Trustees to ensure effective management and sustainability of our charity.

This is an unpaid voluntary position, requiring a commitment of approximately 4-6 hours per month. 

Our Trustee board meet every month; in-person bi-monthly for 2 hours with the months in between a shorter 1-hour online meeting. On occasion there will ad-hoc meeting to meet the needs of the organisation and to carry out the trustee role.

OTR embraces equal opportunities, diversity, and inclusion. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.

Responsibilities:

· Provide strategic guidance and expertise to support Off The Record's vision and mission.

· Actively participate in board meetings, contributing ideas, insights, and constructive feedback.

• Assist in the development and provide oversight of operational policies, procedures, and initiatives to further the organisation's objectives.
• Help oversee the governance of the charity in accordance with the Charity Commission’s published guidelines. 

· Promote the Charity’s work and values within your networks and wider communities.

· Collaborate with fellow trustees, staff, and volunteers to ensure the smooth running of the charity's operations.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

The statutory duties of a trustee

· 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

· To ensure the organisation uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objective

· To contribute actively to the board of trustees' role in giving firm strategic direction to the 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

· To observe and follow the latest version of the Charity Commission Guidance

Other duties

· Scrutinising board papers

· Leading discussions

· Providing guidance on new initiatives

· Other issues in which the trustee has special expertise

· Participating in working groups outside of Board meetings

Trustee person specification

 · Commitment to the organisation

· Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort – which could be several hours per week to keep up with incoming emails and correspondence, Monthly Trustee meetings and the Annual General Meeting.

 · Strategic vision

· Good, independent judgement

· Ability to think creatively

· Willingness to speak their mind

· Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship

· Ability to work effectively as a member of a team

Qualifications and Skills:

· A genuine interest in the well-being and mental health of young people.

· Previous experience as a trustee or in a similar governance role would be advantageous but not essential.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

· Knowledge and understanding of the voluntary sector and charity governance or willingness to learn.

• Ability to promote the Charity’s work and values within your networks and wider communities.
• Expertise in one or more of the following areas: safeguarding, counselling, mental health, fundraising, finance, marketing, law, or HR would be desirable (but not essential).

Benefits:

· The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people through Off The Record (OTR).

· Gain valuable experience and develop your skills in a governance role within a charity.

· Expand your professional network and collaborate with like-minded individuals.

· Gain satisfaction from being part of a dedicated team working towards a common goal. 

About us

You will be joining the charity at an exciting time.

OTR has been part of our community since 1977, our purpose has remained the same throughout, to

support young people’s mental health to fulfil their potential for a brighter future, however during this

time we have evolved, expanded and developed our services. We put young people at the heart of what

we do, by integrating youth voice into our services we are continuously evolving to meet current needs

of young people and their families.

You will be joining an amazing and established team.

A staff of 16 cover all bases, with an established admin and front-line group work and Young Carer

teams, and leadership team that oversee admin, therapeutic and youth services, business support,

volunteers, finance, safeguarding and clinical supervision. Our dedicated counsellors and volunteers

deliver the therapeutic services and information and support calls. Our trustees meet every month,

alternating between formal board meetings, and trustee ongoing development meetings.

You will be joining a safe and respected service, that is long standing and held dearly by our

local community.

Our policy and procedures ensure a high standard of operational and clinical governance across the

organisation, that is brought to life with an excellent induction and training programme, and varied and

topical CPD opportunities throughout the year. We are always reminded of our legacy by the continued

support from local community groups and businesses because of the difference our support made to

them or someone they care about.

You will be joining an inclusive and caring culture.

If you feel you have the expertise,please apply with the following:

· A full CV

· A covering letter detailing all of the below:

o What skills/knowledge will you be bringing

o Explanation of any gaps in your CV

Successful applicants will be invited for an informal chat with the chair of trustee and CEO prior to an interview being arranged.

As part of our commitment to safe recruitment, all appointments are subject to Enhanced DBS with

Barred List checks and references will be taken up.

OTR embraces equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion. We are committed to building a team that

represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our

work will be.

Please advise us of any requirements to support your application to us.

Details:

· Hours; 4-6 per month

· Location: Online and in person

· Application deadline: Ongoing

Want to support a good cause?

We offer:

· A team that really cares, supports and champions one another.

· Friendly environment and practices.

· Access to training.

· Social events to spend time with the team and have some fun!

Luminary provides training, employment and community to some of the most disadvantaged women in London. We work alongside women who have experienced gender-based violence and live with ‘multiple disadvantage’ - a term that recognises that many women experience multiple forms of social and economic disadvantage which interlink, intersect and
drive a cycle of deprivation. Our primary focus is helping these women achieve employment and reach independence - breaking the cycle of poverty, violence and disadvantage, once and for all. 

OVERVIEW
The Charities Act 1993 defines charity trustees as those responsible under the charity's governing document for controlling the administration and management of the charity. For Luminary Limited, the trustees oversee and support the operations of the charity, our Employability Support Programme, 1-to-1 holistic support, Mentor Scheme & next steps Progression Support Programme. 

We work in collaboration with, but independently of, the Board of Directors of the business, Luminary Bakery Limited, who oversee the governance of the bakery, café business and commercial operations.

**Please note: Due to the role responsibilities, it is a Genuine Occupational Requirement that the post holder is female, permitted under Schedule 9, part 1 of the Equality Act 2010**

How we achieve our Mission
We use baking as a tool to guide women towards employability and independence. Over our two-year programme, women learn to bake, gain a catering qualification and develop transferable skills such as budgeting, interview techniques, working as a team, and resilience. Women gain valuable work experience through our sister organisation, Luminary
Bakery, as well as being paired with a volunteer mentor who helps her develop her career next steps.  However, our programme goes far beyond job skills. We offer access to highly-trained counsellors and each woman is supported by a dedicated Progression Support Worker to help her navigate the broader challenges she will face including housing and debt.

THE ROLE OF LUMINARY LIMITED’S BOARD OF TRUSTEES
At its simplest, the role of the Trustee Board is to receive assets from donors, safeguard them and apply them to the charitable purposes of Luminary Limited. The Trustee Board must always act in the best interests of Luminary Limited, exercising the same standard of duty of care that a prudent person would apply if looking after the affairs of someone for
whom they have responsibility. The Trustee Board must act as a group and not as individuals.

DUTIES OF A TRUSTEE BOARD MEMBER
The duties of a Trustee Board member are to:
 Ensure that Luminary Limited complies with its Articles of Association, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
 Ensure that Luminary Limited pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
 Ensure Luminary Limited pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
 Ensure Luminary Limited applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects. 
 Contribute actively to the Trustee Board by giving firm strategic direction to Luminary Limited, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets, and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
 Safeguard the good name and values of Luminary Limited.
 Ensure the financial stability of Luminary Limited by opening up its network.
 Stay up to date with matters of charity law and issues affecting Luminary.

In addition to the above statutory duties, each Trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Trustee Board reach sound decisions, and to support Luminary Limited staff when necessary. This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, and evaluating or offering advice on other areas in which the Trustee has insight, experience or expertise.

DIVERSITY IN LUMINARY LIMITED’S BOARD OF TRUSTEES
We are committed to building a diverse team and seek to be representative of those we are supporting, so we would especially like to hear from applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, including the global majority. We also recognise the importance of lived experience in all roles within our organisation, and therefore welcome applications from
those with lived experience of disadvantage or gender-based violence.

Diversity brings together the rich mix of qualities that make a healthy and effective board, and therefore allows us to work to the best of our ability for Luminary Limited. Luminary Ltd and Luminary Bakery were originally established and founded as part of the Christian church community and were inspired by their faith to create opportunities for women who experienced disadvantage. Luminary supports applicants of all or no faiths and continues to be respectful of all faiths and beliefs, offering an inclusive space for everyone.

MINIMUM TIME COMMITMENT OF BEING A LUMINARY TRUSTEE
Trustees are expected to attend all board meetings which are held four times a year on weekday evenings, with some shorter meetings in between as necessary. The meetings last approximately two hours and are usually in Camden, London (physical attendance is preferred, but flexibility can be given in certain circumstances). Trustees are also expected to
attend the yearly Graduation Ceremony and 1-2 other social events, including Luminary staff gatherings.

In addition, each Trustee must:
 Be committed to the mission of Luminary Limited.
 Be able to commit for a minimum of three years on the Board.
 Be willing to meet the minimum time requirement.
 Have integrity and independent judgement.
 Be able to think creatively and speak their mind.
 Have an understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
 Be able to work effectively as a member of a team and take decisions for the good of Luminary Limited.

Trustees:
 May be asked to join a board sub-committee, which would meet in between board
meetings.
 Are expected to attend some training sessions.
 Review policies and other documentation relating to charity governance.
 Are invited to attend trainee graduations and other social events.
 Can claim out-of-pocket expenses incurred in travelling to meetings.

PERSON SPECIFICATION
Following an audit of the current skills & expertise on the board, Luminary are seeking five new Trustees with experience in the following areas:
 Legal experience and current practice, primarily in employment and charity law, to be able to guide the Board and CEO on legal matters informally and liaise with Luminary’s lawyers on an ad-hoc basis to provide support as needed.
 Experience in policy work and advocacy on violence against women and girls and/or related social justice issues.
 Experience of charity governance, including growing and scaling up a charity.

 Building and drawing on a fundraising network or fundraising experience to secure further investment support.

 Safeguarding expertise and experience to be able to support the Board and staff in ensuring appropriate safeguarding measures are in place.

Personal Attributes
 Able to work collaboratively with colleagues, stakeholders and beneficiaries
 Be passionate about Luminary’s purpose and vision for growth, and commitment to the organisation
 Be an effective communicator
 Be a strategic thinker
 Able to act decisively and be responsive
 Be willing to use connections to promote and advance the work of Luminary Limited