Trustee volunteer roles

Join the Board of SOS Children’s Villages UK – Finance Trustee

Location: remote with occasional in-person commitments

Time commitment: 8-10 days per annum (quarterly board meetings)

Remuneration: voluntary 

SOS Children’s Villages UK is seeking passionate, strategic and collaborative individuals to join its Board of Trustees at one of the most important moments in the Charity’s history. In December 2025, the Board made the pivotal decision for the Charity to leave the SOS Children’s Villages Federation after more than 50 years. In autumn 2026, the organisation will re-launch under a new name and logo, while continuing to work with many existing partners and building new ways to increase its impact. 

The Charity’s core belief remains unchanged: all children have the right to feel loved, safe and supported. It focuses on children and young people without parental care, or at risk of losing it, through family strengthening, quality alternative care, youth employability and education, emergency support, advocacy and research.

Finance Trustee

We’re seeking a fully qualified accountant with:

• Experience in charity finance (international NGO experience is a plus) or capacity to develop the necessary knowledge and understanding
• Strategic insight into financial performance and risk
• The ability to contribute to the Finance, Audit & Risk Committee

Why Join Us?

• Join a charity at a defining moment as it becomes fully independent and prepares for a public re-launch in autumn 2026. 

• Help increase influence and impact for children without parental care, or at risk of losing it. 

• Support locally led interventions, youth participation, child safeguarding, income growth and a strong values-led culture. 

• Work with a collaborative Board and executive team that values diverse backgrounds, perspectives and lived experience. 

• Contribute to stronger systems, advocacy and partnerships so more children can grow up with love, respect and security. 

About you:

We are looking for those with strong empathy for the mission, strategic insight, sound judgement and a collaborative spirit. Board experience is helpful but not essential: first-time trustees will be considered. SOS Children’s Villages UK particularly welcomes applications from individuals with direct experience of the UK or other care systems, as a child or adult. 

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. 

• Ability to build and sustain relationships with stakeholders and colleagues. 

• Good independent judgement, strategic vision and willingness to speak your mind respectfully. 

• Understanding, or willingness to learn, the legal duties and responsibilities of trusteeship. 

Recruitment timeline:

To ensure equitable access to information and uphold the organisations commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, they will be hosting a Q&A webinar in place of individual informal calls with the Chair/Executive team. We encourage all interested candidates to submit questions in advance, which will be addressed during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar on Thursday 27th August 6-7pm and we will send you a link.

Application deadline: 5pm Friday 11th September

How to apply:

Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to SOS Children’s Villages UK on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to Senior Appointments at Charity People and request a candidate pack. For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala or Tiku van Houtem or via email at Senior Appointments at Charity People

Use of AI in applications:

We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

At Women for Refugee Women, we support refugee and asylum-seeking women who have fled persecution to rebuild their lives on their own terms.

We have an overarching vision that women who come to the UK in search of safety experience a fair and compassionate asylum system and are supported to feel free, welcome and able to rebuild their lives. We currently work in three main areas:  

Power: To support women who have sought asylum to reclaim their power through opportunities to develop new and existing skills, access information and advice, and build confidence and connections. 

Influence: To amplify the voices of women who have sought asylum to wide audiences through research, events, creative projects, the arts, social media, print and digital media and other means of communication. 

Change: To support women who have sought asylum to influence public perceptions of refugees, and to challenge and change the UK’s asylum system so that it is fair and supportive. 

Role Description 

Time commitment 

• 2-hour quarterly Board meetings - plus pre-reading of Board papers.

• Annual strategy planning meeting (full day).

• 1.5-hour quarterly Finance & HR Committee meetings - plus pre-reading of papers 

• Ad hoc events (including launches, networking events). 

• Periodic support where needed (such as interviewing for senior candidates, offering advice to staff, etc.) 

Term 

An initial term of 3 years, renewable once up to a maximum of 6 years. 

Salary 

Trustee roles are voluntary. They are unpaid, though expenses incurred in the role will be reimbursed.

Role Purpose 

• To support Women for Refugee Women in delivering its vision, mission and values, ensuring strong financial stewardship and long-term sustainability 

• To ensure the Board fulfils its responsibilities in relation to financial oversight and governance 

• To provide strategic financial insight to support long-term planning and decision-making 

• To contribute financial and fundraising expertise to Board discussions and decision-making 

• To act as an ambassador for the charity 

Responsibilities 

• Ensure WRW operates in line with its governing document and all relevant legal and regulatory requirements 

• Fulfil the responsibilities of a trustee and company director, acting at all times in the best interests of the organisation 

• Contribute to the Board’s role in setting strategic direction, priorities and goals, and reviewing organisational performance 

• Work collaboratively with trustees and Co-Directors to support and guide the organisation’s work 

• Play an active role in Board and Finance & HR Committee discussions, bringing financial and fundraising expertise to support informed decision-making 

• Support strong financial oversight, ensuring the organisation’s sustainability and responsible stewardship of its resources 

• Work closely with the Co-Directors and relevant staff to review budgets, management accounts and financial forecasts, offering appropriate support and challenge 

• Help ensure strong and proportionate financial controls, systems and processes are in place and operating effectively 

• Support the Board in overseeing financial risk, reserves and long-term sustainability 

• Contribute insight into and, where appropriate, support the development of fundraising strategy and income generation 

• Support building financial understanding and confidence across the Board 

• Safeguard WRW’s values, reputation and commitment to the women it works alongside 

• Contribute to wider Board responsibilities, including subcommittees, recruitment and ambassadorial support ​

Person Specification 

Personal Qualities 

• Personal integrity and sound judgement 

• Commitment to WRW’s vision, mission and values, and to the rights of refugee and asylum-seeking women 

• A thoughtful and analytical approach, with strong attention to detail and the ability to engage with complex information 

• Collaborative approach, with the confidence to contribute, ask questions and offer constructive challenge 

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive and respectful relationships 

Knowledge and Skills 

• Strong understanding of charity finance and financial oversight (gained through senior professional experience or equivalent) 

• Ability to interpret and communicate financial information clearly to non-financial audiences 

• Understanding of fundraising and income generation, ideally with an appreciation of ethical and values-led approaches 

• Awareness of financial sustainability, risk and funding landscapes 

• Understanding of investment principles and oversight (including endowments or reserves), or willingness to engage with this area 

• Understanding of governance and the respective roles of trustees and senior staff 

• Awareness of data, digital and cybersecurity risks, and the role of trustees in supporting effective oversight (desirable) 

Experience 

• A background in financial planning, budgeting or oversight 

• Familiarity with financial governance, controls and reporting 

• Experience contributing to fundraising strategy or income generation 

• Experience of working with finance teams, staff or committees 

• A track record of working collaboratively to achieve shared goals 

• Sound judgement and the ability to make balanced, well-informed decisions 

• Lived experience of seeking asylum (desirable) 

Application Process 

We welcome applications from individuals who are excited by our work and feel they can contribute meaningfully to the Board. 

To apply, please submit your CV and a short covering statement (maximum 2 pages), via CharityJob, outlining:

• Which role you are applying for

• Why you are interested in joining WRW 

• What you would bring to the role, including any specific skills, experience or perspectives 

At Women for Refugee Women (WRW), we support refugee and asylum-seeking women who have fled persecution to rebuild their lives on their own terms.

We have an overarching vision that women who come to the UK in search of safety experience a fair and compassionate asylum system and are supported to feel free, welcome and able to rebuild their lives. We currently work in three main areas:

Power: To support women who have sought asylum to reclaim their power through opportunities to develop new and existing skills, access information and advice, and build confidence and connections.

Influence: To amplify the voices of women who have sought asylum to wide audiences through research, events, creative projects, the arts, social media, print and digital media and other means of communication.

Change: To support women who have sought asylum to influence public perceptions of refugees, and to challenge and change the UK’s asylum system so that it is fair and supportive.

Role Description 

Time commitment 

• 2-hour quarterly Board meetings - plus pre-reading of Board papers.

• Full day annual strategy planning meeting.

• 1.5-hour quarterly Finance & HR Committee meetings - plus pre-reading of papers 

• Ad hoc events (including launches, networking events). 

• Quarterly supervision with the Co-Directors. 

Term 

An initial term of 3 years, renewable once up to a maximum of 6 years. 

Salary 

Trustee roles are voluntary. They are unpaid, though expenses incurred in the role will be reimbursed.

Role Purpose 

• To ensure Women for Refugee Women delivers its vision, mission and values, and fulfils its duty to women seeking safety in the UK 

• To ensure the Board fulfils its responsibilities and provides effective governance and strategic leadership 

• To act as an ambassador for the charity 

• To provide steady, values-led leadership in a complex and evolving external environment 

Responsibilities 

• Ensure WRW operates in line with its governing document and all legal and regulatory requirements 

• Fulfil the responsibilities of a trustee and company director, always acting in the best interests of the organisation 

• Lead the Board in setting strategic direction, priorities and goals, and in reviewing organisational performance 

• Work closely with the Co-Directors to guide and support the organisation’s work, while ensuring clear and appropriate accountability 

• Shape Board agendas and chair meetings to enable thoughtful discussion, constructive challenge and clear decision-making 

• Set the tone for Board culture, ensuring it is inclusive, collaborative and grounded in WRW’s values 

• Work in close partnership with the Co-Chair (where applicable), modelling collaborative and feminist leadership 

• Contribute your perspective to Board discussions to support informed and balanced decision-making 

• Ensure strong financial oversight, sustainability and responsible stewardship of resources 

• Help ensure strong and proportionate governance, systems and controls are in place 

• Safeguard WRW’s values, reputation and commitment to the women it works alongside 

• Support Board development, including recruitment, succession planning and maintaining a balance of skills and perspectives 

• Foster strong, open and respectful relationships between trustees and staff, maintaining appropriate governance boundaries 

• Represent WRW externally where appropriate, helping to build relationships and uphold its values and reputation 

• Contribute to wider Board responsibilities, including subcommittees and ambassadorial support 

Person Specification 

Personal Qualities 

• Personal integrity and sound judgement 

• Commitment to WRW’s vision, mission and values, and to the rights of refugee and asylum-seeking women 

• Collaborative approach, with the confidence to contribute, ask questions and offer constructive challenge 

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive and respectful relationships and networks 

• An engaged and thoughtful leadership style, with the ability to lead with clarity and confidence, including in complex or sensitive contexts 

Knowledge and Skills 

• Understanding of the legal duties and responsibilities of trusteeship 

• Strategic thinking and the ability to contribute to long-term direction 

• Strong chairing and facilitation skills, with the ability to guide discussion and build consensus 

• Good understanding of governance, board dynamics and the respective roles of trustees and senior staff 

• Confidence in supporting and constructively challenging senior leadership 

• Sound judgement in navigating external and politically sensitive contexts 

Experience 

• Experience of chairing boards, committees or similar forums (or equivalent leadership experience) 

• Experience working collaboratively to achieve shared goals 

• Sound judgement and the ability to make balanced, well-informed decisions 

• Experience building constructive relationships with senior stakeholders 

• Experience representing an organisation externally 

• Lived experience of seeking asylum (desirable) 

Application process

We welcome applications from individuals who are excited by our work and feel they can contribute meaningfully to the Board. 

To apply, please submit your CV and a short covering statement (maximum 2 pages), via CharityJob, outlining:

• Which role you are applying for

• Why you are interested in joining WRW 

• What you would bring to the role, including any specific skills, experience or perspectives 

The Public Interest News Foundation (PINF) is the UK’s first charity dedicated to promoting high-quality journalism and strengthening local news. We are seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and help guide the charity’s financial stewardship during an exciting period of growth and impact.

This voluntary role is ideal for someone with strong financial expertise. As Treasurer, you will work closely with fellow trustees and the executive team to oversee budgets, financial reporting, risk management and long-term financial sustainability, while helping the Board make informed strategic decisions.

We are looking for a collaborative individual who can explain financial matters clearly to non-financial colleagues, provide constructive challenge, and share our commitment to supporting independent, public-interest journalism across the UK. Previous trustee or charity finance experience is welcome but not essential.

Further details are included in the attached job specification.

Time commitment: Approximately six days per year in total, including four Board meetings (two in London and two online) and occasional support between meetings.

We particularly encourage applications from individuals whose backgrounds and perspectives are under-represented on charity boards and in the news sector. 

About Pecan

Pecan tackles poverty in Southwark by restoring dignity, belonging and hope through connected community services that address food insecurity, unemployment and isolation. From food banks and employment support to welcoming community spaces, we combine practical help with emotional and community care, helping people regain confidence, feel hopeful and believe in their potential.

About The Role

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines.

We're looking for a Fundraising Trustee to join our Board and provide strategic fundraising expertise. This role combines governance responsibilities with practical support, helping us strengthen existing income streams, develop new opportunities and build relationships across Peckham and Southwark.

Main Responsibilities:

• Governance and Strategic Leadership: Fulfil the responsibilities of a charity trustee, ensuring effective governance and accountability. Attend and contribute to Board meetings and strategic discussions. 

• Fundraising: Provide strategic advice across key income streams, including trusts and foundations, statutory contracts, inividual giving and corporate partnerships. Share fundraising expertise and help identify new opportunitiies for sustainable income. 

• Community Engagement: Attend and support fundraising events, community activities and supporter engagement opportunities. Act as an enthusiastic ambassador for Pecan, promoting our mission and values within the local community. 

Essential Requirements 

• A practising Christian who is committed to Pecan's mission and values
• Experience of charity fundraising, such as community fundraising, events, church engagement, corporate partnerships or individual giving. 
• Strong relationship-building and networking skills. 
• Willingness to act as a local ambassador for Pecan. 
• Able to attend Board meetings held in the evenings. 

Desirable knowledge/expertise

• Knowledge of, or strong connections within, Peckham and/or Southwark.
• Ability to commit to 4-8 hours per month, with some months requiring more time to attend meetings, fundraising events, or networking opportunities. We recognise that trustees have varying availability, and additional involvement beyond core governance responsibilities is flexible. 
• Experience working with churches.
• Experience engaging local businesses, schools or community organisations. 
• Understanding of charity governance and trustee responsibilities. 
• Existing networks within Peckham and Southwark. 

Time Commitment 

The expected commitment is flexible and averages a few hours each month, including:

• 4-6 Board meetings per year (evenings, usually held virtually).
• Ad hoc Fundraising Committee meetings (typically during the daytime). 
• Occassional fundraising and networking events, including some evenings and weekends
• Additional support nd networking where your availability allows. 
   

Please read the Job Description for more information.

Closing Date: Wednesday 9th September 2026, 9am

Interview Date: 14th, 15th or 16th September 2026, Details TBC 

Start Date: ASAP

Kidney Care UK, the UK’s leading kidney patient support charity is looking to recruit a number of exceptional individuals to join our committed Board as Trustees. To maintain a good skills balance within the Board, we would particularly welcome applications from a range of interested applicants with legal, IT, finance and fundraising expertise, as well as from senior clinicians including nurses and other allied health professionals. Lived experience of kidney disease would be advantageous but not essential.

Kidney Care UK, provides practical, financial and emotional support for kidney patients and their families, and works in partnership with health professionals and organisations to improve care and quality of life for patients. With over 200 patients supported every week and around £3m invested in our patient support work every year, we are passionately committed to improving the lives of everyone affected by the disease and actively campaign to improve care services.

Trustees are expected to attend four Board meetings a year, held in London and at our office headquarters in Alton, Hampshire, and most Trustees choose to sit on one of our four Committees.

The appointment is for an initial term of three years, with an option to serve up to nine years in total.

There is no remuneration although expenses may be claimed.

We are committed to diversity and strive to create an inclusive environment for all.

To apply, please submit a copy of your CV and a covering letter outlining why you wish to be a Trustee of Kidney Care UK.

Applications are open until 30 September 2026 with interviews scheduled to be held in November.

Help shape the future of hospital, health and wellbeing broadcasting across the UK.

The Hospital Broadcasting Association (HBA) is seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees. This is an opportunity to use your financial skills and strategic insight to support a national charity that helps more than 140 hospital, health and wellbeing broadcasting organisations develop, collaborate and thrive.

What you'll do

As Treasurer, you will work closely with fellow Trustees to oversee the charity's finances and support effective decision-making. Responsibilities include:

• Providing financial oversight and helping to ensure the charity meets its legal and regulatory obligations.
• Working with the Board to develop annual budgets and longer-term financial plans.
• Monitoring financial performance and presenting reports to Trustees.
• Preparing the annual accounts and financial review for inclusion in the Trustees' Annual Report.
• Liaising with the charity's Independent Examiner.
• Overseeing financial systems, controls and banking arrangements.
• Maintaining and reviewing financial policies and procedures.
• Supporting the Board to ensure the charity's long-term financial sustainability.

About you

We're looking for someone who:

• Has experience in financial management, accounting, bookkeeping, finance leadership or a related discipline.
• Can interpret financial information and communicate it clearly to non-financial audiences.
• Understands, or is willing to learn, the responsibilities of charity trusteeship.
• Can think strategically and contribute to the long-term direction of the organisation.
• Is organised, reliable and able to work to agreed deadlines.
• Is comfortable using digital collaboration tools, including Microsoft 365, Teams and SharePoint.
• Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a volunteer-led team.
• Shares our commitment to supporting hospital, health and wellbeing broadcasting.

Previous charity trustee experience is welcome but not essential, and we encourage applications from people with transferable financial expertise gained in the private, public or voluntary sectors.

Trustee responsibilities

As a Trustee, you will share collective responsibility for the governance, financial sustainability and strategic direction of the HBA.

The HBA is an entirely volunteer-led charity with no paid staff. As a result, our Board operates as a working Board, with Trustees contributing not only to governance and decision-making but also, where appropriate, to the delivery of the charity's objectives. This may include supporting projects, overseeing volunteer teams, working with external stakeholders and providing professional expertise in your area of knowledge.

We're looking for someone who is comfortable balancing strategic oversight with practical involvement in the organisation and who wants to play an active role in helping the charity grow and succeed.

Meetings and commitment

The time commitment is approximately 4 hours per week on average, with some busier periods throughout the year.

The Trustee Board meets formally, in-person, every two months, usually on the third Saturday, with informal catch-up meetings taking place via Microsoft Teams on a weekday evening in the intervening months.

Location and travel

This role can be carried out from anywhere in the UK, with most Board business conducted online.

Trustees are expected to attend Board meetings and may occasionally be asked to attend sector events, including the HBA Annual Conference and Awards, meetings with stakeholders and visits to member organisations.

Reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses incurred while carrying out Trustee duties will be reimbursed in line with the Association's expenses policy.

Please note that we are not actively interviewing for this role at present. However, we reserve the right to close applications early should we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

Help transform the lives of pets and the people who love them

Blue Cross has been helping sick, injured and homeless pets since 1897. Today, we support thousands of pets and their owners through veterinary care, rehoming, behaviour support, pet food banks, education, campaigning and pet bereavement services. Our vision is simple: every pet will enjoy a healthy life in a happy home.

The Board's future needs have been considered in light of Blue Cross' strategic priorities and organisational ambitions. We are therefore seeking a Trustee with significant fundraising expertise who can bring strategic insight, sector knowledge and constructive challenge to Board discussions. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future direction of Blue Cross, supporting the charity's long-term sustainability and our mission to improve the lives of pets and their people.

We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates with experience in:

• Strategic fundraising leadership
• Income diversification
• Major gifts and philanthropy
• Individual giving
• Corporate partnerships
• Legacy fundraising
• Digital fundraising and supporter engagement

We are looking for someone who can bring:

• Significant senior fundraising leadership experience
• A track record of fundraising growth and income generation
• Experience developing and implementing fundraising strategies
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills
• Knowledge of fundraising trends, governance and best practice

Time commitment

Approximately 1-2 days per month, including quarterly Board meetings, committee participation and occasional events.

Diversity and inclusion

Blue Cross is committed to creating a Board that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from people currently underrepresented on charity boards.

Key dates

Closing date: Tuesday 25 August 2026
 First interviews: Week commencing 14 September 2026
 Second interviews: Week commencing 21 September 2026

To learn more about the role, please review the candidate information pack.

Help strengthen the financial sustainability, governance and accountability of Blue Cross

Blue Cross has been helping sick, injured and homeless pets since 1897. Today, we support thousands of pets and their owners through veterinary care, rehoming, behaviour support, pet food banks, education, campaigning and pet bereavement services. Our vision is simple: every pet will enjoy a healthy life in a happy home.

The Board's future needs have been considered in light of Blue Cross' strategic priorities and organisational ambitions. We are therefore seeking a Trustee with significant finance and audit expertise who can bring strategic insight, financial acumen and constructive challenge to Board discussions. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future direction of Blue Cross, supporting the charity's long-term sustainability and our mission to improve the lives of pets and their people.

We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates with experience in:

• Finance, audit or accounting leadership
• Risk management and assurance
• Financial governance and controls
• Budgeting and financial planning
• Regulatory compliance
• Audit and Risk Committee leadership
• Organisational sustainability and stewardship

We are looking for someone who can bring:

• Significant senior-level finance, audit or accounting experience
• A recognised accountancy qualification or equivalent professional expertise
• Strong understanding of governance, risk and assurance
• Experience influencing decisions at executive or Board level
• The ability to interpret and constructively challenge financial information

Time commitment

Approximately 1-2 days per month, including quarterly Board meetings, committee participation and occasional events.

Diversity and inclusion

Blue Cross is committed to creating a Board that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from people currently underrepresented on charity boards.

Key dates

Closing date: Tuesday 25 August 2026
 First interviews: Week commencing 14 September 2026
 Second interviews: Week commencing 21 September 2026

To learn more about the role, please review the candidate information pack.

Help shape the future of Blue Cross through commercial insight, strategic leadership and sustainable growth

Blue Cross has been helping sick, injured and homeless pets since 1897. Today, we support thousands of pets and their owners through veterinary care, rehoming, behaviour support, pet food banks, education, campaigning and pet bereavement services. Our vision is simple: every pet will enjoy a healthy life in a happy home.

The Board's future needs have been considered in light of Blue Cross' strategic priorities and organisational ambitions. We are therefore seeking a Trustee with significant commercial expertise who can bring strategic insight, business acumen and constructive challenge to Board discussions. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future direction of Blue Cross, supporting the charity's long-term sustainability and our mission to improve the lives of pets and their people.

We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates with experience in:

• Commercial strategy
• Business development
• Strategic partnerships
• Brand and marketing
• Digital transformation
• Customer-focused organisations
• Innovation and organisational growth

We are looking for someone who can bring:

• Significant senior leadership experience within a commercial environment
• Strong strategic and commercial judgement
• Experience influencing decision making at executive or Board level
• Excellent stakeholder management skills
• The ability to balance commercial considerations with charitable purpose

Time commitment

Approximately 1-2 days per month, including quarterly Board meetings, committee participation and occasional events.

Diversity and inclusion

Blue Cross is committed to creating a Board that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from people currently underrepresented on charity boards.

Key dates

Closing date: Tuesday 25 August 2026
First interviews: Week commencing 14 September 2026
Second interviews: Week commencing 21 September 2026

To learn more about the role, please review the candidate information pack.

Join Our Board - Help shape the future of Merton’s vibrant voluntary, community and social enterprise sector.

Merton Connected is seeking two to three new trustees to join us at an exciting time of growth.

Merton's voluntary, community, social enterprise and faith sector is full of energy, ideas and people determined to make a difference. As the borough's infrastructure charity, Merton Connected sits right at the heart of it: connecting, supporting and championing the organisations that support local people every day.

Now we want you to help shape what comes next.

Who we're looking for

We're seeking people who bring curiosity, strategic thinking, and a genuine commitment to inclusive community development. Whether this would be your first governance role or you've supported other boards before, what matters most is your perspective and your willingness to engage.

We're particularly keen to hear from people with insight or experience in:

• Charity management
• Public health, health and social care integration, or partnership working between statutory and VCS organisations
• Marketing and communications
• Digital and AI operations
• Income generation and fundraising
• Impact and performance measurement

We also warmly welcome applicants with diverse lived experience, fresh perspectives, and a strong connection to Merton. There's no single profile we're looking for, and different viewpoints make us stronger.

What you'll be doing

As a trustee, you'll help shape our strategy, strengthen good governance, and champion the voices of local organisations and residents. You'll join a collaborative, supportive board that works closely with our leadership team to ensure Merton's voluntary, community and faith sector continues to thrive.

What you'll gain

• The chance to influence local priorities and make a meaningful difference to people's lives
• Insight into how a well-connected, values-driven infrastructure charity works from the inside
• Opportunities to share your knowledge and develop your own strategic and leadership skills
• A place on a welcoming, inclusive board committed to learning and collective impact

The practical bit

Time commitment: 4–6 meetings per year (including strategy days), with occasional subgroups or events
Support offered: A full induction is provided, and reasonable out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed.

We are actively seeking to expand our board and hope to make at least two trustee appointments over the next two months.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and we may appoint additional trustees where their skills and experience complement the board.

Ready to find out more?

Please apply with your CV and a few screening questions

Heartwood House is a unique organisation, working to support and empower young people to engage with education and achieve their potential, free from mainstream system constraints. We are a small, values-driven community, and our trustees play a vital role in guiding our mission and ensuring the long-term sustainability of what we do.

At Heartwood House, we deliver full-time education for students experiencing emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA). Our, methodology places wellbeing at the core of students' education, focusing on mental health, personal growth, and positive social interactions alongside academic instruction.

Students have an inherent right to respectful and caring treatment, independent of behaviour or academic performance. As a trustee, you will help uphold and champion our policy of unconditional positive regard, the principle that everyone (staff or student) should always be treated with respect and dignity, no matter the situation.

Education takes place in small groups, with lessons tailored to each student's individual needs and interests. As a trustee, you will gain insight into a genuinely distinctive educational model, and your governance will directly support the staff who build meaningful relationships with every young person in our care.

All staff are invested in and actively participate in student wellbeing, integrating mental health support and personal growth throughout the day, not just in designated sessions. Trustees share responsibility for ensuring this holistic approach is protected and resourced appropriately.

We offer academic instruction from Entry Level to GCSE in subjects aligned with students' interests and future plans. Almost all students study English, Maths, Science, and Art at a minimum, with most pursuing additional subjects at the centre or online. As a trustee, you will help ensure the organisation remains financially and strategically positioned to continue delivering this flexible, student-centred curriculum.

I am working on behalf of my Client BeFriend Cows, who are a U.S.-based nonprofit organization that promotes compassion toward animals. They are seeking a financially-minded leader to join their board and guide their organization's financial health as they grow. This role combines financial stewardship with strategic thinking, helping ensure they have the resources and stability to expand their impact for animals, families, and communities worldwide.

Current status: This is a volunteer role. As they scale, they envision transitioning board leadership into compensated positions.

Your Core Responsibilities

Financial Leadership

• Present clear, accurate financial updates to the full board

• Guide the annual budget process and monitor organizational spending

• Lead audit preparations and ensure strong financial controls

• Oversee how we manage reserves and any investment activities

• Offer strategic input on major financial decisions

Board Governance

• Participate in evaluating and supporting our Executive Director

• Help navigate complex legal or ethical questions facing the organization

• Ensure we remain aligned with our charitable mission and legal obligations

• Act as an ambassador, opening doors to partnerships and visibility

• Contribute to fundraising conversations and donor relationship building

• Provide perspective on organizational strategy and long-term direction

Independent Trustee – Royal College of Physicians

Location: London, with online attendance possible if necessary

Term: Up to four years, with potential reappointment for an additional term 

Time Commitment: Approximately 1.5 days per month 

Remuneration: Voluntary position, with reasonable expenses reimbursed 

 Help shape the future of medicine via digital governance

Are you a senior digital, AI or cyber security leader who can bring independent judgement, constructive challenge and strategic assurance to one of the UK’s most historic and influential medical membership bodies? 

The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) is seeking to appoint an Independent Trustee with expertise in digital transformation, AI governance and/or cyber security. This is a distinctive opportunity to help ensure the RCP’s governance maturity keeps pace with the changing digital environment, while supporting its charitable purpose and long-term resilience. 

 About the organisation:

Founded in 1518, the Royal College of Physicians is a professional membership body for physicians, with around 40,000 members and fellows globally working across hospitals, communities and 30 medical specialties. Everything the RCP does is aimed at improving patient care, reducing illness, setting high standards in medicine and shaping better health for all. 

The RCP employs around 350 staff and has an operating budget of approximately £40 million per year. Its work spans education, clinical standards, policy, advocacy, leadership development and support for physicians across the UK and internationally. 

In April 2026, the RCP launched its new strategy for 2026–2030, centred on four priorities: connection, standards, voice and renewal. The strategy focuses on supporting members and fellows, strengthening community, advocating for the future of medicine, and building organisational resilience and responsible growth. 

The Opportunity:

As an Independent Trustee, you will provide objective scrutiny, external perspective and strategic challenge as part of the Board of Trustees. You will act collectively with fellow trustees in the best interests of the RCP and its charitable purposes, helping to ensure the organisation is well run, financially sustainable, compliant and focused on delivering public benefit. 

Your specialist contribution will be to bring senior-level expertise in digital, AI and/or cyber security governance to support Board deliberations, strengthen assurance and guide effective oversight of risks and opportunities. You will work alongside independent trustees, senior officer clinicians, the President, Chair, Chief Executive and executive team at a pivotal moment in the RCP’s development. 

This voluntary position offers the chance to: 

· Bring expert oversight to digital transformation, AI governance, cyber security and organisational risk. 

· Support the delivery of the RCP’s 2026–2030 strategy and its commitment to modern, transparent governance. 

· Provide constructive challenge and independent judgement on strategic, financial, operational and reputational matters. 

 About You:

We are seeking an experienced, collaborative and values-led leader who brings: 

· Senior leadership experience in a complex organisation. 

· High-level expertise in digital transformation, AI governance and/or cyber security governance. 

· Experience of serving on, or working closely with, a board or equivalent governance body. 

· An understanding of charity governance and the legal duties of trusteeship, or the willingness to develop this quickly. 

· A commitment to the RCP’s mission, values and strategic objectives. 

Experience of working in or with a professional membership body, charity, regulator, public body or healthcare-related organisation would be highly desirable, although we welcome candidates whose broader experience and perspectives can strengthen the Board. 

Application Deadline:

5pm Monday 7th September 2026

How to Apply

Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to Royal College of Physicians on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to Senior Appointments at Charity People and request a candidate pack in the first instance.

Use of AI in applications:

We understand some candidates use AI tools when applying. Whilst we welcome the use of technology to support clear communication and structure, we want to learn more about you, so please ensure that your application reflects your own skills, knowledge and experiences.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.