Appointed trustee volunteer roles

Join the MINDSET Charity Steering Group

Help shape a new movement for men’s wellbeing and personal growth

MINDSET is a new charity with a bold mission: to equip men with the tools, skills, and approaches they need to live happier, healthier, more resilient lives — in a non‑clinical, non‑therapeutic, practical way.

We’re building something meaningful from the ground up, and we’re looking for a small group of committed volunteers to help shape our foundation.

What is the Steering Group?

The Steering Group is a temporary leadership team (6–12 months) that will guide the early development of MINDSET before we formally register as a charity and appoint Trustees.

You’ll help shape:

• our mission and values

• our first programmes and workshops

• our safeguarding and boundaries

• our culture and tone

• our community outreach

• our long‑term structure and governance

This is your chance to influence a charity at the very beginning.

Who we’re looking for

You don’t need to be a mental health professional. You do need to care about men’s wellbeing and personal growth.

We welcome people with experience or interest in:

• facilitation or group leadership

• safeguarding or risk awareness

• wellbeing, coaching, or personal development

• community work or lived experience

• operations, finance, or admin

• marketing, branding, or communications

Most importantly, you should be:

• open‑minded

• collaborative

• reliable

• passionate about prevention and growth

• comfortable with reflective, skills‑based approaches

Time commitment

• Monthly meetings (online)

• Occasional small tasks between meetings

• A 6–12 month commitment while we build our foundation

Why join us?

This is a rare opportunity to:

• shape a charity before it launches

• influence how men’s wellbeing is approached

• be part of something meaningful and preventative

• help create programmes that genuinely change lives

• grow personally while helping others grow

You’ll be part of a supportive, purpose‑driven team building something that matters.

Interested?

If you’d like to express interest or learn more, please get in touch.

Tell us a little about yourself, why this matters to you, and what you feel you could bring.

The Ocean Regeneration Trust (ORT) is looking for dedicated individuals to join our Board and help shape the future of the Ocean Estate in Stepney. As a legacy successor for the NDC regeneration of the area, we work hand-in-hand with residents and stakeholders to ensure the social, economic, and physical regeneration of our vibrant community. 

About the Roles

We are currently recruiting for two types of Board Members:

Independent/Specialist Members: Professionals who do not live on the estate but bring specific expertise to strengthen our governance.

Community Members: Local residents living within the Ocean Regeneration Trust core area who want to represent their neighbours and guide local improvements.

What We Are Looking For

We welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly those with experience in:

Financial Management & Accounting.

Legal Advice & Governance.

Human Resources & Organisational Management.

Neighbourhood Renewal / Management.

Enterprise & Business Development.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Oversight: Help deliver ORT’s vision to improve the quality of life for those living and working in Stepney and the Ocean Estate in Tower Hamlets. 

Community Impact: Support 10 year objectives i.e. the implementation of NHS/Public Health initiatives such as neighbourhood health and wellbeing, capacity building for the local Voluntary and Community sector, employment and skills and strategic expertise in housing and welfare changes.

Governance: Attend Board meetings (at least 4–5 times per year) and contribute constructively to decision-making.

Time Commitment & Location

Meetings: Held at the Harford Street Multicentre, E1 or online (hybrid) 

Duration: Meetings typically last 1–2 hours and preparatory reading. 

Remuneration: These are voluntary positions; however, legitimate expenses (such as travel) will be reimbursed

We are looking for our next Chair of Trustees – someone who will work closely with our Executive Team and Board to guide the organisation through what is both a challenging and genuinely exciting time. The funding environment is tough. The political context is difficult. And yet the need for what we do has never been greater.

This is an unpaid voluntary role. Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with our Volunteer Expenses Policy.

The successful candidate will lead a vibrant, well-established, national charity as it navigates the next chapter of its story.

Main tasks

• Developing and setting our future strategy, alongside the Executive Team and other Trustees
• Helping shape and deliver our future, identifying opportunities in an evolving landscape
• Leading the Board of Trustees, including regular 1:1s and providing space for reflection
• Acting as a 'critical friend' to our Executive Team, as well as formal line management to the CEO (and COO in their absence)
• Acting as an ambassador for the charity – raising awareness of what we do and engaging potential supporters and other key stakeholders
• Responsibility, along with the other trustees, for the governance of the charity
• Contributing to the ongoing strategy of the charity, in line with our charitable objectives
• Participating in board meetings and sub-committees in an inclusive and thoughtful way

Please download our Chair Application Pack for more information.

Are you passionate about helping others? Could your skills and experience help shape the future of wellbeing support within the pharmacy profession?

Pharmacist Support – the profession’s independent charity – is recruiting lay trustees to join our Board and help guide the future direction of the charity at a time when wellbeing support across the profession has never been more important.

Recent Workforce Wellbeing Survey findings highlight continued high levels of stress and burnout across pharmacy, reinforcing the growing need for accessible and compassionate support for pharmacists and their families, trainees and students.

This is an exciting opportunity to use your professional experience, lived perspective and insight to help shape the charity’s strategy, governance and future development, ensuring Pharmacist Support continues meeting the changing needs of those it supports throughout their lives and careers.

About Pharmacist Support

Pharmacist Support is an independent, trusted charity providing free and confidential support to pharmacists and their families, former pharmacists, trainees and students.

We listen without judgement and help people navigate challenges including workplace pressures, financial difficulties and mental health and wellbeing concerns.

Established in 1841, Pharmacist Support has evolved from Benevolent Fund roots into a modern, forward-looking charity championing wellbeing across the profession.

About the role

We are particularly keen to hear from:

• Individuals with experience in the charity or voluntary sector
• Skills or expertise in areas such as finance, HR, governance, digital or fundraising.
• Individuals with lived experience of the charity’s services
• Those who can bring fresh perspectives, skills and insights from outside the pharmacy profession

Our aim is to build a Board of Trustees that is representative of the people and communities we support. We welcome applications from individuals of all ages, backgrounds, cultures and levels of experience.

If you are passionate about supporting others and feel your skills, experience or lived perspective could benefit our dynamic and innovative charity, we would love to hear from you. Previous trustee experience is not essential and full induction, training and ongoing support will be provided.

Pharmacist Support is committed to promoting equality, valuing diversity and creating an inclusive environment for our beneficiaries, staff, volunteers and trustees.

Time commitment

The role requires approximately one day per month across:

• Four Board meetings per year
• Four sub-committee meetings per year
• Preparation and reading time
• Occasional involvement in charity events, working groups or training

Board meetings are usually held in Manchester during the day, although virtual attendance can be accommodated where required. Sub-committee meetings are generally held virtually in the evening.

Reasonable expenses incurred to facilitate attendance at meetings will be reimbursed.

How to apply

To apply, please send:

• An up-to-date CV outlining your employment history, experience/qualifications as well as your contact details.
• A Supporting Statement (no more than 800 words)
  • Demonstrating how you meet the criteria outlined in the Person Specification
  • Outlining why you are interested in being a trustee for Pharmacist Support and what you could bring to the board of trustees
• In your email, please state which role you are applying for (either pharmacy or lay) and indicate where you heard about the role.

Full details on the work and impact of Pharmacist Support, along with Trustee Recruitment Pack and application details can be found on our webiste.

Closing date: 12 noon Monday 3 August 2026

If shortlisted, you will be invited to an interview with a panel of current Trustees in Manchester.

Interviews will take place on one of the following dates: 10, 11 and 14 September 2026

Successful applicants will initially be appointed for a three-year term, with the opportunity for reappointment subject to satisfactory peer appraisal and trustee term limits.

As part of the appointment process, trustees will be required to confirm they are eligible to act as a charity trustee.

Voice 21 – Trustee with fundraising expertise 

About Voice 21
Voice 21 is the national oracy education charity. We support schools to build speaking and listening into the curriculum, teaching, learning and wider school life so that every child can use their voice to thrive in school, work and life. Our training and development programmes for teachers and school leaders transform learning through talk, expanding access to high-quality oracy education, particularly for children who need it most.

Why join the Voice 21 Board of Trustees now?
Since its inception in 2015, Voice 21 has built a national movement to put oracy at the heart of education in the UK. In November 2025, the government responded to Professor Becky Francis’s Curriculum and Assessment Review by adopting the definition of oracy used by Voice 21 and by the independent Oracy Commission in its 2024 report,  We Need to Talk: ‘Articulating ideas, developing understanding and engaging with others through speaking, listening and communication’.

The government has also committed to publish national guidance on oracy, modelled on the Writing Framework, and to strengthening oracy teaching within subjects. The Schools White Paper published in February 2026 reinforced this direction, positioning oracy as the fourth “R” alongside reading, writing and maths.

Oracy is now firmly part of national policy, and Voice 21 continues to build evidence of its impact on young people’s attainment, wellbeing, belonging and career readiness.

This policy shift represents a major campaigning success for Voice 21 and others who campaigned  alongside us. Our new 2030 Strategy aims to seize this moment and secure high-quality, evidence-based oracy education for every child, particularly for those children in schools serving disadvantaged communities.

Investment will be critical to achieving this ambition. Fundraising currently provides 20% of our income. Our goal is to increase this to 40%, doubling fundraised income to support delivery of our 2030 strategy.

The Role: Trustee with fundraising expertise

Voice 21 is keen to strengthen its board-level knowledge and skills by adding a fundraising specialist trustee. We are looking to appoint a strategic fundraising leader who has substantial experience of successfully developing fundraising departments and growing voluntary income. As trustee, you will provide strategic oversight, constructive challenge and advice on fundraising strategy.

Ideally your career will have focused on high value and relationship fundraising (philanthropy, trusts, corporate partnerships). As a subject specialist, you will help to expand and deepen fellow trustees’ understanding of fundraising strategy and operations, providing knowledge, guidance, challenge and advocacy.

Your expertise will be invaluable at this pivotal moment for Voice 21, as the charity prepares to launch an ambitious new strategy, with a goal to double fundraised income by 2030. Your insights will be particularly appreciated by the experienced Head of Fundraising, CEO and Director of Operations – including contributing critical/analytic skills to help evaluate fundraising ideas and opportunities – though your primary focus will be advising on fundraising at governance level.

Knowledge And Experience: 

• Significant senior fundraising experience, with proven ability to secure major income.

• Personal experience working with high profile figures, senior leaders in major companies, people with high levels of personal wealth who are seeking charitable missions like ours to support.

• Understanding of charity leadership, including developing and implementing organisational strategy.

• Broad understanding of fundraising management across income streams.

Why this role matters:

This is an opportunity to make a real difference in tackling the disadvantage gap at a pivotal moment for oracy education. You will have the chance to influence a dynamic Board and staff team with great ambitions for our 2030 Strategy.

Time commitment:

• Board meetings: three per year, in person in London (9am–12pm)

• Annual strategy day (9am - 3pm)

• Finance Committee: four virtual meetings per year (approximately 2 hours per meeting) 

• Opportunities to attend Voice 21 events throughout the year.

Safeguarding:

This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Application details:

To apply:

• a CV and a covering letter of 1- 2 pages; 

Please include: 

• Details of your interest in joining Voice 21 as a trustee; 

• An outline of your current work / relevant experience; 

• A note of any training and development needs you think you’ll have if you are appointed. 

Valuing every voice

Voice 21 believes that every voice should be heard and valued. We are committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and trustees do not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership. Voice 21 is a diverse and inclusive workplace and we strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join us.

Volunteer role (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
 
Location: Remote (Poole-based charity; meetings held online/hybrid)
Time commitment: Around 4 to 6 hours per month on average, with extra time needed around budgeting and year-end accounts
Term: 1 year, eligible for re-election annually
Board meetings: Approximately 6 per year (online/hybrid)
 
What you’ll do
You’ll join the Board as Trustee Treasurer and help provide clear, steady oversight of the charity’s financial governance. Working with fellow trustees and any staff or external support, you’ll help ensure the charity’s finances are well managed, transparent, and aligned with its purpose and values.
 
You’ll help the board make confident decisions so the charity can sustain and grow its work. You don’t need prior trustee experience if you can offer financial insight, integrity, and a willingness to contribute at board level.
 
If you’re an experienced Treasurer, or you’d like this to be your first trustee role, we’d love to hear from you.
 
Key responsibilities
You’ll help the Board to:

• Maintain oversight of financial affairs and ensure appropriate controls and procedures are in place
• Ensure proper accounting records are maintained, and resources are safeguarded and used in line with the charity’s purposes
• Review income, expenditure and cash flow, and flag risks or concerns early
• Provide oversight of payroll processes and contractor payments, supporting segregation of duties where possible
• Support key financial policies such as reserves (and investment policy where relevant)
• Lead or support annual budget-setting, monitor performance against budget, and support sustainability and longer-term planning
• Ensure the Board receives clear financial information and present updates at trustee meetings to support informed decision-making
• Oversee annual accounts, liaise with the independent examiner (or auditors if applicable), and support timely Charity Commission submissions
• Act as the Board’s lead on financial governance matters

 
What you’ll get from the role

• A full trustee induction, plus support to get up to speed on the charity’s finances and current processes
• The chance to make a real difference behind the scenes, helping the Board make confident decisions
• Opportunities to develop your governance experience and deepen your financial oversight skills
• A welcoming board environment where constructive challenge is valued

 
This role will suit you if you
 
Essential

• Have knowledge of (or affinity with) Christian Science and/or faith-based community work and the ability to represent the charity’s purpose and values appropriately and sensitively
• Can read, interpret and explain budgets, management accounts and cash flow to non-finance trustees
• Bring integrity, sound judgement, and the confidence to ask the right questions
• Work well with others and can offer constructive challenge and support
• Can commit the time and follow through on agreed actions

 
Desirable

• Charity finance or trustee experience
• Accounting/bookkeeping/controls/risk background
• Experience working with an independent examiner/auditor
• Familiarity with charity reporting (including SORP awareness)
• Experience chairing or contributing to a finance committee

 
About us
You’ll be supporting a Poole-based registered charity (England & Wales) that serves as a central resource for Christian Science literature and activities. You don’t need to be a Christian Scientist to apply, but you should be comfortable supporting and representing the charity’s purpose and values as a trustee.
 
Inclusion and accessibility
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and life experiences. If you need adjustments at any stage of the process, please tell us what would help.
 
Safer recruitment, eligibility and declarations
We’re committed to safeguarding and to taking reasonable steps to protect everyone who comes into contact with the charity. Appointments will be subject to proportionate safer recruitment checks and declarations, which may include references and verification of identity.
 
This includes confirmation that you are not disqualified from acting as a charity trustee under the Charity Commission’s automatic disqualification rules, and a conflict of interest declaration with agreement on how any conflicts will be managed.
 
A DBS check will only be considered where it is legally eligible and proportionate to the activities of the role.
 
How to apply
Please submit your CV along with a statement of up to one page explaining your interest in supporting the charity’s purpose and values in a Trustee capacity, and any relevant experience.

• Closing date: 23 June 2026 (we review applications as they’re received)
• Interviews: Remote via Microsoft Teams

Note: We reserve the right to close early if we appoint before the closing date.
 
REF-228 788

Job description

The Pastoral and Environmental Network in the Horn of Africa (PENHA) is an African-led and inspired charity, established in 1989.  Its mission is to reduce poverty among the pastoralists in the Horn of Africa through the empowerment of communities and to foster sustainable and dignified livestock-based and non-livestock-based livelihoods. In the UK, it works with the Horn diaspora community through youth mentoring and leadership programmes. 

PENHA’s Aims and Objectives

• Sustainable livelihoods require a coordinated approach at the grassroots and policy levels. PENHA, therefore, commits itself to two goals:
• The social, cultural and economic integration of pastoral and agro-pastoral communities in the Horn of Africa
• Dynamic, diversified and sustainable pastoral and agro-pastoral livelihoods, with expanded access to information, technology, education and training
• A full and equal role for pastoral and agro-pastoralist women in public and economic life
• Peacebuilding and conflict prevention
• Development of links with the diaspora in the UK

PENHA has a team in the London Office and country chapters in the Horn of Africa region – in Ethiopia and Somaliland but works with partners in Sudan, Eritrea and Uganda as well as international partners outside the Horn of Africa.

In the UK, PENHA has a Board of Trustees, a number of research associates, volunteers and an international Advisory Group. PENHA Board of Trustees is looking for three trustees to join the London-based Board with experience in one of the following areas:

• A legal background, with financial and risk management experience;
• Knowledge of branding, marketing and fundraising, including the use of social media;
• Knowledge of the charity sector and employment law in the UK.

In addition, candidates should have an understanding of the context within which charities operate, ideally with some experience of the Horn of Africa region.

The post is unpaid and the time commitment is four to six meetings per year, with attendance at other occasional meetings and events as a representative of the charity.

The Board is responsible for submitting the Annual Report and Accounts to the Charity Commission and to Companies House. As a small charity, trustees contribute actively as part of a team in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets. PENHA is currently undergoing a new strategy development process and the candidate will help steer the organisation through the challenges ahead.

In addition, Board members are responsible for:

• Ensuring that the organisation complies with its constitution/memorandum and articles of association, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
• Ensuring that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document
• Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects
• Safeguarding the good name and values of the organisation
• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation
• Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation
• Protecting and managing the property of the organisation, and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation’s funds
• Appointing the senior staff and  monitoring their performance

Application Instructions

Are you interested in the causes we stand for and in joining the PENHA Board of Trustees? Please send your CV and cover letter to our UK Office Manager before 10 August 2026. If deemed necessary, we may start actioning applications/interviewing before the closing date.

PENHA is a charity registered in England in 1992 with the Charity Commission Registration Number
1038957

About Us

Our Vision is to be the leading provider of therapeutic care, education and treatment for children and young people who have experienced early childhood trauma.  ​

​​Our Mission is to transform the lives of children and young people who suffer severe emotional and psychological difficulties, so they can relate well to others and fulfil their potential. ​

​​Our Approach is a form of psychotherapeutic group living and learning modelled on healthy relationships, adapted to the developmental needs of children and young people suffering early childhood trauma. We call this Integrated Systemic Therapy (iST). ​

Role descriptions and person specification

Role description attached provides more information on the role and responsibilities.   For this Trustee role we are particularly seeking individuals with demonstrable  experience in Child protection from the perspective of the Family Court, in particular with insights into safeguarding.

For more details about Childhood First, please visit our website. 

Commitment

• Each year, our Trustees are expected to attend four regular board meetings, from 5 to 7 pm in Central London. In addition, Trustees would attend potentially four meetings of any sub-committee of which they are a member. Further time is required for reading of papers before meetings.
• You would also receive invitations to various Childhood First events in the communities, which are optional but strongly encouraged to help better understand the work and feel a connection to the charity.
• We are particularly cognisant of the need to be flexible in the demands we make of Trustee colleagues. Each year there is an opportunity to meet with the Chair for mutual feedback and to discuss ways in which Trustees might wish to develop their roles.​

Successful candidates will be invited to attend a board meeting will be on 15 September 2026 in Central London.

We hope you will consider making an application. If you have questions about the role and would like an informal conversation before applying please contact Michael Joseph, Director of Finance and Corporate Services.

All trustee roles will be subject to background vetting, a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (which may include overseas checks) which will be maintained by Childhood First for the duration of their term.

We would also be grateful if you would complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring form on the online application process. This form is for monitoring purposes only and is not treated as part of your application.

About Us

Our Vision is to be the leading provider of therapeutic care, education and treatment for children and young people who have experienced early childhood trauma.  ​

​​Our Mission is to transform the lives of children and young people who suffer severe emotional and psychological difficulties, so they can relate well to others and fulfil their potential. ​

​​Our Approach is a form of psychotherapeutic group living and learning modelled on healthy relationships, adapted to the developmental needs of children and young people suffering early childhood trauma. We call this Integrated Systemic Therapy (iST). ​

Role descriptions and person specification

Role description attached provides more information on the role and responsibilities. For this Trustee role we are particularly seeking individuals with demonstrable  experience in education for children with special educational needs, in particular with insights into school governance.

For more details about Childhood First, please visit our website. 

Commitment

• Each year, our Trustees are expected to attend four regular board meetings, from 5 to 7 pm in Central London. In addition, Trustees would attend potentially four meetings of any sub-committee of which they are a member. Further time is required for reading of papers before meetings.
• You would also receive invitations to various Childhood First events in the communities, which are optional but strongly encouraged to help better understand the work and feel a connection to the charity.
• We are particularly cognisant of the need to be flexible in the demands we make of Trustee colleagues. Each year there is an opportunity to meet with the Chair for mutual feedback and to discuss ways in which Trustees might wish to develop their roles.​

Successful candidates will be invited to attend a board meeting will be on 15 September 2026 in Central London.

We hope you will consider making an application. If you have questions about the role and would like an informal conversation before applying please contact Michael Joseph, Director of Finance and Corporate Services.

All trustee roles will be subject to background vetting, a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (which may include overseas checks) which will be maintained by Childhood First for the duration of their term.

We would also be grateful if you would complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring form on the online application process. This form is for monitoring purposes only and is not treated as part of your application.

About Us

Our Vision is to be the leading provider of therapeutic care, education and treatment for children and young people who have experienced early childhood trauma.  ​

​​Our Mission is to transform the lives of children and young people who suffer severe emotional and psychological difficulties, so they can relate well to others and fulfil their potential. ​

​​Our Approach is a form of psychotherapeutic group living and learning modelled on healthy relationships, adapted to the developmental needs of children and young people suffering early childhood trauma. We call this Integrated Systemic Therapy (iST). ​

Role descriptions and person specification

Role description attached provides more information on the role and responsibilities.   For this Trustee role we are particularly seeking individuals with demonstrable Social Care practice experience in an organization of comparable size and scale, in particular with insights into safeguarding. 

For more details about Childhood First, please visit our website. 

Commitment

• Each year, our Trustees are expected to attend four regular board meetings, from 5 to 7 pm in Central London. In addition, Trustees would attend potentially four meetings of any sub-committee of which they are a member. Further time is required for reading of papers before meetings.
• You would also receive invitations to various Childhood First events in the communities, which are optional but strongly encouraged to help better understand the work and feel a connection to the charity.
• We are particularly cognisant of the need to be flexible in the demands we make of Trustee colleagues. Each year there is an opportunity to meet with the Chair for mutual feedback and to discuss ways in which Trustees might wish to develop their roles.

Successful candidates will be invited to attend a board meeting will be on 15 September 2026 in Central London.

We hope you will consider making an application. If you have questions about the role and would like an informal conversation before applying please email Michael Joseph, Director of Finance and Corporate Services.

All trustee roles will be subject to background vetting, a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (which may include overseas checks) which will be maintained by Childhood First for the duration of their term.

We would also be grateful if you would complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring form on the online application process. This form is for monitoring purposes only and is not treated as part of your application.

Young Enterprise is the UK’s leading youth charity for enterprise and financial education, helping young people develop the skills, confidence, and mindset they need to thrive in work and life.

Since our founding, we have supported 7.2 million young people through financial and enterprise education opportunities. Through our ambitious 2024–2030 Transforming Futures strategy, we are working to ensure every young person has access to the financial education, enterprise capability, and work readiness they need to succeed.

We are seeking to appoint three new Trustees to join our Board at an exciting and pivotal time for the charity.

We are particularly interested in candidates with senior expertise in one of the following areas:

• Finance – ideally a qualified accountant interested in chairing our Risk and Audit Committee

• Governance – with experience in employment law and/or charity law

• Human Resources – senior-level HR leadership experience

We are looking for strategic and community-minded individuals who can help strengthen our governance, guide our future direction, and support our mission to improve life chances for young people across the UK.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting strategic leadership and governance

• Safeguarding the charity’s financial stability and reputation

• Ensuring legal and regulatory compliance

• Providing specialist expertise to Board discussions and decision-making

• Acting as ambassadors for Young Enterprise and our mission

We are particularly interested in applicants who offer:

• Strong strategic thinking and sound judgment

• Commitment to young people and social mobility

• Collaborative leadership and communication skills

• Understanding of good governance

• A commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and safeguarding

We strongly encourage applications from individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those with lived experience of disadvantaged communities or supporting young people facing barriers to opportunity.

This is an unpaid role with reasonable out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed. Trustees are expected to attend Board meetings (primarily London-based), undertake training, be willing to participate in committee work if applicable, and contribute approximately 7–10 days annually. Appointments are for an initial three-year term, with potential reappointment for up to six years.

Keeping Young People Safe

We are committed to keeping young people safe. All successful candidates will undergo an enhanced DBS (England & Wales) check and receive safeguarding training.

At Young Enterprise, safeguarding is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. All successful candidates will receive ongoing safeguarding training throughout and be expected to uphold excellent safeguarding practice at all times.

How to Apply:

Please refer to our information pack for full details.

To apply, please send:

• An up-to-date CV (PDF format)

• A supporting statement (maximum two sides of A4) outlining your suitability for the role, based on the essential criteria in the person specification

Applications should be received by 23:30 on 31 July 2026. We will be assessing applications on a rolling basis and may shortlist and invite candidates to interview before the closing date.

At YE we are passionate and committed to keeping your data safe and secure.  Full details can be found in the YE People’s Privacy Notice.

Join us in shaping brighter futures for young people across the UK.

We are seeking an inspirational Chair of Trustees and a Vice Chair to lead Studio Upstairs into its next exciting chapter.

This pivotal role requires integrity, compassion, and strategic vision to ensure our much-loved arts and mental health charity fulfils its charitable objectives, maintains the highest standards of governance, and continues to thrive as a respected and trusted organisation.

The Board of Trustees plays a vital role by steering and supporting the charity development. 

We are seeking to appoint a Chair,Vice Chair or initially to join the board as a Trustee.. The Studio Upstairs Board is drawn from a diverse range of backgrounds and has a variety of skills. To complement the current Board, we would envisage that the Chair had a wide experience of running organisations and a particular interest in the charity sector. We are keen to hear from candidates with skills in the areas of Corporate Governance and Business Development ie: Charity Financial Management, Partnership working or Fundraising as well as those within Digital Technologies, Health or Legal expertise.

 

Studio Upstairs exists to transform lives through creativity. We have branches in Bristol and London. We are a trusted arts and mental health charity offering open studios and a creative community. We help people overcome challenges through therapeutic art practice and supportive peer interaction.

 

In addition to the full board meetings  there may be occasional committee meetings or meetings of specific task groups. It is expected that the Chair will also maintain regular contact with the Managing Director and other Board members.

 

The Board Meetings are to be held four to six times a year in London (currently online). 

A clear empathy with the aims of the charity are essential. You can find out more about our work on our website. 

The shortlisted candidates will be offered an opportunity to discuss the role informally prior to an interview. 

Vision Action is a unique organisation that works in low- and middle-income countries, supporting national governments to deliver and strengthen their eye health strategies. We work in partnership with local governments, civil society organisations, international and national NGOs, and the private sector. Our ambition is to increase equitable access to eye care services and glasses and accelerate achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goal 5.

The role of the board is to oversee the overall direction and activities of the charity, including its policies and procedures, to ensure that they are consistently in accordance with the charitable purposes defined in the objects clause in its constitution. The board sets and monitors the strategic direction of the charity, although the implementation of strategy is achieved through the executive team. The board must always act in the best interests of Vision Action, taking decisions as a group and not as individuals.

Terms of service

For Vision Action the trustees are members who have been elected to serve on the board. Vision Action’s constitution allows for up to 12 trustees, who can serve a maximum of three consecutive terms of three years.  Vision Action is a company limited by guarantee and the trustees are its legal directors. The trustee role is voluntary, although relevant expenses incurred in the course of fulfilling trustee responsibilities are reimbursable in line with organisational policy.

Trustees are appointed by the Vision Action board of trustees annually at the board meeting following the Annual General Meeting (AGM). The time commitment involved in being a trustee includes attendance at four board meetings per year, one of which is an all-day strategy session. Board meetings are typically held for half a day on a weekday afternoon, with at least half the meetings taking place online.  Board papers are circulated in advance for review and preparation.

In addition, trustees are expected to attend the AGM, which is usually held on a weekend, as well as occasional members’ forums or other Vision Action events, which are often arranged alongside board meetings in the evening. Trustees may also be asked to participate in ad hoc meetings or online discussions relating to specific topics. Sub-committee meetings are also held in advance of board meetings, and trustees are also expected to participate in one or more of these groups depending on their expertise and responsibilities. Trustees will also be expected to commit time to undertake a full induction process.

Main tasks

Charity trustees have ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of the charity and ensuring it is solvent, well-run and delivering the charitable outcomes for the benefit of the public for which it has been set up. Each trustee will be expected to join one of the two sub-committees (Programmes and Research; Fundraising and Finance).  The committees meet (in person or remotely) at least four times per year, usually timed with or in advance of the board meetings. 

General responsibilities

• Ensure th[JT1] at Vision Action complies with its governing document (i.e. its constitution[JT2]  and byelaws), charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensure that Vision Action pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
• Ensure Vision Action applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects, i.e. it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be.
• Contribute actively to the board’s role in the formulation and review of strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Safeguard the good name and values of Vision Action and maintain good relations with its members.
• Ensure that all policies are implemented, monitored and reports are acted upon, (including the policies on harassment and misconduct, safeguarding, recruitment of ex-offenders, and anti- bribery).
• Strive for Vision Action to reflect the full diversity of society in all its activities.
• Ensure the financial stability of Vision Action.
• Protect and manage the property of Vision Action and ensure the proper investment of its funds.
• Appoint and support key leadership and monitor their performance.

In addition to the above statutory responsibilities, each trustee should attend board meetings and use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board reach sound decisions.  This may involve leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, evaluation or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise; and then always upholding the decisions taken by Board. Trustees are also expected to support Vision Action’s fundraising initiatives.

Treasurer specific responsibilities

Hold specific responsibilities relevant to the role:

• Chair the fundraising and finance sub-committee, overseeing and advising on the financial risks, challenges, health and resilience of the charity, reporting back to the full board.
• Monitor and advise on the financial viability of the charity, including the financial risks. This should include regular monitoring of cost recovery.
• Advise the board on the financial implications of its plans and policies.
• Monitor the preparation of budgets, accounts and financial statements and their presentation to the board.

Ensure policies and practices are in keeping with aims:

• Oversee the development and implementation of financial reserves, cost‐recovery and investment policies.
• Annually review the financial control framework to identify any changes, gaps and potential areas of exposure.
• Oversee the development and review of other policies and procedures as delegated to the fundraising and finance sub-committee by the board.

Ensure best practice:

• Support the Co-CEO (finance & operations) in preparing and presenting the budgets, management accounts and annual financial statements to the board, ensuring it receives a fully informed picture of the charity’s financial performance, position and effectiveness.
• Liaise with the Co-Chief Executive Officers and, as appropriate, with the investment advisors and auditors on matters relating to the organisation’s financial activities.
• Provide board‐level liaison with the external auditors on specific issues such as the auditors’ management letter, auditor remuneration and related board representations.
• Lead on recommending the appointment of new auditors to members of the organisation.
• Work with the Finance and Operations Manager to ensure that proper accounts and records are maintained, and that financial resources are spent and invested in line with good governance and legal and regulatory requirements.
• With the Finance & Operations Manager and the Joint Chief Executive Officers, closely monitor the reserves and investment plan, providing assurance to the board on the organisation’s future financial stability.
• Review all management accounts before they are placed before the board.

Personal specification

All our trustees are expected to have:

• A commitment to Vision Action’s vision and mission.
• A commitment to our values: being evidence-based, being inclusive, having integrity, sustainable programmes and being collaborative.
• Willingness to devote the time and effort needed to fulfil the role.
• Integrity.
• Strategic vision.
• Good, independent judgement.
• An ability to think creatively.
• A willingness to speak their mind.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to take decisions for the good of Vision Action.

The treasurer will have:

• Experience as a director of finance (or equivalent) and/or in a treasurer role, with extensive experience of overseeing financial and management accounting, financial reporting, monitoring and controls, and external audit.
• An understanding of charity accounting and reporting standards (Charities SORP 2026), or a willingness to develop this through personal learning and development.
• A recognised accountancy qualification (CAAB) and
• Experience in international development would be an advantage.

The position is supported by the CEO who is an accountant and a part time bookkeeper.

The Next Step

We welcome questions and a discussion on our current financial circumstances with our treasurer and chair. Our treasurer retires in 2026, and we would like to involve any new appointment in our committees and board meeting in the last part of this year.

Board Member

We are seeking committed and experienced individuals to join a trust as a Member, helping to ensure strong governance, accountability and strategic oversight.

Position: Member

Salary: This is a voluntary role however expenses can be paid in line with the allowances policy

Location: Being local to Derby, or at least having an understanding of the community is important.

Time commitment: Around 2-3 meetings a year in the evening

Closing date: 29th June

About the role:

Local Governors sit within the Trust’s overall governance structure.  The Department for Education sets out that in an academy trust, the purpose of governance is to provide:

- strategic leadership

- accountability and assurance

- strategic engagement

The board has collective accountability and strategic responsibility for the trust. It has a focus on ensuring the trust delivers an excellent education to pupils while maintaining effective financial management and must ensure compliance with:

- the trust’s charitable objects

- regulatory, contractual and statutory requirements

- their funding agreement

Members ensure that the Board of Trustees and governance generally functions well. 

Key responsibilities will include:

Directing Trustees:  In rare events, Members can, by special resolution, direct Trustees to take a specific action where Trustees are unable, or unwilling to act in the best interests of the Trust.

Appointing and removing Members and Trustees:  Subject to the Articles of Association and Terms of References, all Members and most Trustees are appointed by existing Members.

 

Amending the Articles of Association: Members can amend the Articles of Association (in some cases, subject to Charity Commission approval), change the name of the Trust and wind it up. Local governance arrangements.

 

Appointing auditors:  Members appoint auditors to carry out the annual external audit function.  Internal auditors are appointed by trustees.

About you

We are looking for individuals who can bring independent judgement, integrity and a commitment to good governance.

You will ideally have:

• An interest in education and charitable governance
• Strong strategic thinking and decision-making skills
• The ability to provide constructive challenge and scrutiny
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• A commitment to acting in the best interests of the organisation
• An understanding of accountability, leadership and organisational oversight

Previous experience as a trustee, governor, board member or senior leader would be beneficial but is not essential.

About the organisation

The organisation is a trust that was formed to provide opportunities for collaboration, support, and challenge for the schools of Derby while allowing each school to retain its identity and accountability to its local community. 

 

Areas of expertise you may have experience with could include: Finance, education, legal, estates management, compliance, charity work, health.