Chair and two non executive directors volunteer roles

Charity Trustees (volunteer) – North West, Stoke-on-Trent, Shropshire and Staffordshire

This is an opportunity to join a Board engaged in real strategic decisions, where your contribution will have direct and lasting impact. 

About us

Adoption Matters is a children’s charity and one of the largest voluntary adoption agencies in the UK. We recruit, train and support individuals, couples and families looking to adopt and offer ongoing support and training. We also offer a support service for adopted adults and birth families, and a specialised therapy service.

In 2024, we launched our not for profit fostering agency, Foster Care Matters. As a non profit provider, the service is committed to reinvesting resources to deliver high quality support and ongoing training for foster parents. More recently in 2026, we acquired 1st Affinity Fostering Service in Wrexham, securing a not-for-profit future for the agency in Wales.

What we’re looking for

We are seeking Trustees to join our purposeful and dedicated Board of Trustees and contribute to our organisation and the lives of children and families. We are looking for individuals who share our ambition and have the skills and ability to make a meaningful contribution.

This is a meaningful opportunity to help shape the future of a children’s charity that transforms the lives of children who cannot live with their birth families. For many of the children we support—often older, in sibling groups, or with complex needs - adoption can be life-changing.

For further information, please refer to the Person Specification in the Trustee Recruitment Pack. 

Term commitment 

The term of appointment will be three years initially, with a review of performance for renewal for a further three years and again after this period, up to a maximum of nine years. In exceptional circumstances, the term may extend beyond this period.

Remuneration and expenses 

This position is unremunerated; however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Why become a Trustee? 

Make an impact, gain experience, expand your network, and enhance your skills and knowledge. If you are passionate about what we do and believe you can add value to the current Board of Trustees, we would be very interested to hear from you. 

What we offer in return 

• Our values: Honesty, Empathy, Ambition, Respect, and Together — which we hope align with your own. 
• The opportunity to make a difference, feel valued, and achieve the role satisfaction you’ve always wanted. 

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement 

At Adoption Matters, we are committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered. Our ambition is to create a culture that embraces diversity, promotes equality, and ensures inclusion for all. 

We are open to discussions about any adjustments or flexible arrangements you may need at any stage of the process. If you join us, we will support you to reach your full potential. The only aspect we assess in your application is how you have demonstrated your ability to meet the essential requirements of the role. 

Together, we can build a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive future.

Our values: Honesty, Empathy, Ambition, Respect, and Together - which we hope to align with your own.

The opportunity to make a difference, feel valued, and achieve the role satisfaction you’ve always wanted.

What’s next? It’s easy!

How to apply

Apply with your contact details and we will be in touch with the full Recruitment Pack and Application Form.

Our trustees and non-executive directors play a vital role in making sure that the group achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that there is a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision.

Just as importantly, they support and challenge the CEO and executive team in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs, to enable Thrive Social Housing and Emerging Futures CIC to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

The Board operates under the leadership and guidance of the chair and works in partnership with the chief executive officer and the executive team.

Board members are expected to always act in the best interests of the organisation and its stakeholders, and to use their background knowledge and skills to work with the chair and other board members to ensure that the Board, supported by its committees, carries out its responsibilities effectively and lead from the top in demonstrating our culture, values and behaviours.

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for social justice and positive change?

We are seeking an inspiring and committed Chair of Trustees to lead our board and guide Amos Trust, an established, well-run charity with a high profile. We are dedicated to:

• Supporting Palestinian rights and self-determination;
• Advancing gender equality; and
• Addressing climate change and environmental sustainability.

The Amos Chair and Board play a vital role in the life of the charity. Together, they work to ensure effective governance, compliance with charity law, and clear strategic direction. They manage operational risks, support the Director and team, and act as ambassadors to engage supporters and influencers. Trustees typically sit on one of the board’s sub-committees (Finance and Risk, Fundraising, or Communications) or short-term working groups.

Job Description
The Chair provides strategic leadership to the charity and the Board of Trustees, ensuring it is well-governed, financially sound, and delivering on its aims. The Chair also line-manages, supports, and holds the Director to account.
 

Key Responsibilities
Governance and Leadership

• Lead the Board of Trustees to fulfil its governance and strategic responsibilities.
• Ensure compliance with governing documents, charity law, and Charity Commission guidance.
• Promote a culture of integrity, transparency, and collective responsibility.
• Oversee trustee recruitment, induction, succession planning, and board effectiveness.

Strategic Direction

• Support the Board in setting, approving, and reviewing the strategic plan and annual objectives.
• Encourage creativity and innovation while ensuring risks are properly managed.
• Guide the organisation through periods of growth, change, or complexity.

Relationship with the Director

• Line-manage the Director, providing support, constructive challenge, and appraisal.
• Maintain a clear separation between governance and operational management.
• Serve as a strategic sounding board for the Director.

Board Management and Communications

• Chair Board meetings effectively, ensuring robust discussion and timely decision-making.
• Set agendas with the Director and Secretary, ensuring trustees receive clear, timely information.
• Manage potential conflicts of interest.

Financial Oversight and Risk

• Partner with the Treasurer to oversee risk management and long-term financial sustainability.
• Support the development of diversified, resilient income streams.

External Representation

• Represent the charity publicly and advocate for its mission.

Person Specification
Essential
Experience

• Governance experience serving on a non-profit or business board/committee.
• Proven leadership or management experience.
• Experience guiding organisations through change or complexity.

Skills and Attributes

• Ability to advise, challenge, and offer constructive feedback collaboratively.
• Strong interpersonal skills and an inclusive chairing style that builds consensus and utilizes individual trustee talents.
• Comfortable with appropriate risk in a fast-moving, responsive environment.
• Deeply committed to Amos Trust’s mission, values, and diversifying the board and staff.

Desirable

• Knowledge or experience in one of Amos’s three core areas of work.
• Prior experience as a Board Chair.
• Experience managing or overseeing a Chief Executive or Director.
• Ability to interpret financial reports and accounts.

Tenure, Time Commitment and Process
The Chair and trustees are appointed for a four-year term, renewable for a further four years. The Chair contributes an average of 1 to 2 days per month.
The Board meets 4–5 times a year for two hours (typically outside standard working hours), with two meetings held in person. We streamline procedural matters to ensure meetings focus on key strategic issues.
We are committed to building a diverse board and warmly encourage applications from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

Location: Based in the UK.

The Board of Directors is opening up the opportunity for new Trustees to join MYH. If you are passionate about making a difference and have the skills, knowledge, or experience to support MYH during an exciting period of growth, we would love to hear from you. 

Job title: Trustee 

Reports to: Chair of Muslim Youth Helpline 

Hours: Flexible, Approx 6-8 hours per month (some evening and weekends required) 

Contract: Voluntary 

Overview of The Charity 

The Muslim Youth Helpline (MYH) is a national award winning charity providing faith and culturally sensitive support services to young people in the UK. Its core service is a free and confidential helpline open seven days a week via telephone, email, internet chat and WhatsApp. MYH is a dynamic organisation that puts service to its clients at the heart of everything that it does. 

Vision: A future where young people are empowered to overcome challenges and live a God-centred life of meaning and purpose.

Mission: To provide a range of culturally informed services to improve the mental wellbeing of young people.

Role Description 

The Board of Directors is opening up the opportunity for new Trustees to join MYH. If you are passionate about making a difference and have the skills, knowledge, or experience to support MYH during an exciting period of growth, we would love to hear from you. 

As part of our ongoing Board development, we welcome applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds, skills, and perspectives who share our values and commitment to our mission. While all applications are encouraged, we would particularly value experience in governance, strategic oversight, and organisational development at this stage of the charity’s journey.

As part of MYH’s ongoing Board development and succession planning, we are particularly seeking to appoint Trustees in two priority areas:

1. Future Chair of Trustees

We are seeking an experienced strategic leader who may be interested in progressing into the role of Chair of Trustees within the next 9–12 months, following a planned leadership transition. Previous Chair, Board, Non-Executive, or senior leadership experience would be highly valuable.

2. Governance and Organisational Oversight 

We are also looking to strengthen Board capability in charity governance, legal and regulatory compliance, safeguarding, risk management, HR oversight, and 

organisational policy development.

As MYH continues through a period of growth and organisational development, these 

appointments will play an important role in supporting the charity’s long-term sustainability, accountability, and impact.

Key Responsibilities 

As a Trustee of MYH, you will work collectively with the Board to provide effective governance, strategic direction, and oversight to support the charity’s mission and long-term sustainability. Key responsibilities include: 

• Contributing to the strategic direction and overall governance of the charity 

• Ensuring the charity operates in line with its charitable objectives, governing documents, and legal responsibilities 

• Supporting effective decision-making by providing independent judgement, constructive challenge, and professional insight 

• Promoting accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership across the organisation 

• Overseeing the charity’s financial sustainability, including monitoring resources, budgets, and fundraising opportunities 

• Supporting the identification and management of organisational risks, including safeguarding responsibilities where appropriate 

• Acting in the best interests of the charity and its beneficiaries at all times 

  • Championing the charity’s mission, values, and impact with stakeholders and the wider community

• Working collaboratively with fellow Trustees and the leadership team to support organisational growth and development 

  • Attending Board meetings, contributing to discussions, and participating in relevant sub-groups or activities where required 

  • Supporting good governance practices, compliance, and continuous improvement across the organisation 

Person Specification 

General Requirements 

• A strong commitment to the mission, values, and objectives of Muslim Youth Helpline 

• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to support the growth and development of a small, fast-paced, and dynamic charity 

• Strategic vision and the ability to contribute to the long-term direction of the organisation 

• Good independent judgement and the ability to make balanced, informed decisions 

• An ability to think creatively and contribute innovative ideas and solutions 

• A willingness to engage in open, honest, and constructive discussions, including difficult conversations where necessary 

• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities associated with trusteeship 

• An ability to work collaboratively and effectively as part of a diverse Board and wider team 

• A commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and respectful governance practices 

• A commitment to Nolan’s Seven Principles of Public Life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership 

Desirable Skills and Experience 

While we welcome applications from individuals with a broad range of backgrounds and experiences, we would particularly value: 

• Previous Board, Trustee, Non-Executive Director, or governance experience 

• Experience in governance, charity leadership, or strategic organisational oversight 

• Knowledge of safeguarding, risk management, HR, legal compliance, or organisational policy development 

• Strategic planning and organisational development experience 

• Financial oversight, fundraising, or financial sustainability experience 

• Experience supporting organisations through periods of growth and change 

• An understanding of the needs and challenges affecting young people and Muslim communities 

MYH has four core values; non-judgemental, accountability, rooted in faith and compassion. You will be expected to demonstrate all four values throughout the recruitment process and within your role at MYH.

Commitment 

Trustees are expected to commit 4-8 hours of work during each month to complete any 

necessary Trustee tasks agreed by the Board to support a rapidly growing Muslim Youth 

Helpline. 

The specified hours above are an indication only. The successful candidate may be expected to work additional hours and on occasional weekends. 

Equality and Diversity 

Muslim Youth Helpline (MYH) are committed to our Equality and Diversity Policy. Under Section D of our Equality and Diversity Policy (Policy Statements) MYH are committed to ensuring that all candidates are given equal access to our employment opportunities regardless of their age, gender, race, sexual orientation, marital status and any other defining characteristics. 

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) is one of the world’s leading public health universities. Our mission is to improve health and health equity in the UK and worldwide; working in partnership to achieve excellence in public and global health research, education and translation of knowledge into policy and practice. We are committed to helping create a more healthy, sustainable and equitable world for everyone, because we believe our shared future.

LSHTM was established in 1899 and is incorporated under a Royal Charter granted in 1924. The Charter establishes its Council as the “supreme governing body” of LSHTM. Council is responsible for the strategic direction of LSHTM and approves major developments and receives regular reports from Executive Officers on the operations of its business, in accordance with the Financial Memorandum between LSHTM and the Office for Students (OfS).

Council is also responsible for its governance, control and supervision in accordance with the LSHTM’s Charter and relevant external regulations. These external requirements are set out in the Financial Memorandum between LSHTM and the OfS. The Council comprises a majority of lay members, as well as staff members and a student member. The roles of Chair and Deputy Chair of the Council are separated from the role of LSHTM’s Chief Executive, the Director.

Council has two vacancies for the role of independent member of Council. LSHTM has identified a number of areas where relevant expertise from any new Council members would be welcomed:

• Finance, Accounting and Investment Management
• Business, Enterprise, SMEs and start-ups
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Digital

Amongst the desirable attributes sought from members of Council and its Committees are:

• A strong personal commitment to the mission and objectives of LSHTM;
• Collaborative skills and the ability to work as a member of a team, including with other Council and Committee members, students and academic and professional services staff;
• Tact and diplomacy, with the ability to listen and engage effectively;
• Ability to contribute to constructive and rigorous challenge;
• Strong networking capabilities that can be utilised for the benefit of LSHTM;
• A demonstrable commitment to equity and diversity. 

Time Commitment

The nature of the role requires a commitment of time to prepare, attend and actively participate in Council and Committee meetings. Council meets four times a year and its Committees meet between three and six times a year depending on the Committee. 

Remuneration

This is a non-remunerated role that does not attract a salary or honorarium. Independent members of Council and Committees will be able to claim reasonable travel and subsistence expenses incurred in the course of LSHTM business. 

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine is committed to being an equal opportunities employer. We believe that when people feel respected and included, they can be more creative, successful, and happier at work. While we have more work to do, we are committed to building an inclusive workplace, a community that everyone feels a part of, which is safe, respectful, supportive and enables all to reach their full potential.

Closing date: Thursday 30 July 2026.

Axial Spondyloarthritis International Federation (ASIF) is looking for a passionate and experienced, voluntary, legal/governance Trustee to join our Board and help shape the future of our international membership charity supporting people living with axSpA worldwide.

This voluntary role is ideal for someone with strong knowledge of UK charity law and/or governance and risk management.  If you are a confident communicator with extensive legal and/or governance experience and a desire to use those skills to support an international charity, we would love to hear from you.  Your expertise, insight and judgement could help ASIF to further its work to improve the quality of life for people living with Axial Spondyloarthritis across the world.

Role purpose
The Legal/Governance Trustee will contribute to the effective governance and strategic leadership of the charity.  They will provide strategic oversight, ensuring the organisation acts within legal frameworks, charity regulations, and its own governing documents.  They advise on compliance, manage risk and promote high standards of governance.  This voluntary, non-executive role requires legal expertise, knowledge of UK Charity Commission compliance and commitment to ASIF’s mission.

Key responsibilities

• Actively participate in Board meetings and relevant Board committee meetings (F&GP), providing objective advice on legal, governance and risk issues.
• Work with the Chair, Director of Operations and other trustees to ensure the charity maintains the highest standards of governance, complies with all relevant laws and regulations and delivers on its mission.
• Contribute to the development and scrutiny of organisational strategies, policies, and procedures to ensure accountability
• Strategic advice: Provide legal expertise on strategic decision, risk management and safeguarding
• Assist in drafting or reviewing trustees’ reports, policies, and contracts (in particular grant contracts)
• Contribute to the identification of, and where appropriate, mitigate organisational risks, including reputation and financial, ensuring sustainability.

Time commitment:1-4 hours per month 

Person specification

• Qualified solicitor or barrister or charity governance expert with strong understanding of UK charity law, compliance and governance frameworks.
• Helpful to have an understanding of the governance of an international membership charity.
• Ability to think creatively and contribute to long-term planning.
• Dedication to ASIF’s mission and willingness to devote the necessary time.
• Ethical standards, integrity and sound, independent objective judgement.
• Because ASIF is registered in the UK, it is advisable for business purposes to have two UK-based trustees.  This Trustee should be UK-based.

Other information

• ASIF is a UK registered CIO, number 1205000
• ASIF’s governing document is its constitution which can be found here
• The position is voluntary/unremunerated.  Reasonable expenses incurred in the course of duties will be reimbursed in line with the charity’s policy.
• Term:  initial co-opted, then elected for 3-year term with potential for reappointment (to a maximum of 9 years).

Application process

If you are interested in this role, please send an introductory email to Jo Davies, Director of Operations.

General responsibilities of all our trustees

• To be accountable for ensuring our Charity complies with its governing documents, charity law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• To ensure that our Charity pursues its charitable objects as defined in the constitution.
• To ensure that we apply our resources exclusively in furtherance of our objectives, while working flexibly to meet the changing needs of our beneficiaries.
• To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees’ role of giving firm strategic direction to the Charity, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets and standards.
• To act with integrity and avoid any personal conflicts of interest or misuse of charity funds or assets and to act in the best interests of the Charity and its beneficiaries, to safeguard our name and values.
• To ensure the financial stability of ASIF and to ensure that risks it is exposed to are properly assessed and managed.
• To assist the Chair and to support and monitor the Director of Operations.
• To use reasonable care and skill in their work as a trustee, using personal skills and experience as needed, plus any specific knowledge or experience to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decision, to ensure that the charity is well-run and efficient and ensure external professional advice is sought where necessary.
• In conjunction with the other trustees to ensure that delegated responsibilities are met.