Community support volunteer roles

Help Shape Healthier Futures for Children and Families

Can you help drive the future success of a growing national charity?

HENRY (Health, Exercise, Nutrition for the Really Young) is seeking passionate and strategic individuals to join our Board of Trustees at an exciting point in our journey.

For over 15 years, HENRY has worked alongside parents, carers, communities and professionals to give babies and young children the healthiest possible start in life. Our evidence-based programmes, training and support help families build healthy habits, strengthen relationships and improve long-term wellbeing, particularly in communities experiencing the greatest health inequalities.

Today, HENRY supports more than 21,000 families every year and trains professionals across health and early years services nationwide. Last year alone:

• 21,662 families received support through our programmes, workshops and one-to-one services
• 9,608 parents and babies benefited from infant feeding support
• 88% of participants reported leading a healthier family lifestyle
• 96% rated our programmes and workshops as good or great
• 35% of families we supported were from the most deprived communities in the UK

As we work towards our vision of a healthy and happy start for every baby and child, we are entering a new phase of growth and development. Our ambitious 2030 strategy focuses on expanding our reach, strengthening sustainability, increasing our influence, and maintaining quality and impact as we grow.

About the Role

As a Trustee, you will play a key role in shaping HENRY's future. Working alongside fellow Board members, you will provide strategic leadership, support good governance, oversee organisational sustainability and help ensure we continue delivering meaningful impact for families across the UK.

This is a strategic, non-operational role that offers the opportunity to contribute your expertise while making a lasting difference to children's lives.

Who We're Looking For

We are particularly interested in individuals with experience in:

• Marketing and Communications
• Income Generation and Fundraising
• Legal and Contractual Matters

We also welcome candidates with:

• Previous trustee or governance experience
• Experience of scaling organisations
• Knowledge of early years, health or family services
• Relevant lived experience
• A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

Why Join HENRY?

Joining our Board is both a responsibility and a rewarding opportunity to create lasting social impact.

As a Trustee, you will:

• Help tackle health inequalities affecting babies and young children
• Influence the strategic direction of a respected national charity
• Develop your leadership, governance and board-level experience
• Work alongside a collaborative and experienced Board and executive team
• Gain insight into a charity delivering impact at scale across the UK

We are committed to building a diverse Board that reflects the communities we serve and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds aged 18 and over.

If you share our belief that every child deserves the best possible start in life, we'd love to hear from you and explore how your skills and experience can help shape HENRY's next chapter.

Ready to make a difference? Read our attached Trustee Recruitment Pack and click 'redirect to recruiter' to be forwarded to our application portal. 

Closing date: 9am Wednesday 19th August 2026
Interviews: week commencing 14th September 2026

HENRY is committed to safer recruitment and safeguarding. As a result, all successful trustee applicants will be required to complete a DBS check.

About Roots Academy 

At Roots Academy, we’ve built a learning experience that’s changing the lives of the ummah’s future leaders, change-makers and visionaries.

Our vision is enabling university students to live God-centred lives, so we teach structured, engaging and transformative face-to-face foundational Islamic education to over 2,000 students across the UK, Ireland, Canada & Australia.

Role Summary:

The Fundraising Lead for Roots Academy Canada will be responsible for developing and executing fundraising strategies to support the expansion of Roots Academy’s programs.

This role is critical in ensuring that Roots Academy has the financial resources needed to deliver high-quality Islamic education to communities around the world.

The ideal candidate will be passionate about the mission of Roots Academy, skilled in engaging donors and securing funding through various channels, and able to build lasting relationships with key stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

Community Engagement:

• Develop and implement a dynamic fundraising plan that includes a variety of strategies tailored to Roots Academy’s target audiences, including university MSAs, mosques, and Islamic organisations.

• Identify and build partnerships with key community organisations, MSAs, and Islamic centres to create collaborative fundraising opportunities.

• Stay adaptable to emerging opportunities for funding, leveraging both traditional and innovative approaches to engage and attract potential donors.

Relationship Building:

• Actively engage with MSAs, Islamic centres, and community organisations to establish Roots Academy as a cause worth supporting and to cultivate long-term donor relationships.

• Collaborate with MSAs and community partners to organise local fundraising events, campaigns, and other initiatives that resonate with the community.

• Serve as a liaison between Roots Academy and these partner organisations to foster a spirit of collaboration and mutual support.

• Work closely with MSAs and community organisations to retain donors by creating meaningful engagement opportunities and maintaining a sense of involvement with Roots Academy’s mission.

Campaign Management:

• Lead and coordinate diverse fundraising campaigns, including online initiatives, MSA-driven campaigns, and in-person events like benefit dinners and community gatherings.

• Work with Roots Academy’s marketing team to create campaign materials and digital content, ensuring that each initiative is tailored to engage and inspire potential donors.

• Coordinate and oversee logistics for events, ensuring a smooth and impactful experience for all participants and maximising fundraising outcomes.

Tracking and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of fundraising activities, donor interactions, and campaign outcomes to ensure transparency and accountability.

• Provide regular reports to the leadership team on fundraising efforts, adapting strategies as needed based on campaign performance and community feedback.

• Use data to evaluate the effectiveness of different fundraising approaches, enabling continuous improvement in future efforts.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Fundraising Experience: Proven experience in developing and executing successful fundraising strategies, particularly for nonprofit organisations, educational initiatives, or Islamic institutions.

• Community-Oriented: A deep understanding of the Muslim community in Canada, especially in relation to university students and local mosques.

• Relationship Building: Proven experience in building and maintaining meaningful relationships with a wide variety of stakeholders.

• Project Management: Strong organisational skills with the ability to support program delivery efficiently.

• Communication: Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences, from students to community leaders.

• Commitment to Ihsaan: This role requires someone who strives to deliver their responsibilities with ihsaan.

• Dedication to Service: A heart for khidma (service), and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of young Muslims through education.

What We Offer:

• Be part of a team of 100+ dedicated volunteers from across the globe.

• Receive continuous rewards for those that seek Islamic knowledge from the Roots platform. 

• Be a part of a growing organisation that aims to revive and educate Muslims from a grassroots perspective.

• Receive in-house tarbiyah sessions to develop your deen. 

Please note this is an unpaid volunteer position. 

Volunteers are entitled to claim expenses incurred for food, travel and equipment, in line with our Expenses policy. 

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As an Activities Organiser, you'll bring your skills, energy and enthusiasm to lead, develop and plan activities and events with your local group. You’ll get involved in creating and coordinating an annual calendar of events, making sure they’re run safely and effectively, to be accessible to our MS community. You’ll take a lead role at events on the day, inspiring your fellow volunteers to get involved.  

Become a Fundraising Volunteer!

Help make a better life for cats – because life is better with cats

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is, and always will be, at the heart of Cats Protection. It’s joyful, inclusive, and driven by people working together to transform the lives of cats, people, and communities. When you volunteer with us, you become part of something truly meaningful.

The difference you’ll make

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, Cats Protection helps thousands of cats every year. Our fundraising volunteers play a vital role in making this possible. By using your passion for cats and people, you’ll help raise the funds needed to support more cats and kittens in need.

As a fundraising volunteer, we’ll support you to get involved in a way that suits you best. Whether you enjoy organising events, fundraising online, promoting activities on social media, helping with administration, or coming up with fresh ideas — there’s a place for you here. Whatever your skills or interests, this could be the perfect role.

What you can expect from us

• A warm, welcoming, and inclusive environment in line with our values and behaviours
• Support to help you have a positive and impactful volunteering experience
• Agreed out-of-pocket expenses covered in line with our Expenses Policy
• Access to learning, development, and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

This is a highly flexible role, and you can choose how you’d like to get involved. Opportunities include:

• Face-to-face fundraising – organising or helping at fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, and monitoring collection tins
• Online fundraising – setting up online appeals and writing engaging cat case studies to maximise donations
• Marketing and promotion – spreading the word about fundraising activities via social media and local press
• Administration – processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, and completing Gift Aid paperwork
• Championing our work – helping to develop new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement
• Photography – capturing images of cats in care, cats we’re helping, fundraising events, and all things Cats Protection

Time commitment

This role is flexible and designed to fit around your other commitments. You’ll be part of a friendly team raising vital funds — and having fun along the way.

You could be just the volunteer we’re looking for

We’re committed to building a diverse, compassionate, and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. Together, we’re courageous and compassionate in helping people see the world through cats’ eyes.

Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats. Together, we are all for cats.

Volunteer with halow!

Make a difference, have fun, and be part of our community

Our volunteers play a vital role in helping halow’s young people enjoy new experiences, build friendships, and take part in activities they love.

As a Gardening Volunteer, you’ll support our kitchen allotment, helping to plan, grow, and care for a variety of vegetables, fruits, flowers, and plants. The produce grown can be used in our cooking sessions or shared with local community groups. Although our offices are based in Guildford, we welcome volunteers from various places, as opportunities for their support arise all over Surrey. They are not expected to come to us with any previous experience; all we ask for is commitment and a willingness to work with our young people.

Who can volunteer?

No previous experience is needed,we’re looking for people who are enthusiastic, reliable, and willing to support our young people. Although our office is based in Guildford, volunteering opportunities are available across Surrey

Why volunteer for halow?

Our volunteers enjoy the fun of our events and can gain valuable work experience whilst enjoying giving something back to the community, taking on new challenges and sharing their skills to help others. Other benefits include:

• To try something new
• To have fun
• To give something back to the community
• To do something that you feel is important to you
• To meet new people
• To gain valuable work experience
• To take on new challenges
• To share your skills in order to help others
• To build confidence

Join us and help create meaningful experiences and memories for young people across Surrey.

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As a local group Support Volunteer you’ll signpost people affected by MS to information about local and national services. That could be helping someone access information about the care or benefits they need or giving them a hand with a grant application.

In this role you’ll develop your listening and communication skills, as well as your knowledge of local services.

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As a Communications Volunteer you’ll play a key role in promoting your group to people in your area affected by MS, and helping them feel connected. You could be editing newsletters, responding to information requests, or developing engaging content for social media — depending on what the group needs. 

In this role you’ll develop your writing skills, and gain experience of communicating across a range of digital channels. Most importantly you’ll be helping us engage with lots of people and get the word out to people with MS about support to help them live their lives to the full. 

What you’ll be doing:

• Creating content for, promoting and moderating group social media channels 
• Writing and editing newsletters and promotional materials in line with brand guidelines 
• Updating group information resources 
• Supporting the group’s shared responsibility for designing and delivering services and activities

What you’ll get in return:

• You’ll be part of our amazing volunteer network 
• You’ll develop new skills, which can improve your CV and employability   
• You'll be making a real difference to people's lives 
• You’ll get a say in influencing our work 
• You’ll receive a Volunteer Welcome Pack 
• You’ll have an induction to your role 
• You’ll get support from your Volunteer Manager 
• You’ll gain access to Learning and Development opportunities 
• You’ll be reimbursed for any expenses while carrying out your role 

Hertfordshire’s Family Centre Service brings children’s centres, health visiting and school nursing together, to provide a more joined-up service for children, young people, and their families.

The centres deliver a range of support groups and activities for children and their families to help them be healthy, grow and develop. To make it easy for families to fit sessions and services around their busy lives, access is available from any Hertfordshire Family centre. We have locations across the entire county so please do enquire ensuring you have provided your postcode.

Main Tasks/ Responsibilities/ Activities

To represent Family Centre Services within local communities and help strengthen the link between families and the centre by promoting services and support available.

Key Responsibilities:

· Promote Hertfordshire Family Centres by attending toddler and parent groups and local activities.

· Distribute leaflets, posters, and other promotional materials in community venues (e.g. libraries, health centres, nurseries, shops).

· Talk to parents, carers, and professionals about the Family Centre offer, signposting them to services and activities.

· Share updates on Family Centre activities through word of mouth, local networks, and community noticeboards.

· Provide feedback to Family Centre staff about local needs, events, and opportunities for engagement.

· Represent the Family Centre in a positive and professional way at all times.

Skills / Abilities / Experience / Qualities

· Friendly, approachable, and confident in talking to new people.

· Good communication skills.

· Reliable and able to work independently as well as part of a team.

· Enthusiasm for supporting children, families, and the local community.

· Respectful of diversity and inclusive of all families.

· Knowledge of the local area and networks

Training / Support

· A full induction to the service and specific site will be provided.

· Requirement to undertake One YMCA online training courses

· To understand and implement One YMCA’s policies.

· Ongoing support and regular 1:1 meetings

· Access to organisational events throughout the year including Socials, Conferences and Training opportunities. 

Additional Information

· Undergo enhanced DBS check

· X2 References required

· Undertake additional training as and when required

· We offer to pay volunteers’ “out of pocket” expenses within agreed guidelines

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As a Communications Volunteer you’ll play a key role in promoting your group to people in your area affected by MS, and helping them feel connected. You could be editing newsletters, responding to information requests, or developing engaging content for social media — depending on what the group needs. 

In this role you’ll develop your writing skills, and gain experience of communicating across a range of digital channels. Most importantly you’ll be helping us engage with lots of people and get the word out to people with MS about support to help them live their lives to the full. 

What you’ll be doing:

• Creating content for, promoting and moderating group social media channels 
• Writing and editing newsletters and promotional materials in line with brand guidelines 
• Updating group information resources 
• Supporting the group’s shared responsibility for designing and delivering services and activities

What you’ll get in return:

• You’ll be part of our amazing volunteer network 
• You’ll develop new skills, which can improve your CV and employability   
• You'll be making a real difference to people's lives 
• You’ll get a say in influencing our work 
• You’ll receive a Volunteer Welcome Pack 
• You’ll have an induction to your role 
• You’ll get support from your Volunteer Manager 
• You’ll gain access to Learning and Development opportunities 
• You’ll be reimbursed for any expenses while carrying out your role 

Global Health Access Trust is looking for a Governance & Charity Administration Volunteer to help strengthen the records, policies and administrative foundations of an international charitable organisation working towards registration.

This opportunity would suit someone with governance, legal, charity administration or senior administrative experience who enjoys bringing order, accuracy and follow-through to important organisational work.

Global Health Access Trust (GHAT) develops, funds and coordinates defined projects that advance health, relieve illness and preserve life for the public benefit. Good governance, safeguarding, accountability and responsible stewardship sit at the centre of how that work is developed and delivered.

What you could contribute

• Help maintain governance policies, registers and organisational records
• Support preparation and organisation of governance documentation
• Help maintain accurate meeting records and action points
• Track agreed actions and follow-up
• Support orderly document management and version control
• Help ensure governance information is complete, current and easy to retrieve
• Work with the Trust team to strengthen practical administrative processes

Who this could suit

This opportunity may suit people with experience in governance, charity administration, legal administration, company secretarial work, compliance or senior administrative roles.

We particularly welcome methodical, discreet people who are comfortable handling confidential information, maintaining accurate records and working within agreed processes.

Strong written communication, attention to detail and dependable follow-through are important.

The opportunity can usually be undertaken remotely from any country and the commitment is ongoing and flexible.

The role is voluntary and unpaid. There is no salary, fee, employment benefit or entitlement to expenses.

How to apply

Applications are handled through the Global Health Access Trust website. When you click to apply, you will be taken to GHAT’s Governance, Safety & Assurance section. There you can review this opportunity in context, explore the other current opportunities within this area and select the opportunity that best matches your experience before submitting the GHAT application form.

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity to join a distinctive and values-driven organisation. We are seeking a new Treasurer to join the Board of Trustees and play a crucial role in supporting the organisation’s sustainable future. While prior knowledge of brain injury is not required, the Treasurer is expected to demonstrate an interest in  brain injury, as well as in the Headway community, and to share the organisation’s mission and values.

The Treasurer will lead on the financial strategy, work closely with the Director of Finance, ensuring that financial insight informs the Board’s strategic thinking. This will include thorough pre-review of financial reports ahead of each Board meeting, chairing Finance & Audit Committee meetings, and presenting financial reports to the Board and at the AGM.

The role holder, will support the Board in fulfilling its responsibilities for the charity’s ambitious strategy and governance. They will work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and provide guidance to the Director of Finance and Chief Executive on the strategic management of finances.

Other

Apply the Headway London values and behaviours to every aspect of the role at all times.

Protect and enhance the interests and reputation of Headway London internally and externally.

Commit to the organisational principles of: coproduction equity, diversity and inclusion sustainability.

Headway London is an Equal Opportunities Employer and we are committed to ensuring that all staff are motivated, skilled and rewarded by their work. We welcome applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, colour, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, disability, age and other protected status as required by law. We promote and protect human rights; they are the foundation of what we do. We want to be an inclusive place where a diverse mix of talented people want to come and contribute their unique strengths and perspectives. We are focused on equality and believe that all the fascinating characteristics that make us different, make us more able to deliver our life-changing work with passion and creativity.

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As an Activities Volunteer, you’ll help our group deliver well organised activities and support everyone who takes part. Whether you’re serving refreshments or talking to people, you’ll help everyone feel welcome.

This role will help you develop your organisation, communication and team working skills.

What you’ll be doing:

• Assisting with setting up activities
• Supporting people who attend activities, including making and serving refreshments and helping people to access the event
• Helping to run events, including registering attendees and collecting any payments

What you’ll get in return:

• You’ll be part of our amazing volunteer network
• You’ll develop new skills, which can improve your CV and employability
• You'll be making a real difference to people's lives
• You’ll get a say in influencing our work
• You’ll receive a Volunteer Welcome Pack
• You’ll have an induction to your role
• You’ll get support from your Volunteer Manager
• You’ll gain access to Learning and Development opportunities
• You’ll be reimbursed for any related expenses while carrying out your role

The Association of Anaesthetists (Great Britain & Ireland) is seeking to appoint a lay trustee to its Board of Trustees

This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a well-respected medical membership organisation helping to shape the future of anaesthesia, influence patient safety, and support anaesthetists at every stage of their careers.

With more than 10,000 members across Great Britain and Ireland and internationally, the Association’s mission is to safeguard patients by educating, supporting, and inspiring anaesthetists to deliver the very best care in every healthcare setting.

About the Association

For over 90 years, the Association has been a trusted voice for the anaesthesia community, supporting clinicians through an evolving healthcare landscape.

The Association is registered as a company limited by guarantee and as a charity in both England and Wales and Scotland.

Our work is driven by four strategic priorities: Patient Care and Safety, Education and Research, Advocacy and Support, and Innovation and Growth. These priorities are set out in our ambitious 2024–2029 strategy, launched in 2024, which defines the Association’s vision, mission, values, and long-term direction.

Our core values are at the heart of everything we do:

• Committed: We are a respected and independent organisation, committed to speaking up and speaking out on behalf of our members and the anaesthesia community
• Trusted: For over 90 years, we have helped to set standards, share knowledge, and support thousands of people in a vital profession. Our expertise matters to our members and globally
• Innovative: We look forward, not back. We care about the future of anaesthesia and actively help shape its future on behalf of our members by listening, responding, and innovating
• Connected: We are a dynamic, diverse, and inclusive community. We exist because of, and on behalf of, our members

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic leadership of the charity, overseeing organisational strategy, annual business plans, and financial stewardship. Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer and senior leadership team, the board ensures the Association continues to deliver impact for members, patients, and the wider healthcare community.

For further information on the charity see the latest Foundation Statutory Report and Accounts.

About the lay trustee role

Lay trustees play a vital role in strengthening the effectiveness, governance, and strategic direction of the Association. They bring valuable external insight, independent challenge, and specialist expertise that have significantly enhanced board discussions and decision-making.

As a lay trustee, you will:

• Help shape the future direction of the Association
• Provide independent oversight and constructive challenge
• Contribute specialist expertise and fresh perspectives
• Support strong governance and strategic decision-making
• Act as a trusted critical friend to the organisation

You will work alongside elected trustees who are practising anaesthetists, fellow lay trustees with expertise in finance and technology, and a highly experienced staff team.

Lay trustees also become members of the Association Council, which acts as an advisory body to the Board.

Who are we looking for?

We are particularly interested in applications from individuals with expertise in areas such as:

• Fundraising
• Marketing and communications
• External affairs

Previous trustee experience is welcome but not essential. We value diversity of thought, background, and lived experience, and encourage applications from individuals who can bring new perspectives to our work.

The full role description is shown below.

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to patient care and the future of healthcare while working with a committed and forward-thinking organisation.

By joining the board, you will help influence a profession that plays a critical role in healthcare systems across the world, supporting clinicians, improving standards, and ultimately helping patients receive safer care. If you are motivated by purpose, collaboration, and strategic impact, we would be delighted to hear from you.

The deadline for applications is 17:00 on Friday 21 August 2026. Applications are invited via cover letter and CV to the Chief Executive Officer, Nicky de Beer. In your cover letter, please address how you meet the role description and person specification. We accept the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as an emerging technology but please state if and how you have used AI in your application. Please send your letter and CV.

Following an initial short-listing process interviews will be held via videoconference on the morning of Thursday 10 September 2026.

For further information or an informal discussion

Contact Nicky de Beer, Chief Executive Officer.

Lay trustee role description

Purpose of role: Lay trustees enhance the knowledge, expertise, judgement, and balance available to the Board of Trustees to ensure a financially sound, healthy, and legally compliant organisation. Their principal assets will be their knowledge and expertise, independence, and the confidence and ability to be a critical friend of the Association.

Responsible to: President (Chair of the Board of Trustees)

Key working relationships

• President
• Other trustees
• Chief Executive Officer, senior management team and staff
• Other members of the Association Council
• Other stakeholder organisations such as the Royal College of Anaesthetists, and charity partners

Term of appointment:

Following a successful interview and satisfactory references, the lay trustee will be appointed for a three-year term commencing from the Annual Members’ Meeting in September 2026.

Time commitment

The Board of Trustees meets up to five times a year. The dates for board meetings are set 12 months in advance from October to September. Meetings normally take place on Fridays approximately every 8 weeks as either a half-day or full-day meeting at 21 Portland Place, London or via videoconference, but videoconferencing facilities will be available for all meetings.

Trustees are expected to attend each board meeting and to engage in communication between board meetings with staff and board colleagues as required.

Expenses

This role is voluntary and is unremunerated. Trustees will be reimbursed for their expenses for travel, hotel accommodation and subsistence when attending meetings. Expenses will be paid in accordance with the expenses policy. As this is a voluntary role, trustees are not otherwise compensated for their service.

Training

Training is provided for trustees to enable them to perform their governance duties effectively.

Trustee duties and responsibilities

Please view the Charity Commission guidance CC3 The essential trustee: what you need to know, what you need to do. Trustees of the Association are also directors under company law, and under the Companies Act 2006, there are specific legal duties placed upon company directors. You should familiarise yourself with those legal duties before applying for this role.

Key responsibilities:

Strategic direction and financial oversight.

• Contribute to ensuring that the charity’s purpose is carried out and that all activities support its charitable objectives
• Contribute to and agree the strategic direction of the Association and help set its long term priorities
• Oversee risk management, making sure appropriate controls and policies are in place
• Oversee the financial performance of the Association including budgets, reserves and the responsible use of funds
• Help to ensure that the Association’s equity, diversity, and inclusion objectives are met

Trustees are also expected to:

• Ensure legal and regulatory compliance, including acting in line with charity law, company law, and the governing document
• Attend meetings of the Board of Trustees on a regular basis and be well prepared by reading relevant papers in advance and participating fully in meetings and decision making
• Act with integrity and independence, always in the best interests of the charity
• Participate in wider Association work, assist with ensuring the charity’s purposes and mission are clearly communicated to members and the public
• Undertake training and induction as may be required to carry out the role
• Keep up to date with developments in healthcare. the charity/not-for-profit sector and the role of trustee
• Act as an ambassador for the Association where appropriate

Person specification

We are keen to appoint lay trustees whose values align with ours and have the following key attributes.

Key attributes

Essential

Relevant expertise outside the field of anaesthesia, such as in:

• Fundraising
• Marketing & Communications
• External affairs

The ability to challenge constructively and rigorously and to contribute at a strategic level while listening sensitively to the views of others

Commitment to the Association and its objectives

Sound judgement, integrity, and high ethical standards

Excellent communication skills

Willingness to acquire the expertise and knowledge to discharge responsibilities

An understanding and awareness of equity, diversity and inclusion

Ability to attend board sub-committees and working group meetings, conferences and key events run by the Association

Desirable

Experience of acting as a trustee

Informed about the environment in which the charity operates and the issues it faces

About Thames21

Thames21 is an environmental charity that works with communities to restore and look after rivers, water and nature across London and the Thames Basin.  We believe that every river should be healthy, thriving and valued by the community it serves.

What We Do:

Empower communities to care for rivers

• We support thousands of volunteers and community groups each year to improve their local waterways and green spaces.

Restore rivers and nature

• We deliver practical river restoration projects that improve habitats, water quality and biodiversity.

Build climate resilience

• We create nature-based solutions that help communities and ecosystems adapt to climate change and reduce flood risk.

The role

We have an exciting opportunity to appoint a voluntary Company Secretary to support our Board of Trustees and help ensure our governance is as strong as the environmental impact we deliver.  Your professional skills will support an ambitious and growing charity making a real difference to rivers, wildlife and people.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from groups currently under-represented in charity governance roles.

The Role

The Company Secretary plays an important role in supporting the effective operation of Thames21's governance.

Working closely with the Chair of Trustees, Chief Executive and Board, you will help ensure that meetings are well organised, decisions are properly recorded and the charity meets its statutory obligations as both a registered charity and company limited by guarantee.

You will be expected to attend four Board meetings and approximately two sub-committee meetings each year, together with occasional planning discussions with the Chair and Chief Executive.  The role is voluntary, although reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

What You Will Be Doing

• Supporting the smooth operation of the Board of Trustees and its committees.
• Working with the Chair and Chief Executive to plan Board and committee meetings.
• Preparing and distributing agendas and meeting papers.
• Attending meetings and ensuring accurate minutes and action logs are maintained.
• Maintaining key governance records and statutory registers.
• Supporting the filing of statutory returns and governance documents with Companies House and the Charity Commission.
• Advising trustees on governance processes and good practice.
• Assisting with trustee induction and governance documentation.
• Ensuring that the charity complies with its governing document and relevant legal requirements.
• Supporting governance reviews and improvement initiatives as appropriate.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking someone who has:

• Experience as a Company Secretary, governance professional, trustee, board administrator or in a similar governance role.
• An understanding of company and/or charity governance.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• The ability to produce concise and accurate minutes.
• Good judgement and discretion.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• The confidence to provide procedural advice and guidance when needed.
• An interest in environmental issues, community engagement and the mission of Thames21.

Desirable but not essential:

• Experience working with charities, membership organisations, companies limited by guarantee or not-for-profit organisations.
• Knowledge of charity law and Charity Commission requirements.
• An interest in charity governance and governance improvement.

Why Join Thames21?

This role may appeal to an experienced Company Secretary, governance professional, trustee or board administrator looking to use their skills in support of a meaningful environmental cause.  It could suit someone seeking a voluntary role alongside their career or as part of a portfolio of charitable commitments.

This role offers the opportunity to:

• Join a friendly, passionate and professional organisation committed to creating lasting environmental and social impact.
• See the tangible results of your contribution through projects that improve rivers, wildlife habitats and local communities.
• Use your professional skills to support a respected and ambitious environmental charity.
• Work closely with an experienced Board of Trustees and leadership team.
• Gain insight into charity leadership, strategy and governance.
• Build relationships with professionals from across the environmental, water, local government and charity sectors.
• Support practical action on river restoration, biodiversity recovery and climate resilience.

Most importantly, you will help ensure that Thames21 has the strong governance foundations needed to deliver lasting environmental impact.

Time Commitment

Approximately 6–10 days per year, including:

• Four Board meetings annually.
• Approximately two subcommittee meetings annually.
• Preparation time for meetings and governance administration.
• Occasional discussions with the Chair and Chief Executive.

To Apply

Please send your CV and a short covering letter with the reference CS0726 via the Charity Job Website explaining:

• Why you are interested in becoming Thames21's Company Secretary; and
• How your experience and skills would support the role.