Culture volunteer roles

1. WHY THIS ROLE EXISTS
Release Therapy for Women provides safe, therapeutic spaces for women across Sussex. Our groups are the heart of what we do, and our Therapeutic Group Support Assistants play a crucial role in ensuring these sessions run smoothly.
You will work alongside a Lead Facilitator to create a warm, inclusive, and physically comfortable environment.
2. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Creating a Welcoming Space
* Environment Setup: Arrive early to set up the therapeutic space, ensuring it is tidy, welcoming, and comfortable.
* Sensory Awareness: Pay attention to lighting, noise levels, and seating arrangements to support our neurodivergent participants and those with social anxiety.
* The "Warm Welcome": Greet participants as they arrive, particularly focused on making new members feel at ease and helping to serve drinks.
Supporting the Session
* Facilitation Assistance: Support the Lead Facilitator with practical tasks (handing out materials, managing refreshments, or keeping time).
* Participant Support: Provide a calm, grounded presence. While you are not the primary therapist, you may offer one-to-one emotional support (e.g., sitting with someone who needs a moment outside the circle).
* Closing the Space: Assist in packing away and briefly debriefing with the Facilitator after participants have left.
Inclusion & Data
Actively model inclusive behaviour, ensuring women of all ages, faiths, and sexual orientations feel safe.
* Equality Monitoring: Assist in the distribution of our anonymous Equalities Monitoring forms. In line with our 2026 vision, you will help explain to participants that their data helps us secure the funding needed to keep our groups free for everyone.

3. PERSON SPECIFICATION
Knowledge and Experience
* Counselling Foundation: You have previous counselling experience or have undertaken introductory counselling training.
* Therapeutic Understanding: An understanding of (or a strong interest in) the group therapeutic process and the importance of boundaries and confidentiality.
* Inclusive Values: A deep commitment to equality and a passion for making therapeutic spaces accessible to marginalised groups.
Skills and Abilities
* Empathy & Presence: A calm, grounded, and non-judgemental approach to supporting women in distress.
* Reliability: The ability to commit to a full 6–10 week group cycle to provide continuity of care for our participants.
* Communication: Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with a Lead Facilitator.
* Local Insight: Ideally, you will live in or have strong ties to Brighton, Worthing, or Shoreham/Southwick.

* This post is only open to female applicants as being female is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

The successful candidate will join a highly regarded women-led, women-centred, and trauma-informed charity.

4. WHAT WE OFFER YOU

* Professional Growth: Gain hands-on experience in a therapeutic community setting.
* Support & Supervision: Access to optional clinical supervision when needed to discuss your experiences and wellbeing.
* Inclusive Culture: Be part of a diverse volunteer team (19% neurodiverse and 25% ethnically diverse).
* Training: Induction into our therapeutic model, safeguarding, and cultural competency.
* Expenses: Reimbursement of local travel costs.
5. RECRUITMENT & ONBOARDING
* Trial Period: Participation in one session as an observer/assistant before a full commitment.
* Safeguarding: This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check and a requirement to attend our annual safeguarding training.

Location: Shepherd’s Bush, West London

Time Commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month (including quarterly board meetings and annual Away Day)

Type: Voluntary

Start Date: Early 2026

Join a unique West London charity creating lasting change in people’s lives

The Upper Room is seeking a Chair of Trustees (Designate) to join our Board in 2025/26 and, after a year of active trusteeship and shadowing, to step into the role of Chair when our current Chair reaches the end of their tenure in 2027.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate, values-led individual to help shape the next phase of our work, from strategic resilience to community innovation.

About Us

From small beginnings more than 35 years ago The Upper Room has grown into a thriving charity with an annual budget of around £650K.

Food provision has always been at the heart of what we do. UR4Meals serves approximately 40,000 meals a year, operating five days a week.

UR4Driving works with ex-offenders and young people identified as at risk of offending. We help them pass their driving theory test, and then provide free driving lessons. Last year 37 students gained a full driving licence with us. This has a significant impact on their employability and self-esteem, and dramatically reduces re-offending.

UR4Jobs helps people become work-ready, and supports their wellbeing.

We are still based in our original home at St Saviour’s Church near Shepherd’s Bush in west London.

About the Role

As Chair, you’ll lead a committed and skilled Board of Trustees, working closely with our CEO and senior team to guide strategy, ensure good governance and champion our impact.

You’ll also play a key role externally, acting as an ambassador to funders, partners and supporters.

We’re looking for someone who can

• Provide strategic leadership through a period of growth and innovation
• Foster a culture of inclusion and respect, both on the Board and across the organisation - Support and challenge the CEO, acting as a critical friend and sounding board
• Ensure excellent governance, compliance and risk management
• Represent the charity publicly, building relationships and influence

About You

We welcome candidates with prior Board experience as a Trustee, Chair or Non-Executive Director, and a strong commitment to social justice.

We especially encourage applications from those with lived experience of disadvantage, as well as those from under-represented backgrounds, including individuals from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.

We’re interested in candidates with

• A clear understanding of charity governance and the role of a Chair
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement
• A collaborative, values-driven approach
• The time, energy and commitment to make a lasting difference

Additional experience in fundraising, partnerships, organisational development or public sector engagement would be welcome, though not essential.

Time Commitment

• As a Trustee in 2025/ 26 (approx. 1–2 days per month)
• Transition to Chair in 2027, subject to mutual agreement and Board approval
• Quarterly evening Board meetings (in person in London)
• Annual summer Away Day with staff and trustees
• Optional involvement in sub-committees or events depending on interest and availability
• Representing the charity at local events

Why Now

By inviting a prospective Chair to join our Board as a Trustee in 2025/26, we can ensure a smooth, informed transition, with the support and handover of our current Chair, and plenty of time for deep onboarding and relationship-building.

The new Chair will help consolidate our growth, and lead our Board through the next chapter, ensuring our mission continues to serve those who need us most in the years ahead.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a brief covering letter explaining your interest and suitability to the Upper Room.

If you would like to have an informal conversation before applying, feel free to reach out via email to arrange a call.

Because we are planning for the long term we are not placing a deadline on this process. However, we aim to appoint in the first quarter of 2026.

Interviews will be held in two stages, including an in-person meeting with key Board and staff members.

BOARD MEMBER – EAST MIDLANDS, VOLUNTARY, FULL EXPENSES REIMBURSED

· Do you want to be a part of a vibrant and ambitious charity that delivers services to homeless people and others with a range of support needs?

· Do you have expertise in Housing or Finance?

· Do you have ambition to Chair a Board Committee?

· Do you want to contribute to the strategic direction of our successful and expanding organisation?

· Do you have a strong social conscience and the commitment to make a difference?

· If you have the motivation, vision and enthusiasm to join us in this exciting and challenging role, apply today!

Who Are We?

Framework is a registered charity delivering housing support, health, and employment services to people with a diverse range of needs. We assist rough sleepers and those who need help to keep their home. We support excluded youngsters as they make their way into adulthood and those starting or returning to work. We provide access to treatment for people with mental health issues and those using alcohol or substances, and we join up services for homeless people with multiple and complex needs.

Our 70 services across Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire and Sheffield support more than 18,000 people each year and accommodate more than 1,300 people at any one time. Responding to their needs, respecting their choices and empowering them to achieve, we aim to make life better for our service users and those around them.

What We’re Looking For:

We are particularly keen to hear from people with expertise in Housing and Finance a finance/accounting qualification is essential). At least two successful candidates will also become members of the Audit and Risk Management Committee (ARM), with one having future aspirations to become the Chair of the ARM Committee.

By joining our Board of Trustees, you will be working alongside the Senior Leadership Team to navigate an external environment that is challenging and continually changing: budgets for support services have been drastically cut so we have to think carefully about how to create efficiency without compromising on quality.

Honour Thy Woman provides survivor-centred Domestic Abuse Recovery Services for women and families across Gloucestershire.This is an important moment for our charity, and we are seeking someone who can help guide our future with skill, integrity, and commitment.

About Honour Thy Woman Group

Honour Thy Woman Group offers a wide range of support services designed to meet the emotional, practical, and social needs of women recovering from domestic abuse. Our programmes combine professional guidance with peer-led care, flexible delivery methods, and a focus on long-term wellbeing.

What will you be doing?

By sharing your professional skills and financial insight, you will help ensure we continue delivering personalised support, practical advice and ongoing care to the women and children we support.

Our new Treasurer will be a key member of the Board of Trustees, responsible for providing strategic financial oversight and ensuring that Honour Thy Woman Group manages its resources responsibly, transparently, and in line with UK charity law.

Our Treasurer will regularly report to the Board of Trustees on the organisation’s financial position and overall financial health. The Treasurer will also ensure that robust and appropriate financial controls, systems, and procedures are in place and operating effectively.

While the Treasurer holds specific responsibility for financial oversight, all Trustees remain jointly and severally responsible for the governance and administration of the Charity and share collective accountability and liability.

For full details, please request the application pack.

What are we are looking for?

We are looking for someone who shares our values and is ready to contribute their expertise to a collaborative and dedicated Board of Trustees. This is a chance to make a meaningful difference, while also gaining valuable governance experience and supporting the growth of a responsive, survivor-focused charity.

We’re seeking a new Treasurer with the following attributes: 

· Financial literacy and confidence with budgets.

· Ability to interpret financial information and explain it clearly.

· A qualified accountant (or equivalent, qualified by experience), ideally with experience in charity                finance. Training will be provided where experience of charity finance is not already in place.

· Strong attention to detail and organisational skills Integrity, independence, and sound judgement                Commitment to the charity’s mission, values, and safeguarding standards.

As we recruit for our new Treasurer, we are particularly keen to attract candidates who share our commitment to fostering an inclusive culture and who are passionate about advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of our work. We are also committed to providing reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair and accessible recruitment process. Applicants are encouraged to let us know of any support needed to enable full participation.

As a small charity, Honour Thy Woman truly values the commitment, time, and expertise our Trustees bring. By joining our Trustee Board, you will benefit from: 

· A warm, inclusive, and supportive introduction to the organisation.

· The fulfilment of making a genuine difference, helping ensure survivors across Gloucestershire                  and  beyond access the support and services they need and deserve.

· The opportunity to play a key role in the next phase of development for a vital, survivor centred                   organisation.

· The chance to develop your leadership capabilities while gaining valuable governance experience.

· The power of working collaboratively to achieve more than could be achieved individually.

· A meaningful opportunity to apply your skills and experience within the voluntary sector.

What difference will you make?

As Treasurer, you will play a vital role in safeguarding the financial health of our organisation. Your professional insight will help us manage resources responsibly, strengthen our sustainability, and ensure that our services continue to reach those who need them most.

Time commitment

Attending 4 annual online Board meetings of an evening. Attendance of ad-hoc Advisory Group meetings and optional event attendance. Trustees should also allocate time to read and respond to emails.

The overall Time Commitment is estimated at approximately 8–10 hours per month, plus quarterly Board meetings.

As part of the Government led Gommunities for Afghans programme, we are looking to recruit individuals or groups to make up a team of 6 volunteers to support an Afghan family - you could be friends, neighbours, colleagues, faith groups, veterans, or community organisations are welcome. 

We are currently focussed on supporting families across Wales, West Midlands and Scotland but be keen to support elsewhere geographically where possible.  With this in mind, you may live in these areas, but we are also delighted to bring volunteers together remotely to support a family. 

You will be at the heart of this programme. It is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference!

The Communities for Afghans programme is a community-led Government initiative supporting families as they rebuild their lives in the UK. It is a Government-approved scheme that enables local people to welcome Afghan refugee famiklies into their community. Volunteers will be supported by us to find housing for a family, provide practical and emotional support enabling them to settle into daily life and feel a genuine sense of belonging in the community.

How community sponsorship work

1. Form a Sponsor Group Create a team of six or more volunteers — friends, neighbours, colleagues, faith groups, veterans, or community organisations.
2. Training & Ongoing Support Our partners provide full training, so your group feels confident and well prepared. This simple, practical training is offered before you begin and continues throughout the sponsorship journey.
3. Identify Suitable Housing With our guidance, your group helps find long-term accommodation. We then match an Afghan family of the appropriate size and ensure the property is suitable and affordable. Government funding is available for rent deposits and related costs.
4. Welcome & Support the Family Volunteers help the family register with schools, healthcare, benefits, and local services, while introducing them to the community and supporting them as they adjust to life in the UK.
5. Be the Local Point of Contact You act as the family’s trusted guide, helping them navigate the area, understand local systems, and access opportunities that only residents truly know.
6. Commit for Three Years Sponsor groups support the family for three years, providing consistency as they grow in independence, confidence, and resilience.

Why Your Support Matters

Volunteering through Community Sponsorship is a powerful act of solidarity. You are not only helping one family — you are strengthening your entire community.

Your support helps families: 

• Rebuild their lives in safety and dignity
• Access education, healthcare, and employment
• Learn English and integrate into the community
• Become confident and independent

And your community benefits:

• Stronger local connections
• Celebrated diversity
• Practical meaningful humanitarian action

Role title
Trustee

Role purpose
As a trustee of Community Resource, you’ll play a key role in guiding the charity’s direction and ensuring we stay true to our mission.

You’ll provide strategic leadership and oversight, working closely with the CEO and leadership team to help us achieve our goals and deliver lasting impact.

Trustees take part in board meetings and may also contribute to subcommittees or working groups focused on areas such as finance, risk, events, and safeguarding.

You may also represent Community Resource externally, helping to build relationships with partners, supporters, and stakeholders and attend inspiring events that celebrate and support rural communities across Shropshire.

Requirements
We’re particularly keen to hear from individuals with current or recent senior-level experience in areas such as law, business accounting, IT, cybersecurity, health, or entrepreneurship. These skills are especially valuable as we navigate growth and innovation.

However, we also warmly welcome interest from those with other relevant expertise or lived experience that could benefit our organisation and enrich the board’s perspective.

Location
Shrewsbury, Shropshire

Salary
Unremunerated, but reasonable expenses may be reimbursed.

Commitment
The board meets eight times a year, combining in person and online sessions (usually Tuesdays, 4– 7pm), including our AGM. Additionally, there is an annual trustee and leadership team away day.

Length of term
All trustees are appointed for an initial term of three years and are eligible to re-stand for election for up to a maximum of two subsequent terms.

Lead with Purpose. Shape the Future of Later Life.
Are you ready to guide a dynamic, forward-thinking charity? At Age UK Merton, we believe later life should be lived with dignity, joy, and opportunity. For nearly seventy years, we've been supporting older adults in Merton with advice, practical help, and social connection. Now, as we navigate an ever-changing landscape and deliver on our ambitious strategic plan, we're seeking an exceptional Chair of Trustees to help us steer the next chapter.

Time Commitment: Approx. 2-3 days per month
Location: Merton (Board meetings and events)
Remuneration: Voluntary (expenses reimbursed)

About Age UK Merton
We're a 'small but mighty' charity with a big impact. Our mission is simple: to provide quality advice and services that meet the needs of older adults in Merton. From befriending and activity programmes to practical home support and accredited advice, we help thousands of people each year to love later life. With an income of £1.2m, a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, and strong partnerships across health, care, and community sectors, we're proud of our achievements and excited about what is to come.

Why This Role Matters
As Chair, you'll lead a committed Board and work closely with our CEO to ensure Age UK Merton thrives in a challenging environment.
You will:
* Shape strategic direction: Drive delivery of our three-year plan, focusing on outreach, sustainability, and improved health and wellbeing outcomes.
* Champion collaboration: Strengthen partnerships across health, care, and voluntary sectors to reduce inequalities and improve lives.
* Ensure strong governance: Uphold charity law and best practice, ensuring financial resilience and effective administration.
* Be a visible leader: Represent Age UK Merton externally, inspire stakeholders, and help diversify income streams for long-term sustainability.

What Makes This Opportunity Inspiring
* Impact and Purpose: Your leadership will directly improve the lives of older adults in Merton.
* Strong Foundations: Accredited for quality advice and befriending services, with a clear strategic plan and committed team.
* Exciting Growth: We're expanding outreach and engagement, co-designing services with clients, and building a sustainable future.
* Collaborative Culture: Trustees and staff share values of quality, integrity, kindness, inclusivity, and collaboration.

Ideal Candidate Profile
Essential Skills and Experience
* Previous Board-level experience, ideally as Chair or Trustee.
* Strategic vision, financial acumen, and strong leadership skills.
* Ability to build relationships and represent the organisation publicly.
* Commitment to Age UK Merton's mission and values.

Desirable
* Understanding of adult social care or health sectors.
* Knowledge of Merton and its communities.

Recruitment Timeline
To ensure equitable access to information and uphold AgeUK Merton's commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, they will be hosting a Q&A webinar in place of individual informal calls with the outgoing Chair. We encourage all interested candidates to submit questions in advance, which will be addressed during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar on Wednesday 11th February 2026 and we will send you a link.

Application Deadline: 9th March 2026
Interviews: w/c 13th April 2026

How to Apply
Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to AgeUK Merton on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to Senior Appointments at Charity People and request a candidate pack in the first instance.
For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala at Charity People

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

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

Join Room to Heal as Chair to support the Board and Co-Directors, guiding governance, strategy, and transition while helping the organisation continue its mission of healing and community.

About Room to Heal

Room to Heal is a healing community for asylum seekers and refugees who have suffered torture and gross human rights violations. Our mission is to use the restorative power of community to help people heal from torture and organised violence and build meaningful lives.

What will you be doing?

Background

•  Room to Heal is entering a new chapter with the introduction of a Co-Director leadership model. The Chair will work alongside the Co-Directors and Board of Trustees to guide strategic decisions and ensure that governance continues to support the organisation’s mission of healing through community
• Room to Heal’s current Chair has provided valuable support to the organisation in recent years and will continue to be involved during the period of transition
• We therefore anticipate a collaborative handover process, with the incoming Chair working alongside the current post-holder to ensure continuity, stability and a confident transfer of responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership to the Board, ensuring trustees uphold governance with integrity and accountability
• Chair Board meetings, guiding strategic conversations and supporting trustee oversight
• Guide long-term vision and strategy, balancing ambition with financial and operational sustainability
• Advise the Co-Directors on organisational planning, service evaluation, and staff development
• Oversee risk management, safeguarding, and financial controls to ensure safety and compliance
• Model the organisation’s values, fostering a culture of compassion, inclusion, and resilience

For full details please request the Candidate Pack from the Reach TrusteeWorks Team, at the email address provided.

What are we looking for?

We are seeking a Chair who can combine strong governance with compassion. We are looking for someone with:

• Experience in leadership, governance, or board-level roles
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Strategic thinking, sound judgment, and an inclusive leadership style
• Empathy and a commitment to promoting wellbeing and resilience in vulnerable communities

Room to Heal was founded on principles of equality, respect, and justice, and these values continue to guide every aspect of our work. Our community includes people from many countries, languages, and faiths, and our strength lies in our diversity. We welcome applicants from all walks of life, valuing diverse perspectives that enrich our work. We are committed to offering equal opportunity for all, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other dimension of diversity.

What difference will you make?

Becoming Chair of Room to Heal means stepping into a role where leadership genuinely changes lives. This is an opportunity to guide a small, mission-driven charity through an important moment of transition and to help ensure that some of the most marginalised people in our society continue to receive the care, dignity and connection they deserve.

Your leadership will help Room to Heal remain resilient, focused and true to its values. Guiding two newly appointed Co-Directors and a dedicated board, you will help strengthen the organisation’s foundations and shape its future direction.

This is a rare opportunity to make a tangible difference at a time when strong, compassionate leadership matters most. If you are inspired by the idea of helping survivors of trauma rebuild their lives in community, we would love to hear from you. Join us in shaping the next chapter of Room to Heal.

Time commitment

The time commitment averages around one day per month.

Four Board meetings a year - usually hybrid, allowing trustees to join remotely or in person.

The Chair also sits on the finance subcommittee which meets online approximately every six weeks.

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support. 

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth Club:

Youth Club is a place for young people aged 14-19 to come and play games, learn new skills, make and strengthen friendships and build a sense of belonging. Regular activities include classic youth club games such as table tennis, pool, foosball, board and card games.

Youth club takes place at Tooting Hub- Beechcroft Road, Tooting, SW17 7B

About the Role:

CARAS is looking for volunteer Football Assistants to support our Football sessions on Mondays, 5.30-7pm in Balham.

Football coaching sessions are led by Fulham FC Kicks programme weekly, supported by CARAS volunteers to offer welcome to young people.

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities

· Welcoming young people to the session;

· Helping young people to register for sessions;

· Join in and be role model for young refugees and asylum seekers;

· Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements;

· Following FULHAM FC safeguarding policy and CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management, online communications and all other policies as relevant.

Requirements:

Essential

· To be 18 years or older;

· To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse cultural backgrounds;

· To be reliable and punctual;

· Excellent communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English;

· The ability to volunteer on Monday evenings for a minimum of four months;

· Currently resident in the UK;

- A love of football, and wanting to encourage others to play.

· Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo an enhanced DBS check (residency is not necessary if you are a Caras community member who is more recently arrived in the UK);

· Able to attend compulsory volunteer induction training (online) general and safeguarding prior to start of role

Desirable

· Knowledge of community languages, such as (including Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali and Spanish).

Through volunteering with us you will:

· Meet new members of your local community;

· Learn about different cultures;

· Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum;

- Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months’ regular volunteering

· Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team;

· Develop your skills and competencies;

· Be able to access relevant training;

Applications close at 9.a.m. Monday 23rd February 2026

Location: Home-based but with regular travel, including to periodic board meetings in London or other locations within the UK

This is an opportunity to chair a charity transforming lives by helping more people experience the positive impact of learning. You can help shape the future of this remarkable charity and lead the Board of Shannon Trust to broaden, deepen and mature what we deliver.

Who we are

Picture this: a person in prison who struggles with literacy and numeracy reads their first sentence, they write their first letter home to their children or completes their first numeracy task. They begin to imagine a future beyond the prison walls.

This is what happens when someone learns with Shannon Trust, and it happens thousands of times each year across prisons in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Currently, 65% of people in prison can’t read, or struggle to. Even more struggle with numeracy.

These are not just statistics; they represent people who have been locked out of opportunity, who struggle with daily tasks, such as helping their children with homework or filling out a job application. At Shannon Trust, we believe everyone deserves the chance to learn, and that literacy and numeracy skills help build the foundations upon which people can rebuild their lives.

Where we are now

Shannon Trust has experienced remarkable growth over recent years. We have gone from a team of twelve people to one hundred staff today, supported by a volunteer base that brings us close to 250 people working to change lives through learning. The core of what we do is one-to-one peer mentoring in prisons. In 2025 alone, more than 11,000 learners used our reading and numeracy programmes, with 2,000 new volunteer peer-mentors trained to support them. We work in around one hundred prisons across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, delivering our Turning Pages reading programme and Count Me In numeracy programme. We are increasing our reach into the community, too. This growth is the result of sustained focus, strong relationships with funders who believe in our work, and the proven impact of our peer-led learning model.

What we are looking for

We are looking for a Chair who is strongly motivated by our cause, with a genuine empathy for the people we serve and a commitment to the person-centred language and inclusive thinking which are woven into everything we do. You will bring an engaged and engaging leadership style, have resilience and a personal gravitas.

You will be someone who is comfortable with complexity as we shape our organisation for the next chapter of our development. You will understand the importance of process, culture, and effective operations as the means of delivering a successful strategy and sustaining an organisation.

You will be someone who can help us be better advocates whether that is supporting our Chief Executive to build relationships with policymakers, helping us think through how we position ourselves in the education and criminal justice landscape, or using your own networks to create opportunities for Shannon Trust to influence and inform. We need a Chair who sees advocacy as part of the role.

Most importantly, our new Chair must be a strong partner for our CEO, a mentor, challenger and support.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.
Applications for this role close at 9.a.m. Monday 23rd February 2026

This role involves leading on HR within the organisation. This involves ensuring the highest standards of governance in policies and practice related to employee relations, recruitment, retention, reward, and recognition, as well as staff and trustee development.  It is the responsibility of the HR trustee to assess risks and measure the impact of HR interventions, implement organisational policies and practices in the context of furthering charitable objectives and evaluating how they impact beneficiaries and staff.  The HR trustee also needs to ensure the long-term strategic oversight of the organisation’s personnel and staffing requirements in relation to the overarching goals of the charity. 

 Key tasks:

• To review and recommend current and future strategic resourcing, training and development and annual budgets and plans to the Trustee Board 

• To actively contribute to policy setting, strategic direction, goal and target setting, and evaluate performance against targets, budgets, plans and charitable objectives 

• To ensure that HR activities and interventions are linked to the organisation’s charitable objectives and complement the organisational culture 

• To ensure the Trustee Board monitors and reviews the performance of staff and identifies appropriate development opportunities 

• To monitor whether the service complies with its governing document and standards and if the needs of the beneficiaries are being met

Other responsibilities, along with the Board of Trustees, include:  

• To manage the charity’s resources responsibly, including ensuring the charity’s assets are used only to carry out its purpose, avoid undue risk and not over-commit the charity.

• To ensure the board regularly reviews its structures, roles, relationship to staff and implementing changes if and when necessary.

• To develop a long-term strategy for the food bank with clear objectives which can be monitored and adapted.

• To work alongside the Treasurer and the board to ensure the organisation’s financial dealings are systematically accounted for and on time, independently examined and made publicly available when necessary.

• To ensure the charity is accountable, actively complying with statutory accounting and reporting requirements and the law. 

• To help promote the organisation to a wide audience of potential funders and beneficiaries and community stakeholders.

• To ensure the food bank has appropriate procedures to: comply with current legislation and good practice; including employment, health and safety, equal opportunities etc.

• To act with reasonable care and skill, giving your time, thought and energy to your role.

• To prepare for and regularly attend and participate in board and subcommittee meetings and any trustee away days.

• To provide ad hoc support to the staff team and volunteers from time to time.

• To act at all times in accordance with the foodbank’s trustee code of conduct.

The Trustees may also undertake additional work for the charity between meetings subject to their availability and skill set.

About you: 

Warrington Foodbank are seeking to recruit Trustees with an interest in helping others, who are willing to uphold the foodbank’s values, and who can bring life experience to the board of trustees, including lived experience of hardships which led to needing emergency food provision. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate: 

• A knowledge of, and commitment to, the work of Warrington Foodbank. 

• Experience of working in a HR role.

• Willingness to actively participate in discussions concerning needs of the foodbank’s beneficiaries, staff, and the trustee board.

• Willingness to act in the best interest of the charity. 

• Sound, independent judgement and an ability to think creatively. 

• The ability to work effectively as part of a team and demonstrate a willingness to learn and develop.

Benefits of volunteering: 

• Use your existing skills to make a difference. 

• Meet new people who share your passion to eradicate poverty in the local community. 

• Make a real difference to the running of the food bank. 

Support

A full trustee induction is in place to support the prospective candidate within their role, as well as access to local voluntary action trustee training. 

Impact of your role: 

By supporting the governance of the food bank, you are part of a team providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who comes into contact with Warrington Foodbank. 

Please Note:

• You must be 16 or over and must not be disqualified from acting as a trustee and declare any conflict of interest while carrying out the duties of a trustee.

• Trustees are appointed for a three-year term of office.

• This is a voluntary position.

Vision Support is a regional sight loss charity supporting people to feel confident, capable and connected, while raising awareness of vision impairment across Cheshire, Halton, Flintshire, Wrexham, Conwy and Denbighshire. In 2026, we celebrate 150 years of impact.

Role Purpose

We are seeking an experienced Fundraising Specialist Trustee with marketing and communications insight to strengthen our fundraising performance, expand our reach, and support our long-term sustainability.

This role combines core Trustee responsibilities with specialist oversight of fundraising strategy, regulatory compliance, and strategic communications.

About Vision Support

We deliver evidence-based services across six local authority areas, working in close partnership with clinicians, commissioners and healthcare providers. With a strong governance foundation, ambitious growth plans, and annual income of £1.6m, we are focused on extending our reach and impact.

Core Trustee Responsibilities

· Ensure the charity operates in line with its charitable objects and governing document

· Contribute to strategy, performance monitoring and financial sustainability

· Support and challenge the CEO and senior team constructively

· Uphold the charity’s values, reputation and governance standards

· Attend and contribute to quarterly Board meetings at our Chester office, and contribute to Board development

Fundraising Leadership

· Lead Board-level oversight of fundraising strategy and performance

· Review income streams, return on investment and effectiveness

· Ensure compliance with fundraising regulation and best practice

· Advise on fundraising trends, innovation and growth opportunities

· Support major donor, corporate and grant-funding strategies

Communications & Engagement

· Advise on communications strategy to grow reach and engagement

· Support donor stewardship and supporter communications

· Provide guidance on brand, messaging and digital channels

· Contribute to reputation and crisis communications planning

Networking & Advocacy

· Act as an ambassador for Vision Support

· Promote the charity through professional and personal networks

· Identify partnership, funding and collaboration opportunities

· Support relationships with key stakeholders and influencers

Person Specification

Essential

· Senior-level fundraising experience with a strong track record

· Experience across multiple income streams

· Strong knowledge of fundraising regulation and compliance

· Communications and marketing expertise

· Strategic mindset with the ability to evaluate and improve performance

Highly Desirable

· Charity sector experience (health, disability or social care)

· Knowledge of sight loss or disability issues

· Experience of regional or multi-area fundraising

· Major donor or corporate partnership experience

· Relevant professional fundraising qualifications

Personal Qualities

· Commitment to supporting people with sight loss

· Collaborative, analytical and commercially aware

· Strong interpersonal skills with the confidence to challenge constructively

· Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

What We Offer

· Opportunity to make a meaningful regional impact

· Supportive, experienced Board and strong governance culture

· Comprehensive induction, Trustee training and sector networking

· Reasonable expenses reimbursed

Time Commitment

Approximately 4 hours per month, including:

· Quarterly Board meetings

· Preparation and paper review

· Occasional advice, networking and annual Board away day

Term of Appointment

Initial 3-year term, renewable up to a maximum of 9 years in line with our governing document.

How to Apply

We welcome applications from individuals passionate about our cause and particularly encourage applicants with lived experience of sight loss and from diverse backgrounds.

Please submit:

· A CV outlining relevant experience

· A supporting statement (max. 2 pages) covering your motivation, relevant expertise, approach to the specialist Trustee role, and what you hope to contribute and gain

For an informal discussion, please contact:

Kate Hurst, Internal Operations Manager

We are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

Vision Support is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all service users.

What’s the role?

Role: Bristol SU Co-opted (external) Trustee (non-student)

Hours: Meetings are during working hours. The role requires a level of flexibility (hours, commitment and expectations section on the role description)

Voluntary: Reasonable expenses reimbursed when carrying out trustee duties

Location: Bristol and Online

Requirements: Trustee meetings and subcommittees occur in person (some opportunity for online as well) but the events (training and awayday) are in person in Bristol. 

Duration: 3 years (with potential for another 2 terms of 3 years)

Closing date:  Friday 27 February 2026, 5pm

Help shape our future and improve the lives of over 30,000 students.  

This is an exciting time to join Bristol Students’ Union. We are starting the second year of a strategy that will see us become a Union for all Bristol Students; we have a new Co-opted Trustee Co-Chair; recently undertook a Board Effectiveness Review and will be reviewing and amending our Articles next year

We’re more digitally connected, and embracing the opportunities and challenges that our new Temple Quarter campus and Mumbai Enterprise Campus brings us in September 2026. As a Trustee, you’ll be crucial in helping shape this journey as well as addressing pressing issues such as: 
 

· Access to education

· Mental Health 

· Accommodation

· Race inequality 

· Poverty 

· Inclusivity 

· Internationalisation 

Ultimately, you’ll be involved in providing strategic, financial and governance oversight to help achieve our vision of “a Union for all students”

What will you bring?

Experience as a trustee, a member of a commercial board, or in a senior management role with leadership or governance responsibilities is essential. This is due to the nature of our board: as a membership organisation, we have a strong representation of student voice through officers and student trustees. They are almost always first-time trustees and will benefit from co-opted trustees with strong insight and experience in leadership, governance and strategic decision making.

We value and are looking for committed and engaged trustees. However, whilst we’re relatively open in terms of skillsets, ideally, you’ll have expertise in one or more of these areas:

· Legal especially charity or company law

· Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity

· Charity governance

Most importantly, you’ll be committed to making a difference to the lives of our 32,000 members and around 400 clubs and societies.

Please note, this role is not open to current University of Bristol students or anyone who has been one within the last two years. Student trustee opportunities and other student leadership roles will be available in the March 2026 election.

Who are we?

Part business, part charity, part membership body. Bristol SU is an enjoyable and rewarding organisation to be part of.   Our professional staff do something extraordinary every day: they support student leaders to give students a voice in their education and help shape their academic experience, help students get the most out of their student experience and help them make the change they want in the world. We have over 30,000 members, 400 clubs and societies, a diverse range of professional services, and an innovative strategy that will help to create an inclusive and supportive University community.

We’re a registered charity, and company limited by guarantee.  We have a turnover circa £7 million and have a diverse team of 94 salaried staff, also with a team of student staff working alongside our student leaders to make change happen.

87% of our staff recommend us as a great place to work.  We are accredited as a Disability Confident Employer, we have opened a new base in Senate House, launched new services and spaces, and diversified, empowered our staff team, our elections turn out has been among the best in the sector and we have high satisfaction rates and high levels of participation and engagement from our members.

Bristol SU strives to have an inclusive culture and an environment for all, underpinned by respect and compassion. We want to be a place where everyone feels welcomed, included, supported, valued and safe. We recognise that people from some backgrounds/ identities may face additional barriers. We are committed to taking positive action to expand the diversity of our staff team by offering two guaranteed interview schemes – a guaranteed interview scheme for people of colour and a guaranteed interview scheme for disabled people.

The Bristol SU Board 

You can see our current board here. It consists of: 

· 4 elected students

· 7 elected full-time officers

· 4 co-opted trustees

· 1 nominated trustee (through university).

Key dates and how to apply

· Closing Date: Fri 27 February 2026

· Shortlisting: w/c 2 March 2026

· Interviews:  w/c 16 March 2026

Please visit our Bristol SU website to download our Applicant pack for more information and how to apply. 

Dancers’ Career Development (DCD) is the national charity that enables and empowers dancers to thrive professionally and personally leading up to and beyond their performance careers.

We are seeking a new Co-opted Committee Member with finance expertise and an interest in dance to join our welcoming and experienced Finance, Audit & Risk Sub-Committee of the Board of Trustees. Our ideal candidate will have a good understanding of the requirements of charity governance and risk.

For full details, including how to apply, please download the role information pack from our website. 

Application deadline: Monday 9 February 2026.

We are seeking someone who has experience of being a Treasurer or Finance, Audit & Risk Committee Member (preferably in the charity sector) and has a good understanding of the requirements of charity accounting and governance.

If you are excited by this opportunity and resonate with DCD’s values, please get in touch; we would love to hear from you.