Development officer volunteer roles

Wheels for All is a national charity that helps people of all abilities enjoy cycling in a way that works for them. Supporting more than 100 inclusive cycling hubs with over 30 years of experience, we’ve seen first-hand how cycling can change lives - improving health, confidence and community connection.

We’re now growing our national reach and impact, and we’re looking for new Trustees to join our Board and help guide us through this exciting next stage.

About the role

As a Trustee, you’ll help shape the direction of the charity, support good decision-making, and make sure we stay focused on our mission to make cycling accessible for everyone. We’d especially like to hear from people who:

• Have experience in communications, PR, campaigning or public engagement, and can help us share the power of inclusive cycling with more people across the UK
• Have strong networks or local knowledge in areas that are currently least well served by inclusive cycling - especially the North East, East Midlands or South West

If that’s not your background, please don’t be put off. We welcome people from all walks of life who share our passion for inclusion and want to make a difference.

Our Trustees also get involved in one or more of our focus groups, including:

• Governance and Risk
• Nominations, People and EDI
• Welfare, Safety and Safeguarding
• Finance
• Income Generation

We follow the Tier 3 Code for Sports Governance, which means we’re serious about running the charity to the highest standards - but we do it in a supportive, friendly and collaborative way. Full induction and training is provided.

Who we’re looking for

You don’t need to have been a Trustee before - we’ll help you learn the ropes. You just need to bring:

• A thoughtful, practical approach
• Willingness to ask questions and share ideas
• The ability to work well with others
• Commitment to equality, inclusion and fairness
• A bit of time and energy to get involved

How to apply

• Apply via othe link, and please upload your CV and a cover letter showcasing how you’re the perfect fit for the role

About us:

H4All is working to advance the health and wellbeing of residents in the London Borough of Hillingdon.

This is done through our Community Champions programme, which is an initiative made up of organisations and local volunteers who promote positive wellbeing messaging and share healthcare information.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for committed volunteers who are interested in public health and meeting people in the community. As a Community Champion, you’ll be conducting community outreach, making new connections and supporting us with Community Health projects.

This is a meaningful opportunity to reduce health and social inequalities in the borough of Hillingdon, while gaining practical experience and benefiting from free training.

Key Responsibilities

• Engage with the public as part of community outreach efforts, including attending our roadshow events and speaking with residents about health programs and activities. This role will take place at different locations and venues across the London Borough of Hillingdon.
• Support the community by providing information on health services, resources and support networks.
• Complete a monthly log detailing any health outreach undertaken.
• Assist in survey data collection.

Benefits for you:

• Free, specialised training and mentoring provided, enhancing personal and professional skills.
• Hands-on experience in health outreach and community engagement.
• Networking opportunities with healthcare professionals, community organisations and other volunteers.
• A chance to demonstrate your commitment to community health.

Training and support given:

Mandatory training:

• Online Safeguarding and Suicide Prevention courses
• Current healthcare messaging
• NHS blood pressure testing

Throughout your time volunteering with us, there will be additional online and in-person training that will be offered (depending on interest and projects we are running).

Expenses:

We can provide expenses for travel and parking at events or training.

Skills and attributes required:

• Strong desire to make a difference in the London Borough of Hillingdon and improve the local community’s health.
• Confidence in speaking with the public and engaging with diverse communities.
• Respectful of confidentiality and procedures.
• Empathetic and understanding of others’ cultures, beliefs and backgrounds.

Desirable:

• Ability to speak a community language [e.g. Somali, Punjabi, Polish, Arabic, Urdu, Bengali, Mandarin, Spanish] would be beneficial.
• Previous experience in community health or outreach would be beneficial.

Commitment required:

• Full induction and Mandatory online courses, as well as Blood pressure checks training before starting your volunteering.
• Attend relevant training when offered.
• We ask for a commitment of 6 months due to free training and individual support/development offered to our volunteers.
• This is a flexible role, and you can select which outreach events or projects to join based on your commitments. We accept however much time you can spare.

Reporting to: Health and Wellbeing Programme Officer

Documents Required:

• In your application form, you will be asked for 2 references who have known you for at least a year. They can be from a professional, a friend, a support worker etc.
• A basic DBS check is required for public-facing roles.

To apply for this role:

A H4ALL application form must be completed. 

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

Our publicity team leaders have the important role of supporting a wider team of publicity volunteers. As a team our publicity volunteers collectively keep members of the public informed of the vital and varied ways we help our cats in need. Raising awareness is crucial to us being able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us. A higher profile can help raise funds, raise awareness of adopting a cat, promote neutering and encourage as many people as possible to learn about feline welfare.

You can expect us to 

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You’ll be:

• Communicating with others including newsletter, social media and website volunteers
• Advising others on the content of newsletters and web posts
• Interacting with others to make sure information is positive, accurate and consistent
• Liaising with your volunteer group and our Head Office to organise media campaigns
• Responding to local media requests if required

About The Marketing Academy Foundation 

At The Marketing Academy Foundation (TMAF), we create opportunities for young people (aged 18–30) from low-income backgrounds to enter the marketing industry. 

As a social mobility charity, we offer access to salaried entry-level roles and run free employability skills bootcamps, giving young talent the access, skills, confidence, and networks they need to succeed.

We operate with a small core team, dedicated Trustees, powerful volunteer network from across the marketing industry who step up and make things happen. 

Our culture is determined, irrepressible, kind, open and human. We are proud to work with people who care deeply about social mobility and are willing to use their experience, judgement and influence to drive real change.

About the Trustee role 

Trustees play a critical role in driving the impact and long-term success of the Foundation. They are accountable for ensuring the charity is well governed, financially sound and strategically focused on delivering real results. As guardians of our purpose, they ensure every decision accelerates social mobility for those starting their careers in our industry. 

Trustees also act as ambassadors - using their networks, influence, and expertise to open doors, advocate publicly, and strengthen our impact. 

Trustees will serve an initial three-year term, with the opportunity to serve up to two additional terms after that. The Board meets approximately four times per year, mostly virtually, with an average time commitment being around half a day per month.

The role is voluntary and unremunerated, with reasonable expenses reimbursed. 

We are looking to appoint up to three Trustees, including one with strong financial expertise to support effective decision making and sustainable growth. 

Key Responsibilities 

Strategy & Vision:  

• Shape the long-term direction and strategy of the charity with the Chair and CEO. 

Governance & Oversight:  

• Ensure compliance with charity law and alignment with TMAF’s constitution and charitable objectives. 

Finance & Risk:  

• Review budgets, monitor financial performance, and ensure resources are used responsibly and sustainably. 

Performance:  

• Support and challenge the CEO to deliver on agreed goals and ensure measurable impact.

• Proactively support revenue and fundraising endeavors. 

• Proactively support corporate partnership acquisition.

Advocacy & Ambassadorship:  

• Represent and champion TMAF’s mission across your professional network and the wider marketing community. 

Inclusion & Culture:  

• Uphold our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion whilst also modelling our values: Determined, Irrepressible, Kind, Open and Humorous.

Support & Mentoring:  

Offer constructive advice, mentoring and practical input to help the charity grow. 

About You 

• You’ll have a burning passion for TMAF’s mission, inclusion and social mobility, with the belief that access to opportunity should be based on potential, not background. 

• Extensive experience at a senior level within marketing, communications, media or advertising, and it would be beneficial (although by no means essential) to have had exposure to or involvement within learning & development, or training sectors. 

• An understanding of governance and the legal duties of trusteeship would add huge value as would financial and/or legal expertise.We’d be thrilled if you have experience of fundraising and working within a charity. 

• A strong communicator, highly collaborative team player with integrity, independence of thought, and sound judgement

About the Application Procedure  

If you want to use your experience to help unlock opportunity and back bright, ambitious talent, we would like to hear from you. 

Please apply by sending your CV and a short supporting statement outlining how your experience will benefit The Marketing Academy Foundation and your motivation for applying.

Selection Dates:

• Applications close Feb 15th.

• Screening Feb 16th to Feb 27th.

• 1st Interviews March 2nd to March 20th.

• Final Interviews & Decisions W/C 23rd March.

This is a brilliant time to join Caxton Youth as we embark on our strategy refresh, seeking to enhance our voice and impact by building partnerships, expanding our presence in the Westminster community and growing our quality youth services. Help us steer the charity during this crucial time as the new Chair of the Board of Trustees.

Who we are

Established in 1948, Caxton Youth is the only specialist youth club in the City of Westminster dedicated to learning-disabled and autistic young people aged 11–25. We provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive community where young people can build friendships, explore new interests, and develop the skills needed to lead independent, happy, and healthy lives.

We aim to break down disabling barriers in society by offering youth-led services shaped by the aspirations of our members. Our approach is person-centred, providing a mix of 1:1 support and inclusive group activities to help each individual reach their own goals.

Our core delivery centres on weekly youth club sessions held every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at our Westminster base. These sessions offer a vibrant mix of sports, cooking, arts and crafts and music, providing a safe space for young people to socialise and explore new interests. To ensure these opportunities are accessible to all, we provide dedicated community transport via a wheelchair-accessible minibus for our activities.

Beyond the club, we run dedicated programmes designed to foster independence and emotional well-being. These range from mastering essential life skills, such as preparing hot drinks and navigating public transport independently, to improving mental health by building self-esteem and social connections through initiatives like our “Mates Dates” outings. For our older members aged 16–25, we offer targeted employment support, including CV writing, interview preparation and assistance in securing volunteering or training opportunities.

Our impact extends into the school holidays with a comprehensive provision of day trips and overnight residentials at outdoor activity centres, allowing members to experience nature and adventure in an accessible environment. These services not only empower the young people but also provide vital respite and a local support network for parents and guardians, knowing their children are in a safe and supportive environment.

Through the power of youth work, we co-create safe, inclusive spaces where learning disabled and autistic young people can take part in accessible activities driven by their needs, wants and interests.

About the role

We seek to appoint a new Chair of the Board of Trustees to provide strategic leadership and strong governance, ensuring Caxton Youth Organisation delivers its mission and uses its resources effectively.

Working closely with the Chief Executive, the Chair will guide the board in setting direction, maintaining financial sustainability, managing risk and ensuring robust systems, policies and procedures are in place. A clear commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and to youth leadership will be central to the role.

Leading a high-performing board of trustees, the Chair will foster collective responsibility and sound decision-making in Caxton’s long-term interests. They will chair board meetings effectively, support trustees to fulfil their governance duties and oversee succession planning for the board, Chief Executive and senior management team. In partnership with the CEO, the Chair will also ensure effective board composition, trustee recruitment and ongoing development.

Externally, the Chair will act as a credible ambassador and advocate for Caxton, building strong relationships with partners, funders and key stakeholders. Drawing on their networks and influence, they will help open doors to funding, partnerships and decision-makers, ensuring youth issues remain a priority.

Who we are looking for

The successful candidate will be deeply committed to Caxton’s mission, able to see the bigger picture and lead with authenticity, tact and diplomacy.

They will bring board or committee work experience, along with strong influencing and negotiation skills, resilience and a collaborative, organised approach.

We are seeking someone with experience in leading an inclusive organisation through a period of growth or change and/or with significant fundraising expertise.

You will bring a collaborative leadership style and act as a constructive, critical friend when appropriate.

Visible and engaged, you will work effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, acting as a key ambassador for the charity and supporting the staff team to raise its profile and secure new funding to ensure the sustainability of its work.

Time Commitment

There are four board meetings and four committee meetings a year and the Chair leads at least one strategy away day per year. You will also attend other internal and external meetings where necessary, including regular 1:1s with the CEO.

You will be required to be available for 3 – 5 days over a month for this role.

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 2nd February 2026

Domestic abuse is always unacceptable. We support everyone affected by it and we act to prevent it. As Treasurer at Behind Closed Doors, you will work alongside our Trustee Board, CEO and Admin & Finance Manager to oversee the financial strategy of our organisation, ensuring sound financial governance and legal compliance. This is a pivotal role for our charity, helping to shape our future and support our vision: to build lives free from domestic abuse.

We’re looking for an experienced finance professional keen to undertake this rewarding voluntary role that ensures the financial health and accountability of Behind Closed Doors. You will be joining an established trustee board made up of dedicated, knowledgeable and supportive individuals. Please note that we are also currently recruiting to general trustee roles, find out more on our website.

Taking on a Trustee role is an excellent way to broaden your leadership experience and strengthen skills that you can then put to use in your core role, to the benefit of your career progression opportunities and the organisation that you work for.

As a Trustee, you will develop skills in:

• Strategic planning
• Governance
• Budgeting and financial analysis
• Risk management
• Chairing meetings

As you learn about a new organisation and potentially a new sector, you will also gain confidence in:

• Acting as a 'Critical Friend'; asking questions and providing support
• Experiencing the difference between a strategic role, and a hands-on operational role
• Absorbing and processing new information, and learning where you contribute value
• Finding your feet with a brand new team of people

Please download the recruitment pack for full details, including how to apply and who to contact for an informal discussion about the role and organisation.

As a board, we strive to be as diverse and representative as the communities we serve and would welcome those from underrepresented or marginalised groups. We also recognise hugely the value that lived experience brings to our board, so would welcome further representation in this area, but only when it is safe for you to engage with us in this way.

Behind Closed Doors is committed to improving inclusive recruitment practices. If you would prefer to apply for this position or express your interest in an alternative format (such as audio or video upload) or require any adaptions at this initial stage, please get in touch.

Behind Closed Doors is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and requires all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. A standard DBS disclosure will be required before taking up this position

THE OPPORTUNITY

Are you a progressive and inclusive leader?  If you’re able to shape and influence an organisation with a strong foundation and a compelling ambition, then you could be our next Chair here at the Eikon charity.

This is a chance to employ your passion, commitment and bold leadership to support the lives of young people. You will have strong interpersonal skills and influencing capabilities, and a deep commitment to the charity’s mission and values

We need someone to engage and influence stakeholders internally as our Chair as well as able to be a strong ambassador externally.

If this sounds like you, then you might be the right person to join as our Chair.

WHO ARE THE EIKON CHARITY?

Now in our 30th year, The Eikon Charity supports children and young people across Surrey to feel safe, heard, and supported.

Growing up in today’s world can be incredibly challenging. That's why we empower children and young people to find the inner and external resources they need as they develop and navigate life.

We create spaces where they can be themselves and talk about their thoughts and feelings. They understand better than anyone what’s happening in their own lives, so we listen, without judging.

WHAT MATTERS TO US

We believe there should be more investment in empowering young people to prevent them from needing help with their mental health.  The needs of young people guide everything we do, shaping every decision and action we take.

We are committed to investing in preventative services and use our influence to persuade others to do the same.

We are also committed to diversity that supports young people and our volunteers to fulfil their personal potential.

IF YOU JOIN US…

You will lead us with confidence in an increasingly complex and challenging environment. We know that what we do has an impact on our children who, tragically, need more of everything we offer as their challenges increase. This is an opportunity to really make a difference to the next generation.

Becoming our Chair will be a fascinating and compelling way to engage with a highly successful charity poised to achieve so much more. Ensuring that the Board governs The Eikon Charity wisely will be a rich and rewarding opportunity.

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR

The Chair will provide strategic leadership and governance oversight to ensure the charity delivers maximum impact for the children and young people it works with. We need someone to demonstrate bold thinking and the ability to inspire and guide our Board.

We are particularly seeking:

• commitment to mission: passion for the charity’s purpose and a deep understanding of its social impact
• inclusivity & collaboration: fosters a collaborative and inclusive Board culture, encouraging diverse perspectives and constructive challenge
• influencing & advocacy - skilled in representing the charity and influencing key stakeholders

Please make sure you read our Candidate Information Pack before applying. It contains important details about the role and our organisation.

Don’t think you quite meet all the specifications? Please don’t count yourself out. We’d still love to learn more about your interest in joining the Eikon Charity.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Eastside People is supporting the Eikon Charity in the recruitment of this role. You can apply by submitting your CV and Cover Letter. 

The closing date for applications is Mon 23rd February. Shortlisting interviews will take place shortly after. Shortlisted candidates will then have an interview with the Eikon Charity shortly after this.

We acknowledge every application. You’ll always hear from us after taking the time to apply - we look forward to hearing from you!

Location: Eastbourne, Lewes, Hastings & Newhaven

East Sussex College Group (ESCG) is seeking an inspiring and principled Chair to lead the College Board with integrity, purpose and impact. This is a pivotal role, providing strategic leadership and ensuring strong governance, financial sustainability and high-quality educational outcomes for learners and communities.

Who we are

East Sussex College Group is one of the leading further education providers in the South East, with campuses in Lewes, Eastbourne, Hastings and Newhaven, as well as specialist facilities such as marine workshops. It offers a wide range of pathways, including A-Levels, T-Levels, technical and vocational qualifications, apprenticeships, higher education and professional training for adults. The group’s mission is to empower individuals and communities through exceptional education and skills development, while its vision is to be the first choice for learners and employers by delivering inspirational teaching, state-of-the-art facilities and impactful partnerships.

About the role

As the Board’s lead, the Chair ensures meetings are purposeful, inclusive and focused on the priorities that matter: strategic vision, financial sustainability, high-quality provision and the effective stewardship of public funds.

The Chair sets the tone for constructive challenge, collaborative decision-making and exemplary governance culture. You will guide the Board in shaping the College’s long-term direction, scrutinising performance and driving continuous improvement, with a relentless focus on raising standards and safeguarding assets.

Working closely with the CEO & Principal, Rebecca Conroy and the Director of Governance, Belle Howard, the Chair provides both support and rigour, holding senior leaders to account, leading their appraisals and ensuring robust processes for the management of senior post holders. Between meetings, you will act on delegated authority, lead strategic planning activity and maintain proactive communication across the governance structure.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking an inspiring and principled leader – someone with a genuine passion and enthusiasm for education, community impact and lifelong learning.

You will bring sharp strategic insight, strong financial acumen and the confidence to make sound decisions in complex environments. You will be a creative thinker, act with integrity and demonstrate the highest standards of honesty, diligence and good judgment.

The ideal candidate will be an exceptional communicator who builds positive, productive relationships and knows how to balance support with constructive challenge. You will naturally listen critically, ask the questions that matter and bring a thoughtful, analytical approach to problem-solving. Your leadership style will promote equity, diversity and inclusion, and you will be committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and shared best practice.

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

About us:

Women in Sport exists to ensure that every girl and woman can experience the joy, fulfilment, and lifelong benefits of sport. We challenge gender inequality by exposing barriers, developing and promoting policies and solutions and inspiring change through collaboration and influence.

As we look to the future, we’re seeking women and men who share our belief that sport can transform lives - leaders ready to help us drive equality from the playground to the pitch, from grassroots to governance.

We particularly welcome applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds, and from men who actively champion gender equality and can positively influence others to do the same.

We are keen to hear from women and men who have one (or more) of the following:

· Deep knowledge of, and credibility in, professional sport, either as an elite athlete or a coach

· An involvement in high level sports governance and regulation, ideally with existing government contacts

· Senior leadership experience in major corporations

· Expertise in film, media or digital storytelling to reach and inspire large audiences

· Involvement and experience of grassroots or sport for development

· Specialism in branding and marketing

Your role responsibilities will include:

· Developing and supporting Women in Sport's vision and strategy in line with its charitable purpose

· Collaborating with the Board and Executive team to ensure board effectiveness

· Ensuring robust governance, financial stewardship and risk management across the organisation

· Representing and championing Women in Sport by being an advocate and ambassador

· Being the guardian of our reputation seeking to ensure Women in Sport maintains its leading position in advocacy for women and girls in sport

· In partnership with other Trustees, providing guidance, support and challenge to the CEO and executive team

Key experience, skills and attributes required:

· Experience operating at Board in a non-executive or executive capacity

· Demonstrable ability of being a trusted advisor to a wide range of stakeholders, including executive management

· Detailed understanding of the boundaries which exist between the Executive and the Non-Executive

· Proven ability to provide strategic oversight of organisational performance and long-term planning

· Strong personal commitment to Women in Sport’s vision and purpose

· A demonstrable commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

Terms of Appointment:

· The equivalent of circa 8-12 days per year are required. This will include four Board meetings, as well as additional committee meetings and one strategy day per year and representing the organisation in an ambassadorial capacity

· All Women in Sport Trustee appointments are non-remunerated. Expenses are available for all WiS related work

· It is expected that new Trustees will commit for at least one term of three years

Please see the job description for a full list of responsibilities and the criteria required for this role. 

Help shape the future of youth gaming and gambling-related harm prevention by becoming the Chair of Trustees of Ygam, an evidence-led charity.

About Ygam

Ygam is a national charity with a clear mission: to prevent children and young people from experiencing gaming and gambling harms through awareness raising, education and research. Our award-winning workshops are assured by City & Guilds and informed by psychologists, academics and health professionals alongside people with lived experience.

Founded in 2014, Ygam has evolved into the UK’s leading charity in this area, delivering impact-focused training and education across the UK to those in positions of influence over children and young people.

Over the past decade, Ygam has trained over 28,000 delegates and reached an estimated 4.3 million children and young people. With 95% of delegates recommending our training, we’re making real progress in safeguarding our digital generation.

The opportunity

We are in the third year of our “Safeguarding our Digital Generation” strategy, and we will begin the process to appoint our new Chief Executive later this year. As our current Chair comes to the end of their term this year, we are looking for a visionary leader to join our board and help shape the future of harm prevention.

This is a unique opportunity to lead the board at a critical time when digital safeguarding has never been more important.

We seek a Chair who will play a pivotal role in leading our Board and guiding the development of our new strategy in the years to come. This position requires an individual with a track record of board experience and strategic acumen to help drive Ygam’s ambitious growth plans.

Who we are looking for

We believe that diverse experiences and perspectives are crucial to effective governance. The digital challenges facing young people today are complex and interconnected, requiring a broad perspective that can view issues through multiple lenses.

We are looking for a Chair with a track record of board appointments who can guide strategic discussions, collaborate with our board, build relationships that are both supportive and challenging, and serve as an ambassador for Ygam.

This role requires someone who can balance strategic oversight with a desire to lead a best practice board to ensure Ygam continues to evolve and adapt to emerging challenges.

Location: London

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 2nd March 2026

The role of the Governing Body includes collective oversight of the College’s activities and setting and reviewing
our strategy and mission. The governor role is comparable with the non-executive directors of a public company
but instead of being accountable to shareholders, governors are accountable for public funds. As the College is an exempt charity, all governors are charity trustees.

Being a governor is a hugely rewarding leadership role. Governors can make a real difference and give something
back to the local community.

The College is currently looking for two new governors to join the Board. We are seeking experienced individuals, who
are looking for an opportunity to use and develop their professional skills in a board-level environment.
You don’t need to have prior board experience to apply.

The Board is currently looking for two new governors will have experience of one, or more, of the following areas: FE, education, apprenticeships. 

The Board also values the diversity of our students and staff, who come from a variety of ethnic, cultural and
religious backgrounds. The Board is determined to reflect this diversity amongst our Governing Body and
encourages people from a range of backgrounds and experiences to apply.

Please get in touch if you don’t feel you have the time to join the Board but would be interested in being co-opted to one of our committees. Co-option can provide an excellent introduction to voluntary governance roles. We are currently looking for co-opted members to join our Search and Governance Commitee, Resources Committee and Audit and Risk Committee. 

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.

Could you speak up for hungry children?

What is the role of a Speaker Volunteer?

Help us share the story of Mary’s Meals and our life-changing work feeding hungry children at school in some of the world’s poorest communities by giving Mary’s Meals talks to local community organisations, schools, churches and faith groups to raise vital awareness and funds.

What difference will i make?

• You will enable us to reach more people with the story of Mary’s Meals
• You will support our staff in their work to feed the next hungry child
• You will promote Mary’s Meals’ in your community 
• You will ensure our records are up-to-date and accurate
• You will help us provide a good service to supporters

What support and resources will i receive?

• Support, encouragement, and guidance from your local Supporter Engagement Officer
• Resources to fulfil your role, including presentation slides, notes and talk scripts
• A comprehensive induction to Mary’s Meals
• Public speaking training
• A regular volunteer update e-mail
• Opportunities to join online or in person volunteer meetings and briefings

What are the benefits of volunteering for Mary's Meals?

• Feeling part of the global Mary’s Meals movement to end world hunger
• Learning new skills and gaining experience as part of a growing and vibrant organisation
• Meeting new like-minded people
• Increasing confidence and team-working skills
• Developing communication skills (verbal and written)
• Feeling empowered to have your voice heard, knowing that you are playing an active role in changing the lives of those who need it the most.

Many older people in our communities face significant challenges - from loneliness, isolation, and frailty to financial hardship and managing lifechanging conditions like Dementia. The work we do is vital in ensuring they have access to the support and care they deserve.

Our team is deeply passionate about this mission. Many of us have personal experience supporting older relatives through similar challenges, and these lived experiences fuel our commitment to delivering high-quality, compassionate services.

Following our successful merger in August 2023, our organisation is now moving forward with greater ambition and a renewed focus on expanding our reach. As a Trustee, you will play a crucial role in shaping that future - helping us to serve more people, strengthen our services, and advocate for the needs of older people across Maidstone, Sevenoaks, and Tonbridge. 

We are looking for people from a financial background to help with oversight of our budgeting, planning, forecasting, investments, governance, reporting and financial decision-making. This is a great opportunity to work closely with organisational leaders to ensure every penny makes a difference.