Education officer volunteer roles

Do you want to help to make a real difference to the lives of women and girls?

We are looking to appoint a Trustee, who can support our communications and fundraising ambitions and act as the Chair of the Fundraising, Communications and Development Committee

Role Type: Voluntary

Location: London

Renumeration: While the role of a Trustee is not remunerated, reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Time commitment:

• Five Board meetings per year (in person in Hammersmith west London), plus membership of at least one board sub-committee (four meetings a year online)

• Ad hoc availability as matters arise (by telephone)

• Participate in one strategy away day each year (on a Saturday, usually held in January)

• Commit to the Board of Trustees for at least three years

• Note - the Chair of the Fundraising, Communications and Development Committee will be expected to chair a committee meeting four times a year (online) in addition to the Board meetings

Please note: Any offer of employment will be made subject to references, confirmation of the right to work in the UK, satisfactory DBS check and relevant legal and regulatory compliance checks.

Advance is committed to equality and diversity and aims to have a board of trustees that reflects the communities we work with. We strongly encourage applications from women including those with disabilities, from racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds and those from LGBTQ+ communities.

About us

Our vision is a world where women and girls lead safe, just and equal lives. Advance is a women’s organisation delivering systems change, and trauma and gender-informed community-based support for women and girls affected by domestic abuse, including those in contact with the criminal justice system. We work nationally through our innovative, best-practice approach and systems change initiatives. We deliver wraparound frontline services across the South and East of England, including Greater London.

Our expertise lies in decades of providing specialist support by women and for women and girls, to achieve safety, justice and equality at the intersection of domestic abuse and the criminal justice system.

Our whole-system approach is aligned with our values of collaboration and innovation, partnering with other statutory and non-statutory providers, to deliver a coordinated community and gendered response, improving access to services across the whole system, enabling consistency and continuity of support throughout a woman’s journey.

Through our advocacy and awareness-raising work, we focus on systemic change and sustainable impact to meet women’s needs and improve their outcomes.

This is an exciting opportunity for you to join our experienced, committed and fully inclusive Board.

You will join a dedicated and skilled board comprised of women and men to support the charity through a significant period of growth. Our staff team now includes over 170 skilled and passionate women across our programmes and our 10 women's centres in London and the South and East of England.

About the role

We are looking to appoint a Trustee to act as the Chair of the Fundraising, Communications and Development Committee. This is a vital role for an experienced and strategic thinker who can guide Advance’s efforts to grow income, diversify funding streams, and enhance our visibility and voice. As Trustee, you will work closely with fellow trustees and the senior leadership team to provide leadership, to challenge, and support in developing sustainable income strategies and impactful communications.

Key Responsibilities

• Chair and help shape the agenda for the Fundraising, Communications and Development Committee

• Provide strategic oversight and governance for fundraising (grants and trusts, corporates, individuals), income diversification, and partnership development with brands and events

• Support the delivery and monitoring of income generation plans and KPIs

• Work with the internal team and guide our brand strategy, messaging, and stakeholder communications

• Advise on business development opportunities

• Ensure that fundraising and marketing activities reflect and align our mission and values

Experience required

• Senior experience in fundraising, business development, communications, marketing, or income strategy, ideally in the charity, public, or commercial sectors

• Confident chairing meetings, building consensus, and offering challenge in a constructive way

• Ability to think strategically and spot opportunities for innovation and growth

• An understanding of governance, impact, and how to balance ambition with sustainability

• Successful experience of operating within a board in a charitable, public sector or commercial organisation

Knowledge, skills and understanding required

• Commitment to the organisation and a willingness to devote the necessary time and effort

• Preparedness to make unpopular recommendations to the board, and a willingness to speak their mind

• Willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis

• Good, independent judgement and strategic vision

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

• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team

• An understanding of the respective roles of the Chair, Trustees and Chief Executive

Closing Date for Applications: Sunday 22nd March 2026

Interviews: On a rolling basis

First-round interview, via Microsoft Teams.

Second-round interview will be in person at Advance Hammersmith

*Advance reserves the right to close the advert early, or on the appointment of a candidate.

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Reasonable Adjustments

Under the Equality Act 2010, we are required to make any reasonable adjustments. If you have a disability as defined under this act and/or have additional needs, please email the Talent Acquisition Team via the Advance website and will aim to make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your needs.

Diversity, Inclusion and Equal Opportunities

We are committed to providing equality of opportunity and actively seek to recruit people from groups underrepresented in our current team. We have policies and processes in place to ensure that all employees are offered an equal opportunity in recruitment and selection, promotion, training, pay and benefits.

Safeguarding

Advance is committed to safeguarding and creating a culture of zero-tolerance of harm and expects all staff, including volunteers to share this commitment. We believe all individuals have the right to live their life free from violence and abuse and the right to feel and be safe. We have a suite of safeguarding policies, procedures and practice guidance, accessible to all staff, which promotes safeguarding and safer working practices across all our services and activities. When we recruit staff, we follow rigorous safer recruitment practices, this involves carrying out pre-employment checks including references, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, and identity checks. We ensure all staff undertake mandatory safeguarding training relevant to their role and responsibilities, to empower them to be competent and feel confident in recognising and responding appropriately to safeguarding issues and promote wellbeing.

What is Trafford Centre Foundation:

Trafford Centre Foundation (TCF) is in the process of being set up and will be a registered charity, supporting charitable causes across the Greater Manchester region. The Foundation is independent of  Trafford Centre and governed by a board of trustees who decide which good causes will receive support. Our Trustees act in the Foundation’s best interests, applying donations to advance charitable purposes.

The Foundation will fund a wide range of charitable purposes (subject to the law of England and Wales). We seek to enable transformational change through partnerships with organisations operating in the Greater Manchester area who can demonstrate a clear understanding of the issues facing our local communities and the ability to make a significant impact.

Trafford Centre Foundation’s current funding priorities are for local good causes relating to:

· Education

· Young people and those in need by reason of age, ill health, disability, financial hardship, or other disadvantages.

· The advancement of citizenship or community development.

· The advancement of environmental protection or improvement.

Background:

· With an established set of Trustees, TCF is at an exciting stage of the establishment process and seeks an experienced Chair to lead the board of trustees through its first grant giving cycle and beyond.

· The role is an exciting opportunity to establish robust ways of working (with established support) to deliver significant results and impact in the local community.

Role Purpose:

Chair of Trustees is a high-profile role responsible for the strategic direction and operational management of  Trafford Centre Foundation ensuring effective governance and strong oversight to maximise the Foundation’s impact for its beneficiaries.

You will oversee and provide leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring it operates effectively, sets clear strategic priorities, and governs in line with the Foundation’s charitable objectives, legal obligations, and values with integrity and transparency. You will provide both strategic vision and practical leadership, ensuring that all operational functionsspanning Trafford Centre Foundation are optimised to benefit all stakeholders and the wider community.

By fostering an inclusive and collaborative Board culture, you will enable trustees to contribute their expertise, uphold the Foundation’s values, and make well-informed decisions that maximise impact for beneficiaries and the wider community. As an ambassador for the Foundation, you will build influential relationships with key stakeholders and champion its vision at every level. 

Key Responsibilities:

The role includes a variety of tasks including the following:

• Act as an ambassador for Trafford Centre Foundation, showcasing exemplary behaviour and actively promoting team recognition within the business. Lead by example, creating a positive and inclusive environment that values diversity, while cultivating a strong team culture. Take ownership of your role, providing ongoing coaching, constructive feedback, and recognition for outstanding contributions. Continuously seek ways to infuse energy, personality, and innovation into your leadership approach to inspire your team.

· Set a clear vision for the delivery of the Foundation’s charitable objectives, legal obligations, and values, demonstrating a passion for creating exceptional experiences. Leading by example as a role model for high standards of service and inspiring the team to deliver outstanding service to all stakeholders and the wider community. Cultivate a culture of excellence where each team member feels empowered to deliver outstanding service at every touchpoint.

· Champion operational excellence through a focus on compliance, clear communication, consistency, and collaboration. Ensure the Board operates within its charitable objects and complies with all legal, regulatory, and policy requirements

Who are we looking for?

Person Specification:

• Experience of chairing Boards of Trustees, grant giving, CIO leadership or extensive experience as an established trustee.
• Proven leadership experience with exceptional influencing and motivational skills and the ability to inspire, influence, and foster collaboration at Board level. Able to inspire and drive high performance.
• Strategic vision, sound judgement, and resilience, with the ability to analyse complex issues and make balanced decisions. Outstanding organisational and problem-solving skills with the ability to balance priorities. Adaptable and calm under pressure.

· Strong communicator with the ability to interact at all levels, respecting workplace diversity, with the confidence to challenge constructively and facilitate consensus.

· Effective in briefing, networking, and fostering a team-oriented culture. Polite, approachable, confident, and self-motivated with high personal presentation standards.

• Strong business or financial acumen, integrity, and commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Strong oral and written communication, report writing, and presentation skills. Analytical mindset for navigating complex situations, maintaining energy, and building credibility quickly.

 What difference will you make?

Strategic Leadership

• Lead the Board in setting and delivering its strategic priorities, ensuring decisions align with the Foundation’s charitable purpose and long-term interests.
• Ensure the Board fulfils its duties for effective governance, sound financial stewardship, and robust risk management, with appropriate policies and controls in place.
• Facilitate effective and inclusive Board meetings, setting agendas, commissioning papers, and ensuring decisions are well-informed and implemented.
• Appraise Board and Trustee performance, oversee succession planning and renewal, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

· Act as an ambassador for the Foundation, representing it at external meetings, events, and within the wider community in line with agreed policies and strategy.

· Develop the knowledge, capability, and diversity of the Board, ensuring a balance of skills and experience is maintained.

· Address and resolve conflicts within the Board constructively, and encourage positive change where needed.

 Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain positive relationships with trustees, the Chief Executive, partners, government bodies, and key influencers to support the Foundation’s goals.
• Act as spokesperson and advocate for the Foundation, promoting its purpose and impact across relevant networks and stakeholder groups.
• Commit to attending and leading approximately 4–6 Board meetings per year, as well as key committees, events, or working groups where required.
• Participate in Board evaluations, training, and appraisals, undertaking any identified development.
• Serve a term of up to three years (renewable once subject to review).

Our Second Home is a youth movement that empowers migrants and refugees to flourish in the place that they call home. Our overnight activity camp for young people aged 14-18 is a chance for young people to come together and have five days of fun and excitement, supported by a dynamic and dedicated team of leaders and staff.

An OSH Leader is a supportive adult, a role model, and someone young people can feel safe being themselves around. It’s about creating a warm, fun, and consistent presence during residentials — helping young people with refugee and migrant backgrounds feel welcomed, included, and at home.

Youth Leaders for this project will be responsible for facilitating the camp, and will be directly in contact with, and responsible for, the participants. During the camp they will be ‘on duty’ full-time, meaning that they will spend the whole time with the participants, including at meals.

THIS ROLE IS ONLY FOR PEOPLE LIVING IN THE UK. We will arrange Zoom interviews with applicants separately.

Responsibilities:

• Interacting and forming a bond with the participants
• Creating and running fun and engaging activities for the participants
• Looking after the participants’ welfare, and ensuring that they feel cared for and secure
• Managing the participants’ behaviour and setting clear boundaries

Expectations and requirements:

• All applicants must be interviewed and be willing to provide references on request.
• Youth Leaders must set a positive example of behaviour and involvement for all participants, and adhere to the volunteer guidelines.
• Youth Leaders may be required to prepare activities for participants at the camp. If asked, this must be completed in plenty of time to allow any materials or equipment to be sourced.
• Applicants should be aged 20 or above.
• Applicants must be eligible for DBS clearance (no criminal record that prevents applicants from working with children)
• Youth Leaders must raise any safeguarding concerns swiftly and follow safeguarding procedures
• Youth Leaders must follow all Our Second Home policies and procedures of (which will be explained at the Camp training days).
• Anyone attending an OSH residential must test negative for COVID-19 prior to attending the programme, regardless of whether they have received a vaccine or not.

Essential skills:

• Flexibility, adaptability and ability to improvise
• Ability to build connection quickly with peers and young people
• Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively
• High level of organisation
• High levels of empathy and patience
• Awareness and sensitivity that some participants might be suffering from trauma

Additional desired skills:

• Experience working with and/or caring for young people aged 14-18
• Experience working with refugees and/or asylum seekers
• Experience working with young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities
• Language skills: Arabic, Dari, Pashto, Tigrinya, Somali
• First Aid training
• Creative or artistic abilities
• Sports leadership
• Ability to prepare fun and engaging activities for young people

We particularly encourage applications from those who have lived experience of being a refugee.

Please ensure you are available to come to all the following events - specific dates can be found on the application form:

• Training
• Pre-Residential Prep Day (on site)
• Residential, in full
• Feedback & thank you afternoon

QUOTES:

• “Having the professional [welfare] support made me feel very support and more comfortable with the work” – BT
• “The atmosphere of fun, respect, care, and community is what made the young people so comfortable and connected” – BT
• “The leaders were all awesome – it was incredible to work in a team so full of hard working, intelligent, experienced people” – BT
• “Seeing the kids bursting out of their shells and that being the norm rather than just exceptions was just incredible.” – CA
• “It honestly surpassed anything I could have hoped for” – LK

Structure:

Youth Leaders will be supported by the Welfare Support Lead(s), who will be their main contact in the build to and throughout the camp. The Welfare Support Lead(s) will run team meetings at the end of each day and be on hand to advise and manage the Youth Leaders.

Become a Fundraising volunteer in Skegness!

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.

Job Description

We are looking for a Volunteer SEO & Content Strategy Manager to help plan and manage the CIC’s content and search strategy.

You will ensure our educational materials, campaigns, and survivor-centred resources are easy to find, well-structured, and accessible online. This role involves working with the Digital Marketing Director and Digital Marketing team to organise content into a long-term strategy that supports awareness, education, and engagement.

The role focuses on SEO, content systems, and structured knowledge management.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain an SEO and content strategy aligned with CIC’s mission and campaigns
• Conduct keyword research and topic analysis related to CSA awareness, survivor support, and education
• Plan structured content systems such as pillar pages, topic clusters, and learning pathways
• Work with copywriters, designers, and campaign leads to prioritise content
• Optimise website pages, blogs, and campaign content for search visibility and accessibility
• Track content performance using search and engagement data
• Identify content gaps and opportunities for educational resources
• Ensure all content follows trauma-informed and safeguarding standards
• Document content strategy, workflows, and processes for scalability

What We’re Looking For

• Experience or interest in SEO, content strategy, or digital publishing
• Ability to plan long-term content systems rather than individual posts
• Familiarity with SEO tools, analytics platforms, or content management systems
• Strategic thinking and structured planning skills
• Sensitivity and ethical awareness when communicating about serious topics
• Comfort collaborating with a remote volunteer team
• Experience in nonprofit, advocacy, or educational content is helpful but not required

What You’ll Gain

• Founding experience building a long-term content and knowledge strategy for a social impact organisation
• Leadership exposure in ethical SEO and content systems
• Opportunity to shape how the CIC shares survivor-centred knowledge with the public
• Hands-on experience working with multidisciplinary content, marketing, and campaign teams
• Priority consideration for future paid roles when funding becomes available

The Nehemiah Project is a small charity that supports men with experience of addiction to break the cycle of addiction and crime. We do this through supported living, programmes, key worker support, rebuilding family connections and providing move-on support to aid transition to independent living. We currently operate from houses in Streatham and Croydon.

We are a Christian-based charity open to men of all faiths and none. We have a partnership with the British Association of the Order of Malta who provide expertise, funding and volunteer support.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that The Nehemiah Project (TNP) achieves its core purpose of breaking the cycle of addiction and reoffending. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that TNP has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable TNP to grow and thrive.

As well as fulfilling the duties of a Trustee, the Treasurer maintains an overview of the Nehemiah Project' s financial affairs. The Treasurer ensures that effective and appropriate financial measures, controls and procedures are put in place and reports to the Board at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation. The Nehemiah Project is a registered charity and a company limited by guarantee.

Treasurer Role

• Overseeing the presentation of budgets, internal management accounts and annual financial statements to the Board of Trustees.
• Ensuring that proper accounting records are kept, and that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place.
• Ensuring that robust and comprehensive financial policies are in place and being implemented, and supporting the development of policies covering financial reserves, and cost management.
• Monitoring and advising on the financial viability of the charity.
• Overseeing financial controls and adherence to systems, regularly liaising with Chief Executive
• Advising on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan, including overseeing the charity’s financial risk-management process Ensuring investments and assets are maximised.
• Lead on the appointment of and liaison with external auditors.
• Oversee the development and implementation of systems for appraising, mitigating and reporting corporate risk.
• Ensuring that the accounts are prepared and disclosed in the form required by relevant statutory bodies, for example, the Charity Commission and/or the Registrar of Companies.
• Keeping the board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities and liaising with the Chief Executive to develop the financial understanding of the Board of Trustees.

What we are looking for?

• A finance professional. A knowledge of charity finance is an advantage. Otherwise an enthusiasm to learn, drawing from sound commercial experience and an understanding of SMEs.
• A strategic thinker with an ability to balance risk and opportunity.
• Clear communicator with the ability to bring the financial information alive to non-finance specialists. Willing to play an active role in areas such as forecasting, setting budgets, liaising with auditors
• We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

In addition to the above, the Treasurer will also have the responsibilities and qualities of all trustees. Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Responsibilities of all trustees

• Support and provide advice on TNP' s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee TNP' s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Review and approve TNP’s financial statements.
• Provide support and challenge to TNP’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs. Keep abreast of changes in TNP’s operating environment.
• Contribute to regular reviews of TNP' s own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect TNP’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.
• Contribute to the broader promotion of TNP’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

Personal skills and qualities

• To be sympathetic to and supportive of our Christian ethos. Practising Christian preferred.
• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member. Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion. A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for our vision and mission

Trustee Role Overview

Term: 4 years, renewable up to 7 years, with possible extension in exceptional cases under the Memorandum and Articles.

Remuneration: Voluntary role; reasonable expenses reimbursed.

Meetings: Attend four Board meetings a year (in person in Putney, with remote option).

Strategy Days: Up to one per year.

Events: Four annual celebration events at our houses; Trustees are encouraged to attend where possible

Committee Membership

Trustees may join one of three sub-groups — HR, Finance, or Fundraising — which meet remotely four times a year, with occasional ad hoc support to working groups or the executive team. 

Financial Commitment No donation is required, though regular modest giving is encouraged.

More Information can be found in the Trustee Pack below.

The Organisation

The 5% Club is a national dynamic movement of employers committed to “Earn and Learn” as part of building and developing the workforce they need for a socially mobile, prosperous and cohesive nation. We exist to help our Members and all employers increase further the number, quality and range of Earn and Learn opportunities across the UK. By joining The 5% Club, our Members aspire to achieve 5% of their workforce in Earn and Learn positions (including apprentices, sponsored students and graduates on formalised training schemes) within five years of joining.

The 5% Club now represents over 1250 organisations with 2m employees, of which almost 121,000 are in on-the-job training – an average, of more than 6?ross the movement. Our mission is rooted in employers taking a proactive role in addressing the UK’s critical skills challenges. It’s about developing people with the right skills to forge meaningful career paths and its members represent some of the gold standards of training and skills development.

We want roles such as apprenticeships, sponsored student placements, graduate programmes and upskilling to be accessible to all. By “all,” we mean the spectrum of Britain’s social diversity – racial, cultural, gender, age, background and more. The end goal is to drive up shared prosperity in the country by enlisting all manner of organisation sizes (from SMEs, for whom “5%” means one person – to FTSE100 household names employing tens of thousands) as Members, who then sign the Charter committing to building a workforce with at least 5% of their employees in Earn and Learn roles.

The 5% Club has strong connections to the Government, industry bodies and education partners and this plays a huge part in advocacy and change.

To find out more about what we do, visit our website.

The Role

The Chair of the Board provides strategic leadership to the charity, ensuring it is well governed, financially sustainable, and delivering meaningful impact for its beneficiaries. The role requires an experienced and collaborative leader who can support the Chief Executive, guide the Board, and uphold the highest standards of charity governance.

Key responsibilities

Governance Leadership

• Lead the Board in ensuring the charity fulfils its mission, complies with its governing document, and meets all legal and regulatory requirements (including Charity Commission expectations).
• Ensure the Board operates effectively, with the right balance of skills, diversity, and experience. Lead regular Board effectiveness reviews and support ongoing trustee development.
• Uphold the principles of good governance, encouraging constructive challenge, accountability, and high ethical standards.

Strategic Oversight

• Work with trustees and the Chief Executive to set the charity’s long-term vision, strategy, and priorities.
• Ensure appropriate systems are in place to monitor performance, impact, and risk. Oversee the quality of impact reporting, ensuring the charity communicates its outcomes effectively.
• Champion organisational learning, innovation, and responsiveness to change in the external environment.

Supporting and Challenging the Chief Executive

• Provide support, guidance, and constructive challenge to the Chief Executive.
• Maintain a strong, transparent, and trusting working relationship with the Chief Executive.
• Undertake formal annual appraisal of the Chief Executive and ensure the Board supports their performance and development.
• Act as the Chief Executive’s point of escalation for urgent or exceptional decisions requiring Chair involvement.

Board Leadership & Culture

• Chair Board meetings effectively, ensuring inclusive and balanced discussions and clear decisions.
• Ensure committees function effectively and are properly delegated while maintaining appropriate oversight.
• Build a collaborative board culture, encouraging diverse perspectives and maintaining a focus on beneficiaries. Lead succession planning across the Board – and supporting Committees – and ensure recruitment reflects diversity and skill needs.
• Lead trustee recruitment, induction, and succession planning (except for the recruitment of a new Chair).

External Representation

• Act as an ambassador for the charity, representing it with key stakeholders, funders, partners, regulators, and the media (as appropriate).
• Support the Chief Executive and senior team in relationship-building with donors, sponsors, and strategic partners.
• Promote the charity’s reputation and influence within relevant sectors. Represent the Charity in policy, advocacy and employer-facing forums where appropriate.

Risk, Finance & Compliance

• Ensure robust financial oversight, including budgeting, audit, reserves, and investment policies.
• Oversee risk management and ensure the Board receives timely information to make informed decisions.
• Ensure the charity maintains high standards in safeguarding, health & safety, data protection, and other statutory areas. Provide assurance over internal control systems and review the annual report and accounts prior to approval.

The Person

We are seeking an individual with substantial senior leadership experience, ideally a current or former business leader within an employer organisation, and prior experience as Chair of a commercial company, non-profit organisation, or charity. Experience in environments involving policy engagement or multistakeholder representation would be advantageous.

Essential Experience

• Significant senior leadership experience in a business, employer organisation, or large operational environment.
• Prior experience as Chair of a commercial company, charity, or non-profit.
• Experience of organisational governance, strategic planning, and risk oversight.
• Experience supporting or overseeing a Chief Executive or senior leadership team.
• Demonstrable experience building high-performing boards or teams.
• Experience engaging with Government, regulators, or policy-influencing environments.

Desirable Experience

• Experience in the charity sector, voluntary or community work, or public service.
• Experience with fundraising, commissioning, or managing external partnerships.
• Knowledge of relevant regulatory frameworks (e.g., Charity Commission guidance, safeguarding,data protection).
• Experience within a membership organisation or skills/employability-focused sector.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong strategic thinking and the ability to translate insight into practical direction.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to chair meetings effectively and foster inclusive discussion.
• Integrity, independence of mind, and sound judgement.
• Ability to analyse complex information and make evidence-based decisions.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Confidence in ambassadorial and stakeholder-facing roles, including ability to represent the organisation publicly, including handling media or public scrutiny if required.

Personal Attributes

• Genuine alignment with the charity’s mission and values.
• Collaborative, supportive, and low-ego leadership style.
• Ability to challenge constructively and hold others to account.
• Resilient, calm under pressure, and capable of navigating ambiguity.
• High ethical standards and commitment to trusteeship responsibilities.
• Comfortable operating in high-visibility environments and representing the charity in national settings.

Become a Fundraisng Team Leader Volunter!

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

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:

• supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers
• planning fundraising events and activities with your team
• allocating tasks before and during fundraising events
• keeping financial records from fundraising events
• encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection
• following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

A bit about this role

As a charity we can continue to help cats and kittens in need thanks to the donations we receive at fundraising events from generous members of the public. Our fundraising event helpers have the exciting and varied role of helping at local fundraising events - such as cakes sales, barn dances, quiz nights – and everything in between!

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

• help set up and/or man stalls at events
• help on collection days like supermarket collections events or street collections
• help at fundraising events such as quiz nights, cake sales and dances
• promoting a professional image of Cats Protection at events

Time expectation

This role is really flexible! You could choose to volunteer at one event for a couple of hours or attend multiple fundraising events.

We’ll keep you up to date with upcoming local events where volunteers are needed. You’ll then be able to choose which events you’d like to volunteer at and how many hours you’d like to give. However much time you can give, your contribution will help raise much needed funds to continue the work of Cats Protection.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Are you the new Chair-designate for Reading Community Learning Centre?

Do you have enthusiasm, skills and time to cooperatively govern and lead our charity that supports women learners?

You could be the Chair-designate of Reading Community Learning Centre, a charity serving the needs of local refugee, asylum-seeking and migrant women. We stand proudly for equality and women’s rights, and are looking for a woman Chair-designate to take on the role of leading our Board, supported by our outgoing Chair for a handover period of up to 6 months.

About us:

Set up in 2007, we are a Charitable Company that helps often-marginalised women to achieve their individual potential, through helping them improve their English, building confidence, making friends, volunteering locally, gaining qualifications or securing a job.

In 2025 we supported over 595 women from 41 different countries of origin, through our charitable spending of £244k.

About the role:

We’re looking for a woman to volunteer to lead our Board of Trustees, to work with other trustees and our CEO to shape our future supporting and empowering women. Women from global-majority/minority-ethnic communities are especially encouraged to apply.

If you can think and lead strategically, help us plan long-term, you have the primary skills needed by our Chair. Support from our employees is always available, as they will be dealing with the day-to-day running of the organisation.

Experience of committee or similar work, an understanding of cooperative leadership and a strong focus to shape the forward-looking Board, are what we are looking for. You don’t necessarily need prior experience of charity trusteeship, as induction will be provided, plus specialist guidance as a new trustee, including access to external training.

This is a high-profile appointment, with strong commitment to the future of Reading Community Learning Centre an essential quality, and having a good understanding of the value for the women we help. Trustees make the top-level decisions for our charity: our Board includes women with understanding, skills and experience of our support, and we require new trustees to have empathy with our cause. 

We are a charity not a business, but we apply business principles to governing our organisation. We encourage women from all backgrounds to apply, particularly Black, Asian and global-majority women, and those who have previous experience of engaging and working collaboratively with our beneficiaries.

The Board meets online every six weeks, and we ask you for up to sixteen hours per month; this includes all meetings, correspondence, communication, etc. Our Chair does need to be able to visit the Centre regularly, so should have access to Reading.

How to apply:

This high-profile appointment is being managed for us by inVOLve Community Services, a charity-support organisation, who offer an informal no-obligation discussion by video. A detailed Role Description and Skills Specification can be made available to you by request before that discussion.

Trustee appointments are subject to satisfactory references to satisfactory completion of an Enhanced DBS check.

Your CV and supporting statement will be read by our current Chair and trustees; an informal discussion followed by a more-formal interview can be offered as soon as mutually convenient.

I need to know more:

Contact Mike Allen via Apply Now, below, for more information and arrange to have a no-obligation initial informal discussion (Teams or Zoom), explanation about this important role and any assistance or advice you may need to apply.

Are you passionate about making a meaningful difference?
Join us as a Trustee and help shape the future of the British Dyslexia Association.

Our Trustees play a vital role in ensuring we stay true to our mission, deliver on our charitable objectives, and continue supporting everyone affected by dyslexia. As part of the Board, you’ll guide our strategy, support and challenge our Senior Management Team, and help the organisation grow and thrive.

This is an exciting opportunity to bring your skills, insight and energy to a cause that matters.

What you’ll do

As a Trustee, you will:

• Act in the best interests of the charity and uphold the highest standards of governance.
• Help set and oversee strategy, policy, financial plans and key risks.
• Support, advise and constructively challenge the CEO and Senior Management Team.
• Ensure our work aligns with our purpose, vision and values.
• Contribute your expertise, ideas and networks to strengthen our impact.
• Prepare for and attend Board and committee meetings, and take part in key governance activities.

What we’re looking for

We welcome applications from individuals with enthusiasm, integrity and a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

We are especially interested in people with experience in:

• Fundraising / business development / income generation
• Communications and marketing
• Policy and public affairs

You’ll also bring:

• Strong strategic thinking and independent judgement
• Effective communication and collaboration skills
• A genuine passion for the BDA’s mission
• A willingness to lead in line with our values

What you’ll gain

 Becoming a BDA Trustee offers you the chance to:

• Make a real difference to the lives of people with dyslexia
• Develop your leadership and governance experience
• Connect with like‑minded professionals
• Experience genuine personal fulfilment by supporting a meaningful cause

This is a voluntary role, with reasonable expenses reimbursed.

Time commitment

Around 8–12 days per year, including:

• Quarterly Board meetings (mix of in‑person and online)
• Committee meetings
• Occasional away days, events and training
• Providing expert input on an as‑needed basis

We understand the need for flexibility and welcome applications from people with a range of commitments.

For more details, view the full role description.

A bit about this role

As a charity we can continue to help cats and kittens in need thanks to the donations we receive at fundraising events from generous members of the public. Our fundraising event helpers have the exciting and varied role of helping at local fundraising events - such as cakes sales, barn dances, quiz nights – and everything in between!
 

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

• help set up and/or man stalls at events
• help on collection days like supermarket collections events or street collections
• help at fundraising events such as quiz nights, cake sales and dances
• promoting a professional image of Cats Protection at events

Time expectation

This role is really flexible! You could choose to volunteer at one event for a couple of hours or attend multiple fundraising events.

We’ll keep you up to date with upcoming local events where volunteers are needed. You’ll then be able to choose which events you’d like to volunteer at and how many hours you’d like to give. However much time you can give, your contribution will help raise much needed funds to continue the work of Cats Protection.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

A bit about this role

As a charity we can continue to help cats and kittens in need thanks to the donations we receive at fundraising events from generous members of the public. Our fundraising event helpers have the exciting and varied role of helping at local fundraising events - such as cakes sales, barn dances, quiz nights – and everything in between!
 

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

• help set up and/or man stalls at events
• help on collection days like supermarket collections events or street collections
• help at fundraising events such as quiz nights, cake sales and dances
• promoting a professional image of Cats Protection at events

Time expectation

This role is really flexible! You could choose to volunteer at one event for a couple of hours or attend multiple fundraising events.

We’ll keep you up to date with upcoming local events where volunteers are needed. You’ll then be able to choose which events you’d like to volunteer at and how many hours you’d like to give. However much time you can give, your contribution will help raise much needed funds to continue the work of Cats Protection.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

A bit about this role

As a charity we can continue to help cats and kittens in need thanks to the donations we receive at fundraising events from generous members of the public. Our fundraising event helpers have the exciting and varied role of helping at local fundraising events - such as cakes sales, barn dances, quiz nights – and everything in between!

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

• help set up and/or man stalls at events
• help on collection days like supermarket collections events or street collections
• help at fundraising events such as quiz nights, cake sales and dances
• promoting a professional image of Cats Protection at events

Time expectation

This role is really flexible! You could choose to volunteer at one event for a couple of hours or attend multiple fundraising events.

We’ll keep you up to date with upcoming local events where volunteers are needed. You’ll then be able to choose which events you’d like to volunteer at and how many hours you’d like to give. However much time you can give, your contribution will help raise much needed funds to continue the work of Cats Protection.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.