Governance volunteer roles

Join Richmond Foundation as a Trustee and help shape a fairer, healthier future for our community.

Richmond Foundation is a long-established local charity with a proud history of supporting residents through grant-making, property management, and community initiatives. We are seeking new Trustees to join our Board and contribute to our vision: Everyone in Richmond has opportunities to build healthy and fulfilling lives.

Who we’re looking for

We welcome applications from individuals who share our values of integrity, excellence, collaboration, agility, and ambition.

Our goal is to recruit people from a wide range of backgrounds, with different expertise, experience and knowledge. We want to make our committees more diverse and representative of the groups and people we support. You can read more about our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion on our website.

We are committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process and are happy to provide reasonable adjustments to support applicants at any stage. We will provide a buddy system for new trustees.

We are looking to recruit trustees who have experience and knowledge in one of the following areas:

• Charity Finance and Investment
• Our Grant Priorities
• Residential Property

We are also interested in expertise in:

• Safeguarding
• Social Housing
• Grantmaking (particularly within larger foundations)
• Managing grants from a range of funders
• Data and evidence
• Evaluation and impact reporting
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
• Communications and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Human Resources (HR)

As a Trustee, you will:

• Uphold Richmond Foundation’s vision, mission, objectives, and values.
• Provide strategic oversight and governance for the charity.
• Act in the charity’s best interests and manage resources responsibly.
• Attend at least four Board meetings per year (3 hours each) and join at least one committee (further 4 meetings per year 90 mins to 2 hours each).
• Prepare for meetings by reading all relevant documentation and reviewing minutes.
• Attend relevant training and at least one event hosted by a grant-funded organisation annually.
• Serve a four-year term, with the possibility of renewal for an additional two-year term.
• Champion high standards of conduct, including respect, inclusivity, accountability, honesty, and confidentiality.
• Declare and manage any conflicts of interest.
• Act in accordance with our Trustee Code of Conduct
• Support safeguarding and ensure the charity is accountable and compliant with its governing documents.

To be eligible, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Not be disqualified under the Charities Act (including being disqualified as a company director, having unspent convictions for offences involving dishonesty or deception, being an undischarged bankrupt, having been removed as a trustee by the Charity Commission or a court, or being on the sex offenders’ register).
• Be willing to sign a declaration of eligibility upon appointment and annually thereafter.

How to Apply

If you are interested in making a difference in Richmond and can contribute your time and expertise to help us deliver our charitable objectives, we would love to hear from you.

Full details, person specification and requirements, and application instructions are available in the Trustee Recruitment pack.

The application deadline is 10:00am on Monday 13 April 2026

Richmond Foundation are hosting a Webinar and Q+A for interested applicants on 18 March 2026. This will be an opportunity to learn more from our CEO, Chair and Trustees and ask questions. Details can be found on our website.

Interviews: Scheduled in May/June 2026

Term Commences: September 2026

Our management committee has succession needs. We seek a trustee to chair it and build on our strong heritage and renew for the next generation, a people-person who can attract and develop a team of custodians with diverse skills to give management oversight and strategic direction.

What will you be doing?

We are looking for someone who will enjoy being part of our community and who has the drive to help renew and guide the work at our Dorset retreat centre.

Our Dorset centre has recently undergone very successful updating of some of the facilities. We have a loyal visitor base who respond generously to appeals for donations.  We are looking to recruit a Trustee who can join a team of people with varied expertise to make steady and sustained progress to ensure that this much loved centre, with 100 years of history is a treasured resource for the next generation.

Our vision is to be a place for both environmental awareness and inclusive Christian theology, experienced by the way we live, the programme of events that we hold and how we run and renew the buildings and land; practical hope in action.

The charity is well governed with Trustees taking responsibility for the finances, health & safety and safeguarding. We have good accountancy support and our financial reserves are adequate.

As Chair of the Centre Management Committee you have responsibility for the Burton Bradstock  centre but also as a Trustee of the whole charity with providing strategic direction of the whole charity.

The Centre Management Committee meets 2x in person at the centre each year and overnight accommodation is available.  The whole board of Trustees meet online quarterly (a weekday evening 1.5 hours) and have two residential weekend meetings per year, one at each centre (Bradwell-on-Sea, Essex and Burton Bradstock, Dorset). The charity covers all out-of-pocket expenses.

What are we looking for?

Most importantly the energy, time and enthusiasm to support the flourishing of the Retreat Centre; after that then one or more of the following would be helpful:

• Line management experience
• Working within Charity Commission guidelines
• Operational or facilities management experience
• Previous Trustee experience or similar (nice but not a requirement)

A fuller description of the role is provided in the accompanying PDF.

What difference will you make?

As Chair of the the Centre Management Committee you will support and shape the ongoing development of staff and operations of the retreat centre.

Our guests value the experience of inclusive community, spirituality, and practical creativity joining retreats, workshops, family holidays and a range of other events. We pursue a vision of openness and inclusion, for people of all faiths and none, affirming mutual respect and understanding.

People of all ages come to Othona to be themselves, valued for who they are. They find support through difficult times e.g. bereavement, family breakdown, ill health, find a new direction, feel restored. This experience of community, affirms people and contributes to social re-connection while at Othona and back home. People make friendships at Othona that last for years.

Before you apply

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

Interested applicants please message us via REACH.  Application is by letter accompanied by a CV.  Shortlisted candidates will be invited to visit the Retreat Centre. Interview will be by 2 Trustees. References will be required, as will a basic level DBS check, a declaration that you have not been barred from becoming a Trustee or Director. A role description is attached.

Uncurbed Collective is recruiting a new Co-Chair of Trustees to lead alongside existing Co-Chair and founder trustee Janet Charlesworth.

This is a moment of evolution for the organisation. As we continue to grow our disability-led work and strengthen our governance, we are seeking a Co-Chair who believes in shared leadership, collective responsibility, and values-driven decision-making.

This role is not about individual authority. It is about working in partnership, listening well, and supporting the organisation to think strategically while staying grounded in its values.

Alongside your fellow Co-Chair, you will:

• Guide and support an engaged, values-led Board of Trustees
• Help shape Uncurbed’s strategic direction and long-term sustainability
• Champion disability-led governance and shared power in practice
• Work closely with the CEO to ensure strong, transparent leadership and accountability

We are open to a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You might bring:

• Experience of board leadership, chairing, or senior strategic roles
• Lived experience of disability and/or a strong commitment to equity, access, and inclusion
• Confidence working collaboratively, rather than hierarchically
• Curiosity, generosity, and a willingness to learn alongside others

You do not need to have held a Co-Chair role before. We are particularly keen to hear from people who may not see themselves reflected in traditional governance pathways.

Support and culture

Uncurbed operates a shared leadership model. You will not be expected to do this alone, nor to arrive with all the answers. Trustees work relationally, with care, challenge, and mutual support.

We actively encourage informal conversations before applying.

To apply or ask questions, contact us directly. Access support is available throughout the process.

What are we looking for?

This is a non-executive leadership role. You won’t be involved in day-to-day operations — instead, your focus will be on supporting strong governance, holding space for inclusive strategy, and ensuring the board functions well.

We are looking for someone who can bring clarity, structure, and values-led leadership — and who is confident sharing power within a co-chairing model alongside a trustee with lived experience of disability.

You don’t need to be an expert in disability or the arts — but you do need to be open to learning, able to hold a strategic view, and committed to changing who gets to lead.

You should bring:

• Experience as a Chair or senior trustee in a charity, cultural, or values-led organisation
• Knowledge of good governance and the responsibilities of a non-executive board
• Skills in strategic planning, organisational development, or scaling with integrity
• Confidence in chairing meetings and supporting a group to make clear, inclusive decisions
• A belief in equity, accessibility, and co-leadership as core parts of good governance
• Strong communication skills, emotional intelligence, and a collaborative mindset

We are particularly interested in applicants with experience of:

• The arts, access, or cultural policy
• Strategy, finance, legal structures, or fundraising
• Public health, education, or community development
• Systemic change or inclusive leadership development

You will work closely with the CEO/Artistic Director and Co-Chair to lead the board well — helping us grow sustainably, stay aligned with our mission, and centre lived experience in decision-making. You’ll also play a key role in recruiting and supporting new trustees as the board evolves.

We know leadership is a learning process. If you bring curiosity, commitment, and clarity — we’ll support you to grow with us.

What difference will you make?

You’ll co-lead a board committed to access and culture change — supporting disabled artists to lead, and ensuring the organisation continues to grow with integrity, purpose, and shared power.

We are looking for someone keen to move into the area of advising small charities on management and governance issues.

We are a very ambitious local grant-making charity that also offers various training, support and consultancy services to small charities and community groups in West London. Our broad-ranging plans are now beginning to bear fruit and so we need volunteers to help us in the following areas as demand for our services continues to grow:

· Supporting small groups and start-ups with basic governance and management issues

· Assessing the impact of our services on groups

· Outreach to new groups

· Possibly helping out with grant application assessments when needed

Our ideal candidate would have a good all-round background in management, consultancy or organisational professional services gained over a number of years, but they need not be experienced in the areas mentioned above. You'd be given full training, with the opportunity to shadow the people already working in these areas. Far more important is adaptability, initiative, an ability to get on well with people from all sorts of backgrounds, and good organisational and writing skills. Most crucially you would have a demonstrable commitment to our ideals of promoting a strong and influential civil society in West London. You will thrive on challenges and find rewards in seeing our objectives achieved.

You would ideally be able to commit an average of 1 day a week and the work would involve dealing with our groups during office hours, so you will probably be someone who is working part-time, or is perhaps retired or semi-retired, or is otherwise not in full-time employment.

Much of the work would be taking place from home, but it will also involve some face to face contact with clients, so living in or around the Ealing, Hounslow or Hillingdon boroughs would be an advantage.

All reasonable expenses will be reimbursed and refreshments provided where suitable.

The Brigantia Learning Trust Governance Model is different to the way a governing body in a non-academy or traditional school undertakes governance.

Essentially, there are four elements to the governance of the Brigantia Learning Trust academies – local councils that are delivered via the Academy Advisory Councils (AAC), Trust governance, delivered via the Full Board of Trustees (Non-Executive Directors), the Trust Leadership Team (Executive Directors) and the Trust Members. 

The Board of Trustees has 4 sub-committees, concerned with Finance, Risk & Audit, HR, Education & Standards and Remuneration along with the four Academy Advisory Councils: Brigantia Hill Fort, Hinde House (2-16), Yewlands and Longley Park Sixth Form. As the trust continues to grow, and the Academy Advisory Councils become more experienced and confident, greater delegated powers will be identified and approved by the Board of Trustees.

Local Councils - The Academy Advisory Council

Each AAC consists of a group of people who could be parents, community nominees, academy staff. They will meet with the academy (Executive) Principal, Associate Principal and other senior leaders where appropriate. In attendance at these meetings will be Link Trustees and members of the Trust Executive Team may be in attendance. This is to ensure that the voice of the local stake holders is heard first-hand by the Board of Trustees.

The Brigantia Learning Trust Board has established six key roles for Academy Advisory Councils: 

• To advise/act as a critical friend to the (Executive) Principal of the academy

• To advise the Trustees about local issues they need to consider that affect the academy

• To support the Safeguarding Trustee with localised academy information

• Represent the interest of the academy community in the running of the academy

• Represent the academy in its community

• Provide support to the (Executive) Principal in undertaking appropriate day to day procedures that are essential to the life of the academy

The six roles translate specifically into the following tasks that the AAC undertakes:  

• To act as a key link between the academy, parents and local community

• To support the work of the academy in the community

• To help on the ground with the implementation of certain academy policies

• To offer challenging but positive and proactive support to the (Executive) Principal

• To regularly discuss the academy’s performance in relation to the KPIs (Key

• Performance Indicators)

The difference between Brigantia Learning Trust Governance and a traditional Governing Body

By comparison to a traditional school Governing Body:

• The AAC’s role is not to “manage” the Academy as such.  This is done through the Trust Leadership Team and the Board of Trustees.  Therefore, the AAC is not required to take decisions on staff or financial matters affecting the Academy.  As an Academy Advisor you should have an understanding of strategic issues that impact on the Academy, and be updated on them regularly by the Principal, but you are not required to have direct responsibility for them.
• As the Trust Leadership Team and Board of Trustees takes responsibility for educational standards, legal compliance and financial viability, the AAC then has the time to investigate the impact of policy on the ground, to see how they are working, and explore how the Brigantia Learning Trust ethos is being understood and expressed in the way the Academy operates. As an Academy Advisor, your view as a parent or as part of the community is vital in this discussion.

3. HOW THE AAC OPERATES 

Expectations

Brigantia Learning Trust understands that the role of an Academy Advisor is voluntary, however, in order for the Academy Advisory Council to function efficiently and effectively, there are certain expectations of Academy Advisors in order to achieve this.

i) Meetings

Meetings of the AAC take place 3 times over the academic year. The meeting is prepared by the Principal and the Chair of the AAC, and the process is supported by the clerk to the AAC. You will receive a link to the agenda and papers in advance of the meeting from the clerk electronically.

Meetings are usually held after school or at other times as agreed locally by all Academy Advisors.

ii) Contribution at meetings and outside of meetings

Academy Advisors are expected to come to meetings prepared; having read and familiarised themselves with the agenda and accompanying papers as well as being prepared to ask relevant questions (Please see section 3.2 for further detail and examples).

iii) Business Interest and code of conduct

Academy Advisors are required to declare any business or other interests in any item being discussed at the AAC meeting. The Academy Advisers are asked to abide by the AAC Code of Conduct. The AAC clerk will provide the appropriate forms for AAC members to sign.

iv) AAC Responsibilities

Academy Advisors should make every effort to visit the Academy during the Academy day; all visits must be planned and focused on areas as agreed by the full Academy Advisory Council. Visits inform the work of the AAC and provide valuable information for support and challenge to the Academy’s Leadership Team. AAC members are asked to report on their visit using the appropriate form. This report will be presented at the AAC meetings, and a central record of all visits will be held by the Clerk to the Board of Trustees.

v) Skills Audit

All Academy Advisors are expected to complete a skills audit at the beginning of every academic year, this assists the Trust Executive and Trustees to identify gaps in skills and arrange appropriate training.

vi) Safeguarding

All Academy Advisors are required to have an up-to-date enhanced DBS check, as well as undertake annual safeguarding training as required, this will be delivered at the first AAC meeting of the academic year.

Age UK Milton Keynes is looking for keen individuals to join our Board - people who want to make a real and positive difference on quality of life for older people and would like to share their skills and ideas for the benefit of the charity. 

Age UK Milton Keynes is a local independent charity working to improve the quality of life for all the older people living in Milton Keynes.  We do this by providing a range of services which help people to stay in their own homes.  We also provide a social network to help keep our clients involved with their community as well as working closely with other organisations who can provide support.

As our organisation represents all older people in Milton Keynes, it is important that our Board also represents our diverse community.  Therefore, we encourage applications from a broad range of applicants, especially currently under-represented groups.

You will be willing to apply your skills and experience in regular Board meetings, (4 per year all day), Trustee only meetings (2 per year) as well as other ad hoc meetings around your subject matter expertise as may be needed. 

We welcome enthusiastic and focused applicants who can offer knowledge and expertise in the following areas:

• Fundraising
• Financial Management
• Social Care Sector
• Governance
• Equity Diversity and Inclusion

However, if your skills lie in other directions, we would still love to hear from you!

The Board is looking to establish more robust succession planning for the Chairperson and Treasurer - so would welcome such ambitions, leadership and expertise in new members.

Whether you’re an experienced Trustee or wanting to take your first step, we would like to hear from you.

PLEASE NOTE THAT UNFORTUNATELY WE ARE UNABLE TO TAKE APPLICANTS WHO ARE NOT RESIDENT IN THE UK

2makeit is a charity that helps rehabilitate prisoners and ex-prisoners by offering them creative expression through programmes in skills such as music, art and writing.

Engaging with fellow prisoners, guided by experts including musicians, artists and writers, they learn how to collaborate and create, inspiring them to lead more productive and positive lives whilst in jail, and law-abiding lives on release.

2makeit is seeking an inspiring and committed Chair to lead its Board and help transform lives through creativity.

What will you be doing?

The Chair leads the board, ensuring that it governs the charity effectively, in service of the charity’s vision and mission. The Chair leads in an inclusive way, supporting the board to work together well, and providing support and challenge to the Director. 

The Chair is also an ambassador for the charity. 

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

Time commitment is approximately 15 - 20 hours a month, which includes:

• 4 quarterly board meetings (2–3 hours each) and their preparation (usually evenings, hybrid available).
• A weekly call with the Director (approx 1 hour).
• Ad hoc sub-group meetings and documents as required (mostly online).
• Ambassadorial commitments - 2makeit events, visits to prisons, projects.

What are we looking for?

2makeit is seeking an inspiring and committed Chair to lead its Board and help transform lives through creativity.

We are looking for someone with the following skills and experience: 

• Understanding of the criminal justice sector is desirable.
• Strong communication, empathy, and ability to chair meetings in a collaborative, non-authoritarian way.
• Previous Trustee experience is desirable.
• Ability to build a close working relationship with the Director.
• Availability and flexibility (some daytime commitments, some evenings).
• Passionate about prisoner and ex-prisoner wellbeing.
• Ability to foster an environment for open discussion and debate amongst trustees.
• Willingness to hold trustees and members of the organisation to account for actions they agree to undertake.

What difference will you make?

This is an exciting time to join 2makeit to help realise our vision to be part of a criminal justice sector in which creativity plays a vital role in rehabilitation.

Three areas underpin the delivery of that vision:

• Creative projects in prison
• Resettlement work in the community
• Rehabilitative exhibiting and showcasing of work

Before you apply

The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting 2makeit withtheir Chair recruitment.

Applications should be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance.

To apply please submit your CV along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills and experience would add
value to the board. 2makeit are happy to have an informal conversation with anyone who is interested in the role. Please contact TrusteeWorks to arrange this.

About ReachOut

ReachOut is a national youth development charity and a strategic partner for schools. Through collective mentoring and engaging activities, we build socio-emotional skills that transform outcomes for young people constrained by circumstance.

Role of a Trustee

Our Board of trustees have shared responsibility for the overall governance, financial health and strategic direction of the charity, developing its organisational aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines.

In addition to the statutory duties, each Trustee uses their specific skills, knowledge and experience to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions and support the Chief Executive and Senior Management Team in delivering the charity’s mission.

As a Trustee of ReachOut, you will have the opportunity to help govern an ambitious organisation, knowing that your time will contribute to helping young people, who may not have the same advantages as others, develop the social and emotional skills and opportunities they need to thrive.

Who are we looking for?

We are interested in individuals with any of the below expertise:

• Senior Leaders or Head Teachers from Schools or Multi Academy Trusts
• Research, Monitoring & Evaluation
• Senior Leadership within a Corporate Environment
• Lived Experience aligned to the challenges faced by the young people we are here for

Person Specification

• Enthusiasm for ReachOut’s vision and mission.
• Understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship in the UK charity sector.
• Able to demonstrate strategic vision and think creatively.
• Willing to speak their mind and exercise independent judgement, whilst operating with tact and diplomacy.
• Ability to work with others in a way that supports positive board dynamics.
• Ability to represent the organisation credibly externally.
•  Availability and commitment to perform the role and dedicate the time required to fulfil the role.

Important Information

• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.
• ReachOut board meetings are held in-person in London, online if necessary.
• The overall time commitment for a Trustee is expected to be around 30 hours per annum. There are four full board meetings a year that last approx. 2 hours, outside regular office hours. Meetings are held on weekday evenings.

How to Apply

• Please visit our website for more information and how to apply
• Deadline: 9am 16th March 2026

Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

ReachOut is committed to being an inclusive and diverse organisation. We actively welcome applications from people of all ethnicities, ages, religious beliefs, gender identities, sexual orientations, and any other protected characteristics, to provide a diverse range of experiences, ideas, and insights into our work.We understand the importance of having trustees and committee members that reflect the backgrounds and experiences of the communities we serve. More than half of the young people we work with are from Black Caribbean, Black African, Bangladeshi, and Turkish backgrounds, so if you are from these ethnic groups, we would particularly appreciate receiving your applications.

Finance Trustee Position 

Exeter Students’ Guild is looking for a passionate and experienced External Finance Trustee to join our Board and help shape the future of our student-led organisation.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Trustees play a key part in making sure the Students’ Guild runs well and stays true to its purpose. As a Trustee, you’ll help set the Guild’s direction, support and challenge senior staff, and make sure we’re using our resources responsibly and operating within the law.

You’ll be joining a Board of 14 Trustees, made up of External Trustees, Student Trustees, and Elected Officer Trustees, all working together to support students at Exeter.

The role is a four-year term, with the option to serve a second term. You’ll need to meet The Charity Commission eligibility requirements. The role is unpaid, but reasonable expenses will be covered.

Further information can be found on our website.

Experience and Knowledge

We’re especially keen to hear from people who have:

• Senior-level experience in finance, accounting, or a related area
• An understanding of the challenges facing students in the UK and at the University of Exeter
• A good grasp of what good governance looks like
• Knowledge of the Higher Education sector and the issues it faces
• The time to commit to Board meetings, committee work, and key financial discussions

Skills

• The ability to ask questions and challenge the status quo.
• Sound judgement and the ability to think strategically, handle competing priorities and make informed decisions.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to build relationships with people at all levels.
• Able to respond positively to challenging situations and solve problems creatively.

Values and Attitude

• A demonstrable commitment to our values.
• Strong commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and able to engage with people from all backgrounds and at all levels.
• Passionate about working in a democratic, student led environment.

Interested?

Take a look at our Trustee Recruitment Pack for more details about the role and what we’re looking for.

How to Apply

To apply, please visit our recruitment portal to complete our application form by 8am, Monday 26th January 2026.

You’ll need:

• An up-to-date CV
• Short written answers (up to 300 words each) to:

• 1. Why do you want to be a Trustee at Exeter Students’ Guild, and how do your values align with ours?
  2. How would your skills and experience help the Trustee Board and staff team deliver our strategy?

Applications are open, and we’ll set up interviews as we meet great candidates.

Closing date for applications Rolling deadline

Panel interviewBased on candidate availability

First Trustee Board6th July 2026

Trustee Training30th June 2026

Please note we will aim to work flexibly with candidates around interview dates.

If you have any questions about the role, feel free to contact Dani Alexander - details can be found in the information pack or on our website. 

Testimonial from External Trustee, Sophie

What inspired you to become a trustee?

I was inspired to become a trustee to be able to use my experience and knowledge, both as a higher education professional and a former student (from a while ago!), to be part of something that benefits students and adds to their brilliant university experience. I also wanted to experience governance from 'the other side' and improve those skills.

How has the experience benefited you personally or professionally?

It has been really gratifying to be able to use what I do everyday and have it aid discussion. I've found it so interesting and refreshing to approach familiar topics from a completely different angle.

What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a trustee?

I would say to put yourself forward! Speak to someone who may have experience of being a trustee, have a look at the brilliant resources there are out there, and have confidence in your experience - a Board really needs a wide range of skills and experience and diversity of opinion, so go for it.

Do you want to be inspired by the impact of education? Schools across Leeds & the surrounding area are looking for skilled volunteers to support education by becoming school governors.

What will you be doing?

Governing bodies are responsible for the strategic management of a school and will make decisions about a wide range of issues

The core responsibilities involved are:

• Ensuring accountability
• Providing support and challenge to the schools senior leadership team
• Monitoring and evaluating the school’s progress
• Budgetary allocation and control
• Shaping plans for school improvement and overseeing their implementation
• Setting the school’s aims and values
• Appointing senior members of staff including the Head Teacher

The governing body is usually split in to a small number of committees, each responsible for one area such as finance or pupil achievement. These committees will meet separately from the main governing body to discuss relevant issues in more detail. Discussion is then fed back at a full governing body meeting.

A school governing body is made up of representatives from the school, the parents, the local authority and the local community.

What are we looking for?

You don’t need any specific skills or experience to be a school governor. You must be over 18, but you don’t need to be a parent or have experience working in education. Often, it’s the outside perspective you can bring that a school needs.

Professional experience in areas such as HR, finance, law, or project management are all useful to a school. But soft skills such as leadership, communication, and problem solving are also great additions.

What difference will you make?

Governors make decisions that affect schools for years to come. Our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9/10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend. 

As a governor, you can visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos and to get the most out of the role. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand.

What's in it for the volunteer?

Volunteering as a school governor is a challenging but rewarding role. As part of the governing board, you’ll:

• help schools overcome challenges to ensure a bright future for children in your community
• work collaboratively with people from different backgrounds, challenging your own perspective and broadening your network
• gain experience outside of your job description and skills you can bring back to work

Before you apply

You will need to complete an application form and will have an interview with the school. DBS checks will be taken up.

CHASE Africa is a UK-based international NGO that supports local partners in East Africa to improve health and wellbeing in marginalised rural communities. We are looking for a Trustee with finance skills, to replace our current Treasurer. You will provide scrutiny and oversight of the work of CHASE Africa, with a particular focus on financial issues.  You will use your financial knowledge and experience to monitor the financial administration of the charity and report to the Board of Trustees on its state of financial health and provide the board with the confidence and knowledge to make good strategic decisions. 

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with extensive financial expertise, who is seeking a voluntary position where they can apply their skills to a meaningful mission.

Since its inception 12 years ago, CHASE Africa has grown from scratch to an income in 2025 of over £830,000 – delivering over 1.5 million healthcare and family planning services to often isolated rural communities. We have a strong and highly motivated staff team and a thriving network of local partners that has expanded from Kenya into Uganda and, later this year, Tanzania.

CHASE Africa’s projects have already brought healthcare and empowerment to tens of thousands of lives, particularly for women and girls, mitigating poverty and helping protect local environments.It has the capacity and opportunity to greatly extend its impact – both geographically and in terms of numbers reached.

We are a small but dedicated team based in Somerset, committed to a collaborative approach to partnership. We're currently going through an exciting period of transition and growth, with a new CEO in 2022, a new charitable structure in 2023, and a new Finance Manager at the start of 2026. Your role will be vital in helping us achieve our future goals.

The Role

• Liaise with CEO and Trustees to ensure the financial viability of the organisation’s strategy 
• Advise on the financial implications of CA’s strategic plan (3 year) 
• Present CA’s financial position and broader context at Trustees Board meetings 
• Support the finance manager with the production of an annual budget 
• Ensure that the Board is aware of its financial duties and responsibilities and the need to comply with all legislation 
• Take a lead in interpreting financial data for fellow Board members 
• Ensure that all financial policies, procedures and the appointment of external financial advisors are reviewed on a regular basis
• Ensure relevant financial policies are in place as required by the charity commission 
• Be willing to be available to support the charity’s CEO and Senior Finance Manager as needed 
• Review the monthly management accounts report and cashflow with the CEO and finance manager 
• Liaise with senior staff to ensure financial reports are user friendly for non-finance trustees

About You

• Good background in financial management and analysis
• Able to communicate financial information clearly and to people with different levels of financial and data literacy. 
• Knowledge and experience of finance practice relevant to voluntary and community organisations. 
• Have an excellent ability to interpret financial information and the confidence to raise questions and challenge 
• Have a good understanding of, or be willing to learn, the rules and regulation around charity finance 
• Have the ability to think creatively and strategically, exercising good and impartial judgement 
• Knowledge of current accounting processes, tools and procedures 
• High proficiency in Excel, Powerpoint for analysis and presentation 
• Understands and accepts the legal duties, liabilities and responsibilities of Trustees, and the difference between governance functions and management functions  
• High level of integrity and sound judgement 
• Commitment to CA’s vision, purpose and culture and its way of working 
• Able and willing to devote the necessary time to the role 

Additional Desirable 

• CCAB/CIMA qualified professional or qualified by experience in financial management
• Awareness and understanding of the campaigning world and the health community in developing countries. 
• An interest in international development and the issues we are supporting our partners to tackle in East Africa. 

For full information, please see the attached information pack.

To apply for this post, please submit a CV and covering letter by email by the 27th March 2026. The cover letter should be no longer than two pages long and explain why you are interested in this post and how your skills and experience make you a good fit.

Do you want to be inspired by the impact of education? Schools across Derby and the surrounding area are looking for skilled volunteers to support education by becoming school governors.

What will you be doing?

Governing bodies are responsible for the strategic management of a school and will make decisions about a wide range of issues

The core responsibilities involved are:

• Ensuring accountability
• Providing support and challenge to the schools senior leadership team
• Monitoring and evaluating the school’s progress
• Budgetary allocation and control
• Shaping plans for school improvement and overseeing their implementation
• Setting the school’s aims and values
• Appointing senior members of staff including the Head Teacher

The governing body is usually split in to a small number of committees, each responsible for one area such as finance or pupil achievement. These committees will meet separately from the main governing body to discuss relevant issues in more detail. Discussion is then fed back at a full governing body meeting.

A school governing body is made up of representatives from the school, the parents, the local authority and the local community.

What are we looking for?

You don’t need any specific skills or experience to be a school governor. You must be over 18, but you don’t need to be a parent or have experience working in education. Often, it’s the outside perspective you can bring that a school needs.

Professional experience in areas such as HR, finance, law, or project management are all useful to a school. But soft skills such as leadership, communication, and problem solving are also great additions.

What difference will you make?

Governors make decisions that affect schools for years to come. Our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9/10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend. 

As a governor, you can visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos and to get the most out of the role. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand.

What's in it for the volunteer?

Volunteering as a school governor is a challenging but rewarding role. As part of the governing board, you’ll:

• help schools overcome challenges to ensure a bright future for children in your community
• work collaboratively with people from different backgrounds, challenging your own perspective and broadening your network
• gain experience outside of your job description and skills you can bring back to work

Before you apply

You will need to complete an application form and will have an interview with the school. DBS checks will be taken up

Trustee

We are seeking three committed Trustees to join a national fostering Board at a pivotal time, supporting strategic growth and championing foster care across the UK.

Position: Trustee (Volunteer)
Organisation: The Fostering Network
Location: UK wide. Particular interest in Wales and Northern Ireland
Hours: Approximately 10 to 15 days per year
Term: 3 years, renewable for up to two further terms
Remuneration: Voluntary role. Reasonable travel expenses reimbursed
Closing Date: Monday 23 February 2026
Interview Dates: W/C 16 and 23 March 2026

About the Role

This is an opportunity to join the Board of Trustees at a national fostering charity, following the launch of a new organisational strategy and the appointment of a new Chair in 2025. Trustees play a vital role in setting strategic direction, ensuring strong governance and supporting the organisation to deliver meaningful change for children and young people in foster care.

Key responsibilities include:

· Providing strategic oversight and constructive challenge at Board level

· Supporting delivery of the five year organisational strategy

· Acting as an ambassador for the charity and its values

· Contributing to effective governance, risk management and financial oversight

· Building strong relationships with fellow Trustees, senior leaders and stakeholders

· Attending Board and committee meetings, both in person and online

About You

You will bring personal experience of the foster care sector and a strong commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people.

We are particularly interested in candidates who:

· Are based in Wales or Northern Ireland

· Are qualified social workers working within fostering services

· Have skills in finance, particularly qualified accountants

· Have experience in commercial or business development

You will demonstrate sound judgement, strategic thinking, discretion and the ability to contribute confidently within a Board setting.

About the Organisation

The UK’s leading fostering charity and membership organisation. Founded 50 years ago by foster carers, it works across all four nations to influence policy, improve practice and strengthen the fostering community. At the heart of its work is a belief in the power of relationships to transform lives.

Other roles you may have experience of could include; Trustee, Non Executive Director, Board Member, Independent Board Member, Social Work Leader, Finance Director, Commercial Director, Strategic Advisor.

The Sutton Trust is at a pivotal moment in its development. For nearly three decades, we have been the UK’s leading voice on social mobility, working tirelessly to break the link between socio-economic background and life chances. Today, that mission is as urgent as it has ever been. Despite pockets of progress, social mobility in the UK remains low by international standards, with deep inequalities in education, access to professions, and regional opportunity continuing to limit life chances and economic potential.

We are seeking a Trustee with policy expertise who shares our commitment to fairness, evidence, and long-term change. We value diversity of thought and experience, and we are keen to hear from those who can help us navigate an evolving political landscape and leverage our research to challenge systemic barriers, ensuring our voice remains the most influential in the national drive to transform social mobility.

Duties and Responsibilities of a Trustee

Policy Responsibilities

• Providing oversight for the charity’s research and advocacy, ensuring the Trust’s work is mission-aligned, evidence-based, and intellectually rigorous
• Supporting the Board in discharging their collective duties around planning, risk and compliance, particularly in areas such as horizon scanning for upcoming legislative changes, political shifts and shifts in social trends affecting the Trust as well as specific regulations around political neutrality
• Leveraging their professional networks and expertise, enhancing the charity’s credibility and influence, ensuring our research translates into meaningful systemic change

General Responsibilities

• Inputting into and agreeing the Trust’s vision, mission and values and providing advice on the Trust’s wider purpose, goals and activities
• Inputting into and agreeing the Trust’s aims and long-term strategy in furtherance of its charitable purpose
• Ensuring key risks are identified, monitored and controlled effectively as well as keeping abreast of changes in the Trust’s operating environment
• Monitoring the Trust’s performance against its strategic aims, operational plans and budgets
• Safeguarding and promoting the Trust’s reputation, and acting in the best interest of the Trust at all times
• Ensuring the financial stability and sustainability of the Trust
• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place
• Ensuring proper arrangements are in place for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and renumeration of the CEO and they are held to account
• Contributing to regular reviews of the Trust’s own governance
• Ensuring the Trust complies with its governing documents, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations

In addition to the above statutory duties, each Trustee should use their specific skills, knowledge and experience to contribute to the Board’s decision-making, and dedicate sufficient time to carry out their responsibilities effectively. This may involve sitting on Board Committees, scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise.

Trustees aim to support a specific member of the SLT based on their skills and experience or may participate in appropriate subgroups, e.g., Alumni Leadership Board, Education Advisory Group, (Development) Board meetings, etc.

Person Specification

Mission and Values

• Sympathetic to the aims of the Trust and its mission to address educational disadvantage
• High level of personal and professional ethics, integrity, and accountability
• Willingness to safeguard and promote the Trust’s reputation within the wider sector

Strategy and Interpersonal Skills

• Ability to think strategically in order to provide appropriate oversight and scrutiny for the Trust’s overall activity and direction
• Ability to confidently and fairly make evidence-based decisions and constructively challenge the decisions of others if required
• Ability to collaborate and work as part of a team to provide advice, make decisions, and/or solve problems
• A commitment to personal development and a willingness to participate in regular reviews of the Board’s own performance and governance

Governance, Risk and Finance

• Understanding of the legal duties of a Trustee (or willingness to learn), including compliance with Charity Commission and Companies House regulations and commitment to the roles and responsibilities of a Trustee
• Awareness of (or willingness to learn about) financial health indicators and organisational risk management

Specialist Expertise and Experience

• A background in public affairs, civil service, think tanks, education sector organisations or senior policy or research roles in (education) charities
• Strong understanding of how UK government (at local, regional or national level) and/ or the UK education sector works
• Strong influencing and communications skills with the ability to lead discussions, provide expert advice, and influence stakeholders in a professional manner
• Good understanding of how to translate policy jargon into clear, strategic advice for the wider Trustee Board

Interviews

Applications should reach us by 10am, Monday 30th March. First round interviews will take place on Wednesday 15th and Thursday 16th April, and second round interviews will take place w/c 27th April or w/c 4th May. All interviews will be held at our London offices in Millbank Tower.