Governance management volunteer roles

Chair of Trustees – Hackney Playbus

Are you passionate about giving every child the best start in life?

Hackney Playbus has supported children and families across Hackney for more than 50 years through free, inclusive play sessions, family support and community outreach. We are now looking for an inspiring and collaborative Chair of Trustees to help lead the organisation into its next chapter.

This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside an experienced Board and Co-Directors to shape the strategic direction of a well-established local charity with a strong reputation and growing ambition.

As Chair, you will provide leadership to the Board, ensuring strong governance, thoughtful decision-making and a clear focus on our charitable mission. You will support and challenge the Co-Directors, help build an engaged and diverse Board, and act as an ambassador for Hackney Playbus with partners, funders and the wider community.

We’re looking for someone with strategic leadership experience, excellent communication skills and a collaborative approach. Previous Chair experience is welcome but not essential; we’d also love to hear from people with senior leadership, governance or committee experience who are ready to take on their first Chair role.

This is a voluntary position requiring approximately 1–2 days per month, including quarterly Board meetings, regular meetings with the Co-Directors and occasional attendance at events and partnership meetings.

Alongside recruiting our new Chair, we are also seeking trustees with expertise in:

• Fundraising and income generation
• Corporate partnerships and employee volunteering
• Communications and marketing
• Advocacy and influencing

By joining Hackney Playbus, you’ll help ensure that children can play, families feel supported, and communities continue to thrive.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences and are particularly keen to hear from people who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

JUSTICE is seeking a new Treasurer and two new Board Members. Whilst it is essential that the Treasurer has a high level of financial literacy, it would be highly desirable for the other two new board members to bring credible, senior expertise in  fundraising or communications. We are particularly interested in recruiting Board members with experience from outside the legal sector.

Our Treasurer should have specific and significant financial management and/or accountancy experience and will chair our Finance, Risk and Audit Committee. They will provide oversight and challenge in relation to our annual budget, our accounts, our audit, internal controls and risk management as well as provide strategic advice and assurance to the Board and the Executive Team.

JUSTICE’s Board Members are responsible for the overall governance, strategic direction and long-term sustainability of JUSTICE. Working collectively, they support the organisation in pursuing its charitable objectives, safeguarding its assets and reputation, fundraising and ensuring that it operates effectively and in compliance with all relevant laws, particularly legislation governing charities and companies.

Board Members of JUSTICE are expected to prepare for and attend four Board meetings per year, including a half day “away day”, and in addition to join Board Committees as appropriate which also meet four times per year. Board Members are also encouraged to attend two Council meetings per year, including an in person half-day conference.

If this sounds like something you would be good at and enjoy, please do apply.

Wintercomfort is seeking to appoint new Trustees to join our Board. If you are keen to shape the strategic direction of the charity and support strong, effective governance, we would love to hear from you. We are particularly interested to recruit people with homelessness sector knowledge and experience. However, we warmly welcome applications from individuals with a wide range of professional backgrounds and lived experiences who can bring fresh perspectives and a commitment to our mission.

About Us

Wintercomfort is an advice and support hub for homeless and vulnerably housed people in Cambridge.  Open daily throughout the year, we provide services to aid every stage of recovery – from immediate basic welfare needs to long-term support to help people overcome challenges and fulfil their potential.  We offer housing and tenancy support, debt advice, support with training and employment, access to a range of mental and physical health services, a dedicated women’s programme, and work to promote social inclusion.

We are looking for people to join an experienced and passionate Board of Trustees who work collaboratively in providing strategic oversight and governance of Wintercomfort, to ensure its financial stability and that it achieves its mission.  No prior experience of the charity sector is required.  Induction and training is provided for all new Trustees.

Wintercomfort is committed to celebrating diversity, promoting equality, fostering equal opportunities and tackling discrimination in all it does.

This is a voluntary, unpaid, position for an initial term of 3 years. Reasonable travel expenses can be paid.

We are welcoming applications until 14th September 2026.

Interested?

We have attached the Candidate Pack to this advert with more information about the role duties and to help with your application. If you would like to apply for this position, please click the apply button and attach your CV and a short letter outlining why you would like to become a trustee of Wintercomfort and what skills you would bring to the board, it will be sent automatically to us.

Could you use your financial expertise to help shape the future of a community-focused charity, at a pivotal moment of change?

Voluntary Action North Somerset (VANS) is an established infrastructure charity supporting, connecting and championing voluntary and community organisations across North Somerset and beyond. With a strong local reputation and a clear ambition for the future, VANS plays a vital role in strengthening communities by bringing organisations together, amplifying collective voice, and enabling others to deliver impact.

We’re looking for a new Finance Trustee to help ensure the charity remains financially resilient, sustainable and well-positioned for long-term growth.

Location: Based in North Somerset, working across the South West and beyond
Remuneration: Voluntary, with expenses covered
Time commitment: Approximately 1–2 days per month. Currently, 4 Board meetings and 2 Development Days per annum, 4 Finance Committee meetings, plus occasional ad-hoc meetings, preparation and support around budgeting, annual accounts and financial planning.

About the opportunity

You'll join a committed Board and work alongside the Chief Executive, Finance Committee and external finance support to help oversee the charity's financial health and sustainability.

As Lead Finance Trustee, you'll also chair the Finance Committee, helping to ensure robust financial oversight, effective governance and informed decision-making.

You'll play a key role in:

• Providing strategic financial oversight and assurance to the Board
• Supporting long-term financial sustainability and organisational resilience
• Chairing the Finance Committee and strengthening financial governance
• Ensuring financial information is accessible for non-financial trustees
• Supporting budgeting, forecasting, reserve management, risk oversight

About you

We're open to different backgrounds and pathways into this role. You may already be a Finance Trustee, Treasurer or Finance Committee Chair, or you may be a senior finance professional looking to take on your first board-level governance role. What matters most is your ability to provide relevant strategic financial leadership and support effective decision-making.

We're particularly interested in people who can:

• Bring a recognised accountancy qualification and strong financial management experience
• Interpret financial information and translate it clearly for non-financial audiences
• Support strategic thinking around growth, sustainability and income diversification
• Balance scrutiny and challenge in a collaborative and supportive way
• Operate confidently at both a strategic and governance level

Previous charity trustee experience would be welcome, but is not essential. Experience of charity finance, accounting regulations and SORP is also highly valuable.

How to apply

A CV or short profile is a great first step. We'd also welcome an informal conversation if you'd prefer to ask some questions first. Amelia Lee at Charity People is leading this search.

Deadline: Applications are being reviewed on a rolling basis. If you feel this approach disadvantages you in any way, please get in touch with Amelia, who will ensure you are given full and fair consideration and do not miss out.

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

Chair of the Board – Sweaty Betty Foundation
Location: Remote with occasional in-person commitments
Term: Three years, renewable once
Time Commitment: Approximately one day per month
Remuneration: Voluntary position

Help Shape a Future Where Every Girl Can Thrive
Are you a strategic, values-driven leader with a passion for creating lasting social impact?
The Sweaty Betty Foundation is seeking an inspiring Chair of the Board to lead Trustees as the organisation continues to deliver impact. This is a unique opportunity to help shape a mission-driven organisation that is dedicated to empowering women and girls through physical activity, confidence-building, and opportunity creation.

About the organisation:
The Sweaty Betty Foundation exists to remove the barriers that prevent women and girls from participating in physical activity. Through strategic grant-making, partnerships, co-designed programmes and sector collaboration, they support organisations creating meaningful change for teenage girls facing the greatest inequalities. Guided by a commitment to “Listen to Girls”, they place young women’s voices at the heart of everything they do.

The vision is simple but ambitious:
A world where every woman and girl is active, healthy, happy, and empowered to reach her full potential.

The Opportunity:
As Chair, you will provide inclusive, strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring the Foundation delivers maximum impact through strong governance, clear accountability, and an unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion. Working closely with the Director and Trustees, you will help steer the organisation’s future while championing the voices and experiences of girls who are often furthest from opportunity.

This voluntary position offers the chance to:

• Influence meaningful change for women and girls across the UK.
• Lead a passionate and purpose-driven Board.
• Shape strategy and organisational growth at a pivotal moment.
• Champion equity, diversity and inclusion in governance and decision-making.
• Build powerful partnerships that drive systemic change.

About You:
We’re seeking an experienced and collaborative leader who brings:

• Previous Chair, Trustee, Board or senior governance experience
• Strong understanding of governance, risk management and strategic leadership
• A genuine commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion
• Outstanding relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills
• The confidence to provide both support and constructive challenge
• Passion for improving outcomes for girls and young women

Experience within the charity, social impact, sport, health, education or gender-equity sectors would be highly valuable, although we welcome candidates from a broad range of backgrounds whose skills and perspectives can strengthen the Board.

Recruitment Timeline
To ensure equitable access to information and uphold the Foundation’s commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, they will be hosting a Q&A webinar in place of individual informal calls with the current Chair. We encourage all interested candidates to submit questions in advance, which will be addressed during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar on Tuesday 4th August 6-7pm and we will send you a link.

Application Deadline: 5pm Friday 14th August 2026

How to Apply
Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to Sweaty Betty Foundation on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to Senior Appoinments at Charity People and request a candidate pack in the first instance.

For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala or Tiku van Houtem at Charity People.

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

Charity People actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion. We match charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we know greater diversity will lead to even greater results for the charities with which we work.

Could you help shape the future of Katherine Low Settlement?

We're looking for a new Treasurer Trustee to join our Board.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with financial experience to use their skills to support one of Battersea's longest-established charities.

About Katherine Low Settlement

Katherine Low Settlement is a busy, local charity that has been serving Battersea and the wider Wandsworth community since 1924. We are dedicated to building stronger communities and enable people to challenge and find ways out of poverty and isolation. We run a range of our own community services to support local older people and children, young people, and their families from refugee communities. We campaign for social change. We incubate and support other charities and social businesses to thrive. Each week we work with 30+ charities and community groups supporting more than 1,000 people every year.

About the Role

KLS is looking for a Treasurer Trustee to bring financial insight, sound judgement and strategic challenge to our Board. This is a rewarding opportunity to help a community-focused charity stay financially strong, well governed and able to make a lasting difference for people in Battersea and Wandsworth.

What You’ll Do

• Guide Board-level understanding of KLS’s finances, risks and long-term sustainability.

• Chair the Finance Committee and help turn financial information into clear, confident decisions.

• Provide Board level scrutiny of budgets, management accounts, reserves, cash flow, controls and annual accounts, including reviewing income and expenditure, monitoring restricted and unrestricted funds, and supporting year-end reporting.

• Provide constructive challenge on funding, strategy, financial planning and major commitments, including grant budgets, funder reporting, reserves planning and financial sustainability.

• Champion transparent, ethical financial stewardship that supports safe, effective services.

• Contribute to wider discussions on strategy, governance, safeguarding and organisational sustainability, in a more general trustee capacity.

Who We’re Looking For

• Financial confidence, curiosity and clarity, with the ability to read the numbers and ask thoughtful questions.

• Ability to help others engage with finance in a practical, accessible way.

• Experience in finance, accountancy, audit, risk, grant management, charity finance, trusteeship or the voluntary and community sector.

• Understanding of charity finance, including monitoring restricted funds, reviewing management accounts, supporting reserves policy, preparing for audit or independent examination, and helping trustees understand financial risks.

• A professional accountancy qualification is welcome but not essential if you have broader financial leadership or governance experience. 

• Previous trustee experience is desirable but not essential.

Equality, Diversity and Accessibility

We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds, especially those with lived experience, community connections or insight into the communities KLS serves. We are committed to an accessible recruitment process and will make reasonable adjustments where needed.

Appointment Requirements

Appointment is subject to eligibility to act as a charity trustee and, where applicable, as a company director, a satisfactory DBS check and any relevant identity verification requirements.

How to Apply

If you are interested in using your financial skills to support local impact, we would love to hear from you. Please send a CV and short supporting statement outlining your interest in KLS, your relevant financial or governance experience, and what you would bring to the Board to Sarah Gibb, KLS CEO.

Closing date: Friday 28th August 2026

Fort Amherst Heritage Trust cares for Fort Amherst in Chatham, Kent, preserving an important historic site and making it available for the benefit, enjoyment and education of the wider community. The Trust relies heavily on volunteers to help maintain, restore, interpret and promote the site for present and future generations.

Role Purpose

Trustees are collectively responsible for the governance, strategic direction and long-term sustainability of Fort Amherst Heritage Trust. As a Trustee, you will help ensure that the charity fulfils its charitable purposes, complies with its legal duties and makes decisions in the best interests of the Trust and the communities it serves.

Key Responsibilities

· Work with fellow Trustees to set and review the Trust’s vision, strategy and priorities.

· Ensure the Trust carries out its charitable purposes for the public benefit.

· Oversee the responsible management of the Trust’s finances, assets, buildings, grounds and collections.

· Support good governance by complying with the Trust’s governing document, charity law and relevant regulations.

· Monitor risks, policies and procedures, including health and safety, safeguarding, finance, data protection and volunteer management.

· Contribute to discussions and decisions at Board meetings, reading papers in advance and offering constructive challenge and support.

· Act as an ambassador for Fort Amherst, promoting its heritage, community value and volunteer-led work.

· Support fundraising, partnership development and community engagement where appropriate.

· Declare and manage any conflicts of interest and maintain confidentiality where required.

Skills and Experience

We welcome applications from people with a commitment to heritage, community benefit and good governance. Previous trustee experience is helpful but not essential. The Trust is particularly interested in people who can bring one or more of the following areas of experience:

· Heritage, museums, archives, conservation or historic buildings.

· Finance, fundraising, grant applications or business planning.

· Education, learning, interpretation or visitor experience.

· Volunteer management, community engagement or inclusion.

· Marketing, communications, events or digital engagement.

· Legal, governance, risk management, health and safety or safeguarding.

· Property, estates, facilities management or environmental stewardship.

Personal Qualities

· A genuine interest in Fort Amherst, local heritage and public benefit.

· Sound judgement, integrity and a willingness to act collectively with other Trustees.

· Ability to think strategically while understanding practical operational challenges.

· Confidence to ask questions, offer constructive challenge and support good decision-making.

· Commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and respectful working relationships.

· Willingness to give sufficient time and attention to the role.

Easy Housing Association (EHA) is a mission-driven Registered Social Landlord (RSL), committed to delivering safe, secure, and affordable homes for those who need them most. We are strengthening our Board of Trustees at an important moment for the organisation, and are seeking experienced, strategic individuals to join us across four specialist areas: supported housing operations, finance and viability, governance and charity law, and health & safety/compliance.

As a trustee, you will provide high level oversight, advise, challenge, and support EHA's leadership, and help us meet our legal obligations, protect tenant wellbeing, and maintain long-term sustainability, including through the regulatory improvement work set out below.

About Easy Housing Association and the Current Regulatory Position

Easy Housing Association (EHA) is a registered provider of social housing, regulated by the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH). In July 2025, RSH issued an Enforcement Notice concluding that EHA had not met the Governance and Financial Viability Standard and required EHA to commission an independent appraisal and deliver a board-approved action plan to address the issues identified.

As part of this process, RSH has made statutory appointments to EHA's Board to strengthen governance capacity, and EHA is separately recruiting an Interim Manager with statutory powers under the Enforcement Notice. EHA is committed to full transparency with RSH and to delivering the improvements required.

We are recruiting additional Non-Executive Directors as part of this strengthening of the Board. This is a genuine opportunity to bring specialist expertise to an organisation actively working through a defined improvement journey, with the backing and support of an engaged, RSH-appointed board and executive team. Candidates should be comfortable operating in a regulated, enforcement environment and bring the independence and rigour that context requires.

Time commitment

Trustees are expected to attend monthly board meetings (approximately 2.5 hours online) and commit an additional 4 hours per month to board-related duties, including reading papers, joining sub-committees, or contributing expertise.

What you’ll gain

• A high-impact role in a values-led, tenant-focused RSL
• Opportunities to shape policy, compliance, and social impact
• Professional development in governance, housing, and regulation
• The fulfilment of helping improve lives through safe, secure housing

EHA is proud to be an inclusive and tenant-focused RSL. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds especially those with lived experience of social housing.

NED — Governance & Charity Law

Non‑Executive Status: This is a non‑executive, governance‑only role. The postholder provides oversight and assurance but does not participate in operational management.

Purpose: Strengthen governance, regulatory compliance, and charity law oversight, ensuring EHA meets RSH and Charity Commission expectations.

This role directly supports EHA's governance improvement work, including its response to an ongoing Charity Commission matter, and requires a candidate comfortable providing rigorous, independent challenge.

Core Responsibilities:

· Provide assurance on governance frameworks, CC11, conflicts, and probity

· Support Board effectiveness, succession planning, and compliance

· Advise on charity law, constitutional matters, and regulatory reporting

· Strengthen oversight of policies, delegations, and decision‑making

· Provide scrutiny of governance risks

Essential Skills:

· Strong governance and charity law experience

· Knowledge of CC3, CC11, and regulatory expectations

· Experience supporting Boards through improvement or regulatory engagement

Desirable:

· Experience with Charity Commission investigations

What does it look like to Chair a charity at a pivotal moment of change?

Voluntary Action North Somerset (VANS) is an established infrastructure charity supporting, connecting and championing voluntary and community organisations across North Somerset and beyond.

With a strong local reputation and a clear ambition for the future, VANS plays a vital role in strengthening communities by bringing organisations together, amplifying collective voice, and enabling others to deliver impact.

Now, at an important point in its development, the organisation is focused on building on its strengths, refining how it works, and positioning itself to be futureproof. We’re looking for a new Chair to lead the charity into its next phase.

Location: Based in North Somerset working across the South West and beyond
Remuneration: Voluntary, with expenses covered

Time commitment: Governance commitment supported by a Vice-Chair. Currently, 4 Board meetings and 2 Development days per annum, 3-4 Governance group meetings, regular meetings with the CEO, as well as ad-hoc meetings, preparation and urgent matters arising.

About the opportunity

This is a Chair role with real scope to shape both direction and approach. You’ll work alongside a committed Board and Chief Executive to provide strategic leadership, focus on achieving growth, and building a high-performing team and organisation as it continues to evolve.

As Chair, you’ll play a key role in:

• Keeping the Board focused, effective and forward‑looking
• Providing support and constructive challenge to the Chief Executive
• Ensuring clear governance, decision-making, and delivery

About you

We’re open to different backgrounds and pathways into this role. You may already be a Chair, or an experienced trustee or senior leader ready to be one. What matters most is your ability to provide confident, thoughtful and effective leadership.

We’re particularly interested in people who can:

• Operate at a senior strategic level and see the bigger picture
• Build strong, effective relationships across a Board and executive team
• Balance support and challenge in a constructive way
• Bring a level of commercial awareness and focus on sustainability

Experience of the voluntary sector, health or place‑based working would be valuable, but it’s not essential if you can quickly build that understanding.

Why this role matters

VANS has laid solid foundations under the previous Chair’s tenure, with a strong local reputation, passionate people and now gathering momentum.

The next Chair will play an important role in ensuring the organisation is:

· Strategically-focussed, well governed and meets its goals

· Investing in building VANS and financially resilient

• Ready to grow its impact across North Somerset and beyond

This is a unique and special opportunity to meaningfully contribute to an organisation at the heart of community life.

How to apply

A CV or short profile is a great first step. We’d also welcome an informal conversation if you’d prefer to ask some questions first.

Amelia Lee at Charity People is leading this search.

Deadline: As this role has been advertised previously, we will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis. If you feel this approach disadvantages you in any way at all, please get in touch with Amelia, who will ensure you are given full and fair consideration and do not miss out.

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

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who wants to get involved in an impactful charity making a tangible difference to the lives of refugees here in the UK.

Our work is simple – we refurbish unwanted bikes and donate them to refugees and people seeking asylum, many living on less than £7 a day, giving them freedom and independence whilst they rebuild their lives.

A bike makes a huge difference – not only is it a practical tool for tackling poverty, those who receive bikes from us report they are more connected in their community, happier and healthier as a result:

• 91% of people use their bikes weekly for essential journeys

• 84% of people are better able to access legal and other vital support services 

• 93% report better physical and/or mental health

Alongside our core Bike Donations Programme, we support refugee women to learn to cycle through our Pedal Power Programme; provide ongoing support with bike maintenance through our Repair or Replace Programme; and offer the opportunity for connection and friendship through our volunteer-matching Bike Buddy Programme.

“The Bike Project has given me so much more than just a bicycle — it has given me confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging. Receiving a bike as a gift allowed me to feel free in society, explore my community, and even join a cycling group where I’ve met wonderful people. 

Thank you again for everything you do. Your work changes lives, including mine.”  
Ladan, Bike Recipient 

About You and the Role  

You don’t need to have experience of being on a Board. In fact, the role would be ideal for someone considering taking on their first role as a trustee. We will work with you to understand your duties as a trustee and support you.

You will, however, have experience of one of more of priority areas we are looking for:

• Personal experience of our programmes and/or the UK asylum system
• Press and PR
• Charity governance
• Public, philanthropy and/or high-net worth giving
• Sector experience and/or contacts relevant to the work of The Bike Project

You will be joining a highly committed group of trustees who give their time, expertise and contacts to support the charity. Our trustees are critical in enabling us to thrive and this role plays a key role in supporting the wider board to fulfil its financial responsibilities.

You will work together with the wider staff team to set our strategic direction and improve our work with refugees. At the heart of everything we do is the real and immediate impact a bike makes to the lives of those who have been through so much. You will be part of us achieving that.

The time commitment for a trustee generally totals approximately 8 hours per month. Please see the role description for further details. 

Application Process  

Deadline for Applications: Friday 28 August 2026

Interviews: Late September – Early October 2026.

Appointment: October 2026 

We particularly encourage applications from people with personal experience of the asylum process, women, people of colour / people of the global majority, and people with disabilities.  

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact hradmin [at] thebikeproject [dot] co [dot] uk

About Thames21

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

What We Do:

Empower communities to care for rivers

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

Restore rivers and nature

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

Build climate resilience

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

The role

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

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

The Role

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

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

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

What You Will Be Doing

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

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking someone who has:

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

Desirable but not essential:

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

Why Join Thames21?

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

This role offers the opportunity to:

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

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

Time Commitment

Approximately 6–10 days per year, including:

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

To Apply

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

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

Are you looking for a new and exciting opportunity which makes a positive difference to the everyday lives of others?

Then why not consider becoming a Trustee of Westminster Amalgamated Charity? 

Westminster Amalgamated Charity can trace its origins to Earl Craven’s Pest House, founded in 1665 to alleviate the suffering of plague victims. In 1961 Earl Craven’s Pest House was amalgamated with 6 other Westminster based charities, all of which had similar objects – the relief of need - to form the Charity which exists today.

Westminster is a city of contrasts, the seat of monarchs, the mother of parliaments and home to an ethnically diverse population. However, amongst the palaces, grand buildings and affluent residential areas there exist pockets of extreme deprivation. The remit of the Charity is the relief of need and it carries out its objects through 2 grants programmes, distributing annually approximately £200,000, of which £150,000 is distributed to front-line charities dealing directly with their own beneficiaries and the balance, via referring agencies, to individuals. Grants to organisations cover the areas of addiction, children & youth, community, the elderly, health and disability and homelessness. Grants to individuals are capped at £500 and are awarded for clothing, essential household items such as furniture, white goods and kitchen equipment and floor coverings.

Westminster Amalgamated Charity is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation which affords the Trustees limited liability whilst keeping the Charity solely under the umbrella of the Charity Commission.

We are looking to recruit a number of Trustees to the Board. An interest in and a knowledge of the Borough of Westminster is desirable but not essential.

Being a Trustee of Westminster Amalgamated Charity is an exciting and challenging role, bringing with it opportunities for applying strategic thinking, finance, planning, creativity, and stewardship which can help guide the Charity to achieve its goal. Our Trustees give their time voluntarily and the positions are unremunerated, but reasonable out of pocket expenses may be allowable.

As a Trustee, you’ll serve as a member of the Board and will also have opportunities to interact with the CEO and staff, adding to the range of knowledge, skills, and experience within the Charity’s team.  The Trustee role also includes responsibilities for the governance of the Charity, regulatory compliance and the effective stewardship of our finances and resources. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate based on disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

If you would like to become a Trustee and have an interest in the relief of need then we’d be delighted to hear from you.

To apply, or for more information please forward your CV or details by email to Argonaut HR, the Charity’s retained consultant for all HR and recruitment matters:

IAPWA is seeking an experienced HR Volunteer to provide strategic guidance and independent oversight of our people practices. This role is focused on supporting good governance rather than delivering day-to-day HR operations.

Working alongside the CEO and relevant staff, the volunteer will help ensure the charity's HR policies, procedures and practices remain compliant with UK employment legislation, reflect best practice, and support a positive and inclusive working environment.

This is an advisory role requiring a couple of hours per week, with flexibility around when those hours are completed. The volunteer will act as a trusted source of HR knowledge, helping the charity identify potential risks, strengthen governance, and continuously improve its people practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide independent advice and guidance on HR matters to support good governance.
• Review HR policies and procedures periodically, recommending updates to reflect changes in legislation and best practice.
• Support the charity in maintaining compliance with UK employment law and relevant Charity Commission expectations.
• Provide advice on people-related risks and help identify appropriate mitigation measures.
• Offer guidance on employee relations matters where required, whilst recognising that operational HR activities are undertaken by others.
• Support the development of fair, consistent and inclusive HR practices.
• Review and advise on staff handbook content and employment-related documentation as required.
• Provide input into organisational culture, employee wellbeing and engagement initiatives where appropriate.
• Help ensure appropriate HR records, governance processes and documentation are maintained.
• Provide guidance on safer recruitment, equality, diversity and inclusion, learning and development, performance management and other HR best practice.
• Attend occasional meetings (virtually or in person) as agreed.

Essential Experience/Skills

• Previous experience working within Human Resources, People Management or a related HR profession.
• Good knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice.
• Experience developing or reviewing HR policies and procedures.
• Ability to provide balanced, pragmatic and confidential advice.
• Understanding of good governance and organisational risk management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organisational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and manage a small voluntary time commitment.
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Understanding of confidentiality and data protection requirements.
• A commitment to the values and aims of the charity.

Desirable

• Chartered membership or associate membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).
• Previous experience within the voluntary or charity sector.
• Experience supporting small organisations with HR governance and compliance.

​Who are Governors for Schools?

Governors for Schools operates across England and Wales to improve educational standards and ensure all children and young people have the chance to realise their full potential.

We believe the key to improving school performance is effective governance. By finding, nurturing and supporting a committed network of governors, we drive positive systematic change that benefits each and every student, regardless of their background.

Governors for Schools recruits and matches volunteers with school governing boards and provides ongoing support.

What’s involved?

There are governor vacancies across England and Wales. Some schools are also looking for remote governors who don't need to live near the school they support.

Governors volunteer at board level to set the strategic vision for their school. This involves constructively challenging current processes, using your unique skills to support senior leaders, and overseeing school finances. You’ll be involved in areas such as monitoring, budget management, and data analysis. As well as putting your expertise to good use, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your professional skills. Ultimately, you’ll work towards facilitating the delivery of a broad and exciting curriculum and oversee wellbeing and inclusion initiatives. Governance represents a fantastic opportunity to develop yourself while making a real impact on the education of children and young people.

Governors work collaboratively with the headteacher and other members of the board, including parents and school staff. In most schools, full board meetings are held termly, as are committee meetings. Many governors will sit on a committee linked to their expertise or interests, such as teaching and learning or finance and resources. In addition to attending meetings, governors will need to read the papers in advance, complete training courses, and occasionally visit their school.

Governors usually support schools for a period of four years and with an estimated time commitment of 7 hours per month. During these hours, you will attend meetings, read papers, attend training sessions, and make occasional visits to school.

Who can be a governor?

The most important part of being a governor is the ability to ask questions, provide support and have the best interests of the school at heart. You don't have to be a parent or have experience in education to become a governor. Schools seek a  wide range of skills to support the board, including finance, HR, and data analysis.

Boards also need governors with a diversity of backgrounds and lived experiences to ensure a range of perspectives are considered during board meetings.

Schools welcome professional experience, as well as community insight and experience of working collaboratively.

You need to be aged 18 or above and there are certain criminal convictions that would exclude you from the role. A Disclosure and Barring Service check will be carried out by the school.

What’s the process?

You can find out more about the school governor role by attending one of our recruitment webinars.

You can complete your online profile on the website, including your motivation to take on the role, your skills and your school preferences. Your regional Partnership Manager will then look at vacancies that match your requirements. Once a school is identified, you will have the opportunity to discuss the role with them in more detail, visit the school, and observe a meeting. If appointed, a DBS check will take place and, in some cases, the school will seek references.

Ongoing support

Governors for Schools isn’t just a matching service. We want to help you thrive in your role through bespoke and ongoing support. We provide eLearning and monthly webinars covering a variety of topics to increase your knowledge of the education sector and governance. You’ll also have access to The Key for School Governors, an information hub designed to show new governors the ropes and offer a useful point of reference for existing governors.