Head of operation volunteer roles in London, greater london

Description
Reports to: Chief Executive Officer
Direct Working Relationships: C-Level Executives, National Research, Policy, Ethics, Research Reporting, and Local Operations
Location: Remote, UK-based
Time Commitment: Part-time | Flexible hours | Long term commitment

About the Role
We are seeking a volunteer Chief Operating Officer (COO) to provide strategic and operational leadership across our national and local operations. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the COO will play a pivotal role in ensuring effective delivery of projects and research, maintaining ethical and operational standards, and driving continuous improvement across all organisational systems and processes.

This is a senior voluntary position ideal for an experienced operations or strategy leader who thrives in a collaborative environment and wants to make an impact in the not-for-profit or research sector.

Please note: This is a voluntary and unpaid role. There is no direct financial compensation or future paid opportunity attached.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide executive oversight of Policy, Ethics and Research Reporting, National Operations, and Local Operations (including projects and research).

• Oversee operational delivery to ensure smooth, ethical, and effective implementation of all projects.

• Lead the optimisation of systems, structures, and processes to maximise organisational efficiency.

• Ensure resource allocation is effective and aligned with strategic goals.

• Support and collaborate with C-Level colleagues to drive organisational progress.

• Attend high-level meetings and provide regular operational updates and recommendations.

• Act as a key decision-maker in operational strategy, compliance, and performance management.

• Support and coach department heads and senior managers to strengthen internal leadership capacity.

• Step in to provide hands-on support to other C-Level officers and direct reports when needed.

What We're Looking For
We’re looking for a confident, experienced, and adaptable leader who can bring structure, strategy, and calm to a dynamic environment. You’ll be most successful in this role if you have:
• Significant experience in operations management, project delivery, or organisational leadership.
• Proven ability to oversee multiple teams or departments in complex environments.
• Strong ethical grounding and commitment to compliance and transparency.
• Excellent organisational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• A hands-on, solutions-focused approach with the ability to balance strategy and execution.
• Experience mentoring or managing senior leaders or functional heads.
• Comfort working remotely with cross-functional, volunteer-led teams.
• A collaborative, supportive leadership style and openness to learning and adaptation.
• An understanding of the not-for-profit, research, or policy sectors (advantageous but not essential).

What You’ll Gain
• The opportunity to lead national operations for a values-led organisation making a tangible impact.
• Executive-level experience within a collaborative, mission-driven C-Suite.
• The chance to refine strategic and operational leadership skills in a complex, real-world setting.
• Recognition through:
o LinkedIn testimonial and reference
o A public thank you post
o Permission to list the organisation as an employer on your CV/LinkedIn
o A written reference upon completion of your commitment

Important Information
This is a voluntary position. There is no financial payment, benefits, or employment status. This opportunity is ideal for seasoned operations leaders or executives seeking to contribute their expertise to a meaningful, values-driven mission and support the growth of an impactful organisation.

Apply Now
If you’re ready to help shape the strategic and operational backbone of a growing organisation and support our mission through effective leadership, we’d love to hear from you.

Migrateful is looking for new Trustees to help guide our next chapter! Migrateful runs cookery classes in London and Bristol led by refugees and migrants to support them on their journey to integration & employment.

Trustees play a vital role in setting strategic direction, strengthening governance and acting as critical friends to the executive team, ensuring Migrateful continues to deliver high quality, impactful work in line with its charitable purpose.

We are currently looking for a trustee with operational experience, ideally within a social enterprise and/or food industry context, who will join the Operations Subcommittee. They will support the development of Migrateful’s cookery class model, including oversight of operational processes and compliance with relevant health and safety requirements.

For more information please see our trustee recruitment pack. 

About Charity Right

Charity Right is an international food charity - Registered Charity No. 1163944 in England & Wales

The Objects of the Charity are

1. To relieve poverty worldwide by
   • Providing food supplies, items, grants and services to individuals in need and other groups or organisations that are working to prevent and relieve hunger and poverty
   • Providing or assisting in the provision of education, training, healthcare projects and all the necessary support designed to enable individuals to generate a sustainable income and be self-sufficient
   • Undertaking and supporting research into factors that contribute to poverty and the most appropriate ways to mitigate these
   • The provision of grants to enable young people to participate in healthy recreational activities that they could not otherwise afford
2. The relief of financial need and suffering among victims of natural or other kinds of disaster in the form of money (or other means deemed suitable) for persons, bodies, organisations and/or countries affected.

Our work centres on breaking the cycle of poverty through sustainable school meals programmes. We currently provide daily school meals in displaced communities affected by extreme food insecurity. Our programme has helped save thousands of young peoples’ lives by freeing them to get an education, develop new skills into adulthood and lift themselves out of poverty.

With millions still going hungry worldwide, our vital work is needed now more than ever. We are at an exciting stage of growth and seek a trustee who can help us deepen our impact, strengthen our strategic direction, and ensure our programmes continue to transform lives for decades to come.

Our Commitment to Diverse Leadership

We strongly encourage applications from women and younger Muslim professionals who can bring fresh perspectives, sectoral expertise, and a long-term strategic vision to our board. We recognise that diverse leadership strengthens our governance, deepens our understanding of the communities we serve, and ensures our programmes remain relevant and impactful.

Age, gender and background diversity is not just important to us in principle, but it is essential to fulfilling our mission effectively. We actively seek to build a board that reflects the breadth of our supporter base and the communities we serve.

About the Role

We are seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to join our board of trustees. Our mission is to provide school meals to children in developing countries, with the goal of reducing hunger and improving educational outcomes.

As a trustee, you will work collaboratively with fellow trustees to provide strategic guidance and oversight to the charity. You will help ensure our activities align with our mission and values. The trustee will work closely with other members of the board and staff to develop and implement plans and policies that support the charity's objectives and maximise the positive impact of its work.

Key responsibilities

• Serve as a member of the board of trustees, providing governance and oversight to the organisation
• Uphold Charity Commission and legal responsibilities as a trustee and company director
• Collaborate with fellow trustees and staff to develop and implement strategies, plans and policies that support the charity's objectives and values
• Champion the charity to external stakeholders and partners
• Attend and actively participate in board meetings and events
• Ensure robust compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
• Act as an ambassador for the organisation, using your network to advance our mission

Person Specification

• Genuine passion for international development and our mission to end child hunger
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: [AK1] finance, programmes, marketing, fundraising, technology, and operations
• Strong analytical, strategic and critical thinking skills
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with ability to contribute constructively to board discussions
• Ability to work effectively as part of a diverse team
• Willingness to dedicate time and energy to the charity’s success
• Strong understanding of governance and regulatory requirements for charitable organisations, demonstrating integrity, accountability, and commitment to collective decision-making
• Demonstrates highest standards of personal integrity, honesty and ethical behaviour, avoiding conflicts of interest and prioritizing the charity's mission
• Engages respectfully and collaboratively with board members, staff and stakeholders, fostering an inclusive environment and modelling the charity's values
• Understanding of the cultural and economic contexts of the countries where the charity operates is a plus.

Organisation Structure

The board of trustees provides strategic oversight and governance to the Executive team, who manage day to day operations. Trustees work collaboratively with the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team, offering guidance while respecting operational independence

Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend all board meetings which are scheduled to accommodate trustee’s availability. Most meetings are done via video conferencing, and on occasion we meet in person at a suitable location. Individual commitments are agreed between each trustee and the Chair of the board.

Commitment

• Board meeting – quarterly
• 2-hour meetings with reports to read one week in advance
• Telephone meetings – as required
• 30-minute conference calls occasionally required in between board meetings
• Staff away day – once yearly
• A day of in-person workshops, planning and Q&A with staff
• Events – as required
• Occasional participation in promotional events – usually early evening
• Project groups – as required
• Occasional working alongside staff to complete projects – as fits expertise and diaries

Application Process

If you would like to formally apply for the role, please include a letter of application along with your current CV.

In your letter, please outline:

• Your motivation for applying and connection to our mission
• Your relevant experience, expertise, or perspective that you would bring to the board
• What you hope to contribute to Charity Right and gain from the trusteeship
• Your commitment to championing diversity and inclusive leadership
• Declaration of any potential conflicts of interest

We are happy to discuss the role in more detail and answer any questions you may have about the board service.

Charity Right is an equal opportunities organisation. We are committed to building a diverse board and strongly encourage applications from individuals from all backgrounds, particularly those currently underrepresented in charity governance.

About the Role

We are looking a capable and reliable Officer within IT & Systems to support the IT & Systems function and provide operational cover for the Head of IT & Systems when required. This role exists to ensure continuity of systems, user support, and core IT processes in the event of absence, increased workload, or unexpected issues.

Reporting directly to the Head of IT & Systems, you will help manage day-to-day systems, respond to support requests, and handle joiner and leaver processes. The role is hands-on, practical, and focused on keeping things running rather than long-term architecture or strategy. Please note: This is a voluntary and unpaid role, with no financial compensation or future paid opportunities attached. We encourage you to apply if you have relevant/transferable skills for this role.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the day-to-day operation of internal systems, including user access, permissions, and basic configurations.
• Monitor and respond to IT and systems support requests, escalating issues where appropriate.
• Supporting new starter and leaver processes, including account setup, access changes, and offboarding.
• Assist with the administration of Bitrix, ClickUp, Teamplate, or similar platforms.
• Maintain clear documentation for processes and common issues.
• Provide operational cover for the Head of IT & Systems during periods of absence or unavailability.
• Handle ad hoc systems tasks and problem-solving as they arise.

What We are Looking For

We are looking for someone dynamic with the skills and experience to make a positive impact. This role suits someone practical, calm under pressure, and comfortable working without close supervision. You will be a strong fit if you have:

• Proven experience in IT support, systems administration, or helpdesk-style environments.
• Hands-on experience managing user accounts, access control, and routine systems tasks.
• Familiarity with ERP systems, helpdesk tools, or internal business platforms.
• Experience working with tools such as Bitrix, ClickUp, Teamplate, or comparable systems.
• The ability to work independently and manage tasks at your own pace while meeting agreed expectations.
• A strong sense of ownership and reliability.
• Previous experience in volunteer-led or non-profit organisations is a bonus.
• Comfort working fully remotely and supporting users virtually.
• Strong work ethic and collaborative attitude.
• A passion for the charity work, a genuine belief in the mission of Youth Advantage UK and a commitment to making a difference.
• Previous experience in volunteer-led organisations is a bonus.
• Remote working experience or comfort with managing teams virtually.

What You will Gain

· Practical experience acting as a key operational contact within an IT and systems function.

· Exposure to real-world continuity planning and operational risk management.

· The opportunity to build confidence in owning systems processes end-to-end.

Important Information

This role is completely voluntary. There is no financial payment, benefits, or employment status. It is ideal for experienced HR professionals looking to give back, stay active in leadership, or contribute to a values-led organisation in a meaningful way.

Apply Now

If you're passionate about fundraising and want to make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you. Help us unlock new opportunities for Youth Advantage UK and join our dedicated team of changemakers today.

Migrateful is looking for new Trustees to help guide our next chapter! Migrateful runs cookery classes in London and Bristol led by refugees and migrants to support them on their journey to integration & employment.

Trustees play a vital role in setting strategic direction, strengthening governance and acting as critical friends to the executive team, ensuring Migrateful continues to deliver high quality, impactful work in line with its charitable purpose.

We are currently looking for a trustee with a strong local network in Bristol to support the organisation’s growth and profile in the city. This trustee will work closely with the CEO and the Business Development and Operations Manager in Bristol to help build strategic partnerships and opportunities. They will also contribute to the Business Development, Marketing and Sales Subcommittee, which meets twice a year.

Trustees play a pivotal role in ensuring Migrateful can continue to grow and deliver meaningful impact for migrant and refugee communities. They will help support the continued expansion of our cookery class programme, which provides vital training, employment and integration opportunities, and a platform for migrant-led cultural exchange.

For more information please see our trustee recruitment pack.

Migrateful is looking for new Trustees to help guide our next chapter! Migrateful runs cookery classes in London and Bristol led by refugees and migrants to support them on their journey to integration & employment.

Trustees play a vital role in setting strategic direction, strengthening governance and acting as critical friends to the executive team, ensuring Migrateful continues to deliver high quality, impactful work in line with its charitable purpose.

We are currently looking for a trustee with experience in immigration, integration or social impact research, ideally with an academic background. They will help guide Migrateful’s approach to measuring and strengthening impact. This includes ensuring evidence is used to inform learning, organisational growth, fundraising and policy influence, and contributing to the Impact Development Working Group.

Trustees will play a pivotal role in ensuring Migrateful can continue to grow and deliver meaningful impact for migrant and refugee communities. They will help support the continued expansion of our cookery class programme, which provides vital training, employment and integration opportunities and a platform for migrant-led cultural exchange.

For more information please see our trustee recruitment pack. 

Migrateful is looking for new Trustees to help guide our next chapter! Migrateful runs cookery classes in London and Bristol led by refugees and migrants to support them on their journey to integration & employment.
 

Trustees play a vital role in setting strategic direction, strengthening governance and acting as critical friends to the executive team, ensuring Migrateful continues to deliver high quality, impactful work in line with its charitable purpose.

We are currently looking for a trustee with financial qualifications and experience, ideally including charity finance and fundraising, who will support the Finance and Risk Subcommittee. This includes overseeing budgets, monitoring financial performance, reviewing financial and operational risks, and providing assurance on internal control systems to support financial decision-making.

Trustees will play a pivotal role in ensuring Migrateful can continue to grow and deliver meaningful impact for migrant and refugee communities. They will help support the continued expansion of our cookery class programme, which provides vital training, employment and integration opportunities and a platform for migrant-led cultural exchange. 

For more information please see our trustee recruitment pack. 

Do you want to help change the future? And make your mark on our democracy? 

Join us. 

Elect Her is building a world where 51% (or more!) of elected officials are women. We are a non-partisan organisation working to motivate, support and equip women in all their diversity to stand for political office, in Britain, and thrive once there. 

At Elect Her, women receive the support they need on their unique political journey. Every democratic path is different and consequently we have targeted interventions, at each stage, to provide the best tools to improve women’s chances and access to elected office and, once there, help them remain in office. At the local level 50% of the women we support win - but every woman who stands makes democracy, democracy! 

Despite progress, women remain underrepresented at all levels of UK politics—only 40% nationally, 27% regionally, and 34% locally. This is not due to a lack of capable women, but because the political system is structurally biased. We’ve mapped the barriers to entry and are working on removing them and reshaping the political system so that all women can thrive once elected.

We’re recruiting for three new Directors to join our board, including a Treasurer.

If you are strategic, constructively critical, collaborative and with a passion for representation - we want to hear from you!

Closing date for applications is 27th February 2026

We can’t wait to meet you!

Trustee (Public Affairs)
Help shape the future of UK safety policy

The Hazards Forum is at a pivotal point in its 35-year history. Long respected as a convenor of expert debate on safety and risk, we are now implementing our Strategy to 2030. In addition to hosting discussions, we aim to actively influence national policy and societal outcomes that make people safer.

To deliver this ambition, we are refreshing our Trustee Board and seeking a Public Affairs Trustee to strengthen our political engagement and policy influence.

We operate a “player-coach” model. With no full-time staff, Trustees provide both governance and hands-on leadership, working closely with a small team of contractors and high-calibre volunteers to turn strategy into action.

If you want a governance role with real strategic and societal impact, we would welcome your application.

About The Hazards Forum
Mission: To be the UK’s trusted facilitator of vital conversations on hazard and risk management, driving a safer and more prosperous society.

Strategic Focus (to 2030):

1.Influencing national policy through engagement with MPs and Civil Servants

2.Developing collaborative partnerships with government, industry and academia

3.Improving industry connectivity by breaking down sector silos

Operating Model:
We are a lean, agile, unincorporated charitable association, supported by a Head of Membership & Operations (contractor) and an engaged volunteer community.

The Role: Trustee for Public Affairs

Influencing national policy is a core pillar of our Strategy to 2030. While we have strong technical expertise, we are seeking to strengthen our capability in political engagement to ensure our voice is heard consistently and effectively across Whitehall and Westminster.

You will help guide our public affairs approach, supporting constructive, neutral engagement with policymakers and regulators.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Support high-level engagement with Civil Servants, MPs, and Select Committees
• Advise on translating complex technical issues into clear, persuasive policy briefings
• Act as a guardian of political neutrality and organisational independence

 The Ideal Candidate:

• Professional background in public affairs, government relations, or policy advocacy
• Experience drafting consultation responses and navigating parliamentary processes
• Established contacts within relevant government or regulatory bodies
• Charity sector or trustee experience desirable but not essential

 Practicalities

 Time Commitment:

• 4 Board meetings per year (hybrid, usually London)
• 1 annual in-person strategy day
• Around 1–2 days per month supporting strategic delivery

 Terms:

• Three-year term, renewable once (maximum six years)
• Voluntary, unpaid role

Diversity & Inclusion:

We are committed to broadening the diversity of our Board and strongly encourage applications from people of different backgrounds, ages, professions, and communities.

Job Title: HR Business Partner
Location: Remote
Department: Human Resource
Reports To: Head Of Department 

About QuilomboUK

QuilomboUK is a dynamic organisation that fosters diversity, equity, inclusion (D&I), and social justice. We believe in a People First approach, ensuring our strategies and operations align with our mission to create equitable workplaces and communities. Join us during this exciting phase of growth as we amplify our impact through innovative people practices.

Role Overview

As a HRBP, you will play a pivotal role in shaping our organisational culture by driving initiatives in organisational development, change management, employee engagement, and recognition. You’ll act as a strategic partner to all departments, ensuring their goals align with our People First philosophy. This role is ideal for someone passionate about social justice, D&I, and building inclusive environments where every voice matters.

Key Responsibilities

Organisational Development & Change Management

• Design and implement OD initiatives to enhance team effectiveness, agility, and alignment with QuilomboUK’s mission.

• Lead change management projects, ensuring smooth transitions during organisational growth or restructuring.

• Develop strategies to foster leadership capabilities and a culture of continuous learning.

Employee Engagement & Recognition

• Create innovative engagement programs (e.g., surveys, focus groups) to elevate employee voice and belonging.

• Design recognition frameworks that celebrate contributions aligned with our values, especially in D&I and social justice.

• Analyse engagement data to identify trends and recommend actionable improvements.

People Partnership & Collaboration

• Partner with department leaders to integrate People First strategies into their operations and objectives.

• Provide coaching to managers on inclusive leadership, conflict resolution, and team dynamics.

• Ensure departmental policies reflect QuilomboUK’s commitment to equity and social justice.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Social Justice

• Embed D&I principles into talent processes, from recruitment to career development.

• Lead initiatives that advance social justice internally (e.g., ERGs, bias training) and externally (community partnerships).

• Track and report on D&I metrics to measure progress and identify gaps.

Compliance & Best Practices

• Stay updated on employment law and HR trends, ensuring compliance while advocating for progressive practices.

• Promote a culture of accountability and inclusivity through equitable policies.

Qualifications

• Experience: 5+ years in HR, organisational development, or as a People Partner, ideally in mission-driven sectors.

• Skills:

  • Expertise in change management, engagement strategies, and OD frameworks.

  • Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.

  • Proficiency in HR analytics and project management.

• Knowledge: Deep understanding of D&I practices, employment law, and social justice principles.

• Alignment: Passionate about QuilomboUK’s mission and values.

Personal Attributes

• A champion for equity and inclusion, with empathy and cultural competence.

• Adaptable and resilient in fast-paced environments.

• Proactive problem-solver with a collaborative spirit.

Why Join QuilomboUK?

• Impact: Drive meaningful change in D&I and social justice through your work.

• Culture: Join a supportive, inclusive team where innovation and authenticity thrive.

• Growth: Opportunities for professional development in a scaling organisation.

Trustee (Fundraising & Partnerships)
Help shape the future of UK safety policy

The Hazards Forum is at a pivotal point in its 35-year history. Long respected as a convenor of expert debate on safety and risk, we are now implementing our Strategy to 2030 – in addition to hosting discussions, we want to actively influence national policy and societal outcomes that make people safer.

To deliver this ambition, we are refreshing our Trustee Board and seeking a Fundraising & Partnerships Trustee to help unlock new income streams and scale our impact.

We operate a “player-coach” model. With no full-time staff, Trustees provide both governance and hands-on leadership, working closely with a small team of contractors and high-calibre volunteers to turn strategy into action.

If you want a governance role with real strategic and societal impact, we would welcome your application.

About The Hazards Forum

 Mission: To be the UK’s trusted facilitator of vital conversations on hazard and risk management, driving a safer and more prosperous society.

Strategic Focus (to 2030):

1. Influencing national policy through engagement with MPs and Civil Servants
2. Developing collaborative partnerships with government, industry and academia
3. Improving industry connectivity by breaking down sector silos

Operating Model: We are a lean, agile, unincorporated charitable association, supported by a Head of Membership & Operations (contractor) and an engaged volunteer community.

The Role: Trustee for Fundraising & Partnerships

We have the strategy and commercial vision. We now need the funding to scale it. You will work alongside our Commercial Lead to develop and deliver a sustainable income model, with a particular focus on grants, trusts, foundations, and sponsorship – areas currently under-developed within the charity.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Lead identification and applications for grants from trusts, foundations, and institutional funders
• Develop and help secure sponsorship and partnership packages
• Strengthen and diversify the charity’s revenue model
• Advise the Board on fundraising compliance and best practice

 The Ideal Candidate:

• Practical experience in charity fundraising, grant writing, or corporate partnerships
• Able to structure sponsorship agreements and write compelling funding bids
• Collaborative, hands-on, and comfortable building capability from the ground up
• Trustee experience desirable but not essential

Practicalities

 Time Commitment:

• 4 Board meetings per year (hybrid, usually London)
• 1 annual in-person strategy day
• Around 1–2 days per month supporting strategic delivery

 Terms:

• Three-year term, renewable once (maximum six years)
• Voluntary, unpaid role

 Diversity & Inclusion:

We are committed to broadening the diversity of our Board and strongly encourage applications from people of different backgrounds, ages, professions, and communities.

Trustee (Digital Engagement)
Help shape the future of UK safety policy

The Hazards Forum is at a pivotal point in its 35-year history. Long respected as a convenor of expert debate on safety and risk, we are now implementing our Strategy to 2030. In addition to hosting discussions, we aim to actively influence national policy and societal outcomes that make people safer.

To deliver this ambition, we are refreshing our Trustee Board and seeking a Digital Engagement Trustee to modernise our outreach and expand our influence beyond our traditional membership.

We operate a “player-coach” model. With no full-time staff, Trustees provide both governance and hands-on leadership, working closely with a small team of contractors and high-calibre volunteers to turn strategy into action.

If you want a governance role with real strategic and societal impact, we would welcome your application.

About The Hazards Forum

Mission: To be the UK’s trusted facilitator of vital conversations on hazard and risk management, driving a safer and more prosperous society.

Strategic Focus (to 2030):

1.Influencing national policy through engagement with MPs and Civil Servants

2.Developing collaborative partnerships with government, industry and academia

3.Improving industry connectivity by breaking down sector silos

Operating Model: We are a lean, agile, unincorporated charitable association, supported by a Head of Membership & Operations (contractor) and an engaged volunteer community.

The Role: Trustee for Digital Engagement

To influence society, we must reach beyond our traditional membership. We are seeking a digital strategist to help us adopt a digital-first approach, ensuring our work reaches younger professionals and contributes to wider public debate.

You will provide strategic oversight of our digital presence, helping to grow audiences, improve engagement, and helping us to translate complex technical content into accessible, compelling narratives. 

Key Responsibilities:
• Provide strategic direction on digital engagement and audience growth
• Advise on lowering barriers to participation for younger and more diverse professionals
• Guide the development of clear, engaging digital content from technical material
• Support the use of analytics to focus effort on high-impact digital activity

The Ideal Candidate:
• Experience in digital marketing, strategic communications, or content strategy
• Strong understanding of community building, social media, and data analytics
• Strategic, outcome-focused mindset
• Charity sector or trustee experience desirable but not essential

Practicalities

 Time Commitment:

• 4 Board meetings per year (hybrid, usually London)
• 1 annual in-person strategy day
• Around 1–2 days per month supporting strategic delivery

Terms:

• Three-year term, renewable once (maximum six years)
• Voluntary, unpaid role

Diversity & Inclusion:

We are committed to broadening the diversity of our Board and strongly encourage applications from people of different backgrounds, ages, professions, and communities.

About us:

Write Back is a young charity helping marginalised young people develop their self-esteem, literacy and creativity through storytelling. Currently based in Barking & Dagenham, since 2020 we have run storytelling programmes for more than 200 young people, helping them tell their stories and printing and celebrating their work. 9 out of 10 participants on our programmes see significant improvements in their self-esteem, and in our short period of operations, we have published over 20 anthologies of young writers’ work, exploring themes like immigration, identity and social isolation.

What we do:

We run 10-week long storytelling programmes in Barking and Dagenham, east London, to build self-esteem among young people aged 13-16. In each session we do confidence building activities, engage with the writing of a young author and then develop the participating young people’s own stories. The 10-week project involves developing their ideas individually and collectively and culminates with the publication of their work, including in books, local museum exhibitions and much more.

We are working with six secondary schools in Barking and Dagenham, who have been referring young people to our programmes or inviting us into their premises to run bespoke programmes for selected students Barking and Dagenham is the 9th most deprived local authority in the country and 37% of the young people and children live in poverty. Despite this recent research shows that Barking and Dagenham has the joint fewest charities per head in the country.

About the role:

Write Back has grown considerably since its founding five years ago. Now with paid part-time staff, strong local networks, secure medium-term funding and proof of impact, we are entering a new phase of organisational growth.

To oversee this, we are looking for a new Chair of Trustees to oversee a significant period of strategic choices. We are looking for someone who wants to get closely involved in setting the strategy, direction and priorities of Write Back as we transition from new ‘start-up’ into a more established charity. As a small charity, the Chair will be someone who can think ‘big picture’ but also is happy to get involved with day-to-day matters when necessary - securing new funding, overseeing our staffing model, building networks with other organisations and more. We are therefore looking for an individual with:

• Experience of organisational governance (ideally experience being on a board of trustees before).

• Experience in a leadership role in a growing organisation (either teams/departments or the whole organisation).

• Strong fundraising and networking skills and experience.

• Knowledge and expertise of the charity sector.

• A strong commitment to the work of Write Back and empowering young people.

• The passion and enthusiasm to throw themselves into a new and exciting charity for young people to help us in our next phase of growth.

• The ability and experience of working at a strategic level, providing expert oversight, advice and guidance, but willing to get involved day-to-day where necessary.

• The skills and temperament to collaborate effectively in a small, growing organisation.

• A good understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of charity trusteeship and an appreciation of the personal implications.

• A demonstrable commitment to equality and diversity.

• Experience in the education sector, or in legal, HR or other operational or governance matters, is a plus but not required.

Core requirements:

• This is a voluntary unpaid role, for which any reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

• Your initial term will be for 2 years, with the possibility of renewal.

• Attendance at trustee meetings every two months (either online or in person, for roughly 90 minutes), as well as preparation for these meetings and any follow-up tasks.

• Working with the Director and the Treasurer, overseeing all governance, financial and operational matters and reporting requirements as necessary.

• Fulfilling any or all other requirements for trustees as outlined by the Charity Commission.

• We estimate the time commitment to be no more than two days per month in total.

Finance Lay Trustee

The Finance Lay Trustee will provide strategic financial and commercial leadership to RCOT, ensuring robust governance, financial sustainability and effective oversight of commercial initiatives. As the lead trustee on financial matters, you’ll guide the Board’s understanding of financial strategy, risk and performance, and act as a key link between the Board and the Audit, Investment and Risk Committee (by sitting as a member and/or Chair of the Committee). Your insight will help shape RCOT’s long-term financial health and its ability to deliver on its mission.

We’re seeking a senior finance professional with board-level experience or significant experience reporting to boards. You will bring deep expertise in financial strategy, as well as experience in one or more of: commercial
operations; regulatory compliance; or not-forprofit organisations. You will be confident in interpreting complex financial information and communicating it clearly to non-finance colleagues, and you will take a collaborative,
values-led approach to inclusive and purpose-led leadership.

To view the role profile please click on this Finance Lay Trustee | RCOT 

To apply, please submit a CV and suitability statement aligned with the role profile with no more than 600 words, via this Finance Lay Trustee | RCOT  by Sunday 15 February 2026.