Independent committee member volunteer roles in Bristol

Help us support families to get the right education for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)

We are seeking new people to join our Board of Trustees to support the good governance of our charity. It is an exciting time to join us as we work to launch our new strategy; an important timeframe as we review the Government’s White Paper on SEND and consider how best to adapt our services to ensure we reach those who need us most.

Who we are

Founded in 1983, IPSEA is a leading national charity focussed on supporting families to ensure that children and young people with SEND receive the education they are legally entitled to. Since our formation, we have actively helped to improve the education experience of thousands of children and young people with SEND. We do this by providing free and independent legal advice and casework support, undertaking policy work and delivering training on the SEND legal framework.

Who are we looking for?

We wish to recruit a number of new trustees who are committed to our vision and values and who bring complementary skills to those of our current Board members.

Trustees are expected to gain an understanding of the organisation’s purpose, and to contribute their own expertise, ensuring IPSEA fulfils its objectives, and in accordance with our charitable objects and Articles of Association

Whether you’re an experienced trustee or wanting to take your first step at Board level, we are particularly interested in hearing from people with expertise and skills in one or more of the following areas:

• IT / Digital transformation / cyber security
• Governance
• Marketing and social media
• Equality, diversity and inclusion

Please note: a lack of expertise in these areas does not mean that an application will not be considered.

Our Board should also reflect the communities we support. We would particularly like to hear from candidates from ethnic minority backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ people, under-served communities and disabled people, as well as those with lived experience of the SEND system, either as a child or as a parent/carer.

What we can offer you

• an in-depth induction programme, training and reimbursement of reasonable out-of-pocket expenses
• the opportunity to be involved in making strategic decisions and developing new skills
• the opportunity to apply your knowledge and experience to an important cause
• a buddying system for new trustees as you settle into the role

The expected time commitment is six trustee meetings per year (meetings are held on weekdays in central London or at IPSEA’s office in Takeley, Essex with the option to join some meetings virtually), usually one strategic planning/training day and some other ad hoc time for occasional meetings and events.

To apply 

​Please visit our website to download a recruitment pack and application form. 

Closing date for applications: 5pm on 29 May 2026

First-round interviews: week commencing 29 June 2026

About CSE

The Centre for Sustainable Energy (CSE) supports people and organisations across the UK to tackle the climate emergency and end the suffering caused by cold homes. We undertake practical work to support households and communities to act on energy, alongside original research and analysis to inform local and national policy.

We are one of the UK’s leading sustainable energy charities, with a 45-year track record of award-winning impact, innovation and influence, as most recently detailed in our 2024–25 Impact Report available on our website.

About the role

Our Board of Trustees is critical to our continuing success. Trustees work collaboratively, providing support, insight and constructive challenge to help shape CSE’s strategy and ambition, and enhance our effectiveness and charitable impact.

Due to the planned stepping down of some of our board members, we are recruiting up to four new trustees to join the board and provide effective governance and support in the next phase of CSE’s development.

Who we’re looking for

All applicants should be able to demonstrate a strong interest in and commitment to CSE’s work and charitable objectives.

We are particularly seeking new trustees who bring expertise in at least one of the following areas:

• Knowledge and understanding of the community energy sector, including the challenges and opportunities of delivering local or community energy projects, and how these connect to national policy
• Expertise in organisational development, with a good appreciation of issues associated with employment law
• Experience of finance, accounting and audit, for example through holding a role with financial responsibility in an organisation or from having set up, grown or led a business
• Strong knowledge of voluntary and community sector (VCS) networks, including practical experience of community organising and an understanding of the role grassroots organisations play in affecting social change

We would also welcome applicants who bring:

• Broader expertise directly associated with at least one of CSE’s work programmes (fuel poverty advice and support, housing energy retrofit, community action on energy, local net zero delivery, future generations, or fairness in the energy system)
• Understanding of the causes and impacts of fuel poverty, and the solutions required to tackle it
• Knowledge of the UK energy system, including the policy and regulatory environment, and the transition to a fairer, more flexible, decarbonised energy system
• An understanding of the national policy environment underpinning CSE’s work, including experience of influencing national energy policy

We are keen to widen the range of perspectives represented on the board and welcome applications from young people, people from under-represented groups, disabled people, and people with lived experience of CSE’s work.

If you are interested but unsure whether you meet all of the criteria, we would encourage you to apply or get in touch for an informal conversation.

Find out more and apply

For more information on the role, including the full person specification and how to apply, please see the trustee candidate pack on our website. 

Closing date: Midday on Wednesday 10 June 2026.

We are looking for our next Chair of Trustees – someone who will work closely with our Executive Team and Board to guide the organisation through what is both a challenging and genuinely exciting time. The funding environment is tough. The political context is difficult. And yet the need for what we do has never been greater.

This is an unpaid voluntary role. Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with our Volunteer Expenses Policy.

The successful candidate will lead a vibrant, well-established, national charity as it navigates the next chapter of its story.

Main tasks

• Developing and setting our future strategy, alongside the Executive Team and other Trustees
• Helping shape and deliver our future, identifying opportunities in an evolving landscape
• Leading the Board of Trustees, including regular 1:1s and providing space for reflection
• Acting as a 'critical friend' to our Executive Team, as well as formal line management to the CEO (and COO in their absence)
• Acting as an ambassador for the charity – raising awareness of what we do and engaging potential supporters and other key stakeholders
• Responsibility, along with the other trustees, for the governance of the charity
• Contributing to the ongoing strategy of the charity, in line with our charitable objectives
• Participating in board meetings and sub-committees in an inclusive and thoughtful way

Please download our Chair Application Pack for more information.

We’re looking for a new Brand, Communications and Creative Trustee who can use their skills to support our growing charity. In early 2026, CLAPA relaunched with a new brand identity. This role will ensure that our team are supported in brand and content strategy and making the most of the new brand for growth and engagement.

The Brand, Communications and Creative Trustee will participate in all areas of the charity’s governance with a special interest in brand strategy, content, communications and creative to support with the Board’s understanding and interpretation.

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, developing CLAPA’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines. You would be joining our board at an exciting time, as we continue to implement our 5-year strategy for 2025-2030.

About CLAPA

The Cleft Lip and Palate Action (CLAPA) is the national charity for people affected by cleft lip and palate in the United Kingdom.

CLAPA supports people affected by cleft to take control of their journey, connect with others, and use their voices to impact the future of care. Our vision is that no one affected by cleft lip and palate in the United Kingdom will go through their journey alone.

Independent Board member at the National Housing Federation

Location: Nationwide

Make your expertise count!

The National Housing Federation (NHF) is the voice of England’s housing associations.

Our housing association members provide homes for around six million people and are driven by a social purpose: providing good quality housing that people can afford.

We support our members to deliver that social purpose, with ambitious work that leads to positive change, and we are looking for board members who are committed to helping us achieve this.

We have a vacant independent board member position and are looking to appoint to this post with a start date in September 2026.

Our board members come from both within and outside of the social housing sector, and we have a number of independent board members who bring a range of more diverse experiences.

On this occasion, we are inviting applications from people within the social housing sector to join us. We are particularly interested in hearing from our larger members, particularly those with a presence outside of London.

Successful candidates:

Although we do not expect the candidate to have experience in the housing sector, we are looking for relevant candidates with an interest in the sector or experience in working with membership organisations at a strategic level.

As a successful Board member, you will provide excellence in governance, be an ambassador and use your strategic skills to make us an even more effective organisation.

You will be involved in influencing the NHF’s business to ensure that we successfully manage the challenges and significant change that the future is set to bring.

In addition to the above, the essential experience required includes:

- Proven strategic leadership, vision, and a collegiate approach.
- A strong track record of championing equality, diversity, and inclusion, and delivering change.
- Governance expertise and strong analytical skills.
- An excellent track record of effective stakeholder relationship management and ambassadorial activities.
- A passion for the social housing sector's purpose and the current challenges.

NHF remains committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and we are actively encouraging applications from people with lived experience and from communities currently underrepresented on our Board.

Our current board is not sufficiently reflective of the diversity of our members and the communities our sector exists to serve. We are especially keen to change this and strongly encourage applications from people in the following groups to apply:

- Racially diverse backgrounds.
- Living with a disability/disabilities.
- LGBTQ+ community.
- Lived experience of social housing.
- We are Disability Confident Employer, and disabled applicants who demonstrate that they meet the essential criteria for this role will be offered an interview.

Commitment:
Board meetings will be a mixture of in-person meetings, generally held in central London and virtual video conference calls. There may be occasional national travel, reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.

In addition to Board meetings, each Board member also sits on one of NHF’s sub-committees, either our Audit and Risk Management Committee or our Nominations, Remuneration and Governance Committee. The total time commitment from Board members is approximately six days a year.

If you believe in our work and understand the value of exceptional governance, we would love to hear from you.

Closing date: Thursday 28th May 2026

Interview date: Friday 12th June 2026

To apply for the post, please provide your up-to-date CV and a brief statement on one side of A4, stating why you are interested in the post, demonstrating how you meet the above criteria.
To comply with our blind recruitment requirements, please remove your personal details from both documents. This will help us to shortlist candidates for interview based solely on their knowledge, skills and experience.

For a discussion about the role, contact Hradmin.

Inclusive Boards is delighted to be supporting Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance in their search for three new Trustees.

About  Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance

The Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA) is one of the UK’s leading Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) charities, providing rapid, life-saving critical care across Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our Helicopter and Critical Care Cars take the expertise of the hospital directly to the scene of the emergency, reaching any point in our two counties in under 20 minutes. Each mission costs approximately £4,000, and with over 32,000 missions since our founding in 1994, our service is made possible entirely through the generosity of the communities we serve.
​​​​​​
LNAA is in a period of significant growth and transformation. We celebrated our 30th anniversary and our 30,000th mission in 2024 and were rated Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission in 2025 – a milestone that reflects the exceptional standards across our entire organisation. Looking ahead, our five-year strategy focuses on expanding our service further, including the introduction of a second helicopter in 2027 to ensure we can be by the side of even more patients when they need us most.

About the Trustee roles

To support this ambitious strategic direction, LNAA is seeking to appoint up to three new Trustees. These individuals will join a committed, values-driven Board focused on strong governance, strategic oversight, and ensuring LNAA continues to deliver outstanding critical care across our region.

To ensure a diverse and balanced Board, we are specifically looking for up to three new Trustees with skills and significant experience in the following areas:

1. Clinical/Healthcare background with executive experience in a CQC regulated organisation
2. Finance Expertise
3. Digital Technologies / AI Expertise

​​​​​​Role 1: Clinical/Healthcare background

A senior professional with executive experience within a CQC regulated organisation, with sound CQC knowledge and a strong understanding of governance. You will be the lead Trustee for clinical governance oversight, maintaining a high-level overview of LNAA’s clinical services, seeking assurances in line with Trustee responsibilities.

Essential:

• Governance and leadership experience within a CQC regulated setting
• Thorough understanding of CQC standards

Desirable:

• Experienced registered healthcare professional
• Track record in governance and leadership in a clinical setting

Role 2: Finance Expertise

A strong financial professional, bringing experience in budgeting, financial analysis, investments and risk management.

Essential:

• Strong financial knowledge and governance experience
• Ability to interpret and communicate complex financial information

Desirable:

• Experience with investment strategy or long-term financial planning
• Familiarity with the charity or not-for-profit sector

Role 3: Digital Technologies / AI Expertise

Use your skills and expertise to provide insight into digital transformation, AI innovation and emerging technologies, ensuring our work remains relevant, ethical and future-ready.

Essential:

• In depth knowledge of Digital and AI technologies, including strategy and emerging trends
• Experience providing strategic oversight or advisory input at board or senior level

Desirable:

• Awareness of ethical and regulatory issues around AI and digital transformation
• Track record in driving digital innovation, ideally in a non-profit or public sector setting

About us

My Life Films is an award-winning charity that uses film and TV to enrich and support the lives of people living with dementia and their carers. My Life TV is our specialist on-demand streaming service, specifically designed to meet the cognitive needs of people living with dementia, for use within care settings and at home.

My Life TV is carefully curated to enable people living with dementia to feel stimulated and connected to the world, improving their mental health and supporting their essential care. 

Our high-quality content includes interactive shows like quizzes, singalongs, drawing and chair yoga; calming content, including animal and nature programmes and slow TV; a wide range of reminiscence programmes, from the 1960s onwards, and much more. 

Since launching in 2021 we work with highly respected content partners, as well as producing our own programming, in partnership with trusted organisations in the dementia care field, and more widely. The Alzheimer’s Society, BFI, Royal Parks, Museum of Brands, BBC Archive and National Trust are just some of the partners we are proud to work with.

We have ambitious plans to scale up its use, so we can reach and support as many people living with dementia as possible.

About the role

Stepping in at the helm of a well-established Board, and working closely with the highly experienced Executive Director, our new Chair will lead My Life Films through its next phase of growth and impact.

The new Chair will review and reinvigorate the charity’s governance, ideally including a board audit, as well as challenging and interrogating the group’s strategic plan.

This role will suit potential candidates who are ready to step-up to chair a not for profit organisation. This means they are likely to bring current or previous board experience as a non-executive or trustee. Candidates may have experience in the care sector, health sector, charity or foundation, possibly an organisation involved in supporting people living with dementia. This experience could enable candidates to draw on networks in the care, health, charity, voluntary sectors, social enterprise or foundation. It will be important that the new Chair can demonstrate a personal passion and commitment to improving the lives of people living with dementia.

The Chair will also help guide the Executive in optimising the existing model, developing new opportunities by helping expand networks and making introductions when necessary. They will act as a critical friend to Executive Director, coaching and challenging as required and providing leadership and strategic direction to the Board.

They will hold the organisation to the highest ethical standards, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements and that My Life Films is run in the best interests of its stakeholders.

The Board of Trustees is the governing body of the charity and is collectively responsible for its success. All trustees must take decisions in the interests of the charity.

My Life Films has a trading subsidiary – MLF Productions Limited – and it is expected that the Chair of My Life Films will also Chair the trading company.

.

Selection Criteria

When applying, we ask candidates to highlight any areas of expertise they can bring in the areas identified below.

• Skills and Experience –

Governance / leadership

• Any experience of operating at Board level in the voluntary, public or private sector preferably with a knowledge of the Social Care sector.

• Understanding of good charity governance, including trustees’ legal duties, financial oversight and risk management.

• Experience of chairing effective meetings and facilitating inclusive, robust discussion and decision-making Experience of fundraising, advocacy, campaigning, or working with regulators, commissioners or major funders.

Strategy and finance

• Ability to think strategically, interrogate complex information and focus the Board on priorities, impact and long-term sustainability.

• Strong financial literacy and ability to scrutinize budgets, management accounts and risk registers (not necessarily as a finance professional).

People leadership

• Track record of leading senior individuals or teams; able to coach, support and hold to account a CEO

How to Apply

If you are interested in the role, Maana Ruia a trustee with My Life Films and a member of Enter The Boardroom Community would be happy to fix up a time to talk to you. 

Please submit your application to Julian Freeston  The application should comprise a Cover Letter detailing your suitability and desire for the role (no more than two pages) and an up-to-date CV (no more than four pages).

The application deadline is 5pm, 29th May 2026

IKWRO is a registered charity which provides advice and support to Middle Eastern, North African and Afghan women and girls living in the UK, who have experienced, or are at risk of all forms of “honour” based abuse, including; forced marriage, child marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM), or domestic abuse.

We work with women and girls of all ages, including lesbian women, bisexual women and trans women. We offer services in Kurdish, Farsi, Arabic, Dari, Pashto, Turkish and English.

The overall role of a treasurer is to:

• Maintain an overview of the organisations’ affairs
• Ensuring its financial viability
• Ensuring that proper financial records and procedures are maintained.

General responsibilities

• To ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• To ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
• To ensure the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects (the charity must not spend money on activities which are not included in its own objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are).
• To contribute actively to the board of trustees' role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation.
• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• To ensure the financial stability of the organisation.
• To protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity's funds.
• If the charity employs staff, to appoint the chief executive officer and monitor his/her performance.

In addition to the above statutory duties, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve:

• Scrutinizing board papers
• Leading discussions
• Focusing on key issues
• Providing guidance on new initiatives
• Other issues in which the trustee has special expertise

Additional duties of the treasurer

• Overseeing, approving and presenting budgets, accounts and financial statements
• Being assured that the financial resources of the organisation meet its present and future needs
• Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate reserves policy
• The preparation and presentation of financial reports to the board
• Ensuring that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place
• Liaising with any paid staff and volunteers about financial matters
• Advising on the financial implications of the organisation's strategic plans
• Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate investment policy
• Ensuring that there is no conflict between any investment held and the aims and objects of the charity
• Monitoring the organisation's investment activity and ensuring its consistency with the organisation's policies and legal responsibilities
• Ensuring equipment and assets are adequately maintained and insured
• Ensuring that the accounts are prepared and disclosed in the form required by funders and the relevant statutory bodies, e.g. The charity commission and/or the registrar of companies
• If external scrutiny of accounts is required, ensuring that the accounts are scrutinised in the manner required (independent examination or audit) and any recommendations are implemented
• Keeping the board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities
• Contributing to the fundraising strategy of the organisation
• Making a formal presentation of the accounts at the annual general meeting and drawing attention to important points in a coherent and easily understandable way
• Sitting on appraisal, recruitment and disciplinary panels as required

Treasurer person specification

• Commitment to the organisation
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
• Strategic vision
• Good, independent judgment
• Ability to think creatively
• Willingness to speak their mind
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• Nolan's seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership
• Financial qualifications and experience
• Some experience of charity finance, fundraising and pension schemes
• The skills to analyses proposals and examine their financial consequences
• Preparedness to make unpopular recommendations to the board
• Willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis

Be Part of Meaningful Change

Rape Crisis South London (RCSL) is entering an exciting new chapter. With a new CEO, refreshed Senior Leadership Team, and an ambitious vision for the future, we are laying the foundations for a bold new organisational strategy.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. 

About the Role:
In addition to the statutory duties of a Trustee, the Treasurer Trustee provides strategic financial oversight to support the organisation’s sustainability and effective governance.

The role is responsible for advising the Board on its financial duties, the implications of strategic decisions, and ensuring that appropriate financial policies and procedures are in place. It includes oversight of financial reporting, such as management accounts, budgets, and forecasts, and working in close collaboration with the CEO and Director of Finance and Resources.

The Treasurer Trustee also acts as a key liaison with external auditors, presents the annual report and accounts at the AGM on behalf of the Board, and chairs the Risk and Finance Sub-Committee.

Our vision:
A world free from sexual violence, where survivors are believed, respected and supported.

Our mission:
To provide high‑quality, specialist support and to challenge the structures that enable sexual violence.

What You Will Do

The specific responsibilities of the Treasurer Trustee are:

• Keeping the Board informed of its financial duties and responsibilities.
• Providing the Board with advice on the financial implications of their decisions and strategic plans.
• Ensuring RCSL has the appropriate financial policies and procedures.
• Having oversight of the preparation of regular financial reporting including the management accounts, forecasts and budgets.
• Liaising with and supporting the CEO and the Director of Finance and Resources.
• Liaising with the auditors and presenting the annual report and accounts to the AGM on behalf of the Board.
• Chairing a Risk and Finance sub-committee 

About You

Person Specification - Essential
Experience of being a Trustee

• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Significant experience of charity human resources including at a strategic level.
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
• An ability to challenge current thinking, the method of governance and management of the organisation in a constructive manner.
• Ability to evaluate and interpret management information and other data/evidence.

Note:
This role is open to female applicants only as being female is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 201. All Trustees are required to complete an enhanced DBS.

You will demonstrate:

• Proven experience in a relevant role or environment, with the ability to apply your skills confidently and effectively
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage professionally with a range of stakeholders
• Excellent organisational and time‑management skills, with the ability to prioritise workloads and meet deadlines
• A high level of accuracy and attention to detail
• The ability to work independently while also contributing positively as part of a team
• A proactive, problem‑solving approach and a willingness to take ownership of tasks
• Competence in using relevant systems, tools, or software required for the role
• A professional, confidential, and ethical approach to your work

Desirable
What You Bring

• Commitment to feminist, survivor‑led practice
• Anti‑racist and anti‑discriminatory values
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Commitment to learning, reflection and self‑care

Safeguarding and Safer Recruitment

Rape Crisis South London is committed to safeguarding survivors, children, young people and adults at risk. All staff have a shared responsibility for promoting safety and wellbeing.

This includes:

• Promoting the safety and wellbeing of service users
• Identifying and reporting safeguarding concerns
• Following organisational safeguarding policies and procedures
• Supporting a culture where everyone feels safe, respected and supported

Our safer recruitment processes include:

• Values‑based interviews
• Verification of identity, qualifications and employment history
• Reference checks
• DBS checks (enhanced or basic, depending on the role)

Safeguarding training and ongoing supervision

Interview Process:
Candidates will be required to attend a 3 stage interview:
Stage one: phone call
Stage 2 MS Teams Call with CEO and Board of Trustees
Stage 3: Interview with CEO and Trustee / or Director 

The interview will explore experience and approach to:

• Safeguarding
• Equality, diversity and inclusion
• Feminist and trauma‑informed practice
• Role‑specific responsibilities
• Role‑specific assessment details 

Post holder will be required to undertake either Enhanced DBS

Equality, Feminism and Inclusion

RCSL is an equal opportunities employer. Our work is rooted in feminist principles that recognise sexual violence as both a cause and consequence of gender inequality. We centre survivor voices and prioritise empowerment, inclusivity and intersectionality.

We particularly welcome applications from women who are under‑represented in roles within the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), charity, social impact sector.

Intersectionality and Reasonable Adjustments

We recognise that experiences of sexual violence are shaped by intersecting factors including:

• Race and ethnicity
• Disability
• Sexuality and gender identity
• Socio‑economic background
• Immigration status
• Faith and culture

We are committed to removing barriers and creating an inclusive workplace.

Applicants are encouraged to tell us if they require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process,
such as:

• Alternative interview timings
• Additional time for written tasks
• Support relating to disability, neurodivergence or health needs

Learning and Development

As a charity undergoing growth and transformation, we welcome colleagues who are committed to ongoing learning and professional development. We provide induction, supervision, and development opportunities appropriate to the role.

This post is open to women only and is a Genuine Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010 (where applicable). 

How to Apply 

Please submit:  

• Your CV 
• A cover letter outlining why this role appeals to you 
• A supporting statement demonstrating how your experience meets the skills and requirements outlined in the person specification
• Applications should be sent in PDF format 
• Closing date:  Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. 
• Interview date(s):  Two-stage process consisting of an informal conversation followed by an interview with the CEO and Chair. 

Thank you for your interest in RCSL. If you have not heard from us within one month of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.
 

AI in Job Applications

We understand that some candidates use AI tools when applying. While we welcome technology to support clear communication, your application should reflect your own skills, knowledge and experience. 

WANTED: Trustees to support over 3.5 million people living with genetic, rare and undiagnosed conditions.

Genetic Alliance UK is looking for three new trustees as well as a new chair due to existing board members having served the maximum time allowed.

About us

We are an alliance of over 220 charities and support groups with an ambitious strategy focused on working together to improve the lives of the 1 in 17 people in the UK affected by rare, genetic or undiagnosed conditions. We campaign for timely diagnosis, better coordinated care, and improvements in screening, testing, services and treatment.

What are we looking for?

We are seeking candidates with a personal or professional passion for driving these improvements, who can bring relevant skills and experience to help shape our work.  As part of the organisation’s work to foster diversity, equity and inclusion, we aim to have a broad and varied membership of the Board. We encourage applications from the devolved nations of the UK. We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of rare, genetic or undiagnosed conditions either directly, via family and friends, or through a connection with one of our member organisations.

We are keen to recruit people with skills and knowledge in one or more of the following areas:

● Business development and income generation

● Human resources and people management

● Fundraising and philanthropy

● Media, communications and public relations

● Reproductive choice techniques and ethics

● Research in genetics or rare conditions.

What will you be doing?

Trustees play a key role in leading and supporting the charity. We ask them to:

● Attend four Board meetings each year (at least two meetings are held online, with one or two in-person Board meetings each year usually in central London)

● Attend one in-person Board Strategy Away Day each year (usually following one of the in-person Board meetings)

● Attend the one-hour Annual General Meeting in autumn each year

● Consider joining one of our sub-committees, with up to four online meetings each year.

The roles are voluntary (unpaid). We reimburse reasonable expenses necessary for attending meetings and taking part in Genetic Alliance UK activities. 

Most of our trustees are sponsored by our member organisations. If you have a connection with one of the charities in our alliance or the conditions they support, please mention this on your application.

We will provide full induction for successful candidates.

All postholders will be appointed for a first term of up to three years, with a possible further three years and up to a maximum nine years in exceptional circumstances.

Main Responsibilities 

Providing coding support to the team in C++ or other programming languages (Java, Python). 

Work with the UX/UI in implementing app and game design

Communication within a team setting, intercommunication skills are key 

Updating app/game code as and when needed 

Respond to feedback effectively 

Long-term commitment to Easing Anxieties

In addition to the above, the Coding Volunteer has the same responsibilities and qualities as all Volunteers:

Responsibilities of all trustees

Support and provide advice on Easing Anxieties’ purpose, vision, goals, and activities. 

Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

Oversee Easing Anxieties’ financial plans and budgets, and monitor and evaluate progress. 

Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored, and controlled effectively.

Keep abreast of changes in Easing Anxieties’s operating environment.

Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Easing Anxieties’ interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.

Contribute to the broader promotion of Easing Anxieties’ objects, aims, and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge, and contacts.

Essential qualities and attributes of all Volunteers:

Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as volunteers and to act in the best interests of the organisation.

Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgment, and work effectively as a board member.

Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion. 

A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

Willingness to lead according to our values, Easing Anxieties. 

Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership

Terms of appointment

Terms of office

Trustees are appointed for a [2] year term of office, with renewal for [2] further terms to a maximum of [10] years.

This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Time commitment

Attending [4] Board meetings annually. Currently, meetings are held remotely.

You will be a member of a sub-committee that will meet [6] times per year.

We believe that every child should have access to a quality education at a safe, inclusive school, with the opportunity to become a truly global citizen… do you too?

It’s an incredibly exciting time at African Adventures Foundation as we develop the vital programmes we deliver at the 34 partner schools we work with in Ghana, Kenya, and Zanzibar.

We have ambitious plans to help drive greater impact at our partner schools and are looking to strengthen our existing Trustee Board that’s full of energy and experience!

 Do you have experience in charity governance, delivering projects in an African culture and context, or delivering WASH or female empowerment/education/menstrual health programmes?

If so, read on… we’d be keen to hear from you about becoming one of our amazing volunteer trustees! 

Introduction to African Adventures Foundation

African Adventures Foundation is a registered charity set up in 2013 to provide support to 34 schools in developing areas of Ghana, Kenya and Zanzibar.

These schools provide education, health and food security, and social support to young people whose access to these basic services would otherwise be very limited. African Adventures Foundation helps by funding food security programmes, the construction of important school facilities, and hygiene projects that will benefit children’s health and education.

Our mission is to provide more children with a quality education and better opportunities in life.

 All trustees are responsible for governing a charitable company and directing its management and operation. They must also ensure that the trust complies with all legal and statutory requirements.

About the role

The Secretary supports the effective governance and administration of the African Adventures Foundation. The role ensures that the Board of Trustees operates efficiently, meetings are properly organised and recorded, and the charity complies with regulatory and administrative requirements. The Secretary works closely with the Global Chair, Treasurer, and other Trustees to ensure the charity follows best practice in governance and maintains accurate records.

As an ambassador, they also support external stakeholder and donor activities ensuring compliance to the standards required. 

Key Responsibilities 

Governance and Administration

• Support the Global Chair in ensuring AAF is effectively governed and operates in line with its governing document.
• Ensure trustee meetings are properly administered, including preparing agendas, coordinating papers, and taking accurate minutes.
• Ensure that trustee decisions and discussions are clearly recorded and stored appropriately.
• Maintain up-to-date records of trustees, governance documents, and key organisational information, including steward of the governance schedule for all territories.

Meeting Management

• Ensure that trustee meetings are properly administered and recorded.
• Circulate agendas, minutes, and supporting papers to trustees in a timely manner.
• Ensure other meetings, such as the Annual General Meeting (AGM), and key organisational events are properly administered.
• Ensure that minutes from meetings are approved and maintained as part of the charity’s official records.

Compliance and Record Keeping

• Ensure that records required by regulators are properly maintained, including those required by the Charity Commission for England and Wales.
• Maintain accurate governance documentation, including trustee appointments, resignations, and declarations of interest.
• Ensure that Charity Commission and other relevant organisation records are maintained and kept up to date.

Regulatory Reporting

• Ensure required information is filed with regulators in accordance with statutory deadlines.
• Submit annual returns and other required filings to regulatory bodies in the correct format and within required timescales.
• Support the Board in ensuring compliance with relevant guidance from bodies such as the Charity Commission for England and Wales and the Fundraising Regulator.

Monitoring Actions and Board Support

• Maintain an action log for trustee meetings.
• Monitor committee member action points and follow up where necessary.
• Support trustees by ensuring they have access to relevant governance information and documents.
• Assist the Board in maintaining good governance practices and transparency.

What we are looking for

• Strong, organisational and administrative skills.
• Ability to take clear and accurate meeting minutes.
• Good attention to detail and record-keeping ability.
• Understanding of governance responsibilities within the UK charity sector.
• Ability to communicate effectively with trustees and stakeholders.
• Previous experience as a charity trustee or secretary.
• Ideally familiar with governance requirements of the Charity Commission for England and Wales.
• Experience supporting boards, committees, or governance structures.

Terms of appointment

Terms of office

• Trustees are appointed for a 2-year term of office, renewal for 2 further terms to a maximum of 6 years.
• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Time commitment (Estimated at one day per month, but can vary)

• Attend the board meetings – a mix of online and in person.
• Additional time for preparation and distribution of meeting documentation. Time to manage governance records and regulatory submissions throughout the year.

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board. 

Responsibilities & Principles of all AAF trustee roles:

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

Essential qualities and attributes of all trustees

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees, and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussions. 
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• A strong personal commitment to good financial management, and zero tolerance for corruption and misappropriation of our donors funds.
• Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.
• Willingness to lead according to African Adventures Foundation’s values.

This is an opportunity to play a key role in supporting the work of African Adventures Foundation. If you are organised, reliable, and motivated by making a difference, we would love to hear from you.