Learning and development officer volunteer roles in Newcastle upon tyne, tyne and wear

Board Trustees

Voluntary, unpaid role (expenses paid)
Quarterly online meetings + one in-person strategy meeting annually

Help shape the future of local government

For more than 40 years, LGIU has been a trusted partner to local government. We empower councils with the capabilities, practical insight and connections they need to lead change and build thriving communities.

Today, local government is operating in an environment of accelerating change and unprecedented complexity. Councils are navigating deepening financial pressures, rising demand across frontline services, structural reform, political volatility and widening inequalities, often simultaneously. These are not isolated challenges and they cannot be solved through piecemeal or one-size-fits-all approaches.

At LGIU, we believe national success is built on strong local foundations. We also believe the future of local government will be shaped not by institutions working alone, but through collaboration, innovation and shared leadership across the sector.

That is why we are seeking up to five external Trustees to join our Board and help guide the next phase of LGIU.

About LGIU

LGIU is a non-partisan membership organisation and registered charity working with more than 260 councils across the UK and internationally. We are an independent voice for local government and a leading hub for ideas, research, practical intelligence and sector collaboration.

We help councils:

• Make sense of emerging trends and policy change

• Learn from peers facing similar challenges

• Build organisational capability and resilience

• Co-create solutions to complex problems

• Shape national debates and reform agendas

Our work spans research, policy, events, international learning, leadership support and cross-sector partnerships. Increasingly, our focus is on helping local government move from complexity to clarity to action.

The opportunity

LGIU is owned and governed by its members.  The current Board is composed of leaders and other senior elected members from our membership. As part of a set of wider governance changes, we are now seeking to augment our board with up to five external trustees.

As an external Trustee, you will join a collaborative and ambitious Board responsible for the strategic direction, governance and long-term sustainability of the charity and its subsidiaries. You will work alongside fellow trustees, the Chief Executive and Chief Operating Officer to help ensure LGIU continues to evolve, grow and deliver meaningful impact for councils and communities.

We are particularly interested in individuals who can bring strategic insight, external perspective and senior leadership experience in one or more of the following priority areas:

Public sector system leadership: Current or former senior leaders from local government, the NHS or wider public services, with experience of leading complex organisations through change, reform and uncertainty.

Business model development and commercialisation: Experience of organisational growth, partnerships, income diversification, membership models, commercial strategy or sustainable business development.

Technology and innovation: Expertise in digital transformation, AI, innovation, product development, technology-enabled change or future-focused organisational leadership.

These areas reflect the Board’s agreed strategic priorities as LGIU continues to evolve its model, expand its reach and strengthen its role as a partner for change across the sector.

We would also welcome candidates with expertise in communications and marketing, workforce development, research, membership organisations or international collaboration.

What we are looking for

We are seeking people who:

• Care deeply about the future of local government and local democracy

• Bring strategic thinking, sound judgement and curiosity

• Are comfortable navigating complexity and change

• Can contribute constructively to governance and strategic discussions

• Understand collaboration, partnership and systems leadership

• Are committed to inclusive leadership and diverse perspectives

Previous trustee experience is welcome but not essential.

We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities that local government serves, and we strongly encourage applications from underrepresented groups.

Time commitment

This is a voluntary, unpaid role.

The expected commitment includes:

• Four quarterly online Board meetings each year

• One annual face-to-face strategy meeting or away day

• Reading and preparation time in advance of meetings

• Occasional participation in sub-committees or advisory discussions

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to help shape the future direction of one of the sector’s most respected and influential organisations at a critical moment for local government.

You will join a Board committed to helping councils become more resilient, agile, connected and future-ready - and to ensuring local government has the ideas, evidence, partnerships and leadership it needs to meet the challenges ahead.

As a Trustee, you will help strengthen an organisation that works every day to empower local government to think big, act boldly and shape the future with confidence.

How to apply

To express interest, please submit:

• A CV 

• A short supporting statement outlining your interest in the role and the experience you would bring to the Board

Closing date: 26th June 2026

Voice 21 – Trustee with fundraising expertise 

About Voice 21
Voice 21 is the national oracy education charity. We support schools to build speaking and listening into the curriculum, teaching, learning and wider school life so that every child can use their voice to thrive in school, work and life. Our training and development programmes for teachers and school leaders transform learning through talk, expanding access to high-quality oracy education, particularly for children who need it most.

Why join the Voice 21 Board of Trustees now?
Since its inception in 2015, Voice 21 has built a national movement to put oracy at the heart of education in the UK. In November 2025, the government responded to Professor Becky Francis’s Curriculum and Assessment Review by adopting the definition of oracy used by Voice 21 and by the independent Oracy Commission in its 2024 report,  We Need to Talk: ‘Articulating ideas, developing understanding and engaging with others through speaking, listening and communication’.

The government has also committed to publish national guidance on oracy, modelled on the Writing Framework, and to strengthening oracy teaching within subjects. The Schools White Paper published in February 2026 reinforced this direction, positioning oracy as the fourth “R” alongside reading, writing and maths.

Oracy is now firmly part of national policy, and Voice 21 continues to build evidence of its impact on young people’s attainment, wellbeing, belonging and career readiness.

This policy shift represents a major campaigning success for Voice 21 and others who campaigned  alongside us. Our new 2030 Strategy aims to seize this moment and secure high-quality, evidence-based oracy education for every child, particularly for those children in schools serving disadvantaged communities.

Investment will be critical to achieving this ambition. Fundraising currently provides 20% of our income. Our goal is to increase this to 40%, doubling fundraised income to support delivery of our 2030 strategy.

The Role: Trustee with fundraising expertise

Voice 21 is keen to strengthen its board-level knowledge and skills by adding a fundraising specialist trustee. We are looking to appoint a strategic fundraising leader who has substantial experience of successfully developing fundraising departments and growing voluntary income. As trustee, you will provide strategic oversight, constructive challenge and advice on fundraising strategy.

Ideally your career will have focused on high value and relationship fundraising (philanthropy, trusts, corporate partnerships). As a subject specialist, you will help to expand and deepen fellow trustees’ understanding of fundraising strategy and operations, providing knowledge, guidance, challenge and advocacy.

Your expertise will be invaluable at this pivotal moment for Voice 21, as the charity prepares to launch an ambitious new strategy, with a goal to double fundraised income by 2030. Your insights will be particularly appreciated by the experienced Head of Fundraising, CEO and Director of Operations – including contributing critical/analytic skills to help evaluate fundraising ideas and opportunities – though your primary focus will be advising on fundraising at governance level.

Knowledge And Experience: 

• Significant senior fundraising experience, with proven ability to secure major income.

• Personal experience working with high profile figures, senior leaders in major companies, people with high levels of personal wealth who are seeking charitable missions like ours to support.

• Understanding of charity leadership, including developing and implementing organisational strategy.

• Broad understanding of fundraising management across income streams.

Why this role matters:

This is an opportunity to make a real difference in tackling the disadvantage gap at a pivotal moment for oracy education. You will have the chance to influence a dynamic Board and staff team with great ambitions for our 2030 Strategy.

Time commitment:

• Board meetings: three per year, in person in London (9am–12pm)

• Annual strategy day (9am - 3pm)

• Finance Committee: four virtual meetings per year (approximately 2 hours per meeting) 

• Opportunities to attend Voice 21 events throughout the year.

Safeguarding:

This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Application details:

To apply:

• a CV and a covering letter of 1- 2 pages; 

Please include: 

• Details of your interest in joining Voice 21 as a trustee; 

• An outline of your current work / relevant experience; 

• A note of any training and development needs you think you’ll have if you are appointed. 

Valuing every voice

Voice 21 believes that every voice should be heard and valued. We are committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and trustees do not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership. Voice 21 is a diverse and inclusive workplace and we strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join us.

We are seeking an organised and enthusiastic Volunteer Recruitment Officer to utilise their excellent administrative and personal skills to advertise for, shortlist and onboard new volunteers.

Location: Remote (although ability to join occasional face-to-face training and meetings in Bounds Green desirable)

About Bounds Green Food Bank: 

Open since June 2020, we serve over 4,600 children and adults in the community. We are committed to improving lives by providing food and essential household items to build a healthy, hunger-free tomorrow. We strive to promote social inclusion by supporting people who find themselves in crisis where they need assistance to feed themselves and their families.

The role: 

• Liaise with different team leads to create enticing job descriptions for new volunteer roles

• Post and manage volunteer adverts on different recruitment websites like Indeed, Charity Job and Third Sector Jobs

• Review applications and shortlist suitable applicants, which will include speaking with them to answer questions and collaborating with the relevant team lead to organise interviews or opportunities to visit us to learn more

• Update the database with applicant contact points and recruitment progress

• Support with onboarding new volunteers, e.g. ensuring they have completed the relevant registration forms, provided any necessary documents,and are able to join our on-line communities. 

Person specification: 

• Excellent written and verbal communication in English

• Fantastic organisational skills

• Experience in administrative or recruitment roles desirable but not essential

• Willing to learn about what we do and why, to engage applicants to join us

Benefits:

• Give back to the community - one of the NHS’ 5 Ways to Wellbeing!

• Upskill on a range of topics, e.g. customer service, interpersonal skills, organisational abilities and health and safety

• Gain a sense of community and meet the huge team of volunteers

About Roots Academy. 

Roots Academy’s Vision.

A generation of young Muslims who embody and promote a God-centred way of life.

At Roots Academy, we’ve built a learning experience that’s changing the lives of the ummah’s future leaders, change-makers and visionaries. Our Mission is to deliver a structured and transformative education in the Essentials of Islam in a way that lowers barriers to access, develops a deep certainty, and inspires action.

Why Does Roots Academy Exist?

Crisis of Faith: 1 in 4 young Muslims are leaving the religion due to various factors, primarily the pervasive anti-religious content and temptations they encounter online and offline. 

Roots Academy exists to bridge this gap by providing a structured and transformative Islamic education that speaks directly to the needs and challenges of young Muslims today, delivered in an engaging and accessible form that removes barriers to access and provokes thought and action.

Role Summary.

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Email Marketing Officer to support the planning and delivery of email campaigns that engage and inspire our audience. You will be responsible for creating, scheduling, and optimising emails to strengthen communication with students, parents, and supporters. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the email marketing efforts of a growing international education platform.

Key tasks

• Design, build, and schedule email campaigns using email marketing tools.

• Manage audience segmentation and ensure email lists are accurate and up to date.

• Collaborate with copywriters and designers to deliver engaging, on-brand email content.

• Conduct A/B tests to improve open rates, click-through rates, and overall performance.

• Monitor and report on email campaign performance, suggesting improvements.

• Ensure all email content complies with data protection and GDPR guidelines.

What we’re looking for

• Passion for Islamic education and the development of young Muslims.

• Some experience or training in email marketing platforms (such as Mailerlite or similar).

• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.

• Good understanding of email marketing best practices (design, copy, segmentation, scheduling).

• Ability to work collaboratively with writers, designers, and marketers.

• Proactive, self-motivated, and results-driven.

What we have to offer

• Be part of a team of 100+ dedicated volunteers across the UK, Ireland, Canada, US, UAE and Australia.

• Receive continuous rewards for those that seek Islamic knowledge from the Roots platform. 

• Be a part of a growing organisation that aims to revive and educate Muslims from a grassroots perspective.

• Professional development and practical experience in digital marketing and communication.

• Receive in-house tarbiyah (personal & spiritual development) sessions to develop your deen. 

Please note this is an unpaid volunteer position. 

Volunteers are entitled to claim expenses incurred for food, travel and equipment, in line with our Expenses policy.

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising events organisers have the exciting and varied role of helping plan and deliver local fundraising events to raise the vital funds needed to help cats. Our fundraising events organisers use their passion for cats and people to plan cake sales, barn dances, quiz nights and everything in between.

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You'll be:

• planning fundraising events and activities like cake sales, quiz nights and barn dances
• providing the treasurer with information on funds raised from fundraising events
• encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising events organisers usually spend two to three hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer.

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

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

Purpose

The Chair leads the board of Trustees, ensuring the charity is well-governed, fulfils its mission, complies with all legal and regulatory requirements, and operates in the best interests of its beneficiaries. The Chair works closely with the Executive Director to provide strategic leadership, support, and challenge.

Background to the Charity

For the past forty years, CHIRP has enabled thousands of people to report safety concerns through our confidential reporting service without fear of identification or harming their careers, contributing to safer environments in the air and at sea. This service has evolved to meet changing needs and is still providing a unique, vital and valuable service to people working in the aviation and maritime industries.

Over the past year a new strategy has been developed focusing on:

- unlocking the barriers to reporting for those who are working in the most challenging situations;

- building coalitions for system change in safety culture and practice;

- embedding best practice safety cultures with employers; and,

- engaging new and future generations.

We also seek to further the impact of the charity by ensuring future sustainability.

We have an excellent, highly motivated team, a committed and skilled Board and a well-earned reputation for being a trustworthy and willing organisation there to help and make a difference, all of which makes this is an exciting time to join the board in this leadership role. Guided by the values of trust and integrity, safety and accountability, a just culture and expertise and collaboration we know we can make an even greater difference in improving safety culture, practice and learning. To do this, and building on the excellence of the past, we will need a Chair who is collaborative, courageous, visionary and strategic, who understands the fundraising and financing challenges of today’s charity sector and who comes with experience of building sustainability and resilience. These foundations will enable the charity to achieve its ambitious plans for future growth.

If these opportunities are what you are looking for and your values align with ours, then please read on for more details about the role and the commitment we are seeking.

Principal responsibilities

Strategic leadership

· Ensure the charity has a clear vision, mission, and strategic plan, and that these are regularly reviewed.

· Lead the board in setting and monitoring the charity’s strategic direction.

· Safeguard the charity’s values and reputation.

Governance

· Ensure the board fulfils its duties under charity law, company law (if applicable), and the charity’s governing document.

· Promote high standards of governance and encourage all trustees to actively contribute.

· Ensure the board operates effectively, with appropriate policies, procedures, and controls in place to manage risk and promote the objectives of the charity.

· Ensure that the board fulfils its duties to ensure sound financial health of the charity with systems in place to ensure financial accountability.

Board Leadership

· Chair board meetings effectively, encouraging open, balanced discussion and consensus decision-making.

· Ensure meetings are focused, productive, and quorate.

· Support recruitment, induction, and development of trustees.

· Manage trustee performance and address underperformance where necessary.

Relationship with the Executive Director

· Build a partnership with the Executive Director based on shared purpose, offering support and challenge in the interests of the charity.

· Understand appropriate separation of governance and management.

· Conduct the Executive Director’s annual appraisal and support their professional development.

 External Relations

· When required act as an ambassador for the charity, representing it to funders, partners, government, and the public.

· When appropriate support fundraising, advocacy, and profile-raising activities when appropriate.

Additional information

The above list is indicative only and not exhaustive. The Chair will be expected to perform all such additional duties as are reasonably commensurate with the role.

Deaf Unity is a deaf-led charity that works to empower deaf individuals. We equip deaf students, jobseekers and professionals with the knowledge, confidence and community to succeed in education and employment.

Working closely with our deaf community, we identify the barriers and inequities that deaf people meet as they move from school into education and employment; seek work; and strive to build successful careers. We work with them and with universities, employers and voluntary sector partners to overcome these barriers through carefully tailored, impactful interventions.

Our vision is of a world where every deaf person has an equal chance to study and work, achieve their professional ambitions and contribute their full potential to society.

Purpose of the role

To oversee Deaf Unity’s financial operations, ensuring that the charity remains financially viable and complies with Charity Commission regulations and strong accounting practices at all times, The Treasurer will ensure that proper financial records are kept and that the Board of Trustees understands the financial position at all times. 

Key responsibilities

• Oversee the charity’s financial position
• Present budgets, management accounts and financial statements to the Board
• Help trustees understand financial information and advise on financial implications of the charity’s strategic plans
• Support budgeting and financial planning, including developing and implementing financial policies (e.g. reserves and investment policies),
• Ensure proper financial controls are in place and that proper accounting records are kept
• Oversee the preparation of annual accounts
• Ensure compliance with Charity Commission and HMRC regulations (e.g. Gift Aid)

You will work closely with the CEO, Chair, trustees and staff who are managing day-to-day finance and banking and will be required to attend quarterly meetings of the Finance and Risk sub-group of the Board, in addition to the full Board meeting

What is a trustee?

All trustees share responsibility for running the charity.

This includes:

• Attending board meetings, usually 4 times per year.
• Helping make strategic decisions
• Acting in the best interests of the charity and its beneficiaries

Trustee responsibilities are set out by the Charity Commission for England and Wales.

Skills we are looking for

Essential skills:

• Knowledge of bookkeeping and financial management (e.g. use of XERO, SAGE accounting packages)
• Experience of financial reporting, budgeting and risk management
• An understanding of (or willingness to learn about) charity accounting
• Ability to explain financial information clearly
• Good judgement and decision-making skills
• Interest in supporting deaf communities

Desirable:

• Professional accounting qualification
• Previous experience as a trustee or treasurer
• knowledge of, or interest in, the deaf community.
• BSL skills

What you will gain

• Experience of charity governance
• Board-level leadership experience
• Opportunity to support Deaf communities
• Networking and professional development 

Please send a CV and/or a short expression of interest 

WELCOME
The Army Cadet Charitable Trust UK (ACCT UK) is a 96-year-old national youth charity dedicated to improving the life chances of young people and is the official charity supporting the national youth movement known as the Army Cadet Force (ACF). We help disadvantaged young people access the opportunities and benefits available in the Army Cadet programme and, through doing so, enable them to develop and achieve their own potential. We provide grants both to individual cadets and cadet counties so that they can train, go on camps, and learn valuable new skills that will benefit them well into their adult lives. We also support the adult volunteers who deliver the training and whose support is vital to the work of the Army Cadets.
We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity. It is important for us to be representative of the community we serve, and this starts with the diversity of our board members. We ensure that all of our trustees are valued equally and able to contribute on an equal footing, regardless of their background or identity.

ABOUT THE ROLE
The Finance specialist trustee will be an important member of ACCT UK’s Board. You would be part of our team of trustees overseeing the strategic direction of ACCT UK to ensure that it achieves its charitable objects with the particular role of monitoring its financial management. Our charity is financially secure and stable, nevertheless we are looking for an additional trustee with finance experience to work in partnership with the charity’s Treasurer (Chair of the Finance and General Purposes Committee) in monitoring the work of the Charity’s finance team, thus providing fellow board trustees with financial insight and reassurance. We would say it, wouldn’t we (!), but we think you would really enjoy being a trustee and also find it hugely satisfying and rewarding. A fuller description of the role is at Annex A.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
We are seeking a volunteer with a strong professional track record in finance or accountancy, who can provide senior level oversight on our Finance and General Purposes Committee. You will have an understanding of best practice in financial
reporting, controls and governance. A background in charity finance is not essential but would be advantageous. We are seeking a Trustee with sound judgement, the highest professional standards and integrity and strong communication skills who would enjoy contributing to the overall governance of the charity. This role would suit someone with a finance background looking for their first trustee position or who has been a Treasurer for a smaller charity and is not looking for a larger Treasurer role at this time.

TENURE
Once elected as a trustee, you will be asked to serve for a three-year term, following which by mutual agreement you could be elected for a further three-year term.
On election you will have a probationary period of 3 to 4 months depending on your joining date and dates of board meetings and committee group meetings. In the probationary period you should attend one board meeting and at least two committee meetings as a trustee. This will give you an insight into the work done by trustees and the commitment required to be a trustee and will allow both the board and you to assess whether this role is suitable for you. You will have full trustee voting rights during the probationary period.

Volunteer Opportunity: Social Media Lead

Are you a creative thinker with a passion for digital storytelling and leading online engagement? We’re looking for a Volunteer Social Media Lead to take ownership of our social media presence and guide our online strategy.

Role Overview:
As the Social Media Lead, you will oversee the planning, creation, and delivery of content across our social platforms. You’ll lead a small team (if applicable), shape our digital voice, and ensure our messaging effectively engages and grows our audience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a social media strategy aligned with organisational goals

• Oversee content planning, creation, and scheduling across platforms

• Lead and support Social Media Officers or volunteers

• Ensure consistency in tone, branding, and messaging

• Monitor engagement, analytics, and performance metrics

• Identify trends and opportunities to grow audience reach

• Coordinate promotion of events, campaigns, and key updates

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong understanding of social media platforms and trends

• Excellent written communication and creative skills

• Experience managing or leading social media accounts (preferred)

• Ability to analyse performance data and adjust strategies

• Leadership or team coordination skills

• Proactive, organised, and able to work independently

What You’ll Gain:

• Leadership experience in digital marketing and communications

• Opportunity to shape and grow an organisation’s online presence

• Development of strategic thinking and analytical skills

• Enhanced CV with hands-on leadership experience

• A chance to make a meaningful impact through digital engagement

Time Commitment:
Flexible, with regular weekly involvement and additional time during campaigns.

Location:
REMOTE - UK ONLY

Take the lead in telling our story and building a strong, engaged online community.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
We are seeking a volunteer with a strong professional track record in finance or accountancy, who can provide senior level oversight on our Finance and Compliance Committee. You will have an understanding of best practice in financial reporting, controls and governance. A background in charity finance is not essential but would be advantageous. We are seeking a Trustee with sound judgement, the highest professional standards and integrity and strong communication skills who would enjoy contributing to the overall governance of the charity. This role would suit someone with a finance background looking for their first trustee position or who has been a Treasurer for a smaller charity and is not looking for a larger Treasurer role at this time.

THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Please see the How to Apply section further below to apply for this role.
We will have an informal selection panel to consider volunteer applications and if you are selected you will be one of the people who will lead the CCFA and decide how it is run.
Working with our other trustees, your skills and experience will be key to the success and development of the CCFA. The successful candidate will benefit from being part of a dynamic and successful trustee body of a charity which demonstrates great social value to young people and to society, and to those adult volunteers who train and develop the cadets, inspiring them to achieve their full potential.
As you will become a charity trustee and company director, and as we work with young people, there are a number of eligibility criteria which we will cover with you. Please ask us if you have any questions around your eligibility for this role.
You can find out more about what we look for in a Trustee in Annex B.

TENURE
Once elected as a trustee, you will be asked to serve for a three-year term, following which by mutual agreement you could be elected for a further three-year term.
On election you will have a probationary period of 3 to 4 months depending on your joining date and dates of board meetings and committee group meetings. In the probationary period you should attend one board meeting and at least two committee meetings as a trustee. This will give you an insight into the work done by trustees and the commitment required to be a trustee and will allow both the board and you to assess whether this role is suitable for you. You will have full trustee voting rights during the probationary period.

Second Life

We partner with communities to collect, trace, and recycle plastic, creating jobs and preventing pollution.​

Our growth so far has been powered by corporate partnerships.
But there's significant catalytic and concessional funding available for organizations doing exactly what we do, and right now we're not capturing it. We need the help of a Grant Writer & Institutional Funding Lead to change that. 

This is a high-leverage role for an experienced development professional who knows the climate, ocean, and circular economy funding landscape, and who can turn that knowledge into successful proposals. You'll own the full grant lifecycle from prospecting to reporting, working directly with the CEO and Program Director.

What you'll do:
- Map the global funding landscape relevant to Second Life: bilateral aid agencies, multilateral institutions, climate funds, major foundations, corporate foundations, impact investors offering grant capital, and prize-based funders.
- Build and maintain a prioritized funder pipeline with clear fit assessment, ticket sizes, timelines, and decision-maker contacts.
- Recommend which opportunities to pursue and which to pass on.
- Read and critically review our in-progress and recently submitted grant applications; provide structured written feedback and proposed edits.
- Lead the writing of concept notes, letters of inquiry, and full proposals.
- Translate field reality (collection sites, collector incomes, recycling pathways) into the language funders use (outputs, outcomes, impact, theory of change, MEL frameworks).
- Own grant reporting timelines and deliverables across all active grants
- Partner with marketing on funder-facing communications, impact stories, and thought leadership that strengthens grant competitiveness
- Build internal systems: proposal templates, internal library of strong language, proof points and reusable section, AI usage etc. so this function can scale.

Minimum Hours per Week:

4-6 hours per week

Duration:

6+ months

Treasurer Roles & Responsibilities 

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas is seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and provide strategic oversight of the organisation’s financial health. The Treasurer plays a key governance role, strengthening financial literacy at Board level and supporting sustainable growth. The Board is responsible for governance and strategy and does not manage day-to-day operations.

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas (RBB) is a growing charity registered with the Charity Commission (Charity No. 1189561). For the financial year ending 31 March 2025, RBB reported a total income of £423,041 and total expenditure of £373,007. As a charity with income above £250,000, we prepare annual accounts in accordance with the Charities SORP and undergo independent examination.

As our current treasurer prepares to step down, we are expanding our Board of Trustees to support the growth and future plans of our ambitious small charity. Board meetings take place every 12 weeks via video call, with opportunities for in-person gatherings throughout the year. Additional meetings may occasionally be required, either more frequently, in smaller groups, or one-to-one, depending on specific needs or exceptional circumstances. 

• Responsible to: Chair, Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

• Purpose: To oversee the management and reporting of charity finances.

• Hours: Approximately six to eight hours a month.

Remuneration: This is a voluntary, unpaid Trustee role. Reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed in line with our volunteer policy.

Role Summary 

The Treasurer will work closely with our team members including volunteers, other Trustees and with the CEO, advising on all financial matters including regulatory compliance. The Treasurer will be expected to attend Board meetings which last approximately an hour and a half every twelve weeks. The Treasurer will: 

• Actively participate as a key member of the Board of Trustees. 

• Act as an ambassador for Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

• Oversee and analyse the development of the annual budget and cash flow forecasts, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy and sustainability.

• Support with fundraising and financial strategic planning 

• Advise on all financial matters, including regulatory compliance. 

• Oversee the development and observation of financial policies 

• Advise the board on fund management and ensure an appropriate reserves policy

• Advise fellow Trustees on a regular basis of the financial status of the charity and where necessary recommend action. 

• Oversee and administer financial processes including Gift Aid claims and payroll, ensuring appropriate financial controls, transparency and board oversight are maintained. (There is currently only one person on payroll.)

• Work collaboratively with the CEO and Chair to ensure appropriate financial segregation of duties within the constraints of a small charity.

• Support the Board in monitoring financial risk, reserves policy and international financial compliance.

• Ensure appropriate internal financial controls are in place and regularly reviewed.

• Work with professional advisors including any contracted accountants 

• Review financial transactions on a monthly basis via digital accounting software, Xero

• Arrange the compilation and agreement of Refugee Biryani & Bananas’ annual report

• Lead Trustee liaison with the independent examiner and oversee the preparation and Board approval of the annual accounts and report.

The Treasurer will play a key role in strengthening financial sustainability as RBB continues to grow its international programmes and funding base.

Person Specification 

The ideal candidate will have innovative ideas and sound financial knowledge. All Trustees are expected to assist Refugee Biryani & Bananas to secure a sustainable and diverse funding base for the organisation. 

Essential 

• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship 

• Support for the values and mission of Refugee Biriyani & Bananas

• Familiarity with the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), or willingness to develop this knowledge.

• Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information 

Desirable 

• A qualified accountant (formal qualification preferred) with financial and commercial awareness, experienced in managing finances, payroll, and the needs of smaller organisations. 

• An understanding of the voluntary sector and previous experience as a Trustee or Treasurer. 

• Good communication and competent IT skills 

• Extensive experience in senior strategic management and leadership, combined with strong analytical and evaluation skills. 

About Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas (RBB) began as a grassroots movement in 2015, in response to the Syrian refugee crisis. What started as a group of friends distributing 2,500 portions of biriyani and bananas in the unofficial camp for displaced people in Dunkirk, Northern France, has grown into a community-driven humanitarian organisation. Initially working under the umbrella of another organisation, RBB became independent to better address gaps in aid and advocacy for displaced people worldwide. 

What We Do 

RBB supports people facing displacement, war, and inequality, tailoring actions to the needs of each situation. From food distributions to medical support and human rights advocacy, our work is versatile and responsive. We have provided aid in refugee and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, squats, and other unstable settlements along migratory pathways, including: 

• France: Calais, Dunkirk & Paris 

• Greece: Idomeni, Thessaloniki, Athens, Lavrio, Samos & Chios (our main base) 

• Northern Iraq: Duhok 

• Serbia: Belgrade Barracks 

• Bosnia & Herzegovina - Croatia Border: Vucjak Camp 

• Turkey: Istanbul 

• Poland, Belarus & Lithuania Border

• Ukraine Border (Poland and Ukraine sides) 

• Palestine: Gaza

• Egypt: Cairo

Our Approach 

RBB is a mobile grassroots organisation, designed to respond rapidly and flexibly to emerging crises. Our main base of operations is on Chios Island, Greece, where we provide ongoing support to people who are displaced.

Since October 2023, we have also established community-led initiatives to support people affected by the war in Gaza, Palestine, as well as Sudanese and other displaced communities in Cairo, Egypt.

Beyond emergency relief, we remain committed to ongoing support through volunteers, translation services, medical care, aid, and advocacy until either local capacity builds or the situation changes. In addition, our Community Humanitarian Leaders Programme (CHLP) plays a vital role in this approach by strengthening the leadership of people who are displaced by building on their existing skills, networks and lived experience in humanitarian efforts. 

Our field team comprises 90% individuals from refugee and asylum-seeking communities, representing Sudan, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, Gambia, Ethiopia, Palestine, and Yemen. This diverse team is led by our founder and CEO, Ruhi Akhtar, alongside field coordinators / project managers. 

We prioritise dignity and equity, involving displaced individuals in decision-making and collaboration. RBB's direct aid includes food, water, shelter, medical supplies, clothing, hygiene packs, and season-specific items like sunscreen or firewood. Needs assessments and communication with affected communities guide our actions, ensuring targeted, person-centered care. 

Advocacy & Awareness 

RBB amplifies the voices of displaced people by sharing their stories and raising awareness about often-overlooked realities. Through storytelling and advocacy, we aim to challenge injustice and inspire action. 

Are you passionate about using your skills and expertise to help support and develop a UK-wide relationships and sex education charity?

Sexpression:UK provides high quality, comprehensive relationships and sex education workshops to young people between the ages of 11-18 in schools and youth groups. We operate across the UK through our unique network of affiliated branches and volunteers based at universities and students’ unions in 15 towns and cities.

You will have strong empathy with our mission to educate and empower young people to make individual, informed decisions about their bodies and their health. You will be committed to using your expertise to contribute to the future development of the charity and ensuring high quality governance of the organisation.

We are looking for a motivated individual with demonstrable experience in leadership or governance to join our board as Chair of Trustees.This is an exciting time to join our charity with the opportunity to contribute to a unique youth-led charity playing a leading role in some of today’s biggest issues.

This is an exciting moment for us at SICK!, and we are thrilled to invite passionate, forward-thinking individuals to join our Board.

With our unwavering focus on mental and physical health, disability, inequality, and social change, our work has never been more relevant. We are proud of the growing impact we’re making locally and globally, and this is being recognised by our partners and funders who are investing in our long-term vision for the future.

Including Arts Council England who have committed to investing in our work as a National Portfolio Organisation 2023-2028.

In 2026, we present the latest iteration of SICK! Festival - with Beat One taking place throughout May.

Central to this is our Creative Resuscitation (CPR) model, which shifts us from a biennial, month-long festival to a year-round rhythm of seasonal “beats”. This structure is designed to disrupt unsustainable cycles, deepen relationships, and embed community voice and public outcomes across everything we do.

This festival, under SICK!’s new leadership, marked a pivotal moment in our journey as we deepen our commitment to engaging with pressing societal issues and sparking meaningful conversations.

We are looking to recruit new trustees, including but not limited to, with skills and professional qualifications in finance/accountancy, experience in communications or development and fundraising.

As an organisation, we are committed to ensuring our Board reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We are actively encouraging applications from people facing racism, those who identify as LGBTQIA+, individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and those with disabilities. We would also welcome applications from people with connections to Moston, Harpurhey, and Charlestown.

Join us and play a crucial role in shaping the future of SICK! as we continue our mission to challenge

perceptions, inspire action, and bring about real change.

We look forward to hearing from you.