Legal team member volunteer roles

Bournemouth Foodbank is looking for committed and skilled individuals to serve as trustees.

The Foodbank is at an exciting time as we have just secured funding to develop a whole new branch of initiatives. We are a Pathfinder Foodbank, piloting new programmes for the Trussell Trust Foodbank Network.

Food poverty is a complex issue that requires a range of joined-up approaches to solve. Frontline services are vital; however, people need more than food for the next three days; they need to feel that they are seen and heard, and they need to know that they have a legitimate place in society. That’s why we are developing these new more than food initiatives and working to prevent dependency and the need for foodbanks in the future.

In order to meet the challenges ahead we are particularly keen to recruit Trustees with legal experience, fundraising, strong administrative skills and, availability to attend the Foodbank on an ad hoc basis (at least fortnightly) during weekdays. Lived experience using Foodbanks or similar crisis services, as well as anyone with a background in Health and Well Being services, or Hospitality would all be extremely valuable additions to our board of trustees.

Vital is to be committed to the vision of Bournemouth Foodbank and concerned about our local communities in BCP as well as social justice equal opportunities. You will want to be giving your time and skills to work alongside our board to shape the future services on offer to our local community and support our few paid staff team and over 150 volunteers.

The time commitment would be a few hours a month, the expectation to attend the Foodbank at least fortnightly during weekdays and some flexibility to support occasional events would be wonderful (but entirely optional).

Responsibilities

As Chair of Trustees, you will ensure that you comply with Bournemouth Foodbank’s governing documents, charity law requirements, and other laws that might apply to it. You must act in Bournemouth Foodbank’s best interest, including doing what you and the trustee board decide will best enable Bournemouth Foodbank to carry out its purpose, as well as making balanced informed decisions.

This role involves leading and overseeing the trustee board in ensuring the effective performance of its legal, regulatory and governance responsibilities. It is also an essential part of the role to support and line manage the Foodbank Chief Executive Officer, to achieve the vision/objectives of the Foodbank and to ensure there is a positive relationship between the trustee board, staff, volunteers, and any other stakeholders.

Key Tasks

Chairperson Responsibilities:

• chair trustee meetings so that the trustee board functions effectively and carries out its duties
• ensure the trustee board sets an overall direction for the Foodbank with clear objectives
• ensure that the business of meetings is dealt with, decisions are recorded and implemented, and documentation is well managed and filed diligently
• in consultation with the rest of the trustee board, recruit board members with relevant expertise and experience when required
• to ensure that there is appropriate line management in place to manage the Food Bank Chief Executive Officer (which shall include undertaking appraisals, counter-authorising financial payments including payroll etc)

Ensure an effective relationship between staff, volunteers, and stakeholders:

• to plan with the Chief Executive Officer, an annual schedule of any subcommittee/steering group meetings and other key events which trustee board members should attend
• to work alongside the Foodbank Chief Executive Officer to ensure there is appropriate communication between the trustee board and staff, volunteers, and any other stakeholders.

Other responsibilities, along with the board of trustees, include:

• to approve, support and guide the charity’s purpose, vision, strategy, goals and objectives
• to manage the charity’s resources responsibly, ensuring the charity’s assets are used only to carry out its purpose, ensure the charity does not become over-committed, and ensure that key risks are identified, monitored and controlled appropriately
• to ensure the effective and efficient administration of the charity, responding to changes in the local community as appropriate
• to ensure appropriate financial plans are in place, budgets are monitored, financial statements are reviewed, and progress is evaluated
• to help promote the organisation to key stakeholders and beneficiaries
• to ensure the charity has appropriate procedures to comply with current legislation and good practice, including employment, health and safety, equity, diversity and inclusion, safeguarding, and GDPR compliance/data protection
• to prepare for and regularly attend and participate in board and subcommittee meetings.

The Politics Project is looking to expand its board and bring in new perspectives, skills and experience to support the next phase of our work.

We are at an exciting point in our development. We have funding secured for the next 2–3 years, a growing staff team, and a strong national profile. This period of growth coincides with a pivotal moment for democratic education in the UK. As Votes at 16 is introduced, The Politics Project is playing a leading role in supporting schools, youth organisations, civil society and policymakers to ensure young people are equipped to participate meaningfully in democracy. We are seeking new Non-Executive Directors to help guide our strategic direction, strengthen our governance, and support our long-term impact.

About The Politics Project

Established in 2015, The Politics Project is a Community Interest Company (CN: 09413132) that supports young people across the UK to use their voice by providing them with outstanding democratic education.

We are a non-partisan organisation working with young people, teachers, youth practitioners and elected representatives to help young people learn about, experience and engage in democracy and politics in meaningful ways.

We currently employ 11 full-time members of staff and work in partnership with schools, youth organisations, civil society organisations, and democratic institutions across the UK.

Our work aims to: 

• Support young people to meaningfully engage in politics by building their confidence, knowledge and skills.
• Train and support teachers, youth practitioners and professionals working with young people to deliver high-quality democratic education.
• Support politicians and decision makers to engage constructively with young people to co-create policy. 

Youth voice is embedded in this work through our Youth Steering Group, which brings together young people from across the UK to shape and inform The Politics Project’s programmes and priorities. 

Non-Executive Directors sit on The Politics Project Board and share collective responsibility for the governance, strategy and long-term sustainability of the organisation.

Key responsibilities include:

• Ensuring The Politics Project meets its legal and regulatory responsibilities and delivers its aims.
• Working with the Director to develop and realise the organisation’s vision, values and strategic direction.
• Supporting financial planning and oversight.
• Contributing to organisational policies and good governance.
• Providing strategic challenge, insight and support to the senior leadership team.
• Attending 3–4 Board meetings per year (with additional meetings if required). Meetings are primarily remote, with occasional in-person meetings.
• Acting as an ambassador for The Politics Project and advocating for its work.

Non-Executive Directors are registered as directors with Companies House and are appointed for a three-year term, renewable up to two times.

The role is unpaid, but reasonable expenses agreed in advance will be reimbursed. Time commitment is approximately one day per month.

In line with our safeguarding responsibilities, all Non-Executive Directors are required to undertake an enhanced DBS check.

Who are we looking for? 

We are particularly interested in applicants with experience or expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Democratic education or civic engagement (including academic expertise).
• Education (secondary, further or informal education).
• Network development and leadership.
• Youth sector practice or leadership.
• Business, charity or non-profit development.
• Communications, media or public engagement.
• Digital, data or technology strategy.
• Finance, financial strategy, budgets and governance.
• Fundraising and grant-making.
• Legal and governance expertise.
• Evaluation, research and impact measurement.

We are especially keen to hear from applicants from underrepresented groups and from those whose perspectives are currently less represented in the democracy and education sectors.

You do not need to have previous board experience to apply.

How to apply

To apply please submit a CV and a covering letter via Charity Jobs. The covering letter should be no longer than one side of A4  / a maximum of 500 words. Please apply through Charity Jobs.

In the letter can you explain why you are interested in becoming a Non-Executive Director of The Politics Project and describe how your experience and skills would contribute to our work.

We will conduct interviews as we receive suitable applications.

City of Chelmsford Mencap is a small independent charity providing support and structured classes for adults with a learning disability across mid-Essex. We have recently converted the charity's structure and are now embarking on an exciting period of strategic growth. We are seeking energetic and passionate new trustees who can contribute to our plans and help us deliver the next phase of our operating model. 

We would welcome potential trustees from any professional background. However, the following attributes are very important:

• A proven track record of integrity and respect for confidential and proprietary information
• A keen and respectful listener who is able to empathise and respectfully challenge
• Commitment to the charity and enthusiasm for its vision, mission and aims
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a trustee.
• Strategic vision
• Sound, independent judgement
• Willingness to participate in frank and open discussion
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to coach staff where required
• The ability to read and understand management reports
• Skills to analyse proposals and their consequence
• Preparedness to make unpopular recommendations to the board
• General competence with IT
• Willingness to be available to provide guidance to the senior management team on an ad hoc basis
• Capacity to represent the charity to external parties and at local events

Much more information is available in our recruitment pack which is available on the apply page..

Please note that appointment to our Board is subject to the receipt of satisfactory references and a clean enhanced DBS certificate (which we will arrange). 

Become a Trustee of Young Citizens and help light the spark of active citizenship for children and young people 

With citizenship education set to become statutory in primary schools, votes at 16 on the horizon, and growing concern about the health of our democracy, this is a pivotal moment to join Young Citizens as a Trustee. 

For over 35 years, Young Citizens has helped children and young people understand society, engage in democracy and make a positive impact in their communities. Through flagship programmes like The Big Legal Lesson, The Big Democracy Lesson, the Make a Difference Challenge and the National Mock Trial Competitions, we bring citizenship to life in classrooms and communities across the UK – reaching 300,000+ young people every year. 

Our five-year strategy, Lighting the Spark, is focused on making sure every young person in the UK experiences powerful, practical and immersive citizenship learning. As a Trustee, you will help shape this next phase of growth, strengthen our financial sustainability, and ensure we make the most of the opportunities ahead.

This is a voluntary role (reasonable expenses reimbursed) and a chance to play a strategic part in strengthening UK democracy through education. 

Role Snapshot 

• Shape Young Citizens’ strategic direction and monitor performance 
• Ensure compliance with charity law and our governing document 
• Safeguard the charity’s values, reputation, and financial integrity 
• Oversee effective use of resources and long-term sustainability 
• Support and advise the CEO, ensuring delivery against agreed objectives 
• Act as an ambassador, promoting Young Citizens and building relationships with partners, funders, and supporters 

Why join as a Young Citizens Trustee? 

Being a Young Citizens trustee is a strategic and deeply rewarding opportunity. You will: 

• Help steer a national charity at a pivotal moment for citizenship education and democracy 
• Collaborate with fellow trustees bringing expertise in education, law, finance, communications, governance, and public affairs 
• See our impact first-hand by attending key events such as programme launches and the National Finals of our competitions 
• Support a small but highly skilled staff team (around 13 colleagues across the UK) and a network of 1500+ professional volunteers 
• Contribute to decisions on resource investment, digital development, programme growth, and deepening impact 

In short, you’ll help ensure hundreds of thousands of young people every year gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to participate meaningfully in society. 

What We Are Looking For 

We’re seeking two trustees who can help Young Citizens expand our reach, influence, and financial resilience. You don’t need prior trustee experience, we provide a full induction, safeguarding training, and ongoing support.

We’re especially interested in those with expertise in one or more of the following areas: 

• Citizenship teaching or school leadership – understanding how schools work and how to embed civic learning and active citizenship across the curriculum. 
• Marketing, communications and influencing – building brands, running campaigns, shifting perceptions and engaging educators, young people and supporters. 
• Business growth, strategic partnerships and business development – scaling organisations, securing strategic partnerships and growing mission-aligned income streams. 
• Digital transformation or innovation – using digital tools, products or platforms to grow impact. 
• Fundraising and income generation – philanthropy, trusts and foundations, corporate fundraising or individual giving. 

We continue to welcome applications from those experienced in leadership, public service, law, finance, policy or youth engagement.

If you’re ready to help steer a national charity at a pivotal moment for citizenship education, influence strategy and strengthen UK democracy through education, we’d love to hear from you!

Role Requirements 

The role requires around 4–6 hours per month, including preparation and engagement between meetings. Trustees attend four board meetings a year at our St Paul's office (usually weekday evenings), monthly online finance updates, and an annual Away Day. Appointments are for an initial three-year term, with potential renewal. While day-to-day operations are led by the Chief Executive and senior team, trustees hold ultimate responsibility for governance and compliance.

To learn more about the role and the application process, please refer to the job pack for full details. 

Help shape the future of education! Join Inspire Learning Partnership as a Trustee and make a real impact on children’s lives.

At Inspire Learning Partnership, we are committed to raising the educational outcomes of every child within our Trust. Guided by an ethos of transparency, equity, and inclusion, we work tirelessly to ensure that all children receive the high-quality education they deserve. Our Trust Board plays a pivotal role in this mission, shaping our strategic vision and ensuring we remain focused on improving the life chances of the children we serve.

Our work is guided by our Big Moves:

1. Securing the Highest Possible Outcomes for All

2. Being the Employer of Choice

3. Fulfilling Potential and Influencing the System

4. Securing a Brighter and Greener Future

5. Serving Our Communities

These Big Moves are at the heart of our strategy and provide a clear framework for how we deliver on our mission.

The role of a Trustee at Inspire Learning Partnership offers a unique chance to influence the education and futures of children. It requires both teamwork and a willingness to engage with our governance structure, which includes Members, the Trust Board, the Executive Leadership Team, and Local Academy Councils.

By joining us, you will become part of a passionate team committed to making a tangible difference. Your skills and expertise can help shape our strategy, support our schools, and ultimately transform the lives of the children and families within our Trust.

We are particularly interested in talking with individuals who have high level (Executive) strategic experience in the following areas; 

• Estates
• Finance
• HR
• Legal

Inspire Learning Partnership is a multi-academy trust and therefore registered as a Company Limited by Guarantee with charitable status. Due to this company status Trustees are registered with Companies House.

Charity Trustee

You and Me Counselling are currently recruiting volunteer trustees to complement the committee members already in their role.

This is a home working role and will be for immediate start.

Our charity

You and Me Counselling is a charitable organisation established in 2011. We are a counselling and psychotherapy service based in Hornchurch, Essex that works with children, young people, adults, and their families in the boroughs of Havering, Barking & Dagenham, Redbridge, and Waltham Forest. Our counsellors and therapists work both within schools and from our counselling rooms located in Hornchurch and Ilford.

You and Me Counselling are an organisational member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP). This means we are fully governed by the BACP’s Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions.

Job Description

As a trustee you will need to:

• Acknowledge emails at least once a day.
• Give a minimum of one hour per week to the role.
• Attend quarterly trustee meetings online.
• Ensure that You and Me Counselling pursues its stated objectives
• Ensure there is regular review of changes that might affect the organisation (political, financial, demographic, etc.)
• Ensure that the charity complies with charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Monitor finance to ensure that the charity applies its resources exclusively for its charitable objectives.
• Uphold the good name and values of You and Me Counselling.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place.
• Ensure the financial stability of the organisation.
• Supervise, support and appraise the chief executive officer.
• Hold the chief executive officer to account for the management and administration of the charity.
• Ensure that the organisation acts in accordance with employment law and exercises a duty of care to its employees.
• Identify major risks to the organisation and put systems in place to mitigate or minimise the risks.
• Ensure that the organisation has a governance structure that is appropriate to a charity of its size/complexity, stage of development, and its charitable objectives
• Regularly review your own training needs and create an expectation of continuous professional development throughout the organisation.
• Ensure that trustees have an agreed code of conduct and comply with it, and that there are mechanisms for the removal of trustees who do not abide by the principles stated therein.

Person Specifications

All trustees should demonstrate the following skills and values:

• A commitment to the organisation.
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
• Good, independent judgement.
• An ability to think creatively.
• A willingness to speak their mind.
• An understanding and acceptance of their legal duties and responsibilities as a trustee
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
• Ability to evaluate and interpret management information and other data.

Specific Skills

The ideal candidate would have one of more of the following:

• Experience in law and governance
• Experience in charity fundraising
• Knowledge of counselling or psychotherapy (as a therapist or client)
• Experience in accounting or financial management
• A parent of a young person who has experience of mental health issues

CB Plus – Recruiting New Trustees

CB Plus is a leading community charity working across London. As we enter a new strategic phase, we are looking for new Trustees to join our Board.

We want to strengthen our skills, broaden our perspectives, and better reflect the communities we serve. We particularly welcome applications from individuals from minority and under-represented communities, and from people with strong community insight.

We are especially seeking experience in:

• Finance / accounting
• HR / people management
• Public sector commissioning / local government
• Business development / income generation

We also welcome skills in:
Health and care, youth services, safeguarding, community cohesion, EDI, digital, data, communications, legal and governance.

No previous Board experience is required — we value good judgement, commitment, and a passion for strengthening communities.

What the role involves:

• Quarterly Board and Committee Meetings + occasional strategy sessions
• Providing oversight, support and healthy challenge to the leadership team
• Helping shape CB Plus’s future direction and impact

This is a voluntary position; reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Join us in shaping a stronger, more connected London.

Could you help shape the future of NDAS? We’re looking for new trustees to join the board of Northumberland Domestic Abuse Services.

This is a meaningful opportunity to use your skills and experience to make a real difference, while developing your own governance knowledge and being part of a supportive, committed Board.

Northumberland Domestic Abuse Services (NDAS) has been supporting people affected by domestic abuse since 2003. We provide free, confidential emotional, practical and therapeutic support to women, men, children and young people, helping survivors to cope, recover and move forward. Alongside this, we deliver prevention education to reduce the number of people who go on to experience or cause domestic abuse.

Who we’re looking for

We’re keen to hear from people from a range of backgrounds and lived experiences. In particular, we would welcome Trustees with experience in:

• Finance / financial management

• Human Resources

• Legal expertise

You don’t need previous trustee experience, what matters most is a commitment to our values, a willingness to learn, and a desire to help NDAS grow and thrive.

What being a Trustee involves

As a Trustee, you’ll help guide the strategic direction of NDAS, ensure good governance, and support the charity to continue delivering high-quality services across Northumberland.

• Board meetings take place quarterly and usually last around 2 hours, held at our Hexham office

• Additional commitments include:

  • An Annual General Meeting

  • Occasional sub-committee meetings

  • A Board development day

  • Occasional NDAS events

• The average time commitment is around 4 hours per month, with some periods requiring a little more time

Trustee roles are voluntary, with reasonable expenses reimbursed.

Why join NDAS?

• Be part of a charity with a strong reputation and excellent track record

• Use your skills to support survivors and help prevent domestic abuse

• Develop your governance, leadership and strategic experience

• Join a friendly, passionate Board committed to making a difference in Northumberland

Find out more – Open Evening

We’re holding an informal open evening for anyone interested in learning more about NDAS and the trustee role:

Thursday 26 February
6pm – 8pm
NDAS Office, Hexham

To attend, please get in touch. 

The Co-operative College is undertaking a radical change in approach, transitioning into a charity that will leave society a lasting learning legacy, run a grants programme to advance co-operative education and work closely with partners to deliver our vision for a more co-operative world. 

As we embark on this journey, we are looking for dedicated and enthusiastic individuals to join our Board and Committees to help shape our future.  

We are recruiting for two Trustees (one of whom we hope will serve as Vice Chair) and up to two independent members for our Audit and Risk Committee. 

While our standard Trustee Job Description applies to all roles, we are looking for specific expertise to strengthen our board in the following areas: 

1. Vice Chair (Trustee Role) x1 

We are looking for an individual with experience in chairing, facilitation, or strategic leadership. As Vice Chair, you will act as a deputy to the Chair, working with them closely to support board effectiveness. This is an ideal role for someone looking to step into a senior governance leadership position. 

2. Trustee x1 

In addition to the Vice Chair, we are seeking a Trustee who brings professional strength in at least one of the below: 

• Finance and accounting 

• Charity governance 

• Grants and investment management 

3. Independent Audit and Risk Committee Members x2 

These are non-Trustee roles - we are looking specifically for independently minded finance professionals who will bring constructive challenge and fresh perspectives. We are looking for applicants with experience in at least one of the below: 

• Finance and accounting (qualified or part-qualified, highly desirable) 

• Grants management 

• Investment management 

As an educational charity, we believe in the power of learning. New appointees will be signposted to relevant training and will take part in our induction programme, so that they feel confident in contributing their unique skills and experiences. They will also have the opportunity of being appointed a buddy, who can support them as they begin their time with us.

Closing Date:

We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis and applications will be reviewed as they are received.

The Role:

We are currently seeking a Finance Trustee to join our Board as Treasurer. It’s a voluntary role that requires a committed individual with financial expertise to take a collaborative approach, supporting our Trustees, our Head of Finance and Governance, and our management team to oversee the financial affairs of our charity and ensure that they are legal, constitutional, and within accepted accounting practice.

Our Organisation:

Greener and Cleaner delivers locally but thinks, and influences, nationally. Our vision is greener, healthier, better connected communities across the UK. We seek to achieve this through normalising 360-degree sustainable living, bringing the community together to make changes that can deliver a big impact. We have a non-judgemental peer-to-peer approach, so that all elements of the community feel empowered to take action in how they live, work, and play and in how they use their voice to push for change.

Treasurer Role:

The primary role is to ensure alongside other Trustees that they accept ultimate responsibility for the affairs of G&C and ensure that it is solvent, well run, and delivering the charitable outcomes for which it has been set up. As well as fulfilling the duties of a Trustee, the Treasurer ensures that effective and appropriate financial measures, controls, and procedures are put in place and reports to the Board at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation.

• Overseeing the presentation of budgets, internal management accounts, and annual financial statements, as produced by the finance team or others where appropriate, to the Board of Trustees
• Ensuring that proper accounting records are kept, and that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place. 
• Liaising with any paid staff about financial matters, as appropriate.
• Ensuring that robust and comprehensive financial policies are in place and being implemented, and supporting the development of policies covering financial reserves, and cost management. 
• Overseeing financial controls and adherence to systems. 
• Drawing any major financial concerns to the attention of the trustee and the management team.
• Ensuring that the charity has appropriate reserves in line with its reserves policy, and monitoring and advising on the financial viability of the charity. 
• Advising on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan, including overseeing the charity’s financial risk-management process.
• Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate investment policy and that investments and assets are maximised.
• Leading on the appointment of and liaison with external auditors. 
• Overseeing the development and implementation of systems for appraising, mitigating, and reporting corporate risk. 
• Ensuring that the accounts are prepared and disclosed in the form required by relevant statutory bodies – for example, the Charity Commission and/or the Registrar of Companies.
• Keeping the board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities.
• Supporting other Trustees in understanding the charity’s financial position and decision making.
• Contributing to the fundraising strategy of the charity and its ethical fundraising policy.
• 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.

The Person We’re Looking For:

• A finance professional with a firm understanding of charity finance and some experience of fundraising and pension schemes.
• Knowledge of charity fundraising, bid writing, and/or other income generation and/or securing funding through creation or leveraging of partnerships and networks (at a national or local level).
• A strategic thinker with an ability to balance risk and opportunity and the skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences.
• Clear communicator with the ability to explain financial information to members of the Board and other stakeholders.
• Willing to play an active role in areas such as forecasting, setting budgets, and liaising with auditors.

In addition, the Treasurer will also have the responsibilities and qualities of all Trustees.

Responsibilities of All Trustees:

• Demonstrating a commitment to G&C’s objectives
• Contributing to setting the strategic goals and monitoring performance by active participation in Board discussions and decision-making
• Actively assisting the charity to build their connections and partnerships for the purposes of most effectively delivering their goals and fundraising
• Ensuring that G&C complies with its governing documents, the law, and all other relevant documentation
• Helping to identify risks and ensuring appropriate controls are in place
• Helping the Board to make sound decisions by making available their own personal knowledge and experience
• Assisting the Chair to appoint and appraise the performance of the Senior Leadership Team members
• Sharing relevant skills and expertise with the Senior Leadership Team members
• Making all reasonable efforts to attend Board meetings, away days, development meetings, publicity events, and other such public functions as requested by the Chair
• Ensuring the charity’s focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion remains at the heart of its strategy and delivery

Trustee Person Specification:

In addition to the Treasurer role specific above, our Trustees will ideally also demonstrate the following:

• A commitment to the objectives and activities of G&C
• A willingness to devote time and effort to G&C beyond attending board meetings
• Have strategic vision, an ability to think creatively, and an appropriate level of financial literacy
• Understanding of and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of their position
• Have good independent judgement
• Be willing to effectively act as part of a team
• Adhere to the Nolan Principles of public office: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership
• A willingness to allow the Employee/s to make reasonable decisions and to act within the limits prescribed by the Board

To Apply:

To see the full job advertisement with details on how to apply, and to learn more about the role and our organisation, please see the attached supporting documents.

INVITING EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR THE ROLE OF CHAIR

Thank you for your interest in the role of Chair with Scottish Youth Theatre (SYT). 

This is an exciting time in the evolution of the organisation. As we prepare for our 50th anniversary in 2027, we are reflecting on our impact – past, present and future – while working towards a more comprehensive creative offer for young theatre-makers across Scotland.

Reaching the end of his tenure on the board, our outgoing Chair has been crucial to the company’s navigation of the most challenging times in our sector and the remodelling of the company. The new Chair will come into an organisation with a committed board and small industrious staff team with big ambitions.

Current priorities:

• Grow the artistic programme for the benefit of more young artists with different needs and aspirations across Scotland
• Amplify the company’s profile and increase awareness of the work and priorities of SYT now
• Broaden and deepen relationships with partners, allies and funders
• Secure additional resources to realise our ambitions

What we are looking for

• Previous experience in a governance or leadership role in the charitable sector (previous experience as a Chair is not essential but knowledge and familiarity with charity governance requirements is essential)
• An enthusiasm for theatre and supporting young people in their development as artists
• Ability to offer an impartial perspective and take a collaborative approach that draws on the collective wisdom of the Board
• Clear understanding of the distinction between the role of trustees and senior staff
• Alignment to our company values
• Firm understanding of the financial undertakings of charities and associated legal requirements
• Committed to principles of equity, diversity and inclusion

Role of the Board

Board members are non-executive directors of the company and trustees of the charity. They have corporate and individual responsibilities under company law and charity law.

The Board is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of Scottish Youth Theatre, supporting the staff team to deliver on the company’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines.

Responsibilities of the Chair

Provide leadership to the board and chair board meetings

Work with fellow Trustees to ensure compliance with legal, financial and environmental requirements Maintain an overview of the board’s performance, appraising individual and collective performance Maintain an overview of the composition of the board in skills and diversity and to lead on refreshment and succession planning.

Supporting the CEO

Appoint the CEO, in conjunction with the board, and monitor their performance

Line manage and support the CEO and be a point of liaison 

Lead on appraisal of performance of the CEO

Time Commitment

Board members are required to attend four meetings per year plus the AGM which are usually held online via Zoom. Once a year we bring together the Board and full staff team for an in-person joint planning and review session. Supporting our young artists through attending performances is also appreciated.

There is one permanent sub-group of the Board for finance. Individual Board members may also be asked to bring their expertise to specific pieces of work or policy development and some are the identified leads for areas of policy e.g. safeguarding, fundraising, environment. 

The Chair of the Board acts as line manager to the CEO, maintaining regular contact to keep up to date with progress and offer support (on average one meeting per month and email correspondence).

All Directors may serve a maximum of three terms of office, each term being 3 years (9 years maximum).

Timeframe

Deadline is 9.00am on Tuesday, 3rd February

We will let you know no later than 17th February if we would like to proceed to an informal conversation.  The final stage will be more formal with members of the Board.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Individually and as part of the Trustee team to be the ‘guardians of charitable purpose’, making sure that all Board and Committee decisions put the needs of the beneficiaries first; safeguard the charity’s assets – both physical assets, including property, and intangible ones, such as its reputation ensuring these assets are used well, and in ensuring that the charity is run sustainably. 

To act reasonably and prudently in all matters relating to the charity and always bear the interests of The Hospice of St Francis in mind.

In certain circumstances, provide high-level entry to other organisations and institutions to which the charity might not otherwise have access, to further the interests of the beneficiaries of the charity

Individually and as part of the Trustee team to be the ‘guardians of charitable purpose’, making sure that all Board and Committee decisions put the needs of the beneficiaries first; safeguard the charity’s assets – both physical assets, including property, and intangible ones, such as its reputation ensuring these assets are used well, and in ensuring that the charity is run sustainably. 

To act reasonably and prudently in all matters relating to the charity and always bear the interests of The Hospice of St Francis in mind.

In certain circumstances, provide high-level entry to other organisations and institutions to which the charity might not otherwise have access, to further the interests of the beneficiaries of the charity

Main duties and Responsibilities:

· Set and maintain vision, mission and values

· Develop strategy, set overall policy, define strategic objectives and evaluating performance against agreed targets

· Assure continuous compliance with the legal and regulatory standards governing the operation of the charity, the charity governing document and any other relevant legislation, updating the articles of association as required.

· Assure proper financial control and ensure the application of resources is exclusively in pursuance of the charitable objects i.e. the charity must not spend money on activities that are not included in its objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are

· Assure the effective and efficient administration of the charity including funding, insurance and premises

· Assure that The Hospice of St Francis pursues its objects as defined in its governing document (e.g. the promotion of any charitable purpose for the benefit of the community in the district of providing palliative care at the Hospice, at patients home, in our Spring Centre and in the community, and in particular the advancement of education, the protection of health and the relief of distress and sickness)

· Assure employment procedures and policy and procedures for volunteering are compliant with legislation and regulation, subject to regular review and support the fulfilment of strategic objectives

· Assure risk assessments for all aspects of the business are carried out including accurate and timely reporting using the format of risk registers

· To contribute to, assure and maintain effective performance of the Board and Committees, including systems and processes for external assessment of these arrangements

· Support the CEO and Executive Team to fulfil their delegated responsibilities and hold them to account for delivery of strategic objectives

· To attend Board meetings quarterly, up to two Board awaydays annually and serve as a member of up to two Committees.

· Operate as a member of the Board of Trustees

· Able to be registered as a Directors of the Charity at Companies House, sharing ultimate responsibility for governing the charity and directing how it is managed and run. 

· Act as an ambassador supporting the work of the Hospice in generating income and in its relationship with the communities served.

Term of Office

Appointments are made on an initial 4 year term, with annual appraisal, with the option to serve a second term.

Where a Trustee has completed two terms and is selected as Chair of the Board of Trustees, or asked to undertake specific project work their term of office will be reset by People Governance Committee and ratified at the AGM.

About Charity Right

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

The Objects of the Charity are

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

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

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

Our Commitment to Diverse Leadership

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

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

About the Role

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

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

Key responsibilities

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

Person Specification

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

Organisation Structure

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

Commitment

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

Commitment

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

Application Process

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

In your letter, please outline:

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

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

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

As a Fundraising Trustee, you'll play a key role in shaping and supporting Let's Play Project's fundraising vision and strategy. Working with the charity manager and fellow trustees you'll help us build sustainable income streams to support our mission.

f you have experience in fundraising, marketing, running a business or non-profit organisation, strategic thinking and understanding of income growth and sustainability as well willingness to use your skills, time and networks to make an impact for our pretty incredible team and service, you will be able to add plenty of value.

We play to each other strength and everyone has a lot of transferable skills that are incredibly useful in this setting. Come and meet us, let us share our vision and aspirations - and we guarantee there will be plenty of fun and challenges but equally you will feel how your input makes a difference in the lives of our young people and their families.

Main duties and responsibilities 

• Provide Strategic input on fundraising plans and campaigns
• Support and advise on income generation, donor engagements, and partnerships
• Champion a fundraising culture across the charity
• Use your networks to open doors to new supporters and opportunities
• Ensure the charity complies with fundraising regulations and best practice
• Guide and support staff and volunteers
• Assist in recruitment (when required)

As a member of the Board of Trustees 

Participate in quarterly meetings and annual strategy day, to help set Let’s Play’s strategic direction, goals, and targets, particularly in relation reaching a very challenging fundraising target to ensure the sustainability of our organisation.