Medical research volunteer roles

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

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

About us

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

What are we looking for?

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

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

● Business development and income generation

● Human resources and people management

● Fundraising and philanthropy

● Media, communications and public relations

● Reproductive choice techniques and ethics

● Research in genetics or rare conditions.

What will you be doing?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We will provide full induction for successful candidates.

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

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is seeking an experienced and dedicated academic with a strong interest in paediatric palliative care, or related field to join our Research Governance Committee as a Volunteer Academic Member. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the strategic development of research at a research active children’s hospice, to ensure that our research activities meet the highest standards of integrity, ethics and governance. 

You will work with the Committee Chair, the Research Fellow, and other committee members to support research that makes a meaningful difference to children with life-limiting conditions and their families as well as bereaved families, including those where a child died unexpectedly. 

Appointment to the Committee will be subject to confirmation by the Shooting Star Children’s Hospices Trustee Board.

Duties and key responsibilities

· Participate in quarterly meetings: Attend and contribute to online committee meetings held four times per year (papers and slide deck will be prepared by the Chair). 

· Review research proposals: Provide expert review of project proposals, contributing to the assurance of ethical and governance standards. 

· Support research oversight: Help ensure that all research complies with regulatory and ethical requirements and reflects best practices. 

· Contribute academic expertise: Share your knowledge and experience to strengthen the quality and impact of the charity’s research portfolio. 

· Promote collaboration: Encourage partnerships between Shooting Star Children’s Hospices and wider academic, clinical, and research communities. 

· Champion good governance: Actively promote equity, transparency, and excellence in research oversight. 

Essential skills and experience

· Proven experience in academic research, research governance, and research ethics. 

· Strong academic background in higher education, and health or social care research. 

· In-depth understanding of research compliance frameworks (e.g., GDPR, HRA, UKRIO, Caldicott Guidelines, or equivalent). 

· Ability to evaluate research proposals and provide constructive feedback. 

· Excellent communication and collaboration skills. 

· Confidence using virtual meeting platforms and digital collaboration tools. 

Desirable attributes

• Academic research background with a track record of publications in the area of paediatric palliative care or related field.

• Previous experience serving on or chairing a research committee or governance board.

• Commitment to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in research.

Commitment

• Quarterly committee meetings (Approximately 1 hour per meeting).

• Reviewing project proposals (Approximately 1 hour per month).

• Email communication and ad hoc queries (Approximately 1 hour per month).

• 2–3 years in the role would be appreciated for both parties to gain the most out of this experience.

• This is a voluntary role. Reasonable expenses related to attendance and participation will be reimbursed. 

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Volunteer Researcher to support our Corporate Fundaising team. Your role will be pivotal in identifying and researching prospects and Charity of The Year Partnerships who align with our mission. You will help us grow our pipeline of supporters and inform personalised, strategic approaches that lead to meaningful engagement and transformational support.

About Us:

Rays of Sunshine is dedicated to brightening the lives of seriously ill young people and their families by granting wishes and providing ongoing support in hospital and within the community. We are seeking a motivated volunteer to support our major gifts team by conducting research and helping to build our partnerships pipeline.

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify and research prospective corporate partners, with a focus on Charity of the Year opportunities

• Build and maintain a structured prospect pipeline to support new business development

• Research CSR strategies, ESG priorities, funding history, key decision-makers and employee engagement programmes

• Strong research and analytical skills

• Commercial awareness and understanding of corporate partnerships

• Excellent attention to detail

• Confident using LinkedIn, Companies House, Charity Commission and online research tools

• Self-motivated and comfortable working independently

What You’ll Gain:

• The opportunity to directly contribute to securing high-value corporate partnerships

• Insight into charity new business and pipeline strategy

• Experience working with a dynamic, ambitious team

• A chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of seriously ill children and their families

• A reference upon successful completion of your volunteering

An opportunity to join the Board of the Vivensa Foundation dedicated to radically improving how we all age.

About Vivensa Foundation

In the spring of 2025, the Dunhill Medical Trust changed its name to the Vivensa Foundation as part of a wider plan to better reflect its work as a funder and impact-intentional investor.

The name ‘Vivensa’ is inspired by the Latin word vivens, meaning to live, be alive, or to reside in — a reflection of the work we support our award-holders and investees to do. But this is more than a change of name — it reaffirms our commitment to funding the remarkable science and radical social change needed for people to age well on their terms.

It was back in the 1980s that the Board of the predecessor charity recognised that the shifting demographics would drive a need for investment in a high-quality research base to improve our understanding of the mechanisms of ageing and ageing-related disease and the delivery of innovation in the health and social care of older people. Since then, the Foundation has been funding some of the very best of the UK’s researchers and community innovators to do just that. 

The Foundation plans to play its part in three broad ways:

• investing in ideas
• connecting research and practice and
• fostering flourishing communities.

With our new identity and with our refreshed Strategic Framework and priorities for the next five years launched in April, we are looking forward to writing our next chapter.Our next five years will involve scaling our impact‑intentional investment portfolio, deepening our role in evidence-to-practice ecosystems, and strengthening our partnerships with communities across the UK.

About the Trustee opportunity:

Owing to a retirement, we welcome applications for the position of Trustee from candidates with expertise in one of the priority areas set out in our new plan. 

We will prioritise applications, from either:

• research active clinicians and academics with demonstrable expertise in translating research and evidence into practice or;
• professionals with a background in delivering innovative change in NHS or local authority settings, social care or housing provision with the experience and networks to turn the latest evidence into practice.

Vivensa Foundation values skills potential and lived experience. The work they fund means that they know all too well the negative impacts of inequity. They are therefore committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion in all areas of their work and improving the diversity of representation on their Board of Trustees and on their Committees and they welcome applications from global majority backgrounds.

Applications are invited from across the UK and Board and Committee meetings are held quarterly, with dates set in advance (the time commitment for each is around six days per year). The Board is collaborative and evidence-driven with a commitment to learning and good governance. While our office base is in central London, we offer the opportunity to attend meetings either in person or virtually. Although the role is unpaid, reasonable expenses, including travel and the need to cover caring responsibilities, will be reimbursed.

Qalyup

We connect patients with vetted international healthcare providers for affordable, safe, and transparent medical care abroad.

Copy & Content Manager

Location: Remote (UK)
Compensation: Volunteer role
Time Commitment: 10 hours per week
Duration: 6 months

About Qalyup

At Qalyup, we believe people should be able to access the healthcare they need to improve their health and quality of life.

Every year, thousands of patients travel internationally for medical treatment. While this can unlock faster access to care and specialised expertise, it can also carry significant risks. Between 2019 and 2024, 28 British nationals died while undergoing medical treatment overseas. And that is only the visible part of a much larger problem.

Qalyup exists to change that.

We connect patients with vetted, high quality healthcare providers abroad, helping people return home healthier and with peace of mind. To ensure trust and transparency, we personally visit and assess clinics using our proprietary clinical quality assessment methodology, developed through academic research at Imperial College London.

Our mission is simple: make healthcare tourism safer. But our ambition is global.

The Role

We are a clinically led team with a clear mission, but our story deserves to be told better. As we execute our go-to-market strategy, we are looking for a Copy & Content Manager who can shape our brand narrative and make it land with the people who need to hear it most.

This is a creative role for someone who thinks in stories, not bullet points. We want original thinking, a distinctive voice, and content that feels genuinely human, because the people we serve are making deeply personal decisions about their health.

This role is not for those who outsource their thinking to AI. We value authentic creativity and want to work with someone who brings their own perspective, craft, and judgment to every piece of work.

What You'll Help Us Do

• Support the implementation of our go-to-market strategy
• Shape and refine our value proposition and messaging
• Review and optimise our website copy to improve conversion
• Create content and ad copy for our organic and paid channels, including Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and Google Ads
• Shape our fundraising narrative

What You Bring In

• A talent for engaging storytelling that builds trust and moves people to act
• Strong knowledge of Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and Google Ads and how audiences behave on each
• An in-depth understanding of the British public, with knowledge of the US market a bonus
• Experience in creating visual content is an advantage
• Proactiveness, curiosity, and a genuine appetite for feedback and personal growth
• Alignment with our mission to make international healthcare safer and more transparent

Why Join Qalyup

Healthcare decisions are deeply personal. When people consider treatment abroad, they are often navigating uncertainty, urgency, and the hope of getting their health and their life back.

At Qalyup, we are building a trusted gateway that helps patients make these decisions with confidence. By bringing transparency and clinical quality assessment into healthcare tourism, we aim to remove the uncertainty that patients and families often face.

By joining our team, you will help shape a company working to make international healthcare safer, more transparent, and truly centred around the needs of patients. Your insight will help us build a trusted brand that empowers people to seek the care they need with confidence.

Our Values

Clinical quality above all
We work with vetted providers that deliver clinical excellence.
Our clinical partners are carefully selected and monitored.

Listening is our superpower
Hearing what our users and colleagues have to say is our most powerful tool for continuous improvement.

Empowering informed decisions
Individuals have the right to make informed decisions about their care and finances. We want to make this process easy and transparent for our customers with the use of technology.

Helping others
Whether it is a colleague, a customer or a community in need, we will make best efforts to support as individuals and as a company.

Minimum Hours per Week:

10+ hours per week

Duration:

6+ months

We are looking for a new independent trustee who can bring fresh perspectives and objective judgment from outside our immediate membership to join our very committed board. The successful candidate will need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of charity law and regulation.

Location: Attendance at 4 board meetings (mainly online but with 1-2 in London) each year, and attendance at the Board strategy day.

You may also be required to attend the Council’s annual general meeting and any other general meetings. There may also be additional requirements upon appointment and periodically thereafter for training days in the Council’s office in central London. There will be a full induction as part of the onboarding process.

Remuneration: This is as voluntary unpaid role. Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.

About: The Council of Deans of Health is a membership organisation and charity representing over 100 UK universities and colleges engaged in education and research for nursing, midwifery, and the allied health professions. At any one time, our members educate around 200,000 current and future professionals and carry out research that improves the population’s health and wellbeing.

Our Board of Trustees is responsible for oversight of the administration and management of the Council, which is led by the CEO who is accountable to the Board. The role of the Board includes setting and monitoring the implementation of the Council's strategy, and ensuring its financial sustainability and its compliance with legal requirements. The Board of Trustees will play an important role in taking forward the Council’s strategy, overseeing the continued growth of the Council, ensuring its financial sustainability, and avoiding exposing the charity’s assets, beneficiaries or reputation to undue risk. The Board comprises a mix of trustees drawn from our member organisations and independent trustees from a range of different professional backgrounds and experience.  

Key responsibilities:

• Contribute to the overall strategic direction of the Council, including taking forward the Council's agreed strategy.
• Ensure the Council complies with its governing document, company law, charity law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Oversee the Council’s financial management with the overall aim of achieving financial sustainability.
• Safeguard the organisation and advise on diversification of income to support the Council’s development.
• Work effectively and collaboratively with the Chair and other Board members in providing support and effective scrutiny to the Council's senior staff team.

Some of the essential competencies we are looking for all Trustees:

• Demonstrate a commitment to understanding the Council's business, the sector context and wider policy issues across the four nations of the UK.
• Demonstrate excellent communication skills and an enabling, inclusive approach.
• Ability to think strategically and offer advice, guidance, support and constructive challenge to oversee the effective delivery of the Council’s strategic objectives.
• Demonstrate a track record of collaborative working in an organisation with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.
• Ideally, have experience at senior management or board level in other organisations and experience of charity governance.

Full details of the role and responsibilities required can be found in the candidate information pack. Please apply by following the instructions in the candidate information pack. The closing date is 22 May 2026 at 4pm. 

We are seeking new Professional members of the Registry Steering Committee (RSC) to help shape the future of the Registry and ensure it meets the needs of people with CF, clinical teams, researchers and other stakeholders.

This is a voluntary role (unpaid), but reasonable expenses can be claimed for travel to attend meetings in person if required.

This role part time and home based.  This is a UK based role and candidates need to be UK based.

Term and commitment

• RSC membership term: three years (minimum one term).
• RSC meets quarterly (commitment to attend at least two meetings per year).

Who we’re looking for

We particularly welcome applications from CF professionals including:

• Adult and paediatric clinicians
• Early career professionals
• Pharmacists
• Allied health professionals
• Psychosocial workers

Applicants from across all four nations of the UK and from both adult and paediatric services are encouraged to apply.

Key responsibilities

• Contribute to strategic discussions and decision-making about the Registry’s direction.
• Review RSC papers and related documents outside scheduled meetings.
• Act as an advocate for the UK CF Registry.
• Optional: Join the Registry Data Review Group. This group meets online every six weeks and members provide Registry data request approval.

Essential experience and attributes

• Knowledge of cystic fibrosis and its key challenges.
• Ability to actively contribute to committee discussions and support informed decision-making.
• Ideally some experience working with the UK CF Registry or using its data outputs.
• CF clinicians and AHPs should be members of relevant professional bodies (e.g., BTS/BPRS, RCP/RCN, Cystic Fibrosis Specialist Group, CFMA).

Why join us? 

• Make a meaningful impact on the lives of people affected by CF.
• Shape future Registry development and research.
• Engage with purpose-led peers and develop transferable skills (e.g., application reviewing, public speaking).
• Demonstrate continuing professional development through voluntary service.

Together we’re uniting for a lie unlimited for people living with CF. Add your experience and voice to the RSC and help steer the future of CF care and research.

Your Experience. Your voice. Your Impact.

This is an exciting and strategic moment to join the Board of The Leprosy Mission Great Britain (TLMGB). We are fortunate to have a dedicated and experienced group of trustees, but with several members nearing the end of their tenure, we are looking to appoint five new trustees during 2026. We particularly welcome applicants who are passionate about International Development and who see themselves as strategic generalists.

The Leprosy Mission is the world’s largest leprosy-focused organisation, a pioneer in our field, with over 150 years’ experience tackling this ancient disease. As a leading international Christian development organisation, we operate as a Global Fellowship comprising members from 27 countries. We work with people of all faiths and none to bring about the defeat of leprosy and transformation in the lives of people affected. TLMGB works in 9 countries across Africa and Asia.  We raise funds, promote research and innovation, and support our partners to strengthen health systems, provide life changing health care services, skills training and opportunities for those who have been excluded and rejected by society.

As an organisation we are seeking transformational growth. Our goal is to see a leprosy-free world. Our vision is for ‘leprosy defeated, lives transformed’, meaning a world with zero transmission, zero disability and zero discrimination.

Trustees play a vital role in leading the organisation. Each trustee is expected to contribute their skills, knowledge, networks and experience to support sound decision-making. Alongside reviewing board papers, this may include leading discussions, offering advice and guidance on new initiatives, and contributing expertise in areas relevant to the organisation’s work. Trustees also hold statutory responsibilities relating to governance. Further details, along with more information about the role and our work, can be found in the candidate information pack on our website.

TLMGB has a zero-tolerance policy towards any abuse, neglect and exploitation of all people. Successful candidates are expected to understand, sign and comply with all organisational policies, including our code of conduct and safeguarding policies. Recruitment to roles within TLMGB includes, in particular, criminal record checks/screening and the collection of relevant references.

As an explicitly Christian charity, TLMGB is seeking candidates who are committed Christians, willing to uphold and contribute to the organisation’s Christian ethos. This includes engaging in and at times leading prayer within the organisation, demonstrating alignment with our values, and showing active involvement in their Christian community. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion*, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law. *In accordance with the equality act 2010 it is a genuine occupational requirement that the post holder is a practising Christian.

To apply, please visit our website where you will be asked to upload a summary CV together with a covering letter outlining how your skills and experience will contribute to the Board.

Closing date: Wednesday 13 May 2026.

Preliminary interviews (virtual): 2 June 2026 and 11 June 2026.

In-person interviews (Peterborough office): Thursday 23 July 2026.

The role is subject to an enhanced DBS clearance, and all offers are subject to satisfactory reference checks.

Registered Charity number 1050327

The Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability (RHN) is a leading national centre of excellence and one of the longest running charities and independent hospitals in the UK.

The RHN provides adult person centred services across the entire care pathway; from post acute rehabilitation to end of life care for people with complex neuro-disabilities. Underpinned by a strong research and education framework, the RHN is more than a hospital; it is a vibrant community where residents engage in music, art and holistic support to achieve the best possible quality of life.

Within our governance structure, the finance committee plays an important role in overseeing all financial matters including ensuring that our externally managed investment portfolio delivers targeted returns. The committee meets quarterly for two hours during office hours, remote access can be arranged though face to face attendance is preferred. In addition occasional meetings may be called to discuss investment performance.

We are looking for a Co-optee experienced in the management of charity investment portfolios to specifically assist trustee members of the finance committee in understanding and monitoring the performance of the portfolio; and further, all other areas of the committee’s business.

The position is unremunerated but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

To apply please click "Apply" to be directed to our careers website. Or if you would like to have an informal conversation with our Chief Financial Officer about the opportunity please contact us to arrange.

Ref: V267 | Support Group Volunteer | Greenwich, London

We’re looking for one Support Group Volunteer over the age of 18 years old, based at St. Marys (Eltham) Community Complex Association, 180 Eltham High Street, London, SE9 1BJ.

You’ll be volunteering every Thursday between 10:30am and 12:30pm.

As a support group volunteer, you will help with the running of the group. The role is designed to suit the needs of the group, and the skills of people offering support. If you enjoy getting to know your community, working with others and making a real difference then this is the role for you.

The volunteer will be

· A people person, with good listening skills

· A great communicator who enjoys meeting new people

· Good at putting people at ease

· Reliable and organised

· Passionate about supporting people affected by stroke

· IT literate, have good administrative and record keeping skills and be able to follow relevant policies

A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required for this role.

Interested in this role?

Find out more by downloading the role description for the Support Group Volunteer role for the Greenwich group.

About Us

About the Stroke Association

Finding strength through support

The Stroke Association is the only charity in the UK providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families. We provide tailored support to tens of thousands of stroke survivors each year. This support includes one-to-one and group support, funding vital scientific research into stroke prevention, acute treatment, recovery and long-term care, and campaigning to secure the best care for everyone affected by stroke. 

We’re here for stroke survivors and their loved ones, from the moment they enter the new and frightening post-stroke world, supporting them every step of the way as they find their strength and their way back to life.

It’s only thanks to the generosity of our supporters and donors that we can provide vital support. 

Stroke Association is driven by our ambition to improve the lives of everyone affected by stroke. This means we’re determined to create an equitable and inclusive workplace that benefits from the difference, and thrives on the diversity, of our people. Guided by Our approach to solving inequity in stroke, we are prioritising listening to, and learning from, lived experience across our charity.

We are working to improve the representation of this lived experience at all levels within the Stroke Association, and we are eager to recruit applicants from a variety of communities and backgrounds. We are keen to receive applications from people affected by stroke, people of colour, members of LGBT+ communities, and disabled people because these identities and experiences are underrepresented and would add enormous value to how we work.

We are a Disability Confident employer, and we are making great progress focusing on flexible working, reasonable adjustments and access to work. Our charity has a variety of staff network groups and we're committed to continuously improving our diversity and inclusion efforts. If you have questions, or access needs, we’re happy to discuss any support and adjustments we can make throughout the recruitment process so that you’re able to contribute your best in a way that meets your needs.

Role summary

The use of complementary therapies in palliative care has become an increasingly significant feature of health care and evidence shows that therapies can support the emotional, mental, spiritual and physical wellbeing of patients and their families and carers, and those facing loss and bereavement. This role will give you the unique opportunity to use your incredible skills, qualities, and knowledge to gain experience in specialised healthcare for end of life and bereavement. This will enable you to build confidence and ability to provide care and wellbeing in an integrated hospice environment. Research has shown that its use alongside conventional medicine can help enhance relaxation and well-being, and relieve stress and anxiety, as well as help with the management of specific issues such as symptom control of fatigue, breathlessness, nausea, and pain.

An enhanced adult & child DBS check is required for this role. 

Main duties of the role

• Provide therapies in accordance with the complementary therapy policy and procedure, as well as the code of ethics and practice.

• Assess and plan patients’ treatment and documentation of given treatment and patient response.

• Report any concerns you may have about a patient’s/client’s health or welfare (or anything the patient may have said that is of concern) to the IPU team or CT team lead

• Uphold the confidentiality guidance in all matters relating to the patient or their family.

• Be generally aware of patients’ needs and always ensure the dignity of the patients.

• Maintain good infection control practices at all times

• Prepare the complementary therapy treatment areas before and after a treatment

• Adhere to the dress code requirements.

• Seek support and advice when needed.

• To adhere to the CT code of conduct and ethics

• Provide feedback, including reports of any adverse effects, to the Complementary Therapy Lead.

• To undertake any other tasks as requested/deemed appropriate with the nature of the role.

• Complete all paperwork and feedback clearly and objectively

• Adhere to relevant and current protocols for the practice of the specific therapy or therapies.

All complementary therapies are characterised by treating the whole person, considering the mental, emotional and physical factors associated with the challenges they face. Complementary therapies work with the total care given, to promote comfort and support for both patients and their families/carers. We also support those who access our bereavement services. 

Training & supervision

We will provide you with practice into palliative and bereavement care by extending the opportunities for you to gain valuable hands-on experience that will affirm your vocational knowledge and skills. Other training includes:

• There will be an induction to the hospice and all volunteers must undertake mandatory health and safety training. In addition, all volunteer complementary therapists have to undergo an enhanced DBS check, undertake safeguarding, accessing personal information (medical record information) and lone working training

• To undertake an induction into the complementary therapy service, this may include shadowing another volunteer therapist, as appropriate.

• To attend meetings/supervision and training in palliative needs. 

Experience & qualifications required

• You will need to be qualified and hold the appropriate certifications in the relevant practice:

o L3+ Aromatherapy

o L3+ Massage therapy

o L3+ Reflexology

o L3+ Holistic therapy

o L2/L3+ Beauty therapy (with facial and massage/aromatherapy units)

o Qualified in the HEARTS PROCESS

o Degree2/3+ Reiki plus one of the above qualifications (not a stand alone Reiki qualification)

o L4+ Shiatsu

• Relevant professional qualifications essential from an accredited awarding body, such as C&G, VTCT, ITEC - which meets recognised UK Occupational Standards.

• Membership of a recognised Complementary Therapy Regulatory Body, e.g. CNHC, FHT, AOR or other voluntary recognised association or organisation, and hold up to date professional insurance, or be prepared to join prior to volunteering

• You must have current work experience and up to date skills which meet relevant competencies, e.g. CPD records and skills development.

Personal attributes

• Ability to work independently, and show flexibility by learning the ‘think on your feet’ and not to proceed if unsure and seek clarification

• Have the ability to keep the patient/client central to the treatment plan and make the required adjustments accordingly

• Be compassionate and empathtic, demonstrating sensitivity to patient/ client physical, emotional, mental and spiritual needs and wellbeing

• Ability to use initiative and be innovative

• Respectful of other’s differences and choices

• Reliable, organised honest and punctual

• Maintain confidentiality and GDPR at all times

• Be emotionally resilient to work in this type of care setting

• Recognise own boundaries in the therapeutic relationship and limitations of the role and seek support when needed

Inclusive Boards is delighted to be working with Sheffield Hospitals Charity in their search for a new Chair!

Sheffield Hospitals Charity provides additional funding to Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Sheffield Health Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust who support people at every stage on life’s journey. From welcoming babies into the world on the Jessop Wing, supporting cancer care at Weston Park, specialist care at the Royal Hallamshire, Charles Clifford and the Northern General, to improving the mental, physical and social wellbeing of people in our communities. The support provided by Sheffield Hospitals Charity helps to improve the lives of people across Sheffield from patients and their families to our NHS staff who take care of them.

The Chair plays an important role in the governance of the charity, providing leadership to the Board of Trustees to work together, reach good collective decisions, and manage any conflicts. The responsibilities of our Chair are as follows:

Oversight and governance 

• Lead the Board of Trustees to support development of and approve the charity’s strategy and corresponding plan. 

• Lead the Board to make key strategic decisions in the organisation’s best interests and in line with its charitable objects. 

• Lead the Board in ensuring there is financial strategy oversight, and the organisation’s resources are managed responsibly. 

• Ensure the organisation is operating in line with charity law, charity regulation and its own governing document. 

• Build an effective, diverse board that can work well together for the good of the organisation. 

Working with trustees 

• Support trustees with development and annual one-to-one reviews. 

• Help the Board work as a team, drawing on specific expertise, lived experience, and diversity of thought across the Board. 

• Chair board meetings and work with the CEO and EA to ensure they are well planned and minuted and that actions are circulated and followed up. 

• Ensure trustees are given the information they need to make decisions effectively. 

• Support the recruitment of trustees, identifying any skills or knowledge gaps. 

• Build a diverse board that functions in an accessible and inclusive way. The

Chair-CEO relationship 

• Manage the relationship with the CEO, providing appropriate challenge and support to help them effectively lead the charity. 

• Conduct the CEO appraisals and reviews and support their leadership development. Lead on CEO recruitment. 

• Relate any concerns of the Board to the CEO and Senior Leadership Team. 

• Work with the CEO to make sure the Board has all the information required, in a timely manner, to make strategic decisions. 

Ambassadorial responsibilities 

• The Chair may be required, from time to time, to act as a champion and ambassador for the Charity. 

Person specification

Candidates will need to demonstrate that they have the necessary experience and will need to demonstrate the following skills, experience, and attributes. 

Essential 

• Passion for the National Health Service and an understanding of the role of health charities. 

• An ongoing and meaningful connection to Sheffield and good standing within the city. 

• Experience as a board member, trustee, non-executive director, or chair. 

• Strong comprehension of charity law, regulation, and the roles and responsibilities of a charity chair and trustee. 

• Skilled in strategic planning, financial management, risk management, and organisational performance. 

• Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to engage, influence, and negotiate with a range of senior stakeholders diverse in sector and profession. 

• Capable of building and maintaining relationships in a complex stakeholder environment with competing priorities. 

• Robust communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to communicate complex information to a range of diverse stakeholders. 

• The ability to lead effectively and inclusively during times of transformational change within and beyond an organisation. 

Desirable 

• Previous chairing experience at the non-executive level. 

• Experience in working within the health and social care and/or charity sectors – either as an employee or appointee. 

• Experience in charity fundraising, income generation, marketing and communications. 

• Understanding of health-related research and innovation and impact assessment skills. 

• Well versed in people management, wellbeing and learning and development.

How to apply

The recruitment process is being undertaken by Inclusive Boards on behalf of Sheffield Hospitals Charity. If you wish to apply, please supply the following by 11:59pm on 10/05/2026: 

• A detailed CV setting out your career history including responsibilities and achievements. 

• A cover letter (maximum two sides of A4) highlighting your suitability for the role and how you meet the person specification. Please note, your cover letter is an important part of your application and will be assessed. 

• Details of two professional referees together with a brief statement of their relationship to you and over what period of time they have known you. Referees will not be contacted without your prior consent. 

Please consider filling out our diversity monitoring form. The information provided to us is confidential, stored securely and separately from your application, and is only used to ensure we are meeting our obligations for equal opportunities under the Equality Act 2010. 

For more information, visit Inclusive Boards' website. 

The e-Assessment Association (eAA) is the leading professional membership body promoting better assessment through technology. We bring together awarding organisations, education providers, technology suppliers, researchers and policymakers to advance high-quality, innovative assessment practice in the UK and internationally.

We are now seeking a new Chair of the Board to lead the next phase of the Association’s development.

This is a high-impact governance role for an experienced senior leader who is passionate about assessment, education and technology, and who enjoys working collaboratively to make a difference across a complex and evolving sector.

Why this role matters

The Chair plays a pivotal role in shaping the direction, influence and effectiveness of the eAA.

Working with a committed Board of Directors and a small, professional operational team, the Chair provides strategic leadership, ensures strong governance, and acts as an ambassador for the Association and its members.

The Chair of the eAA Limited also serves as Chair of the Board of e-Assessment Services Limited, the Association’s trading subsidiary, supporting the sustainability and growth of the organisation.

This is an opportunity to:

• lead a respected, member-led organisation at the forefront of digital assessment;
• influence policy, practice and debate across assessment and education technology;
• support the continued professionalisation and growth of the Association; and
• work with a knowledgeable, engaged Board and an experienced executive team.

The role is supported by an annual honorarium of £6,000 in recognition of the time commitment and responsibility involved.

What you’ll be doing

As Chair, you will:

Provide strategic leadership

• Lead the Board in setting the strategic direction of the Association and monitoring progress against agreed objectives.
• Support the long-term sustainability, relevance and impact of the eAA.

Ensure strong governance

Ensure the Association operates within its governance framework and complies with all statutory and fiduciary duties.
Foster a positive, inclusive and professional Board culture that encourages open discussion, diverse perspectives and collective decision-making.
Work closely with the Vice-Chair and other Directors to maintain continuity and effective governance processes.
Support and challenge the Executive

• Provide support, guidance and constructive challenge to the CEO and operations team.
• Oversee performance against strategic and operational goals.
• Review budgets, management accounts and strategic plans in collaboration with the Treasurer and executive team.

Represent and advocate

• Act as an ambassador for the Association with members, partners, sponsors and external stakeholders.
• Represent the eAA at key events, including the e-Assessment International Conference and Awards.
• Use your networks and credibility to enhance the Association’s profile and influence.

Essential experience and attributes

• Senior leadership experience within assessment, education or educational technology.
• A strong understanding of assessment principles and the role of technology in transforming assessment practice.
• Demonstrated Board-level governance experience, ideally within a company limited by guarantee, charity or membership organisation.
• Excellent chairing and facilitation skills, with the ability to lead a diverse Board effectively.
• Strategic thinking, integrity and the confidence to provide constructive challenge.
• Strong communication and ambassadorial skills.

Desirable

• Experience of working in or alongside professional associations or member-led organisations.
• Established networks across education, assessment and technology sectors.
• Experience representing an organisation publicly at conferences or sector events.

About the Role 

We are Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C. We aim to increase inclusion and representation for the disabled community across society. We have several different services including bespoke characters, workshops, free resources, events, sensory trails and more. 

As we continue to grow, we are on a mission to make finding and accessing information around everything to do with disability easier. Hence, we're putting together a brand-new team of volunteers who are passionate about content and using the power of social media for good

Who Are We Looking For?

·Someone who is passionate about our mission of inclusion, representation, and belonging.

·Having social media skills is helpful, but enthusiasm for creating and editing content, building online communities, and supporting our digital presence is essential.

·You should enjoy research, taking on challenges, and bringing a creative mindset to your work.

·Be willing to learn or have knowledge of editing and posting videos.

·Be able to support our online initiatives while collaborating with our team.

What Do We Expect?

·Must be willing to undertake our training programme, which will be completed virtually at a time that suits you.

·Have a DBS check (preferably be on the update service) or be willing to complete one with us.

·Sign our volunteer contract. (If you disagree with anything in it, please discuss it with us; we’re happy to make small changes where appropriate.)

·Have a positive attitude toward disability and illness.

Benefits of Volunteering with Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C 

·Make a difference in your community. 

·Have a positive impact on people’s lives. 

· Develop your current skills and gain new ones. 

· Demonstrate your commitment and reliability to future employers. 

· Show your ability to balance and manage your time effectively. 

· Build your confidence. 

· Explore new areas of interest by taking on additional tasks if you wish.