New business officer volunteer roles

South West Advocacy Network (SWAN) want to strengthen their Board of Trustees with up to 4 new Trustee appointments. These are voluntary positions and provide opportunity to help SWAN to develop its strategic direction and sustain innovative services to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

SWAN began life in Wiltshire and over the past 25 years has expanded into Somerset, Bristol, Dorset, Isle of Wight, West Berkshire, Portsmouth, East Sussex and Worcestershire. We deliver high quality, independent advocacy services supporting a diverse range of vulnerable people. We have developed a model of advocacy which ensures everyone, including the most marginalised, have the same rights and opportunities as their fellow citizens. Our services are free at the point of delivery, confidential and non-judgemental.

We work with people from all walks of life and have supported thousands of the most disadvantaged people to have their voice heard and their choices respected by those that are making decisions about their future.

We are looking for dynamic and empathetic people to become Trustees within our organisation, people who have the passion and drive to support SWAN and help us to ensure that the voices around our Board table reflect and understand the communities we work in. We would encourage people from all sections of our communities to apply , but particularly Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic, disabled, and LGBTQ+ applicants because these groups are currently under-represented on our Board. We are happy to accept applications from people without prior Board experience but who can evidence their commitment to our purpose, values and ambitions and show a willingness to learn in the role.

The organisation is led and managed by the Chief Executive and the Executive Team who oversee the delivery of our services and the infrastructure that underpins them, and we believe that this, coupled with sound governance, will help us to achieve our vision and maximise our reach and impact.

We are looking for individuals who can demonstrate some of the following:
• Experiences that will bring different perspectives to our organisation i.e. being a member of, or working in, diverse or minority communities.
• Having direct experience of using advocacy or support services
• An understanding of, or interest in, the lives of vulnerable adults including those who have been victims of hate crime
• An understanding of, or interest in, the wider voluntary sector
• A commitment and willingness to improving the lives of vulnerable people
• Integrity, strategic vision and relationship building skills
• Governance, finance, and/or entrepreneurial experience
• Good communication skills and knowing how to work as part of a team
• For the treasurer role some experience of managing and understanding budgets and financial reports would also be required.

Time commitment averages 1 day a month, meeting locations are flexible and either face to face or virtual. Trustee expenses, including travel are paid.

Please note that for legal and safeguarding purposes, all our roles require a current DBS check and a registered Director Verification Digital ID Code.

If you believe you would add value to our Board we would love to hear from you. Application and further details will be sent to candidates. 

About us

The London Foundation for Banking & Finance’s (LFBF) is a registered charity incorporated by Royal Charter. Our charitable purpose ‘is the advancement of knowledge of and education in financial services and to carry out research and publish the results for the benefit of the public.’

LFBF also recognises the highest level of professional competence by awarding chartered status to individuals who have demonstrated their commitment to continued education and professional excellence within Financial Services.

Our Story

The London Foundation for Banking & Finance (LFBF) started life back in March 1879, when a group of bank workers came together to establish leadership and professional practice principles for the industry. They created the first Institute of Bankers in England and Wales to offer educational resources to those in the sector.

Over the years, the organisation developed its own industry leading qualifications to create a gold standard of banking and financial education. It also established itself as a leading voice in the banking world, providing invaluable insights into all areas of the industry and promoting the highest standards of professional competency.

Today, we exist to support the advancement of knowledge and education in financial services. Previously, we were called The London Institute of Banking and Finance (LIBF), and we were renamed following the sale of our education and training activities in March 2023.

Today, our focus is on:

• Supporting our members and creating community: We support financial services professionals, nurturing diversity, innovation and professional excellence. We believe that working with the financial services industry is crucial for building financial capability.
• Sharing insights and best practice: We produce research and thought leadership in financial capability and through our think-tank, the Centre for the Study of Financial Innovation. We believe that change requires evidence and innovative thought.
• Building financial capability: We work directly and through sponsorship and partnerships to reach individuals across the UK, empowering them with the skills they need to become financially capable. We believe everyone should have an opportunity to be financially capable.

 About the role

Our trustees play a vital role ensuring that The London Foundation for Banking & Finance (LFBF) achieves its charitable purpose. They oversee the overall strategic management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that LFBF has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable LFBF to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Role responsibilities

The primary responsibilities of the trustee are as follows:

• Support and provide advice on LFBF’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Approve strategic objectives and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee LFBF’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Review and approve LFBF’s financial statements.
• Provide support and challenge to LFBF’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.
• Keep abreast of changes in LFBF’s operating environment.
• Contribute to regular reviews of LFBF’s own governance.
• Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
• Attend LFBF events as appropriate.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect LFBF’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.
• Contribute to the broader promotion of LFBFs objects, aims and reputation by applying their skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when the trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

You will have

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

We are particularly interested in recruiting those with experience across these sectors or groups:

• financial education / financial sector
• membership
• education
• research
• communications
• working with younger people
• digital / artificial intelligence
• marketing
• fund raising

Due to a number of our current trustees reaching their term in the coming months, we are looking to recruit up to 4 new trustees. In the main we are looking for experienced trustees however one trustee role will be available for those with little or no previous governance experience as we will provide a full induction and training.

In particular we are looking for:

• Knowledge and experience across 1 or more areas of our remit e.g. financial capability, education, membership, research, communications or in the areas of digital / artificial intelligence, marketing or fund raising
• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.
• Willingness to lead according to our values.
• Integrity, probity and high ethical standards. 
• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Further details including the anticipated time commitment for this role can be found within the Recruitment pack. To access the Recruitment pack, click on Quick Apply. 

2026/27 is a pivotal time for the Muscle Help Foundation (MHF) charity. Marking its 23rd year of operation, MHF is now moving beyond its founding 657 mission set in March 2003, to a new mission. Exciting times! A key Board appointment, the Treasurer will maintain an overview of MHF's financial affairs, ensuring continued sustainability.

What will you be doing?

We're looking for that special person to be a part of a small and friendly team that can help contribute to MHF's future continued mission and vision.

Our existing Treasurer is also MHF's Interim Chair. As a high achiever, the need for a standalone Treasurer is required to ease the pressure. MHF’s Treasurer will work with the charity’s long-standing chartered accountancy firm and external book-keeping partner, in addition to being supported by the Interim-Chair and the CEO.

What are we looking for?

• Time to dedicate to the role of Treasurer. Excellent communicator with good listening & interpersonal skills
• Professional or relevant finance & business-related experience and knowledge and/or the ability to demonstrate the necessary financial skills needed to support MHF's professional interests
• The intellectual capacity to grasp issues outside personal experience and the ability to contribute to high level strategy development

What difference will you make?

As someone with financial skills, you can help ensure MHF's board can understand & review the charity's financial position with greater confidence. Following an away-day last year, several new missions were developed as MHF is now within touching distance of realising its original 657 mission set in March 2003, some 23 years ago. We plan on announcing the new mission imminently, meaning within the next 2-3 months. Truly exiting times ahead. Interested in being a part of the journey? Let's have a conversation and see where we go.

We're looking for a Trustee – Treasurer
Bring your financial expertise and help us shape brighter futures.

At Options for Life, we believe everyone has the right to live a fulfilled and independent life. We are a Sandwell based charity that supports adults with learning disabilities and/or autism to build confidence, learn new skills, access their communities, and make informed choices about their lives.

With two purpose-built centres and over 65 staff, we provide a wide range of services, from outreach and hub-based activities to supported community access and drop-in sessions. Our work takes place in one of England’s most disadvantaged areas, where our services can make the greatest impact.

Join Our Board as Treasurer

As we plan to expand our reach and develop new services, we are seeking a Treasurer to help guide our financial strategy and governance.

We are looking for someone with a background in finance or accounting, who can:

• Oversee our financial health in collaboration with our Head of Finance and CEO
• Ensure effective financial controls, policies, and reporting are in place
• Play an active role in the Finance Committee and wider Board decision-making
• Present clear and insightful financial information to fellow Trustees

We welcome applicants from all walks of life, including those with lived experience of disability or who are new to governance roles. A strong commitment to inclusion, good judgment, and a collaborative spirit are essential.

Commitment:

• Four Board meetings per year
• AGM and annual strategy/away day
• Quarterly Finance Committee and possible ad hoc sub-committee involvement
• Training and induction provided
• Travel expenses reimbursed

Make a lasting difference.

To express interest or learn more, contact our Chief Executive, Nicola Thomson, for an informal chat to request a Trustee Information Pack.

Help us give people more choice and control over their lives—because your skills can help change theirs.

Visit https://www.optionsforlife.info/work-with-us for more information.

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.

About CSE

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

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

About the role

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

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

Who we’re looking for

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

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

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

We would also welcome applicants who bring:

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

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

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

Find out more and apply

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

Closing date: Midday on Wednesday 10 June 2026.

We’re Looking for a Financial Leader With Heart — Could It Be You?

Unlock YOUR Potential is a brand‑new East London charity with a bold mission: to open doors for adults who need support, confidence, and real opportunities to move forward in their careers and lives. Through employability skills, mentoring, coaching, and community‑driven programmes, we’re here to help people step into their future with pride and possibility.

But every strong charity needs a strong financial backbone — and that’s where you come in.

We’re searching for a volunteer Finance Director / Treasurer to lead the set‑up of our financial systems, processes, and reporting.

Just a few hours a month — but with the power to shape the integrity, transparency, and long‑term sustainability of our organisation.

What this role is all about

You’ll help us:

• Set up our financial systems, controls, and processes from the ground up

• Establish good practice in charity finance and governance

• Act as our lead contact and signatory with the bank

• Oversee budgeting, cashflow, and financial planning

• Ensure accurate and compliant financial reporting

• Lead on annual submissions to the Charity Commission

• Provide financial insight that supports strategic decision‑making

Your leadership will ensure we launch with confidence, credibility, and strong financial stewardship.

Who we hope to find

Someone who:

• Has experience in finance, accounting, or charity financial management

• Understands the importance of transparency, controls, and good governance

• Wants to give back in a way that creates long‑lasting impact

• Can offer a few hours a week to help build our financial foundation

• Feels energised by shaping a new charity with purpose and integrity

• Believes in opportunity, community, and the power of second chances

Why your contribution matters

• You won’t just be managing numbers — you’ll be safeguarding our mission.
• You’ll help us build trust with donors, partners, volunteers, and the community.
• You’ll ensure every pound is used wisely to support adults across East London.
• And you’ll play a central role in helping us grow into a stable, responsible, and impactful charity.

Your expertise becomes the anchor that allows our mission to thrive.

If you’re passionate about financial stewardship and want to make a real difference in East London and beyond, this is your moment.

Join us. Help build the financial foundation that unlocks someone’s future.

The Association of Illustrators (AOI) is seeking up to two non-executive directors to join our Board and help shape the future of a thriving global illustration community.

We support over 2,000 illustrators, agents and educators – championing rights, delivering industry-leading events, and celebrating excellence through the World Illustration Awards.

This is an exciting time to join the AOI as we enter a new phase of strategic growth, responding to rapid changes across the creative industries.

The Role

As a non-executive director, you will:

• Contribute to the AOI’s strategic direction and long-term sustainability
• Support good governance and decision-making
• Act as an ambassador for the organisation and its members
• Bring insight, challenge and expertise to Board discussions

This is a voluntary (unpaid) role, with travel expenses covered where needed.
Time commitment is approximately half a day per month.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applicants from a wide range of backgrounds. You might bring:

• Experience in strategy, leadership, or board-level decision-making
• A connection to, or strong interest in, the creative industries
• Strong judgement, collaboration skills, and a commitment to equity and inclusion

We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in:

• Finance (Treasurer)
• Fundraising & development
• Marketing & communications
• Organisational development & business growth

What’s Involved

• 4 Board meetings per year (in person, London)
• Attendance at events such as World Illustration Awards and AGM
• Occasional advisory support 
• Acting as an advocate and connector for AOI

Why Join the Board?

• Make a meaningful impact on the illustration industry
• Support emerging and established creatives
• Expand your network and leadership experience
• Access AOI events and professional development opportunities

How to apply 

We welcome applications from individuals with a variety of backgrounds, experience and perspectives. 

Please apply by sending the following:

1. A letter of interest setting out why you wish to join our Board and the skills and experience you can provide (no more than two pages)
2. An up-to-date CV

Deadline: 5pm, Tuesday 12 May 2026

Asylum Welcome is an extraordinary local charity, offering a range of support to asylum seekers, refugees and vulnerable migrants seeking refuge in and around Oxford. We provide everything from advice, visits, legal support, education, assistance finding employment and even helping secure free bus passes.

We currently have a strong and capable Board with a wide-ranging skill set and we are seeking a Chairperson who can provide strong leadership and a collaborative approach.

As an organisation we are committed to reflecting our diverse and vibrant Oxfordshire community to help strengthen our governance and our approach. We are seeking a new Chair with a range of skills and experience. In particular, we are looking for people who can demonstrate :

· Experience of leadership

· Commitment to the aims and values of Asylum Welcome

· Tact and diplomacy

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

· Good facilitation skills

· Impartiality, fairness and discretion

· Empathy with the challenges of running a highly diverse. largely volunteer-based organisation in a subject area which is both topical and challenging.

As Chair you will play a key role in enabling us to continue supporting refugees and asylum seekers, primarily in the Oxfordshire area, empowering them to rebuild their lives here in safety.  This role offers a valuable opportunity to use your professional skills and experience to make a meaningful difference to individuals who have been forced to flee their homes and livelihoods.

We welcome expressions of interest from people of all ages and backgrounds, and a job share arrangement would be considered. The role is currently shared by two Trustees as Co-Chairs who are retiring as Trustees after many years of service.

The Chair position is not paid but travel expenses may be claimed for attending meetings.

The Board meets (via Teams and in-person) 6 - 8 times a year, currently early evening on a Thursday. Dates are agreed a year in advance.

This is an exciting time to join the Trustee Board at Asylum Welcome and a fantastic opportunity to influence the growth and future of a dynamic charity.

For more information see the full role description.

Trustee Opportunities at Suffolk County Football Association

Do you want to help create positive change through football? By joining Suffolk FA as a Trustee, you can play an important role in shaping the future of grassroots football in the county and supporting an organisation that makes a real and lasting difference to people’s lives.

We are looking for people who share our values and are motivated by our mission. You do not need to have been a trustee before. We are particularly interested in hearing from individuals who can bring skills or experience in Digital Engagement and Communications and/or Risk Management, but above all we value curiosity, commitment, and a willingness to learn.

This is an opportunity to join a forward‑thinking, community‑focused charity and contribute your perspective, skills, and lived experience to help football be more accessible, inclusive, and welcoming for everyone.

If you are enthusiastic about making a positive impact, bringing fresh ideas, and helping shape a more inclusive game, we would love to hear from you.

Who is the Suffolk County Football Association?

Suffolk FA is the governing body for football in Suffolk and is part of the affiliated County network for the Football Association. Suffolk FA is also a registered charity with a role and remit to promote, develop and support participation, promote the game and support the health and wellbeing of the people of Suffolk.

Our purpose is to inspire positive change through football by driving the local game to unite communities. We tackle inequalities and improve the health and wellbeing of people across Suffolk. We work with 330 clubs representing players of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.

What matters to Suffolk County Football Association?

Our vision? ‘A Thriving Local Game’, and we work across our whole football community and other partners to make this happen. Equality, diversity and inclusion is at the heart of what we do and this is underpinned by strong safeguarding.

Our values guide everything we do. We are Inclusive, Team-focused, Respectful, Open, Empowering, and Innovative. We expect all Trustees to model these behaviours and to act with integrity, fairness, and accountability in their role.

If you join us at Suffolk County Football Association…

You’ll be joining a committed and welcoming community of staff and volunteers who care deeply about the impact of their work.

Being a Trustee is a rewarding way to give back using your skills and experience, while also learning from others around the Board table. It’s an opportunity to contribute with purpose, build new knowledge, and grow your confidence in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Please make sure you read our Candidate Information Pack before applying. It contains important details about the role and our organisation.

Don’t think you quite meet all the specifications? Please don’t count yourself out. We’d still love to learn more about your interest in joining Suffolk FA!

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. If you have a disability or require reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us so we can support you appropriately.

What’s next – how do I apply for the Trustee roles?

Eastside People is supporting the Suffolk County Football Association in the recruitment of these roles.

Please apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter both in Word doc format.

Please use the cover letter (max 2 pages) as an opportunity to add to the information you have shared in your CV and ensure that you cover the following:

• Why are you interested in a Trustee role at Suffolk FA?
• Having read the information pack, what relevant experience and skills would you bring to the role? This might come from paid work, study, community or voluntary work or other experience.

You are welcome to send your cover letter in writing, or as a video or audio clip, alongside your CV.

The closing date for applications is Wednesday 20th May. Online shortlisting interviews with Eastside People will take place shortly after. Face-to-face interviews with Suffolk FA will take place in the week commencing the 1st of June.

We acknowledge every application. You’ll always hear from us after taking the time to apply - we look forward to hearing from you!

At this exciting time, the Base71 Youth Zone team is seeking to strengthen its Board of Trustees, expanding to bring in fresh perspectives, skills, and experience. We are currently looking to appoint a Vice Chair.

This is a rare opportunity to be part of a project of real scale and ambition. As Base71 continues to grow and make a lasting impact, you’ll play a key role in shaping its future—helping to create meaningful, positive change for young people across Barnsley, both now and for years to come.

We’re looking for someone with a strong understanding of governance, alongside the ability to provide strategic oversight and support. Just as important is your commitment to inclusion, safeguarding, and ensuring that young people’s voices remain at the heart of everything the organisation does.

In this role, you will:

• Ensure the charity operates within the requirements and rules set out in its governing document, remaining true to its charitable purpose and objectives
• Support compliance with relevant legislation and any regulatory bodies overseeing the charity’s activities
• Work closely with the Chair to review Board skills and diversity, implement annual reviews and trustee self-assessments, and identify development needs
• Oversee the recruitment, registration, and induction of new trustees
• Deputise for the Chair when required, acting as a trusted sounding board and intermediary for fellow trustees where appropriate

If you’re ready to bring your expertise, insight, and passion to a forward-thinking organisation, we would love you to consider finding out more about the difference you could make in Barnsley—for today and for tomorrow.

Organisation: Evangelical Mission Association (operating as Global Connections)

Location: UK-wide (hybrid)

Term: Three years (renewable up to a maximum of nine years)

Time commitment: Four Board meetings per year (typically four to five hours, with preparation), four meetings per year with Executive Leaders and one other trustee, plus ad-hoc meetings with the CEO as required. Travel expenses can be claimed.

The Evangelical Mission Association (EMA), operating as Global Connections, is a UK network of mission hearted organisations, churches, colleges, businesses and individuals. As part of the global Church, we have a shared vision to see: ‘The Whole Church taking the Whole Gospel to the Whole World.’

Being faithful to God’s calling for His Church to work together as one body, we believe we are better together - working collaboratively as part of God’s global mission rather than in isolation. Membership of Global Connections reflects a commitment to collaboration, co-mission, and mutual learning. It is an investment in relationships and collective action for the sake of God’s Kingdom and the flourishing of mission.

As part of our governance and succession planning, we are seeking to appoint a new Chair of Trustees, following the completion of the current Chair’s maximum term. We are looking for a Chair with the leadership, governance, and relational capacity to guide the Board effectively in this next season.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead the Board effectively - chair Board meetings with clarity, fairness, and impartiality; work with the executive leadership team to shape agendas; foster a culture of trust, accountability, and constructive challenge; and ensure the Board focuses on its fiduciary, strategic, and generative responsibilities (including finance, risk, safeguarding, and trustee development).
• Support and line-manage the CEO - act as the primary point of accountability for the CEO on behalf of the Board; provide encouragement, guidance, and appropriate challenge between meetings; and lead the CEO’s annual appraisal and oversee performance review arrangements.
• Chair Council meetings - chair the twice-yearly Council meetings, including the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
• Represent the charity - act as an ambassador and spokesperson for Global Connections within the network and externally where appropriate.
• Contribute to governance and reporting - provide content for the Annual Trustees’ Report, with support from the Executive Leadership.

Please take a few minutes to read through the recruitment pack (attached).

As a distinctly Christian charity, it’s important that you are willing and able to lead the trustees in discerning God’s heart and will for the charity and the wider network. In addition to its dependence on God for His leading and direction, we value the richness of a board diverse in age, background, skills and experience. We particularly welcome applications from under-represented sections of the community.

Closing date: 12:00pm on 28th May 2026

Informal conversations with an existing trustee or with our CEO, Ben Stansfield, can be arranged on request.

In accordance with the equality act 2010 it is a genuine occupational requirement that the post holder is a practising Christian.

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

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

Who we are

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

Who are we looking for?

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

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

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

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

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

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

What we can offer you

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

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

To apply 

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

Closing date for applications: 5pm on 29 May 2026

First-round interviews: week commencing 29 June 2026

Could your leadership skills help shape the future of a Hopian?  Hopian is a registered charity that provides advice and support for adults and children who have experienced Domestic Violence and Abuse through the provision of refuge accommodation and community support services.  We also provide support and access to counselling for people affected by Child Sexual Exploitation.

The Role of Trustee and executive Trustee roles are voluntary positions. A Trustee for the Board is expected to meet the requirements of the board in line with the charities governing documents, governing good practice and legal requirements.  We also have a vacancy for a Treasurer should you be interested please visit our Hopian website - recruiter link below for further details.

Trustee Responsibilities :

The Board as a whole is collectively responsible for the success of the charity. A Trustee is a Board Member and has a number of responsibilities in order to ensure robust management of the charity including:

• Make decisions objectively in the interests of the charity.
• Implement Hopian’s Vision, Mission, and Values.
• Lead on the aims and objectives of Hopian by raising awareness of domestic and sexual abuse, and child sexual exploitation and abuse and its impact on individuals and their families.

Trustee Duties :

• Ensuring that the organisation pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its governing document, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy.
• Ensuring that the organisation complies with its governing document (i.e. constitution or memorandum and articles of association), charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources in pursuance of its charitable objects (i.e., the charity must not spend money on activities that are not included in its own objects) .
• Ensuring that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets.
• Safeguarding the good name and values of the organisation.
• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place.
• Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation.
• Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds.
• To work in the interests of the charity and not for personal gain.
• To ensure that the Board Members takes proper professional advice on matters in which it does not have competence.
• Following proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of the chief executive.

In addition to the above statutory duties, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Tasks:

• To work with other Board Members to form an effective governing body for the charity.
• To attend meetings and to read papers in advance of meetings.
• Ensure that the charity’s focus places services users centrally.
• To understand and be committed to the mission of the charity.
• To maintain a long-term overview of the charity and its work.
• To make strategic and major decisions about the charity objectives, policies and procedures.
• To attend sub-group meetings as appropriate.
• To participate in other tasks that may arise from time to time such as interviewing for new staff, helping with appeals and fundraising.
• To keep informed about the activities of the charity and wider issues which affect its work.
• To monitor and evaluate the work of the charity on a regular basis. This includes receiving reports from staff, staff supervision, receiving feedback from service users and other agencies .
• To ensure that the charity is a good employer of its paid and voluntary staff .
• Provide opportunity for staff to meet with the board.

Person Specification

We are looking for a  Trustee who has an understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship. It is expected that a Trustee takes ownership to develop and maintain this understanding and application of duties. In addition to having:

• A commitment to the organisation.
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
• Good, independent judgement.
• An ability to think creatively.
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
• A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership

Experience & Knowledge

• Understanding and evidence of commitment to equal opportunities and diversity statement 
• Be objective and unbiased 
• Be supportive and approachable 

Time Requirements

To be able to attend scheduled committee meetings each year and read papers for each board meeting. To be available to for consultation, support and guidance on an ad hoc basis. Much of this contact will be via online, telephone or email.