Participation development officer volunteer roles in Leeds
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Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About Make A Smile
Make A Smile is a UK charity dedicated to bringing joy, play, and magical experiences to children facing illness, disability, or disadvantage. Volunteers dress as beloved characters and deliver uplifting activities, from hospital visits and care‑centre sessions to arts, crafts, stories, and games - ensuring every child gets the chance to enjoy their childhood. Our Trustees and Central Officers help keep the charity running smoothly across the UK, acting “in the best interests of Make a Smile” and ensuring volunteers are well‑trained, supported, and empowered.
About the Role
The Sign Language Officer leads Make A Smile’s British Sign Language (BSL) and Makaton training programme, ensuring volunteers gain the communication skills needed to create magical, inclusive interactions at events. You will oversee teachers, develop engaging lesson plans, and ensure volunteers progress through training effectively.
Key Responsibilities
You will play a central role in developing and delivering high‑quality sign language training. Responsibilities include:
● Overseeing BSL and Makaton teachers and supporting them in running weekly sessions.
● Recruiting suitable teachers or supporting new teachers to develop their skills to the required level.
● Ensuring the charity can offer training at multiple levels (Beginners, Improvers, Novice, Intermediate) for both BSL and Makaton.
● Reviewing and approving lesson plans, ensuring content focuses on vocabulary and phrases useful for Make A Smile events.
● Managing volunteer applications for training, selecting participants based on commitment and likelihood of attending events.
● Supporting weekly sessions by ensuring attendance is taken, volunteers are engaged, and teachers have the resources they need.
● Stepping in to run a session or arranging cover if a teacher is unavailable.
● Monitoring volunteer engagement and removing volunteers from the programme if attendance or participation is consistently poor.
● Ensuring asynchronous training materials on the dashboard remain relevant and accessible.
● Reporting on training progress, volunteer engagement, and teacher needs at monthly Charity Leadership Meetings.
Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For
This role suits someone organised, supportive, and passionate about inclusive communication. You’ll thrive if you bring:
● Strong organisational and coordination skills.
● Confidence in supporting and guiding teachers.
● Creativity in helping shape engaging, event‑focused lesson plans.
● A proactive, solution‑focused mindset.
● Professionalism, dedication, and alignment with Make A Smile’s ethos (“Show dedication… Enjoy it!”).
● An interest in BSL or Makaton (you do not need to be fluent - teachers deliver the content).
Time Commitment
Sign Language Officers are expected to contribute around 4 hours per week, including supporting teachers, reviewing lesson plans, managing training groups, and attending monthly Charity Leadership Meetings.
Training and Support
You will receive:
● Full Trustee Training (online).
● A comprehensive handover and access to all systems (OneDrive, Simvoly, WhatsApp communities).
● Guidance from the Chair and fellow Trustees.
● Access to existing lesson plans, training materials, and templates.
● Opportunities for personal development through CPD and charity‑funded training.
What You’ll Gain
● Experience managing a training programme within a national charity.
● Skills in coordination, leadership, and inclusive communication.
● The chance to shape how volunteers interact with children who use BSL or Makaton.
● A meaningful role that directly enhances the accessibility and impact of Make A Smile events.
● The joy of helping volunteers develop skills that create magical, inclusive moments for children.
Safeguarding and Eligibility
Sign Language Officers must act in line with charity standards, including professionalism, confidentiality, and reliability. You must be able to attend monthly meetings and engage actively in communication channels. A DBS check may be required depending on involvement with events.
How to Apply
To express your interest, please send a CV along with a short message outlining your experience, interest in sign language, and why you’d like to support Make A Smile’s training programme.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our passion for helping children smile.
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



Are you passionate about health justice? Medact is seeking a new Chair of the Board to help oversee our governance and support our work.
About Medact
Medact organises the health community to work towards a world in which everyone is able to live healthy, dignified lives, supported by political and economic systems that centre health justice. Our priority work areas are some of the most pressing threats to health and wellbeing, including ending state violence, housing & energy justice, and migrant access to healthcare. Medact seeks systemic solutions to major social problems, and is unafraid to hold decision-makers to account. We launched our new five-year strategy at the end of 2025, embedding our vision for how we win and how we grow.
We’re member-led, and our membership spans a range of people who work in health, including nurses, doctors, midwives and clinical researchers, as well as people from the wider health community.
We are now looking for a new Chair of our Board of Trustees. If you share our vision and passion, why not join our Board and help us fight for health justice?
About the role
Our Board of Trustees provides guidance, governance and final sign-off on major decisions on behalf of our membership. Trustees are collectively responsible for the governance of the organisation in line with the requirements of the Charity Commission. Trustees also contribute to the development of Medact's strategy and participate in a range of other activities to support the Director and staff with our work.
There are four planned board meetings per year, which are hybrid, and it is expected that each Trustee will attend most Board meetings. Trustees are also sometimes asked to give their views or sign off on issues between Board meetings if an issue cannot wait. It is hoped that each Trustee will have the capacity to use their unique skills to support the team more broadly with Medact’s work.
As Chair, you will support the Executive Director and staff to help build on our achievements and realise Medact’s vision. You will work with fellow Trustees to make up a strong and effective Board governing the Charity.
Acting as a Trustee is a voluntary role but reasonable travel expenses can be paid.
Who we are looking for
Our current Board brings a broad range of skills, but we recognise that we do not yet reflect the diversity of the health community. There are also specific types of experience and expertise we would like more of on the Board. In particular, we are looking for potential Trustees with one or more of the following attributes:
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Lived experience of an issue that Medact campaigns on, for instance the Hostile Environment, the health impacts of economic or housing injustice, the health impacts of armed conflict or UK security policies
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Experience as a frontline health worker of any sort, preferably current
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Legal and safeguarding expertise
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Fundraising expertise, particularly individual giving or major donor fundraising
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Human resources expertise
As Chair, you will be actively networked within the health community or broader social justice movement and highly experienced in governance or strategic leadership of a charity or NGO. You will have the skills to line-manage the Executive Director. And you will have the ability to advocate on behalf of Medact’s work, as well as helping to build the membership and public image of the organisation.
We hope all Trustees will:
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Share our vision for a fairer and safer world, and our analysis of the transformational change needed to get closer to it
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Approach Board discussions and conversations with the team with an open mind, able to listen to and genuinely engage with others’ views
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Display collaborative behaviours which promote harmony and good team working which supports Medact to be an effective, well-governed organisation
Previous experience on a charity board or in another governance role is useful but by no means essential. If you are interested in becoming a Trustee but aren’t sure you have the right skills and experience, or would like an informal conversation with an existing board member before applying, please get in touch.
Timeline
Applications are open until 9am on Monday 9th March.
We aim to interview candidates in March. Please let us know when applying if you are unavailable during this period.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
As the Thackray Museum of Medicine looks to build on a period of bold strategic growth since our 2021 redevelopment, we are seeking an experienced, ambitious and community-minded Chair to lead our Board of Trustees. The Thackray is the UK’s largest independent medical museum: a dynamic, civic museum in East Leeds with a nationally significant collection of over 50,000 objects and a clear mission to inspire people with the passion and purpose of medicine and healthcare - past, present and future. Since reopening we have grown audiences, deepened community partnerships and developed an ambitious plan to be the UK’s leading medical museum by 2030.
Role: Chair of the Board of Trustees
Term: Minimum three years from 12th May 2026, renewable (maximum six years)
Commitment: Approx. 1–1.5 days per month (voluntary; reasonable out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed)
Your location: Ideally Leeds (nationwide considered); Board meetings four times a year (three may be hybrid; in-person presence preferred).
The Role:
The Chair will lead and steward an engaged, forward-thinking Board to support the CEO and senior team as the Museum consolidates recent gains and secures long-term resilience. You will ensure excellent governance, provide constructive challenge and support to the CEO, strengthen relationships with funders and partners, champion the Museum’s commitment to equity and community co-curation, and be an ambassador for the organisation locally and nationally.
Key responsibilities:
· Set strategic direction: Lead the Board in shaping, approving and monitoring delivery of the CEO’s strategy to meet the Museum’s mission and 2030 ambitions.
· Own governance & risk: Ensure high standards of governance, legal and regulatory compliance, and effective oversight of the risk register.
· Build board capability: Drive trustee recruitment, induction, appraisal and succession planning to secure the skills, diversity and lived experience needed.
· Partner with the CEO: Line-manage and support the CEO - offering constructive challenge, guidance on operations and people matters, and ensuring strong executive accountability.
· Champion income & profile: Use networks to open doors to major funders, partners and donors, and actively raise the Museum’s profile.
· Ensure financial stewardship: Oversee budgets, reserves and trading activity with the Treasurer and Finance Committee, and scrutinise financial reporting.
· Lead effective meetings: Chair Board meetings, encourage robust discussion, ensure timely decisions and follow-through on agreed actions.
· Represent and advocate: Act as an ambassador to civic partners, funders, media and diverse local communities.
· Steward the estate: Support oversight of capital, maintenance and estate priorities for the Museum’s Victorian building.
Who you are:
· Seasoned governance leader: Experienced chair or senior trustee with sound knowledge of trustee duties, charity & company law and governance best practice.
· Strategic thinker: Track record of leading strategy in museums, heritage, culture, health or education - or in complex, stakeholder-facing organisations.
· Fundraising connector: Proven at building relationships with major funders, trusts, corporates or donors and supporting successful income-raising and profile activity.
· Financially literate: Comfortable with budget scrutiny, risk oversight and the commercial realities of earned income models or trading subsidiaries.
· Capital & estate experience: Practical experience of overseeing capital projects, estate stewardship or major building maintenance.
· ED&I and community champion: Committed to equity, inclusion and co-creation, with evidence of widening participation and diversifying leadership.
· Confident ambassador: Excellent interpersonal and public-facing skills; able to represent the Museum credibly to varied audiences.
· Supportive leader: Able to challenge and develop senior executives while fostering a collegiate, high-performing board culture.
· Local affinity desirable: A strong connection to Leeds or experience working in diverse urban communities is an advantage.
For full details of the role including how to apply, please download the full appointment brief . To apply, please send an up-to-date CV, a Supporting Statement (no more than two A4 pages) outlining your interest and relevant experience, in confidence to Jenny Hills at Harris Hill via the apply button.
For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny Hills at Harris Hill with times to speak and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile which will be treated with the strictest confidence. There is also the opportunity for suitable interested candidates to speak to The Thackray’s CEO in advance of submitting an application.
Closing date for applications: 11.59pm, Tuesday 31 March 2026.
First stage interviews: w/c 13 April 2026 (tbc).
Second stage interviews: w/c 20 April 2026 (tbc).
The Thackray is actively committed to promoting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. We are a Disability Confident employer (registration number DCS036392) and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Please read the attached Trustee Information Pack for more detail
As a Trustee, you will play a crucial role in the governance and strategic oversight of the charity, ensuring that we operate effectively, achieve our mission, and comply with all legal and regulatory requirements. Trustees are collectively responsible for safeguarding the charity’s assets, ensuring they are used exclusively to further our objectives, and overseeing the charity’s financial health, including budgets, financial controls, and reporting. Acting with integrity and in the charity’s best interests is at the heart of the role.
The Treasurer oversees the financial affairs of the charity and ensures that they are conducted legally, transparently, and in line with the charity’s governing document. Working closely with the Chair, Managing Director, Trustees, and any staff or volunteers, the Treasurer helps safeguard the charity’s financial sustainability.
We welcome candidates from professional backgrounds who share our commitment to supporting those affected by Body Dysmorphic Disorder. If your current or previous skills or experience align with this post, we encourage you to apply and join us in driving meaningful change.
Please note, this role is being advertised on an ongoing basis, with interviews conducted on an ad hoc basis.
To apply for this role, please submit the following documents:
- An up to date CV outlining your relevant experience and qualifications.
- A cover letter of no more than 800 words explaining why you are interested in the Treasurer role, what you would bring to the board, and how your skills align with the needs of the charity.
Please note, this role is being advertised on an ongoing basis, with interviews conducted on an ad hoc basis.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Recruitment Manager – Volunteer Role
About Make A Smile
Make A Smile is a UK charity dedicated to bringing joy, play, and magical experiences to children facing illness, disability, or disadvantage. Volunteers dress as beloved characters and deliver uplifting activities, from hospital visits and care‑centre sessions to arts, crafts, stories, and games - ensuring every child gets the chance to enjoy their childhood. Our Trustees and Central Officers ensure the charity runs smoothly across the UK, helping us “bring smiles to the faces of so many children.”
About The Role
The Recruitment Manager leads and oversees volunteer recruitment across all Make A Smile chapters. You will support Chapter Recruitment Officers, run central recruitment activities, and ensure volunteers can progress smoothly from first hearing about the charity to becoming fully qualified and ready to attend events.
Key Responsibilities
You will play a strategic and hands‑on role in growing the charity’s volunteer base. Responsibilities include:
● Overseeing the full volunteer journey - from first contact to becoming “Qualified” and event‑ready.
● Providing guidance, training, and ongoing support to Chapter Recruitment Officers.
● Ensuring Recruitment Officers run effective Introduction Training sessions, recruitment fairs, and outreach activities.
● Identifying barriers that prevent volunteers from getting involved and working to reduce them.
● Ensuring each chapter completes its Widening Access plan and implements inclusive recruitment practices.
● Working closely with the Safeguarding Officer to support DBS checks and ensure Recruitment Officers can run DBS clinics correctly.
● Maintaining and improving the Introduction Training slides and ensuring content remains high‑quality and up to date.
● Running a monthly online central Introduction Training session and advertising it across chapters and social media.
● Proactively seeking new recruitment opportunities, including volunteering platforms, fairs, and partnerships.
● Supporting and overseeing the Widening Participation (WP) Officer, who recruits 16–18‑year‑old volunteers.
● Collaborating with the PR Officer and Conference Officer to raise awareness and attend recruitment events.
● Reporting recruitment challenges, barriers, and chapter needs at monthly Charity Leadership Meetings.
Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For
This role suits someone energetic, organised, and passionate about helping people get involved. You’ll thrive if you bring:
● Strong communication and people‑engagement skills.
● Confidence in motivating and supporting volunteers.
● A proactive, solution‑focused mindset.
● Creativity in finding new recruitment opportunities.
● The ability to manage multiple chapters and keep track of progress.
● Professionalism, dedication, and alignment with Make A Smile’s ethos (“Act in the best interests of Make a Smile… Enjoy it!”).
Experience in recruitment is helpful but not essential - enthusiasm and commitment matter most.
Time Commitment
Recruitment Managers are expected to contribute around 4 hours per week, including supporting chapters, running central training, and attending monthly Charity Leadership Meetings.
Training and Support
You will receive:
● Full Trustee Training (online).
● A comprehensive handover and access to all systems (OneDrive, Simvoly, WhatsApp communities).
● Guidance from the Chair, Safeguarding Officer, and fellow Trustees.
● Access to recruitment guides, training materials, and templates.
● Opportunities for personal development through CPD and charity‑funded training.
What You’ll Gain
● Experience leading recruitment across a national charity.
● Skills in volunteer engagement, training delivery, and inclusive recruitment.
● Leadership experience supporting multiple chapter teams.
● The chance to shape the volunteer experience and strengthen the charity’s impact.
● The joy of helping new volunteers join a community that brings magic to children.
Safeguarding and Eligibility
Recruitment Managers must act in line with charity standards, including professionalism, confidentiality, and reliability. You must be able to attend monthly meetings and engage actively in communication channels. A DBS check may be required depending on involvement with events.
How to Apply
To express your interest, please send a CV along with a short message outlining your experience, interest in recruitment, and why you’d like to support Make A Smile.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our passion for helping children smile.
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join Street Paws as a Trustee — Shape the Future of a Charity Making Real Change
Street Paws is the charity standing up for people and pets facing homelessness, we believe in a future where homelessness never separates people and their pets, because for them a pet is a lifeline not a luxury.
Street Paws stands up for people facing homelessness because, for them a pet is a lifeline, not a luxury. We challenge the misconception that having a pet should ever be a barrier to a secure home. That is why, in partnership with Local Authorities, hostels and support services, we provide accessible veterinary care, training and advocacy – breaking down the barriers and opening doors to make pet friendly support the norm, not the exception.
We are looking for new trustees with legal, cyber security or lobbying/ campaigning expertise to join our board and play a pivotal role in protecting and strengthening the charity as we grow. By joining our Board, you will have the chance to:
Lead Strategy at a High Level
Your decisions directly shape the direction, resilience, and long‑term impact of Street Paws. You’ll help guide a charity that supports some of the most vulnerable animals and owners across the UK.
Make a Big Difference with a Small Time Commitment
We know your time is valuable. That’s why the role is designed to be flexible and manageable:
· A few hours a month, on your schedule
· Just one board meeting per quarter (around 2 hours)
· Remote participation options available
This is a meaningful way to contribute your professional expertise without taking on a heavy workload.
Build Your Board-Level Experience
Whether you’re looking to take your first step into governance or broaden your leadership portfolio, this role offers:
· Real strategic influence
· Exposure to charity governance
· A chance to work alongside passionate, skilled trustees
You’ll be part of a committed team driving forward a mission that genuinely changes lives.
A future where homelessness never separates people and their pets
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are seeking new Trustees who can bring their ideas and experience to our Board, who can champion our activities and advocate for us both locally and regionally. Our current Trustees are committed to the performing arts and enjoy sharing their expertise and experience, to make the Theatre stronger and more resilient.
We encourage applications from all backgrounds. You don’t need experience of being a Trustee, or of being in the performing arts. All we require is that you have a passion for live theatre. Induction, mentoring and training will be provided.
We are particularly interested in hearing from you if you have experience in these areas:
- Finance, commercial and/or business operations
- Fundraising
- IT and systems
- Facilities or venue management
- Or…..tell us what you can offer!
We welcome candidates who can demonstrate:
- A passion for the Lawrence Batley Theatre and our vision and mission, along with a commitment to arts and culture as a force for change;
- A good understanding of effective governance and management;
- Strategic vision and creative thinking;
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
- An understanding of the barriers which some people within our communities face and a commitment to effect change; Values of equalities, diversity and inclusion.
For more information please download the recruitment pack on our website.
To apply please email us with your CV and no more than one side of A4 outlining: your experience, why you are interested in becoming a Trustee of Kirklees Theatre Trust (Lawrence Batley Theatre) and what you will bring to the organisation. Deadline for applications is 12noon on Fri 3 April.
All applications will be reviewed and selected candidates will be invited to an informal discussion with the Chair and Chief Executive to understand a little more about you and what you can bring to the Board. Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to observe a Board meeting before deciding whether they wish to formally join as a Trustee.
We make magic happen. We champion outstanding home-grown talent. We bring world class shows to Huddersfield We are a welcoming place for our community
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Job Description
We are seeking a Finance Trustee to join our Board. The ideal candidate will have experience and interest in Financial matters. This application process is rolling, meaning there is no deadline - so please enquire and apply sooner rather than later! We anticipate the process will conclude in mid-2026.
Who are we?
We are a disability-led arts organisation which works to improve access to culture for disabled people by providing opportunities for disabled creatives, training cultural institutions to be more open to disabled people, and through running participatory arts and development programmes.
Our programmes have run for fifty years, supporting disabled creatives and those facing disabling barriers to creative careers or audience participation. Our current programme finds us opening new avenues for disabled creatives through commissioning, exhibitions, and learning-based support such as residencies, advice, and guidance.
We continue to break new ground in digital spheres and advocating for disabled people struggling to access the arts and creative industries through our consultancy services.
We work across three main areas:
- A creative programme, working directly with disabled creatives
- Heritage projects, documenting the social history of disabled people
- Access consultancy, including training and auditing
We receive funding from Arts Council England and the Heritage Lottery Fund to support our creative programme and heritage projects.
We are recruiting disabled and non-disabled voluntary Board members. As a member of our Board, you will gain an insight to how the arts and cultural industries in the UK work. From lived experience to professional experience, we are looking for people from all backgrounds who are passionate about the arts and its potential to change disabled people's lives to join our Board.
Please read or listen to all guidance on our site before applying!
Job Requirements
The Board and Shape's Executive Team meet four times a year - once every three months. Each meeting takes up about half a day.
In addition, Trustees are expected to attend the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and the yearly Away Day, both of which happen once per year.
The main responsibilities of any Charity Trustee are outlined by the Charity Commission. You can browse their '5-minute guides' for Trustees on their website.
The Nolan Principles of Public Life set the standards for how our trustees are expected to conduct themselves. These are:
- Selflessness
- Integrity
- Objectivity
- Accountability
- Openness
- Honesty
- Leadership
You can read more about these principles on the UK Government's website.
Job Responsibilities
Our team of Trustees are responsible for ensuring that:
- Shape complies with its Memorandum and Articles of Association, and that it pursues only the objectives which are defined in it
- Shape complies with charity law, employment law and other relevant legislation or regulations
- Shape is financially viable
- the Board is defining goals and setting targets for the organisation, and that performance is evaluated against these targets
- Shape's ethos and reputation are safeguarded
- Administration is effective and efficient and we are accountable to our stakeholders and funders
The Board are also responsible for:
- Contributing to the Board's role in giving firm strategic direction
- Appointing the Chief Executive and monitoring their performance
- Sitting on appraisal, recruitment and disciplinary panels, as required
- Attending either the Finance, HR and Risk, or Programme and Development Sub Committees
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Equal Aqua is seeking a Trustee with significant fundraising expertise to provide strategic leadership and hands-on support to drive substantial income growth as the organisation scales towards a seven-figure annual income. The role involves actively leveraging networks to open doors to major donors, corporate partners and grant-makers, initiating high-value funding conversations and developing new income streams. The Trustee will help shape and oversee the organisation’s long-term fundraising strategy, support the cultivation and conversion of major funding opportunities, mentor the fundraising team and strengthen proposals and donor engagement. Acting as an ambassador for the organisation, they will also help raise Equal Aqua’s profile within influential networks while ensuring strong governance, accountability and performance through the Board and Fundraising Committee. The ideal candidate will bring senior-level fundraising experience, strong sector knowledge in areas such as WASH, climate or international development, and a network capable of unlocking significant new funding opportunities.
Equal Aqua is a registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) in the UK; Equal Aqua Uganda is a registered Community Based Organisation (CBO) in Uganda (‘EAU’ refers to both). Both operate equally and in unison. The purpose of EAU is to enable communities in Uganda to have access to safe and sustainable water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities. EAU supports schools and communities facing the greatest WASH inequalities by providing water tanks and filters, running classes and workshops, and empowering young people to be WASH change makers in their community. The current Board of Trustees, consisting of 5 members based in UK and Uganda, provides guidance to the volunteer EAU management team as well as supporting the implementing volunteers based in UK, Uganda and other countries.
The objectives of EAU are, in Uganda, to:
1. To improve access to safe and sustainable WASH for those facing the greatest inequalities in Uganda
2. To strengthen the participation of local communities in WASH, in particular women and girls, and displaced peoples
3. To take action to protect the natural environment, reduce pollution and tackle climate change
The role of trustees is:
1. Sculpt and maintain EAU’s vision, mission, objectives and values.
2. Act as ‘critical friends’ in the development of EAU’s policy, programming and planning.
3. Actively champion EAU externally, opening doors to people and organisations that can support our cause, fostering awareness and engagement in the UK, Uganda and internationally.
4. Support in particular with income generation activities, advising and supporting delivery of major campaigns and helping to build EAU’s donor and partner base.
5. Establish and maintain systems for reporting and monitoring.
6. Ensure that the financial affairs of the organisation are conducted properly and are accurately reported.
7. Manage risk and ensure compliance and accountability with the governing document (EAU Constitution), external regulators and the law (UK and Uganda).
8. Safeguard EAU’s assets – both physical assets, including property, and intangible ones, such as its reputation.
Ensure EAU has the appropriate structure and resources to deliver the above.
Trustee Responsibilities:
1. To attend and contribute to EAU Board of Trustee meetings, held at least on a quarterly basis. To work with EAU management to set an agenda in advance of this meeting.
2. Currently, Trustees will hold the position for a maximum of 3 years. This length of trusteeship will be reviewed with the aim of staggering Trustee terms to ensure a smooth transition between board members.
3. To support the recruitment of additional trustees, from diverse backgrounds and providing a range of expertise.
4. To offer personal expertise and skills in select areas for the benefit of EAU. This may include legal, management, practical, fundraising, marketing or other relevant areas.
5. To offer advice and feedback on EAU’s main fundraising programmes, e.g. events and grant applications.
Additional Responsibilities of Trustee with fundraising expertise
To provide strategic leadership and hands-on support to drive significant and sustainable income growth for Equal Aqua, with the ambition of building towards a seven-figure annual income.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Fundraising Leadership
Provide Board-level oversight and strategic direction for the development and execution of an ambitious, multi-year fundraising strategy aligned with EAU’s growth plans, ensuring clear pathways to seven-figure annual income. - Active Income Generation & Network Mobilisation
Proactively generate income by leveraging personal and professional networks to:- Open doors to high-value donors, grant-makers, corporates and philanthropic partners
- Introduce EAU to influential individuals and decision-makers
- Initiate and nurture strategic funding conversations
- Identify and pursue new income streams and partnership opportunities
This role requires active relationship-building and direct contribution to income growth, not solely advisory input.
- Pipeline Development & High-Value Fundraising
Support the identification, cultivation and conversion of major funding opportunities, including trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships and major donors. Where appropriate, personally lead or co-lead high-value approaches. - Committee Leadership & Support
Provide experienced guidance to the Fundraising Committee and fundraising volunteers, strengthening capability, confidence and performance across the team. - Hands-On Mentorship & Quality Assurance
Offer practical, hands-on support to fundraising volunteers, including:- Reviewing and strengthening proposals and pitch materials
- Advising on donor strategy and positioning
- Supporting preparation for high-stakes meetings and presentations
- Visibility & Advocacy
Act as an ambassador for EAU, raising the organisation’s profile in relevant networks, events and forums, and positioning EAU as a credible, high-impact partner. - Governance & Accountability
Attend quarterly Fundraising Committee meetings (one of EAU’s management committees) and relevant Board meetings, ensuring clear income targets, performance monitoring and accountability for results.
Desired Background and expertise of Trustee with Fundraising expertise.
Senior Fundraising Experience
- A substantial track record (ideally 5+ years) in charity fundraising, with experience operating at a strategic level. This should include demonstrable success in securing significant income from one or more of the following: trusts and foundations, major donors, corporate partnerships, institutional funders or high-net-worth individuals. Experience supporting organisations through periods of income growth or scale-up is highly desirable. International development experience is strongly preferred.
- Sector-Relevant Knowledge
Strong understanding of fundraising dynamics and donor priorities within one or more of Equal Aqua’s core thematic areas, including:- WASH (Water, Sanitation & Hygiene)
- Climate and environmental sustainability
- Menstrual health and gender equality
- Rural enterprise and livelihoods
- International development
Familiarity with the funding landscape in these sectors – including trends, key funders and partnership models – would be a significant advantage.
- Network & Influence
An established professional network that can be activated in support of Equal Aqua’s growth ambitions, with the credibility and confidence to engage senior decision-makers and prospective funders.
- Strategic & Commercial Acumen
The ability to think entrepreneurially about income generation, identify new revenue opportunities, and contribute to building a diversified and resilient funding portfolio.
To become a leading organisation in Uganda in addressing inequalities in WASH, and interrelated issues of gender and sustainability.




