Partnership executive volunteer roles

This position is a Trustee role, sitting on and managing Hidayah's Board of Trustees. The Chair of Hidayah provides strategic leadership to Hidayah, ensuring the organization remains aligned with its mission to support and advocate for LGBTQ+ Muslims. The Chair will guide the Board of Trustees in effective governance and act as an ambassador for the charity within both the Muslim and LGBTQ+ communities.

What are the key responsibilities of this role?

This role will have the following duties, but are not limited to:

Leadership and Governance:

· Provide leadership to the Board, ensuring that Trustees fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity.

· Oversee the Board of Trustees’ operation, ensuring its members work collaboratively and effectively.

· Ensure the charity complies with its constitution, governing documents, charity law, and other relevant legislation/regulations.

Strategy and Planning:

· Lead the development and implementation of the charity’s annual strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the needs of LGBTQ+ Muslims.

· Liaise with the Secretary in writing the annual report outlining Hidayah’s impact and achievements

· Work with the Board of Trustees to ensure that strategic objectives are effectively executed and serve the community

· Liaising with the HR & Recruitment Trustee regarding a portfolio of policies to ensure the smooth running of Hidayah

Risk Management:

· Ensure appropriate risk management policies and procedures are in place and adhered to.

· Regularly review and address potential risks to the charity’s operations and reputation.

Board of Trustees Management:

· Chair monthly Board meetings effectively, ensuring decisions are taken in a timely manner and that actions are followed up.

· Facilitate a positive and inclusive Board culture where diverse viewpoints are encouraged and respected.

· Manage all Trustees at Hidayah

Advocacy and Representation:

· Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work within both the Muslim and LGBTQ+ communities and to a wider audience.

· Represent the charity at key events, meetings, and functions, and develop relationships with key stakeholders and partners.

Financial Oversight:

· Oversee the charity’s financial health, ensuring it operates within its means and maintains proper financial control and accountability.

· Work with the Treasurer and the finance team to ensure the Board of Trustees receives accurate and timely financial information.

· Act as a signatory for Hidayah’s bank account and financial operations.

· To seek out partnerships, sponsors and endorsements from individuals and organisations.

What do we expect from the Chair of Hidayah?

Please note that you must agree with and fit the criteria below to be eligible to volunteer in this role:

Essential:

· Demonstrable experience in a leadership role within a charity, non-profit, or similar organization.

· Strong understanding of governance best practices and charity law.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to foster a collaborative and inclusive culture.

· Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.

· Strong financial acumen and experience overseeing budgets and financial planning.

· Passion for the charity’s mission and commitment to its values, with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ Muslims.

Desirable:

· Previous experience as a Chair or in a senior non-executive role.

· Experience in fundraising and development activities.

· Established network within the Muslim and LGBTQ+ communities and among relevant stakeholders.

Terms of Appointment:

· The Chair will be appointed for an initial term of 3 years, which may be renewed for a further term(s).

· This is a voluntary position; however, expenses incurred in fulfilling the role will be reimbursed as approved by the Board of Trustees in line with Hidayah’s policies.

All volunteers are expected to join Hidayah's Membership and Hidayah Discord server, read all Hidayah policies read, understand and agree with the constitution of Hidayah (available on our website).

Please ensure you do not have a conflict of interest with your current role and check this prior to applying for this role.

How much commitment is required?

The hours are flexible around your schedule. All Trustees volunteers are expected to:

· Attend monthly meetings to update on tasks, progress etc.

· Aim to attend all other planning meetings as necessary

· Attend Hidayah events where geographically possible

· Add to and maintain the administration of our file-sharing system ‘Google Drive’ to ensure it’s up to date with clear records, templates and forms

· Check and respond to emails in a timely manner

· Contribute to the communications group (via Discord) and stay up to date with Hidayah developments

· Keep up to date with Hidayah communication and organisational developments

An invitation to join us at Young Devon as our next…

Trustee (Job Ref 25-85)

Are you passionate about supporting young people in Devon?

Young Devon is here to change the odds in favour of the thousands of young people who ask for help each year with their homelessness, mental health and education.  We believe developing good quality relationships can be transformational in young people’s lives.

We are seeking committed and passionate people to support the leadership of a complex organisation.  An understanding of governance in a Charity or non-executive setting isn’t essential but will help.

You will be able to demonstrate good judgement combined with excellent strategic and communication skills.  As a creative thinker and being able to recognise a range of perspectives you will be able to support fellow Trustees to ensure the Charity is well governed and focused on meeting the needs of young people.

You can download the Candidate Information Pack from our website.

This is a voluntary position but one which we hope will be very rewarding.  We aim to appoint to an initial 3-year term with the possibility to extend to a second thereafter.  Reasonable and proper expenses will be reimbursed.  An enhanced DBS check is required for this position.

Closing date for applications: 12 noon on Tuesday 31st March 2026

Young Devon is a youth work charity (1057949) passionate about creating an inclusive workplace and embracing diversity. We are committed to Safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable groups and all applicants who will or could have unsupervised access to these groups will complete the required checks through the Disclosure and Barring Service

We are now at a particularly exciting moment. Following multi-year funding from Creative Scotland and the success of productions such as Small Town Boys, we are looking ahead to our next phase of growth with confidence and ambition. This is a wonderful time to step into the role of Chair and help shape what comes next.

As Chair, you will lead a committed and thoughtful board, working closely with our artistic and executive leadership to set strategic direction, champion our values, and ensure the organisation continues to flourish. You will be an advocate for dance, for Dundee and for the artists and communities we serve. Your ability to build strong relationships, communicate clearly and create a supportive, well-governed environment will be central to our continued success.

It is a role with responsibility and also with enormous reward.

We run creative programmes, workshops and performances that are inclusive and accessible. We nurture talent and provide opportunities for people to develop their creative practice and skills. We create high- quality productions that tour throughout Scotland and the UK.

Our work is inspired by stories and ideas from the people and communities we work with in Dundee and beyond.

We would be delighted to hear from you and to learn how your experience, perspective and passion could help lead Shaper/Caper into its next chapter.

YES is seeking a Trustee with fundraising expertise to join our Board and support the
long-term sustainability and growth of our charity, which is dedicated to improving the
mental health and wellbeing of children and young people.

As a Trustee, you will share collective responsibility for the charity’s governance,
strategic direction, and public benefit. As the Board’s lead Trustee for fundraising, you
will provide insight, oversight, and constructive challenge, drawing on your professional
fundraising experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as the Board’s lead Trustee for fundraising.
• Support the development and oversight of YES’s fundraising strategy.
• Provide guidance and challenge in relation to funding applications and income generation activity.
• Keep the Board informed of fundraising regulation, compliance, and best practice.
• Contribute a fundraising perspective to policy and strategic decision-making.

About You

You will bring relevant fundraising experience, strong communication skills, and a
commitment to good governance. You will be confident providing constructive
challenge and able to work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and the executive team.
Previous trustee experience is welcome but not essential.

Inclusion

YES values the insight that lived experience brings to effective governance. We
particularly welcome applications from people with diverse lived experience,
including LGBTQ+ communities, global majority backgrounds, and lived experience of
mental health challenges.
 

Overview:
Lead the design and delivery of all educational and life-skills programmes for children and young people. Ensure high-quality, inclusive learning experiences that promote wellbeing, confidence, and personal development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and oversee delivery of alternative education and life-skills programmes

• Line-manage tutors, youth mentors, and programme volunteers

• Develop curriculum materials and evaluation frameworks

• Build partnerships with schools, youth organisations, and local authorities

• Monitor safeguarding and child welfare in all sessions

• Report impact data and outcomes to the CEO and trustees

Skills & Experience:

• Background in education, youth work, or social development

• Experience managing staff or volunteers

• Strong understanding of safeguarding and child protection

• Excellent communication and organisational skills

• Creative, passionate, and able to motivate others

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.

Join Richmond Foundation as a Trustee and help shape a fairer, healthier future for our community.

Richmond Foundation is a long-established local charity with a proud history of supporting residents through grant-making, property management, and community initiatives. We are seeking new Trustees to join our Board and contribute to our vision: Everyone in Richmond has opportunities to build healthy and fulfilling lives.

Who we’re looking for

We welcome applications from individuals who share our values of integrity, excellence, collaboration, agility, and ambition.

Our goal is to recruit people from a wide range of backgrounds, with different expertise, experience and knowledge. We want to make our committees more diverse and representative of the groups and people we support. You can read more about our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion on our website.

We are committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process and are happy to provide reasonable adjustments to support applicants at any stage. We will provide a buddy system for new trustees.

We are looking to recruit trustees who have experience and knowledge in one of the following areas:

• Charity Finance and Investment
• Our Grant Priorities
• Residential Property

We are also interested in expertise in:

• Safeguarding
• Social Housing
• Grantmaking (particularly within larger foundations)
• Managing grants from a range of funders
• Data and evidence
• Evaluation and impact reporting
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
• Communications and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Human Resources (HR)

As a Trustee, you will:

• Uphold Richmond Foundation’s vision, mission, objectives, and values.
• Provide strategic oversight and governance for the charity.
• Act in the charity’s best interests and manage resources responsibly.
• Attend at least four Board meetings per year (3 hours each) and join at least one committee (further 4 meetings per year 90 mins to 2 hours each).
• Prepare for meetings by reading all relevant documentation and reviewing minutes.
• Attend relevant training and at least one event hosted by a grant-funded organisation annually.
• Serve a four-year term, with the possibility of renewal for an additional two-year term.
• Champion high standards of conduct, including respect, inclusivity, accountability, honesty, and confidentiality.
• Declare and manage any conflicts of interest.
• Act in accordance with our Trustee Code of Conduct
• Support safeguarding and ensure the charity is accountable and compliant with its governing documents.

To be eligible, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Not be disqualified under the Charities Act (including being disqualified as a company director, having unspent convictions for offences involving dishonesty or deception, being an undischarged bankrupt, having been removed as a trustee by the Charity Commission or a court, or being on the sex offenders’ register).
• Be willing to sign a declaration of eligibility upon appointment and annually thereafter.

How to Apply

If you are interested in making a difference in Richmond and can contribute your time and expertise to help us deliver our charitable objectives, we would love to hear from you.

Full details, person specification and requirements, and application instructions are available in the Trustee Recruitment pack.

The application deadline is 10:00am on Monday 13 April 2026

Richmond Foundation are hosting a Webinar and Q+A for interested applicants on 18 March 2026. This will be an opportunity to learn more from our CEO, Chair and Trustees and ask questions. Details can be found on our website.

Interviews: Scheduled in May/June 2026

Term Commences: September 2026

Volunteer Opportunity: Fundraising Working Group 

Meeting Time: Tuesday, 6–8pm, Every Other Month (bi-monthly) 
Location: Mary’s Youth Club N1 2TU / In-person or online

Help Build the Future of Mary’s Youth Club! 

At Mary’s Youth Club, we believe in joyful, creative spaces where young people aged 10–19  can grow, thrive, and feel like they truly belong. We're proud of our vibrant, inclusive community – and we’re looking for passionate volunteers to help keep it strong and sustainable. 

We’re inviting community-minded individuals to join our Fundraising Working Group. This is a hands-on, action-focused volunteer team (not a trustee role!) that supports the financial stability of Mary’s by helping to shape and deliver fundraising initiatives throughout the year. 

You’ll be working alongside our Business Operations Manager, with support from the CEO, trustees, and the wider fundraising volunteer group, to bring energy and fresh ideas to everything from annual events and community campaigns to grant applications and local partnerships. 

What You’ll Be Doing 

• Supporting the planning and delivery of fundraising events and campaigns 

• Contributing to grant research and application processes 

• Generating creative fundraising ideas with the team 

• Helping build community partnerships and local business links 

• Attending bi-monthly evening meetings and following up on agreed action 

We’re Looking For People Who Are: 

• Friendly, reliable, and community-focused 

• Team players with a can-do attitude 

• Creative thinkers and proactive doers 

• Good at organising or helping behind the scenes 

• Interested in fundraising, events, partnerships, or grant writing 

• Happy to offer a few hours every other month (plus some flexible time in between) 

You Might Have: 

• Experience in fundraising or community engagement (great – but not essential!) 

• Transferable skills like events coordination, budget management, marketing, or communications 

• A background in the voluntary, charity, or business sectors 

• A passion for supporting young people and local communities 

What You’ll Get: 

• A chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of young people 

• Opportunities to grow your experience in fundraising and charity operations 

• A warm, welcoming team environment 

• Joy, connection, and the satisfaction of giving back 

• Volunteer references available on request 

Ready to Join Us? 

We’d love to hear from you! 
 

How to Apply 

Interested? We'd love to hear from you! 
Simply send through your CV and we'll be in touch to discuss next steps

PLEASE NOTE THAT WE ARE NOT ABLE TO OFFER SPONSORSHIP- THEREFORE YOU DO NEED TO HAVE THE RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UK

✨ Together, we can keep Mary’s thriving – and make a lasting impact for young people in our communi 

Are you passionate about helping older people to live well in later life?  Are you able to give your time, expertise and skills as a Trustee to support our charity in its hugely important mission?

This is a fantastic opportunity to join the board of an impactful and influential charity, supporting older residents in Sutton by providing valuable advice and support services regarding health, finances and wellbeing.

A trustee role can be hugely fulfilling, as well as helping you to develop and utilise strategic leadership skills, and work with a diverse and  dynamic team.

We are looking for trustees who can bring their own unique experience and expertise to support the effective governance of our charity, in particular in areas such as data and digital, commercial experience, and knowledge of the health and care sector. An understanding of charity governance, fundraising or an accountancy qualification would be beneficial.

Who are Age UK Sutton?

Age UK Sutton is a small independent charity dedicated to helping older people in our community to live well in later life. We are a network partner of Age UK, the influential national charity, and benefit from membership of a network of similar independent charities across the UK. We deliver a mixture of social and community activities while influencing strategy in Sutton. We provide vital information, expert advice and practical support. Our work enables older people to make informed decisions on finances, health, care, and wellbeing, and enables greater social connection and independence.

Location: Sutton, South West London (and online meetings)

Time Commitment:

• Quarterly Board meetings, three-hour Board meetings held virtually on Teams (twice a year), and alternately face-to-face meetings
• Quarterly Committee meetings (2-3 hours): Fundraising and Enterprise and / or Quality and / or Finance, Risk and Audit (most trustees are expected to attend 2 of the 3 standing subcommittees)
• Trustees with the capacity to do so also have the opportunity to support occasional projects or short-term working groups, supporting the CEO and wider leadership team.

Duration: A 3-year term (may be extended for two further 3-year terms)

Final closing date: Tuesday 1 April

Our Second Home (OSH) is the UK’s youth movement of people with refugee backgrounds. We have welcomed over 600 young people from 50 countries to our activities in London, Essex and Bristol.

Mission

For young people with refugee experience to build community, become leaders and flourish into adulthood in the place they call home. Through transformative activities, our members take control of their lives and create meaningful change for themselves and their wider community.

About This Role

OSH is at a pivotal point in its development.

Over the past few years, OSH has grown from a small, founder-led organisation into a national movement with increasing reach, complexity, and ambition. Our income has risen from £250,000 to £500,000, our staff and volunteer base is expanding, and our programmes are reaching more young people than ever before.

OSH now needs confident, experienced, and future-focused governance that can support scaling while protecting the culture, values, and relational way of working that make the organisation distinctive.

Your role will involve 4 main areas:

1. Board Leadership and Governance
2. Strategy and Organisational Leadership
3. CEO Support, Appraisal, and Accountability
4. External Representation and Engagement

More information is in the recruitment pack attached.

About You

Essential

• Significant experience in organisational and strategic leadership, ideally including guiding a charity or mission-driven organisation from small to medium scale
• A proactive and forward-thinking mindset, demonstrating the ability to anticipate potential issues and risks while identifying opportunities.
• Strong understanding of good governance, with the confidence to lead a board and hold senior executives to account
• Experience of or exposure to fundraising, financial sustainability, and organisational development
• The ability to balance support and challenge, particularly in a Chair - CEO relationship
• Commitment to OSH’s mission and values, including a genuine willingness to engage with and be guided by those with lived experience of the asylum system
• Highly organised and dynamic, with the ability to prioritise the effective use of Board time, facilitate the timely and focused distribution of information, and ensure appropriate follow-up to Board decisions.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the emotional intelligence to lead inclusively, collaboratively, and sensitively

Desirable

• Lived experience of asylum or forced migration
• Previous experience as a Chair or Vice-Chair of a charity or similar organisation
• Experience working with youth-led or lived-experience-led organisations
• Familiarity with safeguarding in youth or community settings

The Organisation

The 5% Club is a national dynamic movement of employers committed to “Earn and Learn” as part of building and developing the workforce they need for a socially mobile, prosperous and cohesive nation. We exist to help our Members and all employers increase further the number, quality and range of Earn and Learn opportunities across the UK. By joining The 5% Club, our Members aspire to achieve 5% of their workforce in Earn and Learn positions (including apprentices, sponsored students and graduates on formalised training schemes) within five years of joining.

The 5% Club now represents over 1250 organisations with 2m employees, of which almost 121,000 are in on-the-job training – an average, of more than 6?ross the movement. Our mission is rooted in employers taking a proactive role in addressing the UK’s critical skills challenges. It’s about developing people with the right skills to forge meaningful career paths and its members represent some of the gold standards of training and skills development.

We want roles such as apprenticeships, sponsored student placements, graduate programmes and upskilling to be accessible to all. By “all,” we mean the spectrum of Britain’s social diversity – racial, cultural, gender, age, background and more. The end goal is to drive up shared prosperity in the country by enlisting all manner of organisation sizes (from SMEs, for whom “5%” means one person – to FTSE100 household names employing tens of thousands) as Members, who then sign the Charter committing to building a workforce with at least 5% of their employees in Earn and Learn roles.

The 5% Club has strong connections to the Government, industry bodies and education partners and this plays a huge part in advocacy and change.

To find out more about what we do, visit our website.

The Role

The Chair of the Board provides strategic leadership to the charity, ensuring it is well governed, financially sustainable, and delivering meaningful impact for its beneficiaries. The role requires an experienced and collaborative leader who can support the Chief Executive, guide the Board, and uphold the highest standards of charity governance.

Key responsibilities

Governance Leadership

• Lead the Board in ensuring the charity fulfils its mission, complies with its governing document, and meets all legal and regulatory requirements (including Charity Commission expectations).
• Ensure the Board operates effectively, with the right balance of skills, diversity, and experience. Lead regular Board effectiveness reviews and support ongoing trustee development.
• Uphold the principles of good governance, encouraging constructive challenge, accountability, and high ethical standards.

Strategic Oversight

• Work with trustees and the Chief Executive to set the charity’s long-term vision, strategy, and priorities.
• Ensure appropriate systems are in place to monitor performance, impact, and risk. Oversee the quality of impact reporting, ensuring the charity communicates its outcomes effectively.
• Champion organisational learning, innovation, and responsiveness to change in the external environment.

Supporting and Challenging the Chief Executive

• Provide support, guidance, and constructive challenge to the Chief Executive.
• Maintain a strong, transparent, and trusting working relationship with the Chief Executive.
• Undertake formal annual appraisal of the Chief Executive and ensure the Board supports their performance and development.
• Act as the Chief Executive’s point of escalation for urgent or exceptional decisions requiring Chair involvement.

Board Leadership & Culture

• Chair Board meetings effectively, ensuring inclusive and balanced discussions and clear decisions.
• Ensure committees function effectively and are properly delegated while maintaining appropriate oversight.
• Build a collaborative board culture, encouraging diverse perspectives and maintaining a focus on beneficiaries. Lead succession planning across the Board – and supporting Committees – and ensure recruitment reflects diversity and skill needs.
• Lead trustee recruitment, induction, and succession planning (except for the recruitment of a new Chair).

External Representation

• Act as an ambassador for the charity, representing it with key stakeholders, funders, partners, regulators, and the media (as appropriate).
• Support the Chief Executive and senior team in relationship-building with donors, sponsors, and strategic partners.
• Promote the charity’s reputation and influence within relevant sectors. Represent the Charity in policy, advocacy and employer-facing forums where appropriate.

Risk, Finance & Compliance

• Ensure robust financial oversight, including budgeting, audit, reserves, and investment policies.
• Oversee risk management and ensure the Board receives timely information to make informed decisions.
• Ensure the charity maintains high standards in safeguarding, health & safety, data protection, and other statutory areas. Provide assurance over internal control systems and review the annual report and accounts prior to approval.

The Person

We are seeking an individual with substantial senior leadership experience, ideally a current or former business leader within an employer organisation, and prior experience as Chair of a commercial company, non-profit organisation, or charity. Experience in environments involving policy engagement or multistakeholder representation would be advantageous.

Essential Experience

• Significant senior leadership experience in a business, employer organisation, or large operational environment.
• Prior experience as Chair of a commercial company, charity, or non-profit.
• Experience of organisational governance, strategic planning, and risk oversight.
• Experience supporting or overseeing a Chief Executive or senior leadership team.
• Demonstrable experience building high-performing boards or teams.
• Experience engaging with Government, regulators, or policy-influencing environments.

Desirable Experience

• Experience in the charity sector, voluntary or community work, or public service.
• Experience with fundraising, commissioning, or managing external partnerships.
• Knowledge of relevant regulatory frameworks (e.g., Charity Commission guidance, safeguarding,data protection).
• Experience within a membership organisation or skills/employability-focused sector.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong strategic thinking and the ability to translate insight into practical direction.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to chair meetings effectively and foster inclusive discussion.
• Integrity, independence of mind, and sound judgement.
• Ability to analyse complex information and make evidence-based decisions.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Confidence in ambassadorial and stakeholder-facing roles, including ability to represent the organisation publicly, including handling media or public scrutiny if required.

Personal Attributes

• Genuine alignment with the charity’s mission and values.
• Collaborative, supportive, and low-ego leadership style.
• Ability to challenge constructively and hold others to account.
• Resilient, calm under pressure, and capable of navigating ambiguity.
• High ethical standards and commitment to trusteeship responsibilities.
• Comfortable operating in high-visibility environments and representing the charity in national settings.

Devon & Cornwall Refugee Support provides a walk-in centre in Plymouth offering needs-led, practical assistance to asylum seekers.

Our vision is to have a fair, humane and safe asylum experience for all. We are seeking a dynamic and committed Chair to lead our Board of Trustees and work in partnership with our Chief Executive to guide Devon and Cornwall Refugee Support through its next phase of development.

What will you be doing?

The Chair will provide inclusive leadership, ensure robust governance, and act as a passionate ambassador for our cause. You will be instrumental in shaping our strategy to meet the growing needs of asylum seekers in a challenging political landscape.

Location: Board meetings are held 8 times per year in Plymouth, with options for remote attendance. Some additional events and meetings may require travel.

Time Commitment: Approximately 3-4 days per month, including board meetings, preparation, and external representation. This is a voluntary, unremunerated role.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for a candidate who can demonstrate the following: 

• A commitment to the rights, dignity, and welfare of asylum seekers, refugees and migrants in need.
• Significant experience within the charity sector, ideally in both operations and governance.
• An understanding of the duties and responsibilities of a trustee and Chair under UK charity law.
• Excellent leadership skills with the ability to chair meetings effectively and foster a collaborative board culture.
• Proven ability to think strategically and contribute to organisational development.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to act as an ambassador for the organisation.
• A commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). 

DCRS is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.

Please request a copy of the candidate pack for further information.

What difference will you make?

As Chair you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of asylum seekers and refugees. 

You'll have the chance to develop and utilize your skills in a meaningful context, work with a dedicated team and access networking opportunities within the charity sector. 

Before you apply

The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting Devon & Cornwall Refugee Support with their Trustee recruitment. Applications should be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance.

If you want to have an informal conversation with DCRS directly to understand the organisation better we are happy to help arrange this for you.

If you wish to apply please provide an updated CV and request a copy of the application form.

Inclusive Boards is delighted to be supporting The Girls’ Network in the search to appoint their next Chair and two Trustees.

About The Girls’ Network

At The Girls’ Network, we believe that no girl should have her future limited by her gender, ethnicity, background or parental income.

Young people from lower-income families are significantly less likely to go on to higher education than their wealthier peers, which can have a lifelong impact on opportunity and earning potential. Recent years have also seen inequalities deepen and young people’s wellbeing adversely affected, particularly following the Covid-19 pandemic. These structural and social barriers disproportionately affect girls and young women from communities of least advantage.

We exist to challenge this inequality. Our mission is to inspire and empower girls and young women from underrepresented backgrounds to realise their ambitions, discover their self-worth, and develop the confidence and capacity to shape their own futures.

We work in communities of least advantage across England to deliver programmes that provide long-term, meaningful support.

About the Opportunities

The Girls’ Network is seeking a new Chair of Trustees to lead and support The Girls’ Network through their exciting next phase of growth, supporting an exceptional, values-driven team and ensuring they remain ambitious, accountable and true to their founding mission.

We are particularly interested to hear from candidates with:

• Experience of strategic leadership and governance within a complex organisation.
• Experience or understanding of the education / schools landscape.
• Good understanding of voluntary sector governance, funding and finance management.
• Thorough understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Demonstrable financial and commercial acumen, including experience in financial planning, oversight, risk management, and the establishment and monitoring of systems of control and accountability.
• A track record of driving innovation and organisational change, with the ability to apply insight to support the charity’s achievement of its strategic objectives.
• Experience of working across sectoral boundaries, leveraging partnerships and opportunities.

The Girls’ Networks is also seeking two talented and committed Trustees to join their Board. We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Fundraising
• IT and digital

We are also seeking Trustees from the North East, Merseyside, West Midlands who can bring their lived experience to add value to the Board. We also encourage applications from young Trustees and will support first-time Trustees to bring their valuable perspectives to the Board.

About Leicestershire LGBTQ+ Centre 

Leicestershire LGBTQ+ Centre is a community organisation and registered charity that exists to champion LGBTQ+ lives. We provide a safe, inclusive space for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Our work spans direct support, connection, advocacy and celebration. 

What we do 

• Counselling: We offer professional counselling, including a specialised domestic abuse service, to help people navigate challenges and build resilience. 

• Social and support groups: We run groups for young people, adults, trans and non-binary people, and for family members and allies. These groups create stable communities, reduce isolation and offer peer support. 

• Creative and social activities: Our community choir and other creative activities provide space for expression, confidence and belonging. 

• Training and advocacy: We work with schools, health providers, councils, businesses and community organisations to improve LGBTQ+ inclusion and awareness. 

Our vision and direction 

We envision a region where LGBTQ+ people are visible, safe and thriving. Over the next five years we will deepen our presence across Leicestershire and Rutland, improve access in areas with fewer services, and secure a permanent venue that reflects our ambitions. We will continue to co-create our offer with communities, keep services accessible, and champion equity and inclusion in everything we do. 

Governance and the role of the Board 

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the charity’s strategy, governance and financial health. Trustees safeguard the charity’s assets, ensure compliance with law and regulation, and work with the Chief Executive to ensure the charity is running effectively. Trustees support, challenge and advise the Senior Leadership Team in a spirit of partnership. The Chair leads the Board and ensures it functions well. 

Trustees are also directors of the charitable company. We provide trustee indemnity insurance. 

The role of Chair 

Purpose 

The Chair leads the Board of Trustees to ensure effective governance, a positive culture and a shared focus on impact. The Chair works closely with the Chief Executive to ensure the organisation delivers its strategy and remains well run. 

Strategic focus for the next 12 to 24 months 

• Oversight of our three-year National Lottery funding programme, including delivery assurance and risk management. 

• Support for regional expansion so that services reach communities across Leicestershire and Rutland in a measured and sustainable way. 

• Governance oversight of venue acquisition and the preparatory work that will enable a successful opening and long-term viability. 

Core responsibilities 

• Provide leadership to the Board and ensure trustees discharge their duties effectively and in line with the Charity Governance Code. 

• Set Board agendas with the Chief Executive, plan and chair effective meetings, and ensure clear decisions, minutes and action tracking. 

• Maintain a strong, constructive relationship with the Chief Executive, including monthly one-to-ones and an annual appraisal led by the Chair with Board input. 

• Ensure the Board receives timely, relevant information and is able to scrutinise performance, finance, risk and impact. 

• Oversee Board composition, skills and performance, including recruitment, induction, training and periodic reviews. 

• Champion an inclusive culture where all voices are heard and respected. 

• Model the Centre’s values in every setting. 

• Represent the Centre as an ambassador with key partners and stakeholders when appropriate. 

• Approve or co-approve extraordinary funding decisions with the Treasurer where required by policy and delegations. 

• Ensure statutory accounts are signed and submitted and that key reports to funders and regulators are timely and accurate. 

• Manage conflicts of interest and uphold high standards of conduct. 

• Hold the casting vote if a Board decision is tied. 

Relationship with the Chief Executive 

The Chief Executive is accountable to the Board. The Chair undertakes regular supportive one-to-ones with the Chief Executive and leads their annual appraisal. The Chair works with the Chief Executive to set clear priorities, manage risk and unlock barriers to delivery. 

Time commitment and meeting pattern 

• Estimated at a maximum of two to three days per month. This includes preparation, meetings and ambassadorial duties. 

• Maximum of six Board meetings per year. Meetings are held in person at The Centre. 

• Monthly Chair and Chief Executive one-to-one meetings. 

• Quarterly committee and working sessions may be convened as needed for finance, risk, governance or venue planning. The Chair provides oversight across these areas. 

• An annual strategy and reflection session with trustees and senior staff. 

• Attendance at key public events, including Pride and major Centre occasions. 

Person specification 

Essential 

• Commitment to the mission, values and future direction of Leicestershire LGBTQ+ Centre. 

• Inclusive leadership with the ability to chair purposeful meetings and to build consensus. 

• Experience as a vice-chair, committee chair or equivalent governance role. 

• Good understanding of charity governance, finance and risk. 

• Sound judgement, integrity and the confidence to hold senior leaders to account while providing support. 

• Strong communication skills and the ability to represent the Centre externally. 

• Lived experience of LGBTQ+ issues or strong allyship and understanding of the challenges our communities face. 

• Knowledge of equity, inclusion and social justice and how these principles are applied in governance and organisational development. 

• Direct knowledge of or links to Leicester and Leicestershire. 

• Availability for the stated time commitment and for key Centre events. 

Desirable 

• Prior experience as a charity chair. 

• Understanding of venue development or capital projects. 

• Local residency or the ability to attend meetings in person. Non-local candidates will be considered if they can meet in-person requirements and demonstrate strong regional commitment. 

Eligibility, safeguarding and conduct 

Trustees must be at least 16 and not disqualified under charity law. The role is subject to two satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check. A short code of conduct applies to all trustees. Conflicts of interest must be declared at appointment and kept up to date. A whistleblowing route is in place. 

What we offer 

• A purposeful leadership role with visible impact for LGBTQ+ people across the region. 

• A collaborative Board and staff team with a positive culture. 

• A tailored induction. Briefings will be arranged with the Chief Executive, Centre Manager and staff leads. A handover meeting with the outgoing Chair will be provided. 

• Access to training and development relevant to the role. 

• Opportunities to represent the Centre at events, build networks and celebrate our community, including Pride. 

• Out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed in line with policy. 

• Membership of the Association of Chairs 

Equality, diversity and inclusion 

We warmly encourage applications from trans and non-binary people, people of colour, disabled people and those from other underrepresented groups. We are committed to inclusive recruitment and to removing barriers. Interviews can be adapted to meet access needs. Meeting venues are step-free. Papers can be provided in accessible formats on request. Please tell us what you need and we will do our best to provide it. 

Privacy notice 

Your application will be used for recruitment purposes only and handled in line with our data protection policy. We will retain applicant data for a limited period and then delete it securely. If you would like your data deleted sooner, please let us know.