Policy research officer volunteer roles in Kensington, greater london

Microbiology Society is looking to find three new voluntary members of its Audit, Risk and Evaluation Committee to take up their roles on 1 January 2027.

Please see the Terms of Reference for the Committee below. The Terms of Reference also includes some information about what is involved in the committee as an external member.

Find out more about the exciting work that the Microbiology Society does by looking at our website.

To make an application, please email the following to Jo Manning

• Your CV (no more than three sides)
• A supporting statement (no more than two sides) that answers the following questions:
  - Why do you want to be an external member of the Audit Risk and Evaluation Committee for the Microbiology Society?
  - How do your skills and expertise could you bring to the role?

The deadline is 27 September 2026.

Please do let us know if you have any questions about the role by emailing Joanne Manning, Chief Operations Officer.

We are seeking an experienced and passionate HR and people professional to join our Board and help shape an inclusive and supportive organisation. We are particularly interested in hearing from people with expertise in HR, people strategy, organisational development or workforce wellbeing, who share our commitment to creating a positive environment where staff and volunteers can thrive.

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, developing CLAPA’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines. You would be joining our board at an exciting time, as we continue to implement our 5-year strategy for 2025-2030.

The HR Trustee will contribute to all aspects of the charity’s governance while providing essential HR expertise to support and enhance our work. We are seeking an experienced people professional to help make a meaningful impact at CLAPA, in line with its strategic priorities.

About CLAPA

The Cleft Lip and Palate Action (CLAPA) is the national charity for people affected by cleft lip and palate in the United Kingdom.

CLAPA supports people affected by cleft to take control of their journey, connect with others, and use their voices to impact the future of care. Our vision is that no one affected by cleft lip and palate in the United Kingdom will go through their journey alone.

OVERVIEW

Ditch the Label is a global young people’s organisation that helps young people thrive in an increasingly complex digital world. 

We combine research, education and direct support to ensure young people are able to navigate the digital world safely and confidently. We work alongside young people giving them opportunities to take the lead on issues that matter to them, including identifying the challenges we address and helping to shape the solutions.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the governance of an organisation at an inflection point. We have strong funder relationships, an ambitious international growth plan, and a mission that has never mattered more. Every day, millions of young people navigate online bullying, harassment and digital harm. Ditch the Label exists to change that. 

WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO

1. RESEARCH - We generate high-quality, youth-led insights to better understand the issues shaping young people’s lives. Our reports inform our programmes and policy work to ensure they are evidence-based and effective.

2. EDUCATION - We work with educators and young people to promote positive online practice, and provide solutions when challenges arise. We deliver this through our school membership programme of training, resources and support

3. SUPPORT - We provide free, confidential support to young people through online communities, one-to-one mentoring and therapeutic services. Delivered by our team of psychologists, counsellors and psychotherapists, our support helps young people feel seen, heard, overcome challenges and access the tools they need to thrive

TIME COMMITMENT

Approximately two days per month, including quarterly board meetings, catch ups with the CEO every two weeks, and occasional representation of the charity externally.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Lead the board in overseeing strategy, financial sustainability and risk, while giving the executive team room to execute

• Champion good governance without stifling pace, helping Ditch the Label move fast and responsibly as it grows

• Represent Ditch the Label to funders, partners and stakeholders, opening doors as the organisation expands into new markets

• Support recruitment and development of a high-calibre, diverse board

• Ensure the voice of young people remains central to every governance decision

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• Experience at Senior leadership or board-level, ideally including chairing or co-chairing a board

• A genuine passion for young people's safety, wellbeing or digital rights

• Comfort with ambiguity and pace; we are a growing organisation

• Confidence to challenge constructively and hold the executive to account, paired with the generosity to support them

• Experience of international or multi-market growth is a strong plus

Please send an initial expression of interest setting out what you would bring the Ditch the Label, along with your CV.

We look forward to hearing from you! 

Ditch the Label is committed to equality of opportunity and building a team and trustee board that reflects the diversity of the people we serve. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with lived experience of online harms, bullying, mental health or any of the issues central to our work.

MHFA England are seeking a Non-Executive Director to assist in agreeing and supporting MHFA England’s strategy, ensuring the delivery of our overall purpose and mission as a social enterprise.

In addition, the Non-Executive Director will Chair the Association of Mental Health First Aiders, supporting the development of a thriving membership community.

Reasonable travel expenses are covered.

Principal duties

1. Overseeing the delivery of MHFA England’s strategy and performance
2. Protecting the long-term sustainability of MHFA England
3. Safeguarding the reputation of MHFA England
4. Representing MHFA England at collaboration and network events, and contributing to the development of organisational relationships

Additional Chair of the Association of Mental Health First Aiders duties:

1. Providing strategic leadership to the Association of Mental Health First Aiders, ensuring it is an effective, representative and influential voice for MHFAiders
2. Championing the value of Mental Health First Aiders
3. Acting as a visible ambassador for the Association with members, employers, partners, policymakers and the media

Person specification

• Previous experience chairing Boards or Board committees
• Knowledge of workplace mental health policy and best practice across different sectors
• Be a current, accredited Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider®) with a strong personal commitment to improving mental health in the workplace
• Strong communication skills, including public speaking and presenting to a range of audiences
• Experience of growing and engaging membership communities
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring the Association reflects and represents the breadth of its membership
• An awareness of economic and political changes that may impact MHFA England
• Sound judgement around corporate governance, financial strategy risk, and opportunity
• A commitment to social enterprise and MHFA England’s values and culture
• Collaborative, solutions-focused and able to provide healthy and supportive challenge
• Curious and embraces innovation
• Desirable attributes include:
  • Media-trained, or able to demonstrate experience of broadcast, print or digital media engagement, with the confidence to act as a visible public champion for the Association and its members
  • Experience of chairing a membership organisation, professional association or volunteer-led network
  • An established professional network within HR, wellbeing, health and safety, occupational health or related sectors

Non-Executive Director (Board member) 

Positive Money is a leading international think tank and campaign organisation working to redesign our economic system for social justice and a liveable planet. We publish research, advocate for our proposals with politicians, policymakers, and the press, collaborate with civil society, and mobilise our community of supporters with digital campaigns. We work across six key areas: racial economic justice, finance and democracy, green finance, the future of money, housing, and macroeconomics.

We are seeking up to 4 new Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) to join the board of Positive Money UK. Our board is a non-executive body responsible for the organisation’s vision, mission, strategic direction, finances and governance. These positions are voluntary and unremunerated. Our board meets four times per year at our office in Vauxhall, and NEDs also support the organisation via membership of occasional working groups, or in reviewing policies or other documents.

We are looking for people who will bring strategic insight and either have, or wish to develop, a good understanding of governance. At a time when the funding landscape for our sector is volatile, we are also seeking people who can bring insight, experience or new connections to our fundraising efforts. We are also seeking a candidate with a strong finance background to take over from our current Non-Executive Finance Director, who will be retiring at the end of his term by the end of 2027. We are not seeking all these attributes in each candidate, and recognise that different candidates will bring different strengths and skillsets. See our application pack (link below) for full details

We are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility and aim to dismantle oppression in all areas of our work. If you have any questions or considerations you would like us to accommodate in the recruitment process, please contact us.

Contract: Voluntary unremunerated position

Time commitment: Attendance at four board meetings annually, including at least three in person. NEDs may also be asked to review policies, proposals or other documents for the organisation or serve on occasional working groups. NEDs generally spend 3-5 hours per month on Board work.

Deadline: Closing date for applications is 9am Mon 7th Sept with interviews held on Wed 16th Sept

There will also be an open webinar on Wed 26th August at 6pm at which some current board members and Co-ED’s at Positive Money will speak a little more about the organisation and the role, and take questions.

Start Date: We aim to appoint new NEDs formally at our Dec board meeting. We may also invite successful candidates to attend some upcoming strategy development sessions this autumn, see application pack for dates and further details.

How to apply: Please visit our website vacancies page to view a full application pack and details of how to apply.

A great opportunity to have a leading role as Treasurer for a successful charity that is achieving real change for people with learning disabilities, autistic people, or people with other support needs, and their families.

About us 
The Association for Real Change (ARC) is a charity which works in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland. We are looking for a Treasurer to join our Board. 

Our vision is to celebrate difference, respect, listen to and include everyone.  Our work benefits people with learning disabilities, autistic people, or people with other support needs - and their families. 

Our aims are to improve: 

· Knowledge and Rights 

· Choice and Control 

· Inclusion and Equality. 

To do this we bring people together.  We support them to share different views and experiences.  We help them to agree and take action to achieve real change through training, research, networks, collective advocacy and policy. 

The role
We are seeking a Treasurer with experience of financial reporting, oversight and governance to join our Board of Trustees. The right candidate will work closely with the current Treasurer who will provide mentoring support until they step down from the Board in September 2026.

Trustees have individual and collective responsibility to ensure the highest standards of Governance for ARC. You will work with the ARC Chair, Board and Strategic Leadership Team to deliver our strategic vision and help ensure the long-term future and success of ARC. The Treasurer is a trustee that offers strategic and financial oversight of the charity.

The ARC Board of Trustees meet four times a year; one in-person and three online, so the role will require a degree of travel and the occasional overnight stay.  Our Board is inclusive of people with additional needs who are experts by experience. 

This is a voluntary position.  Your travel and other out of pocket expenses will be paid.

About you 
You have experience of financial reporting, oversight and governance of a charity. A financial qualification would be helpful.

We are particularly keen to hear from you if:

· You have experience of delivering positive social change, either in your professional or personal life. 

· You are a leader in social care, delivering or improving the support people get. 

· You have experience monitoring the financial matters of a charity.

See role description and person specification, and strategic vision below.

Terms of Office

This post may be held for a term of 3 years, then the post holder may stand for re-election for a further 3 years, after which time the post holder must stand down.

Person Specification

· A commitment to the values and principles of human rights, equality and inclusion.

· Understanding of the experiences of people with learning disabilities, autistic people, or people with other support needs - and their families.

· Knowledge and experience of accounting practices for corporate governance

· Knowledge and experience of financial regulations governing charities and companies

· Qualification in financial management and or financial auditing is desirable.

· Able to commit sufficient time

· Ability to think strategically and forward plan

· Ability to digest, present and critically evaluate a range of information, including written reports, statistics, and verbal communications

· Willingness to challenge and engage

· A commitment to the value of partnership approaches to address challenges and capitalise on opportunities.

· An ability to effectively communicate in groups.

Transport for All is looking to appoint up to six new Trustees, including a Treasurer, to help guide our work.

We are the UK’s leading Disabled People’s Organisation working on travel and accessible transport. We are led by and for disabled people, and have a proud history of influencing policy and advocating for change so disabled people have the freedom to make the journeys we want.

As a Trustee, your professional skills and expertise will influence our governance and support our team to reach our goal of transport justice for all.

We particularly welcome applications from disabled people, and are looking for people who can bring skills and experience in areas including finance, law, HR, communications, transport, government and consultancy.

Please download our trustee recruitment pack for information on the role and how to apply.

We are looking to appoint a Chief Operating Officer who can provide leadership to operational departments and maintain consistent effectiveness across the organization. 

About YAUK

Youth Advantage UK is a charitable organization that uses a research-led approach to inform policy work and projects that aim to promote and further the human rights of young people aged 11 to 25 across the United Kingdom.

Please note that this is a remote VOLUNTEER role.

We won't accept applications from individuals residing outside of the UK as we operate on the principle of bettering the lives of young people in the UK. Therefore, we require our volunteers to have an understanding of what it is like to live in the UK.

Key responsibilities 

• Oversee the operations of the organization ensuring of efficiency

• Translate strategy into actionable plans

• To provide leadership to departmental heads in departments such as Communications and IT (this may extend to other departmental heads as required)

• Work with the CEO to develop strategy

• Lead the creation of policy and guidance

Requirements

• Proven leadership experience

• Understanding of key business functions

• Excellent decision-making skills

• Ability to problem solve effectively

• Great at multitasking

• Competence in strategic planning

• Integrity

• Ability to use remote tools and IT systems

• Good people and communication skills

• Right to volunteer in the UK

Benefits

• This is a UK-based, 100% fully remote and flexible role.

• Supportive team and management to enhance your skills and build on your experience.

• Your work will help transform and empower many young people’s lives, rights, and interests and assist in promoting equality for all young people.

Why Volunteer with Us?

We are a supportive and friendly organization that takes pride in developing and nurturing our volunteers and providing them with excellent opportunities to thrive and further encourage their career growth and future aspirations.

We offer a fully remote working environment and a flexible and adaptable working schedule. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing organization, enhance your skills, and gain valuable experience. If this sounds like you and you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your CV.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Blood Cancer UK is looking for new Trustees, due to the upcoming retirement of current Board members. At Blood Cancer UK we fund world-class research, provide trusted information and support to people affected by blood cancer, and campaign to improve outcomes for everyone living with or beyond blood cancer. Our vision is clear: we are here to beat blood cancer. 

Who we are looking for 

We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to beating blood cancer and who can bring strategic thinking, sound judgement, curiosity and a collaborative approach. You do not need previous trustee experience to apply. 

We would particularly welcome applicants with experience in areas such as, finance, working in the NHS, clinical practice, research, fundraising, or marketing. We are also keen to hear from people with personal experience of blood cancer and from people whose voices and experiences are under-represented in charity governance. 

How to apply 

Please apply by submitting your CV and a supporting statement (no more than 2 A4 pages) outlining why you are interested in becoming a Trustee and what you would bring to the role. 

Help support the future of hospital, health and wellbeing broadcasting across the UK.

The Hospital Broadcasting Association (HBA) is seeking a Grants & Fundraising Officer to support the charity’s financial sustainability by identifying funding opportunities, developing applications and helping to build relationships with funders, sponsors and partners.

This is an opportunity to use your fundraising, research and communication skills to support a national charity that helps more than 140 hospital, health and wellbeing broadcasting organisations develop, collaborate and thrive.

This is a volunteer role working closely with the Treasurer and Trustee Board to help identify and develop new income opportunities that support the HBA’s strategic objectives.

What you'll do

As Grants & Fundraising Officer, you will support the HBA’s fundraising activity. Responsibilities include:

• Researching and identifying suitable grant funding opportunities aligned with the charity’s objectives.
• Supporting the preparation and submission of grant applications, working with Trustees and relevant stakeholders to gather information and evidence.
• Maintaining a record of funding opportunities, deadlines, applications and outcomes.
• Supporting the development of sponsorship opportunities, including for HBA events, awards and initiatives.
• Exploring opportunities for additional fundraising activity, partnerships and donor engagement.
• Supporting the Treasurer to ensure fundraising activity aligns with the charity’s financial priorities and reporting requirements.
• Maintaining accurate records of funding received, application requirements and reporting deadlines.
• Supporting grant monitoring, evaluation and reporting activity where required.
• Building positive relationships with potential funders, sponsors and partners.
• Providing updates and recommendations to the Treasurer and Trustee Board on fundraising opportunities and progress.

About you

We're looking for someone who:

• Has an interest in fundraising, grant applications, partnerships or income generation.
• Can research opportunities and identify potential sources of funding.
• Has strong written communication skills, particularly for preparing applications and proposals.
• Is organised, reliable and able to manage deadlines.
• Can work independently while also collaborating with a volunteer-led team.
• Has good attention to detail when managing applications, records and reporting requirements.
• Is proactive and enjoys identifying opportunities for improvement and growth.
• Can represent the HBA in a professional and positive manner.
• Shares our commitment to supporting hospital, health and wellbeing broadcasting.

Previous experience in fundraising, grant writing, bid preparation or partnership development would be beneficial. We encourage applications from people with transferable skills gained in the charity, public or private sectors.

Role responsibilities and boundaries

The post holder reports to the Treasurer and works collaboratively with Trustees and other volunteers to support the HBA’s fundraising and income development activity. 

The role does not include authority to commit the HBA to funding agreements, sponsorship arrangements or financial obligations. The post holder must not enter into any agreement or contract on behalf of the HBA without prior approval from the Trustee Board.

Working with the HBA

The HBA is an entirely volunteer-led charity with no paid staff. Our volunteers play an important role in helping the organisation achieve its objectives by contributing their skills, experience and enthusiasm.

The Grants & Fundraising Officer will work closely with the Treasurer and Trustees, supporting the charity’s continued development while gaining experience of fundraising within a national voluntary organisation.

Meetings and commitment

The time commitment is approximately 8 hours per month.

Most activity can be carried out flexibly and remotely, with regular communication taking place online.

Location and expenses

This role can be carried out from anywhere in the UK, with most business conducted online.

Volunteers may occasionally be invited to attend HBA events, including trustee board meetings, the HBA Annual Conference and Awards, meetings with stakeholders or other charity activities.

Reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses incurred while carrying out volunteer duties will be reimbursed in line with the Association’s expenses policy.

About us:

Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C. is a pioneering Podcast/YouTube Channel and healing membership organisation. We provide a platform for survivors and whistleblowers to share their lived experiences, highlight systemic frustrations, and offer solutions rooted in culturally trauma-informed care.

Our membership offers young people and survivors a path to heal, learn digital skills, and interactively participate in our Alchemic 369 Book Club, where members engage in weekly discussions, debates, and critical analysis of African, Caribbean, and world history, Ifa, classics, and political thought. Members sharpen their reading, reasoning, and imagination skills, with opportunities to engage directly with authors, attend highly subsidised plant-based transformative retreats, and become part of a community designed to empower and educate.

We are a mission-driven, collective-focused C.I.C. building a movement that combines healing, re-education, and empowerment.

Our content focuses on:

• Survivors of CSA, RSA, CT, and CA
• Whistleblowers and retired experts
• Generational trauma and healing
• Youth empowerment and education
• Community transformation through honest storytelling

Our mission is to challenge generational cycles, expose hidden truths, fight for justice, and create a platform rooted in authenticity, deep healing, and transformation.

Job Purpose:

To support the procurement and supply chain activities required to develop and operate the IFA Retreat by coordinating purchasing, supplier relationships, inventory management, and procurement administration, ensuring resources are sourced efficiently, ethically, and cost-effectively.

About the role:

As a Volunteer Procurement & Supply Chain Officer, you will support the day-to-day procurement and supply chain operations that underpin the development and future operation of the IFA Retreat.

Working closely with senior leadership and other departments, you will help source products and services, maintain supplier records, coordinate purchasing activities, monitor inventory, and ensure procurement processes are followed consistently.

You will contribute to the procurement of construction materials, accommodation furnishings, restaurant supplies, retreat equipment, maintenance items, gift shop stock, and operational resources while helping maintain accurate procurement documentation and supplier information.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain practical procurement and supply chain experience while contributing to a meaningful social impact project.

Key Responsibilities

• Support procurement activities from sourcing through to purchase.
• Research and identify suitable suppliers and obtain quotations.
• Maintain supplier databases and procurement records.
• Assist with supplier onboarding and relationship management.
• Coordinate purchase requests and track procurement progress.
• Monitor inventory levels and assist with stock control processes.
• Support the maintenance of procurement policies and procedures.
• Help ensure purchasing activities remain within agreed budgets.
• Assist with evaluating supplier performance and identifying improvement opportunities.
• Liaise with internal teams to understand procurement requirements.
• Prepare procurement reports and maintain accurate documentation.
• Support continuous improvement of procurement and supply chain processes.

Ideal Candidate

• Passionate about organisation and operational efficiency.
• Strong attention to detail and excellent organisational skills.
• Interested in supporting African development and cultural preservation projects.
• Comfortable working collaboratively across different teams.
• Able to prioritise multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Enjoys problem-solving and improving processes.
• Comfortable working in a volunteer start-up environment.
• Committed to supporting the organisation as it grows.

Experience & Skills

• Experience in procurement, purchasing, supply chain, logistics, administration, or inventory management.
• Good organisational and administrative skills.
• Experience maintaining records and documentation.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to compare quotations and support purchasing decisions.
• Understanding of inventory management principles.
• Good Excel and Microsoft Office skills.
• Experience using procurement or inventory management systems is desirable.
• Knowledge of Nigerian suppliers or procurement markets is advantageous.
• Familiarity with Yoruba culture, Ifa traditions, or African cultural projects is beneficial but not essential.

What You Will Gain

• Practical procurement and supply chain experience.
• Experience supporting a large-scale international development project.
• Opportunity to develop supplier management and negotiation skills.
• Portfolio-building experience in procurement operations.
• Experience working within a growing social enterprise.
• Networking opportunities across multiple organisational departments.
• Professional mentoring and development.
• Opportunity to influence operational systems within a purpose-driven organisation.
• Potential future paid opportunities and long-term career pathways.
• Direct pathway into future paid roles.
• The opportunity to help build a nationally recognised healing, education, and survivor-support platform.
• COS opportunities for top-performing staff members.

This role is designed as a long-term pathway opportunity to a paid position and lifestyle transformation.

We don't operate on individualism—we build through collectivism. As the platform grows, your role, influence, and opportunities grow with it.

Additional Notes

This role is not suitable if you:

• Prefer low-responsibility volunteer work.
• Are uncomfortable following established procurement processes.
• Prefer working without documentation or record keeping.
• Are seeking immediate paid employment.
• Are uncomfortable working within a growing start-up environment.

To Apply

Please send:

• Your CV, portfolio, or LinkedIn profile (if available).
• A short introduction about yourself.
• Why this mission resonates with you.
• Any relevant experience, skills, ideas, or vision you would bring to the role.

We welcome individuals who are passionate about helping create platforms that inspire healing, justice, truth, education, empowerment, and lasting community impact. That see themselves transforming their lifestyles to maintain the above for the generations to come.

What we do

Respair Therapy C.I.C. began in 2023 with a simple belief: dance belongs to everybody, and every body. Like many of the people we work with, Respair does not fit neatly into one box. Our work exists on a spectrum, from the gloriously frivolous to the deeply serious.

At one end, we hire out silent disco equipment so that people can turn their living room, kitchen or garden into a dancefloor. We create joyful events where people can put on a pair of headphones, choose their music and dance together without worrying about what they look like. Income from silent disco hire goes back into Respair, so a party in someone’s garden can help another person access psychological support.

At the other end is Dance Movement Psychotherapy, or DMP. This is not a dance class or an informal wellbeing activity. It is a recognised form of psychotherapy in which movement, the body and the relationship between client and therapist are central to the clinical work.

In the UK, Dance Movement Psychotherapists complete postgraduate training at Master’s degree level, including clinical placements, personal therapy, supervised practice and academic research. Qualified practitioners register with the Association for Dance Movement Psychotherapy UK and work to professional and ethical standards. DMP is used within NHS services, as well as in schools, mental health services, social care, charities and private practice. It is serious clinical work that can support people experiencing trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, loss, relationship difficulties and other forms of psychological distress.

Between these two ends are projects such as Babe Club, our silent disco for parents, carers and babies; therapeutic movement in schools; and work with neurodivergent people, adults with learning disabilities and people living with dementia.

Our work is inclusive, trauma informed and anti oppressive. Whether we are helping somebody throw a brilliant party or supporting a person through specialist psychotherapy, we are creating more opportunities for people of different ages, backgrounds and abilities to experience movement, connection and psychological support.

How do we what we do

Respair is run by a Founding Director and team of Supporting Directors who volunteer their time. The Founding Director is also the Lead Psychotherapist and Facilitator. We meet quarterly to discuss the finance, legal and compliance aspects of the work. We have an accountant and a book keeper and we use Quickbooks to keep everything in one place. We apply for funding from local and national funding bodies. We have been successful in securing over £24,000 in restricted funds, and we have plans to apply for more. 

What we need

Respair is a creative and responsive organisation, so new ideas and opportunities can appear quickly. We need a Finance Director who can help us pause, understand the numbers and decide what is realistic.

The right person will be financially experienced, practical and approachable. They will look beyond whether the figures add up to help us understand what they mean, ask difficult questions and give clear advice.

Essential skills and qualities

The successful candidate will:

• Have substantial experience using QuickBooks.
• Have experience working with a charity, Community Interest Company, social enterprise or other small mission driven organisation.
• Understand restricted grants, funder budgets and financial reporting.
• Be able to prepare and interpret annual budgets, project budgets, cash flow forecasts and management accounts.
• Compare actual income and expenditure against agreed budgets, identify significant differences and recommend action.
• Assess the financial impact of new projects, contracts, staffing decisions and significant purchases.
• Develop proportionate financial policies and controls, including reserves policies and spending limits.
• Read annual accounts and ask sensible questions before they are approved.
• Explain financial information clearly to people without a finance background.
• Give honest, independent advice and offer thoughtful challenge, including when the Managing Director or Board may have hoped for a different answer.
• Be trustworthy, reliable and able to handle sensitive information confidentially.
• Support Respair’s commitment to inclusion, fairness and accessible mental health support.

The Finance Director will work closely with Debbie, our Founding Director, so a warm, straightforward and respectful working relationship will be important.

Desirable skills and qualities

It would be helpful if the candidate also has:

• A recognised finance qualification, such as ACA, ACCA, CIMA or AAT.
• Previous experience as a finance director, treasurer or board member.
• Knowledge of payroll, PAYE, pensions, Corporation Tax and Companies House reporting.
• Experience working constructively with bookkeepers and external accountants.
• An interest in mental health, therapy, community work or the creative arts.

We do not expect one person to know every answer. We do expect them to recognise the limits of their knowledge, ask questions and seek specialist advice when needed. A sense of humour and an understanding of the slightly unpredictable nature of a small, growing organisation would also be very welcome.

Vision Action is a unique organisation that works in low- and middle-income countries, supporting national governments to deliver and strengthen their eye health strategies. We work in partnership with local governments, civil society organisations, international and national NGOs, and the private sector. Our ambition is to increase equitable access to eye care services and glasses and accelerate achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goal 5.

The role of the board is to oversee the overall direction and activities of the charity, including its policies and procedures, to ensure that they are consistently in accordance with the charitable purposes defined in the objects clause in its constitution. The board sets and monitors the strategic direction of the charity, although the implementation of strategy is achieved through the executive team. The board must always act in the best interests of Vision Action, taking decisions as a group and not as individuals.

Terms of service

For Vision Action the trustees are members who have been elected to serve on the board. Vision Action’s constitution allows for up to 12 trustees, who can serve a maximum of three consecutive terms of three years.  Vision Action is a company limited by guarantee and the trustees are its legal directors. The trustee role is voluntary, although relevant expenses incurred in the course of fulfilling trustee responsibilities are reimbursable in line with organisational policy.

Trustees are appointed by the Vision Action board of trustees annually at the board meeting following the Annual General Meeting (AGM). The time commitment involved in being a trustee includes attendance at four board meetings per year, one of which is an all-day strategy session. Board meetings are typically held for half a day on a weekday afternoon, with at least half the meetings taking place online.  Board papers are circulated in advance for review and preparation.

In addition, trustees are expected to attend the AGM, which is usually held on a weekend, as well as occasional members’ forums or other Vision Action events, which are often arranged alongside board meetings in the evening. Trustees may also be asked to participate in ad hoc meetings or online discussions relating to specific topics. Sub-committee meetings are also held in advance of board meetings, and trustees are also expected to participate in one or more of these groups depending on their expertise and responsibilities. Trustees will also be expected to commit time to undertake a full induction process.

Main tasks

Charity trustees have ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of the charity and ensuring it is solvent, well-run and delivering the charitable outcomes for the benefit of the public for which it has been set up. Each trustee will be expected to join one of the two sub-committees (Programmes and Research; Fundraising and Finance).  The committees meet (in person or remotely) at least four times per year, usually timed with or in advance of the board meetings. 

General responsibilities

• Ensure th[JT1] at Vision Action complies with its governing document (i.e. its constitution[JT2]  and byelaws), charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensure that Vision Action pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
• Ensure Vision Action applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects, i.e. it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be.
• Contribute actively to the board’s role in the formulation and review of strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Safeguard the good name and values of Vision Action and maintain good relations with its members.
• Ensure that all policies are implemented, monitored and reports are acted upon, (including the policies on harassment and misconduct, safeguarding, recruitment of ex-offenders, and anti- bribery).
• Strive for Vision Action to reflect the full diversity of society in all its activities.
• Ensure the financial stability of Vision Action.
• Protect and manage the property of Vision Action and ensure the proper investment of its funds.
• Appoint and support key leadership and monitor their performance.

In addition to the above statutory responsibilities, each trustee should attend board meetings and use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board reach sound decisions.  This may involve leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, evaluation or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise; and then always upholding the decisions taken by Board. Trustees are also expected to support Vision Action’s fundraising initiatives.

Treasurer specific responsibilities

Hold specific responsibilities relevant to the role:

• Chair the fundraising and finance sub-committee, overseeing and advising on the financial risks, challenges, health and resilience of the charity, reporting back to the full board.
• Monitor and advise on the financial viability of the charity, including the financial risks. This should include regular monitoring of cost recovery.
• Advise the board on the financial implications of its plans and policies.
• Monitor the preparation of budgets, accounts and financial statements and their presentation to the board.

Ensure policies and practices are in keeping with aims:

• Oversee the development and implementation of financial reserves, cost‐recovery and investment policies.
• Annually review the financial control framework to identify any changes, gaps and potential areas of exposure.
• Oversee the development and review of other policies and procedures as delegated to the fundraising and finance sub-committee by the board.

Ensure best practice:

• Support the Co-CEO (finance & operations) in preparing and presenting the budgets, management accounts and annual financial statements to the board, ensuring it receives a fully informed picture of the charity’s financial performance, position and effectiveness.
• Liaise with the Co-Chief Executive Officers and, as appropriate, with the investment advisors and auditors on matters relating to the organisation’s financial activities.
• Provide board‐level liaison with the external auditors on specific issues such as the auditors’ management letter, auditor remuneration and related board representations.
• Lead on recommending the appointment of new auditors to members of the organisation.
• Work with the Finance and Operations Manager to ensure that proper accounts and records are maintained, and that financial resources are spent and invested in line with good governance and legal and regulatory requirements.
• With the Finance & Operations Manager and the Joint Chief Executive Officers, closely monitor the reserves and investment plan, providing assurance to the board on the organisation’s future financial stability.
• Review all management accounts before they are placed before the board.

Personal specification

All our trustees are expected to have:

• A commitment to Vision Action’s vision and mission.
• A commitment to our values: being evidence-based, being inclusive, having integrity, sustainable programmes and being collaborative.
• Willingness to devote the time and effort needed to fulfil the role.
• Integrity.
• Strategic vision.
• Good, independent judgement.
• An ability to think creatively.
• A willingness to speak their mind.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to take decisions for the good of Vision Action.

The treasurer will have:

• Experience as a director of finance (or equivalent) and/or in a treasurer role, with extensive experience of overseeing financial and management accounting, financial reporting, monitoring and controls, and external audit.
• An understanding of charity accounting and reporting standards (Charities SORP 2026), or a willingness to develop this through personal learning and development.
• A recognised accountancy qualification (CAAB) and
• Experience in international development would be an advantage.

The position is supported by the CEO who is an accountant and a part time bookkeeper.

The Next Step

We welcome questions and a discussion on our current financial circumstances with our treasurer and chair. Our treasurer retires in 2026, and we would like to involve any new appointment in our committees and board meeting in the last part of this year.

As we move forward with our new strategic vision and plan, Lively Minds is refreshing its board and we are looking for a Trustee to help shape this next chapter with us.

We work with governments and communities across sub-Saharan Africa to deliver low-cost, high-impact early childhood development programmes. Since the beginning of 2026, we have successfully expanded into multiple new countries, where we work very closely with governments via our Technical Assistance programme. As we continue to grow, by working with other new countries, we want a board that reflects the breadth of skills that this growth demands. At this stage we are therefore particularly keen to hear from people with governance and compliance experience, though we welcome interest from anyone who shares our belief that every child deserves the chance to thrive in their earliest years.

By joining our refreshed board, this is a chance to leverage your experience and expertise to help steward an award winning organisation with an exciting growth agenda. As part of our board, you will work alongside an ambitious and fast-paced executive team who are passionate about the difference we can, and have, already made. 

If this sounds like an opportunity that you, or someone in your network, would relish, then we would love to hear from you.

Please read further for more information 

‍Role Overview

Help build the governance foundations for early childhood development at scale

Over 250 million children under five across the Global South miss out on the care, play and stimulation they need during the most important years of their lives. Governments increasingly recognise the importance of early childhood development, but many struggle to find approaches that are affordable, scalable and sustainable.

Lively Minds believes the solution is hiding in plain sight: parents.

For almost twenty years we have worked alongside governments and communities to develop and test a parent-powered approach that enables families -regardless of their income or level of education - to give children the best possible start in life. We have shown that this approach can be successfully integrated into government systems and delivered at scale. In Ghana alone, our model has been adopted nationally, reaching more than 700,000 children and supporting over 130,000 parents. Independent research found participating children made developmental gains equivalent to an additional year of schooling.

Having demonstrated what is possible, we are now entering an exciting new phase.

Rather than operating as a traditional program delivery organisation, Lively Minds has evolved into a specialist technical assistance partner. We work alongside governments to design, test, and scale parent-powered early childhood development within national education systems - building the capability, evidence, and implementation approaches that enable governments to lead sustainable, long-term change.

Today we support governments in Ghana, Uganda,Ethiopia and The Gambia, with partnerships in development in Togo and Senegal. Our ambition is to help many more governments transform early childhood development over the coming decade.

We realise that our strategy requires an organisation that is not only ambitious and effective but also well-governed. We are looking for a governance trustee who can help ensure we have the structures, standards, and accountability needed to operate with confidence at scale

The Opportunity

This is not a traditional governance trustee role

Lively Minds is at an important strategic inflection point. As we expand our technical assistance model across multiple countries, we are asking new questions about scale, innovative partnerships, and operating with complexity and uncertainty.

We are looking for someone who enjoys helping ambitious organisations navigate those questions.

Lively Minds has recently undertaken a significant governance reset, developing a new governance framework, decision-making and delegation policy, committee structures and trustee role expectations. We are now looking for a governance trustee to help embed and champion that work, ensuring it translates into practice and evolves as the organisation grows.

As Governance Trustee, you will bring expertise, independent judgement and constructive challenge to the Board on governance matters. You will act as a trusted sounding board for the Chair and CEO, help the Board meet its legal and regulatory obligations, and ensure that the processes and structures that underpin good governance are understood, followed and kept current.

You will join a board that believes its role is to help the organisation realise its potential. That means asking difficult questions, opening doors, sharing expertise, encouraging innovation and supporting the executive team to succeed - while respecting the principle that the Board governs and management manages.

Key Responsibilities

As Governance Trustee you will help the Board to

Champion good governance

• Champion good governance practice across the Board, ensuring it is meeting its legal and regulatory obligations
• Ensure the Board Governance Framework, Code of Conduct and committee Terms of Reference are understood, followed and kept current 
• Act as a sounding board for the CEO and Chair on governance questions and emerging governance and legal risks

Strengthen board effectiveness

• Lead or support the annual board performance review process
• Support trustee recruitment, induction and tenure processes, including the skills audit and succession planning
• Help ensure the Board has the right composition, culture and working practices to govern effectively

Oversee complaints and dispute resolution

• Oversee the Complaints, Disputes and Escalation Policy, ensuring it is fit for purpose and followed when triggered
• Provide independent governance oversight when complaints or disputes are activated

Contribute as a Trustee

Like all trustees, you will contribute to the overall leadership and governance of Lively Minds, participating fully in Board discussions on strategy, organizational performance, risk, people, and governance. We also expect trustees to champion the organisation actively - using their networks, credibility and relationships to open doors, support fundraising, strengthen partnerships and increase Lively Minds' visibility in the spaces where it matters most. The Board governs rigorously and champions energetically; we are looking for trustees who are ready to do both.

‍

Candidate Profile

Who we are looking for

We're looking for someone who combines deep governance expertise with practical judgement and a commitment to our mission.

You will probably have:

• strong knowledge of charity governance and UK Charity Commission requirements
• experience as a senior governance professional or senior lawyer
• familiarity with board effectiveness, trustee duties and regulatory compliance
• the confidence to provide constructive challenge while building positive relationships
• an understanding of the respective roles of trustees and management
• the ability to translate governance principles into practical, proportionate action

Desirable Experience

Experience in one or more of the following would be particularly valuable:

•  supporting governance reform or board development in a scaling organisation
•  international development or cross-jurisdictional governance environments
• complaints handling, dispute resolution or employment law
• trustee recruitment and board succession planning

Most importantly, we're looking for someone who is excited by our mission and motivated by the opportunity to help build an organisation capable of transforming early childhood development at scale.

Time commitment

The expected commitment is approximately one to two days per month.

This includes:

• four Board meetings each year
•  preparation for meetings, including reviewing governance compliance ahead of each meeting
• the annual board performance review process
• annual review and update of governance documents
• occasional availability as a sounding board for the Chair and CEO on governance questions and emerging risks
• oversight of complaints or dispute resolution processes when triggered

Meetings are primarily held remotely, with occasional in-person meetings.

The role is voluntary and unpaid, although reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

We believe stronger boards are built through diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds.

We particularly welcome applications from people with lived or professional experience in the countries and regions where we work, and from groups currently underrepresented on charity boards.

We are committed to making our recruitment process accessible and will make reasonable adjustments wherever needed

Application Instruction

If you are motivated by using your governance expertise to help governments transform the lives of millions of children, we would love to hear from you.

 Please send:

• Your CV (or short professional biography)
• A covering letter explaining why you are interested in joining the Board of Lively Minds and what you would bring to the role.

Timeline:

Closing Date: 5th September 2026