220 Programme management volunteer roles

🧡 We're looking for new trustees to help end child slavery in Nepal

Today, there are over 40 million slaves globally – a quarter of whom are children. In Nepal alone, we estimate almost 100,000 children are trapped in hazardous, exploitative labour.

Child Rescue Nepal exists to change that. We rescue children, keep them safe and reunite them with their families – and we've already helped over 1,000 children find their way home. But there's so much more to do, and we want you to help us do it.

We're building our board's experience base and are particularly keen to hear from people with skills in:

🔹 HR
🔹 Strategy and governance
🔹 International development
🔹 Knowledge or lived experience of Nepal

You don't need to have been a charity trustee before. The skills and qualities matter more than prior governance experience, and we'll give you full induction and training to get you up to speed.

Here's what one former trustee has to say about the role:

"I have learnt so much from my experience on both a personal and professional level and have felt my contributions were welcomed and valued. I really feel privileged to have been able to be part of CRN and have the opportunities to work in Nepal, and the children will always have a special place in my heart." — Sue Payne, retired social worker and trustee for four years

🌏 This is a voluntary role with real impact – a chance to bring your skills to a small, focused charity making a genuine difference in children's lives.

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

 What we need from you

You’ll be:

· supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers

· planning fundraising events and activities with your team

· allocating tasks before and during fundraising events

· keeping financial records from fundraising events

· encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 

· following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

 What we need from you

You’ll be:

· supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers

· planning fundraising events and activities with your team

· allocating tasks before and during fundraising events

· keeping financial records from fundraising events

· encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 

· following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public.

Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported. Activities include:

· Supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers

· Planning fundraising events and activities with your team

· Allocating tasks before and during fundraising events

· Keeping financial records from fundraising events

· Encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 

· Following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by helping raise funds and awareness through organising local events. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. You will be supported and guided from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

We're looking for someone with the following:

· Great people skills and the ability to bring out the best in others

· Excellent organisational skills

· The ability to prioritise and delegate

· An appreciation of the importance of handling money and charity resources responsibly

· Fine-tuned communication skills and a passion for engaging with people within your local community

· Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided

· Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

At Rethink Mental Illness, we believe everyone deserves understanding, connection, and the chance to live a fulfilling life. Our volunteers play a vital role in supporting people affected by mental illness and helping create communities where no one feels alone. 

About the role

As a Volunteer Peer Group Facilitator you will: 

As a Volunteer Peer Group Facilitator, you will play a key role in delivering our peer support groups. These groups run all around the county throughout the week. You will work alongside our team of peer support workers and other peer support volunteers.

There is some flexibility with volunteering opportunities ranging from a minimum of 2-3 hours weekly to monthly commitments.

There may also be the opportunity to attend different community events to advertise the service.

There will be full training opportunities to ensure that you are successful in your volunteering role, as well as regular check-in meetings.

About the service  

The Empowering Minds Gloucestershire Service currently run group sessions for service users across Gloucestershire. 

Our team is dedicated to delivering a high-quality service that focuses on supporting individuals to achieve their recovery goals. The aim is to improve the lives and support independence for those living with a mental illness. The team will engage with other local providers to ensure a clear and seamless pathway for those that require support from multiple providers. 

What will make you a great fit for this role?  

• Lived experience of mental illness, whether that is caring for someone else or yourself.
• Reliability and good timekeeping.
• Have a good understanding of confidentiality and safeguarding.
• Basic IT knowledge.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• To have empathy and remain non-judgemental.
• Experience of working with people in some way, whether formally through employment or informally working as part of a team.
• Experience of leading a group.

Although it’s not essential, you may also have:

• Good knowledge of the local area and organisations.
• Experience with supporting someone with mental illness / ill mental health

How to apply 

To apply, please click the “apply now” button and complete a short interest form. You will have the opportunity to upload a CV and/or cover letter however, this is not mandatory. 

A member of the team will review your application and be in touch to update you on the next steps. If your application is successful, you will be invited to take part in an informal volunteer discussion. 

If you have any questions about the role or would like to find out more before applying, please contact the volunteer manager: 

Who are we?  

We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”    

It is an exciting time to join our growing charity. We are on a transformation journey, one that supports the delivery of the organisation strategy – delivering Communities that Care. Supporting employees, managers and leaders through this change is a key priority for the People function. Just like its key that we attract diverse people to come and work for us.    

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion    

Diversity is important to us and we appreciate difference through difference, inclusiveness and belonging. It gives us a deeper understanding of the world, our society and the diverse communities we’re working with. By including everyone, we are able to draw on the unique experiences and expertise of our people to help shape and enrich our workplace and improve our services. One way we are doing is through our valued staff networks which play a critical and highly valued role in keeping us focused on creating a diverse, inclusive and engaged employer.  We recognise and support staff networks for our Black, Asian and minority ethnic and our LGBTQIA+ colleagues. We are also proud to have been awarded Disability Confident Employer status and are a signatory to the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter.  

Becoming a truly anti-racist organisation  

We have an ambition of become a truly anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider - and in our efforts to influence policy and wider societal factors impacting on mental health set out in our anti-racist statement . We have designed a multi-year anti-racist programme of work contained in our Race Equality Action Plan which demonstrate our intention to hold ourselves accountable and be judged on our progress on becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.  

CHARITY SHOP ASSISTANT - VOLUNTEER Charity Shop Assistant (Didcot) Our brand new charity shop in the heart of Didcot is looking for a friendly volunteers to join our team and help make our shop a huge success. Make new friends, have fun, and help us help more animals!

Overview of opportunity As a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant, you would join a small team working with the shop manager, assistant manager and other volunteers to help make our very first shop a success and raise vital funds for animal welfare.

About the OXFORDSHIRE AND READING RSPCA BRANCH Founded in 1875 we have been saving animals for over 150 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. In March 2026 Oxfordshire Branch merged with the Reading Branch, this is enabling us to help more animals over a larger area. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

About Our Charity Shop in Didcot The shop will be part of the Oxfordshire and Reading Branch; you will play an essential role in raising the profile of the RSPCA in our local community and funds for our branch so that we can continue our vital animal welfare work. Our shops sell a mixture of donated items, including clothes, books, bric-a-brac and collectables, and a selection of new items. Volunteer Charity Shop Assistant responsibilities • Helping customers in the shop find what they need. • Accepting donations of items and money from the public. • Processing sales through the till and card machine, including Gift Aid. • Sorting through donated items to determine what we can sell. • Preparing donated items for sale by steaming and hanging items. • Merchandising stock on the shop floor. • Creating attractive shop window displays. What we are looking for in a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant • Friendly volunteers who are confident talking to people. • Retail experience would be ideal but is not necessary as full training will be given. • We are ideally aiming for someone who is flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment predominately on regular days. • Good communication and numeracy skills. • You will need to be aged 16 or over. What we can offer you as a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant • A way to meet new people and make new friends in your local area. • A place where you will learn excellent new skills to add to your CV, such as customer service, multi-tasking, merchandising, and many more. • An excellent induction and training programme relevant to your role. • The opportunity to make a huge difference to the welfare of animals. • Reimbursement for any reasonable travel expenses you may incur whilst volunteering with us. We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch!

If you are interested in volunteering with us, please pop into the shop Monday-Wedesday between 10-4pm

Providing a confidential non-judgemental listening ear to Residents and Staff. Supporting those wishing to develop their spiritual journey from a Christian perspective. The role will be based across one of our hostels in Watford, Borehamwood, Bishop's Stortford, Welwyn Garden City, Hatfield or High Wycombe, 

Activities include:

• Proactively engaging with Residents and staff to build safe relationships and trust
• Offering a ‘listening ear’ to all and giving emotional support
• Sensitively discerning when to offer prayer and support from a Christian perspective, and when to use faith based language
• Be inclusive and welcoming to people of all religious faiths and none, referring people to other faith communities as appropriate
• Working alongside support staff, volunteers & local agencies
• Maintaining records of support and feeding back concerns about Resident welfare to Staff/Line Manager.
• Attend regular volunteer team meetings
• Being proactive in seeking spiritual and emotional support for your own benefit as this is a challenging role.

Additional activities could include:

• Facilitating group work for example: Retreat Programme, Bible Study, prayer or Mental Health Support.
• Welcoming new Residents by phone or in person
• Leading or helping with Chaplaincy lead events: Easter/Christmas activities, Remembrance Services
• Being an ambassador for YMCA’s mission in local Churches

Skills/Qualities/Experience:

• Be a good and active listener who can support others
• Be of a friendly, welcoming and cheerful disposition
• Self-motivated, reliable and punctual
• Sensitivity and courage to care for people experiencing a range of distressing situations including: grief, trauma, poor mental health, substance misuse, suicidal thoughts.
• A commitment to your own spiritual development
• A good understanding of the Christian faith, as well as some understanding of other faith traditions
• Ability to use both faith and non-faith based language, as appropriate
• Good communication skills in English; in person & over the phone
• A willingness to learn new things and get stuck in
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Respect the Christian ethos of the YMCA and uphold its values
• Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have

Training Support:

• A full induction to the service and specific site will be provided
• A one day ‘Chaplaincy Essentials’ training, plus a menu of additional training will be made available
• Online training: Safeguarding (Adults & Young People), Fire Awareness, Manual Handling
• Ongoing support and regular 1:1 meetings with your line-manager
• Team meetings and social events
• Mileage and expenses may be payable

You will need 2 x references and a DBS (we will apply for and fund this). 

If you have space in your home and heart, for a guide dog mum who will be bringing the next generation of guide dogs in the world, then this could be the role for you! A role where you can care and nurture for a guide dog mum and plenty of little puppies when they arrive. 

This role is available in areas of Berkshire, South Buckinghamshire, and Oxfordshire.

What you’ll be doing: 

• Providing a loving home for a guide dog mum who will be at least 12 months old, for around six years whilst they are in the breeding programme (with the option to re-home after this, once the guide dog mum retires at around 7 years-old.) 
• Giving a guide dog mum the care and support that our canine companions need, like feeding and grooming.
• Creating a safe environment for the guide dog mum when they are giving birth within your home and helping with the birth of future guide dogs, which usually happens once a year. (You don’t need any previous experience of breeding or having dogs – we have expert staff who will help you!) 
• Providing care and support for the newborn puppies for at least 6 weeks while they are still in the nest, including socialising them to the new sounds and first-time experiences in your home.

Can I care for a guide dog mum? 

If you want to care for a guide dog mum, here's what we ideally look for:

• A loving home with a secure garden.
• Access to a car, to support with any appointments needed for the guide dog mum.
• Live within an hour’s drive of the National Centre in Leamington Spa.

Guide dog mums can happily live with other dogs or children, however we wouldn’t place them with a male dog that has not been neutered. To determine whether you are suitable, we will conduct a home visit as part of the application process. 

What you’ll get:

• The opportunity to have a lovable canine companion!
• The satisfaction of knowing you’re supporting people with sight loss to live actively, independently, and well.
• The rewarding experience of bringing the next generation of guide dogs in the world and caring for their mum.
• Our volunteers have access to our bespoke training techniques to implement with their guide dog mum a great bonus for any dog owners! 
• The opportunity to be part of the Guide Dogs community, meeting like-minded people in your area.
• A dedicated volunteer manager and fellow peers who will help support you throughout your role.

Training and support

Our volunteers also receive lots of support from their volunteer managers to help them implement the training modules, as well as managing the birth of new-born puppies. If you have questions about the training requirements, we can answer these at your interview along with any other support or accessibility needs you may have.

Volunteering for Guide Dogs should never leave you out of pocket. We’ll make sure we pay any pre-agreed expenses related to the litter or your volunteering with us, including veterinary costs, food costs or any specialist breeding equipment.  All you may need to buy is a bed and grooming equipment.

Minimum age of volunteer: 18.

To find out if this role is available in your area, please click 'Redirect to recruiter' at the top or bottom of the page, and use the postcode search function on the Guide Dogs website to explore local opportunities. 

About Us

The Child Beale Trust is a registered charity dedicated to public recreation, wildlife conservation, and education. Based at Beale Wildlife Park, our unique operations include a vibrant 40-acre zoo set within 350 acres of picturesque Thameside land.

Our core purpose is to preserve and enhance Beale Park as a place of natural beauty, wildlife conservation, and meaningful discovery for generations to come. To connect people with nature through conservation, education, and accessible outdoor experiences that inspire care for the environment and wellbeing for all.

By joining our board, you will play a critical strategic role in ensuring our activities remain values driven and mission-led on these charitable objectives, protecting this beautiful asset for generations to come whilst delivering impact for our beneficiaries. To secure our governance and drive our mission forward, we are expanding our board. We are explicitly looking for mission-led individuals who want to help us deliver on our charitable objectives.

We are currently seeking five distinct specialists to join our board:

• 1. Zoo or Veterinary Specialist -The Role: Provides high-level governance oversight for Collection, animal welfare, veterinary protocols, and captive breeding standards -Who you are: A registered vet, zoologist, or senior animal care professional who understands BIAZA and Zoo Licensing Act compliance.

• 2. Education Specialist (wildlife focussed) - The Role: Helps shape our educational outreach, school workshop strategies, and curriculum-linked visitor learning programs. - Who you are: A teacher, educational consultant, or learning coordinator with a passion for wildlife.

• 3. Visitor Recreation Specialist - The Role: Guides the strategic development of our public visitor experiences, family attractions, and park play/leisure assets.- Who you are: A professional from the leisure, tourism, or visitor attraction sector who understands how to optimise visitor experience and income.

• 4. Marketing & Communications Specialist - The Role: Advises on strategies to grow ticket sales, boost annual memberships, enhance digital marketing, and protect brand PR. - Who you are: A senior marketing manager, PR director, or commercial growth expert. 

• 5. Legal & Compliance Specialist - The Role: Provides oversight on health and safety, public liability, employment law, and charity governance frameworks.- Who you are: A qualified solicitor, legal counsel, risk compliance manager or H&S qualified professional. 

Our Culture & Values, Equal Opportunities, Diversity & Accessibility. How we work together matters just as much as our professional expertise. We pride ourselves on a board culture rooted in collaboration and mutual support. We welcome trustees who are open minded, listen generously to alternative viewpoints, and desire to work collectively in a positive, constructive environment to champion the charity’s goals. 

The Child Beale Trust is a fully inclusive and equal opportunities employer and charity. We value diversity and positively welcome applications from all backgrounds, regardless of age, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or disability. 

Please apply even if you do not meet every piece of criteria listed above. We are always seeking to increase diversity of thought, experience, and background on our board. If you share a deep passion for our mission and believe you bring other relevant skills or perspectives that could help us grow, we would love to hear from you. 

How to Apply

Please submit your CV along with a brief covering paragraph outlining your background, which area you feel you can support, and why you are passionate about supporting our conservation and education goals.

Note: This is a voluntary position with only reasonable expenses paid.

Youth Advantage UK is seeking a Volunteer Deputy Head of Policy to support the Head of Policy in leading and developing its Policy Team and delivering an ambitious programme of policy work aligned with the organisation’s strategic priorities. The successful candidate will contribute to identifying and developing key policy priorities, supporting the design and delivery of impactful policy projects, and helping to shape the organisation’s wider strategic direction.

Working closely with the Head of Policy, Senior Leadership Team and Heads of the Initial Research Team, the Deputy Head of Policy will support the development of evidence-based policy initiatives, monitor emerging policy developments and opportunities, and contribute to building effective relationships with relevant external stakeholders. The role will also involve supporting the development, engagement and training of Policy Team volunteers, strengthening collaboration across the organisation, and contributing to policy-related research, publications and communications.

The successful candidate should have excellent writing, communication and analytical skills, strong IT literacy, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. They should demonstrate a strong interest in policy development, research and evidence-based change, together with the ability to manage delegated projects, provide constructive leadership and translate complex policy developments into clear and actionable recommendations.

Responsibilities:

• Support the Head of Policy in leading the Policy Team in designing, developing and implementing impactful project objectives in line with the organisation’s strategic priorities.
• Assist the Head of Policy in identifying and developing key policy priorities and contributing to the organisation’s wider strategic direction.
• Support the management and development of relationships with relevant external stakeholders, helping to enhance the organisation’s visibility, reach and impact.
• Work closely with the Head of Policy and other members of the Senior Leadership Team in identifying and responding to emerging strategic priorities and opportunities.
• Monitor and analyse relevant external trends, developments and policy changes, providing the Head of Policy and wider organisation with timely information and recommendations where appropriate.
• Support the Head of Policy and HR in developing a strong and effective Policy Team, including contributing to the identification of appropriate skills, expertise and development needs.
• Assist in ensuring that Policy Team volunteers are appropriately supported, engaged and trained throughout their period of service.
• Support the Heads of the Initial Research Team in developing and implementing frameworks for initial research that enable effective and efficient research aligned with the organisation’s strategic priorities.
• Work collaboratively with the Communications Team to support the development and implementation of strategies that increase the organisation’s profile, visibility and impact.
• Contribute to the creation of policy-related blogs, articles, reports and other written materials, and support the development of academic articles and research outputs where appropriate.
• Support the Head of Policy and Chief Executive Officer in preparing policy strategies, recommendations and relevant materials for presentation to the organisation’s Trustees.
• Assist in delivering training and knowledge-sharing sessions for other teams within the organisation, helping members understand the policy process, how policy can be influenced and how they can contribute to policy-related work.
• Identify, collate and distribute relevant policy information, research, publications and external developments that may be of interest or value to members across the organisation.
• Take responsibility for delegated policy projects and initiatives, ensuring that agreed objectives and timelines are effectively managed and delivered.
• Provide leadership and support to members of the Policy Team in the absence of the Head of Policy or when delegated to do so.
• Promote effective collaboration between the Policy Team and other teams across the organisation, ensuring that policy considerations are appropriately incorporated into relevant organisational activities.
• Undertake any other policy-related duties or projects reasonably required by the Head of Policy or Senior Leadership Team.

Requirements:

• Experience in policy work, leading key campaigns or programmes
• High-level understanding of policy and practice, ideally in an area related to the organisation’s priorities
• Excellent knowledge of a range of methods and approaches to applying research and development in public policy
• Excellent leadership and organisational skills, with proven experience of setting priorities and motivating team members
• Excellent writing and speaking skills
• IT literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite
• Ability to work well independently and in a team
• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills
• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively

Benefits:

• Gain valuable experience in leading a policy team
• Opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team
• Flexible working hours

At RSPCA Buckinghamshire South Branch, our charity shops are looking for friendly, local volunteers to join our team and help make our shops in Chesham and Burnham a huge success. Make new friends, have fun, and help us help more animals!

As a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant, you would join a small team working with the shop manager and 1-2 other volunteers to help make it a success and raise vital funds for animal welfare. 

Why Volunteer With Us?

As a volunteer charity shop assistant, you will:

• Support a worthwhile cause and help improve animal welfare.
• Be part of a friendly and dedicated team.
• Enjoy a fun and fulfilling role at the heart of the local community.
• Training and development opportunities, including induction and ongoing support.
• Learn excellent new skills to add to your CV, such as customer service, multi-tasking, merchandising, and many more.
• Access to the RSPCA Learning Hub with a wide range of training materials.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Helping customers in the shop find what they need.
• Accepting donations of items and money from the public.
• Processing sales through the till and card machine, including Gift Aid. (Training is provided but if you are not comfortable using the till, please get in touch because we have plenty of other tasks that do not involve the till).
• Sorting through donated items to determine what we can sell.
• Preparing donated items for sale by steaming and hanging items.
• Merchandising stock on the shop floor.
• Creating attractive shop window displays.

What We’re Looking For:

• Friendly, local volunteers who are confident talking to people.
• Retail experience would be ideal but is not necessary as full training will be given.
• We are ideally aiming for someone who is flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment, preferably 8 hours per week.
• Good communication skills and numeracy skills. 
• You will need to be aged 16 or over to volunteer in our Chesham shop, and aged 18 or over to volunteer in our Burnham shop.

What’s in It for You?

• Meet new people and make new friends.
• Learn new skills to enhance your CV.
• A comprehensive induction and training programme relevant to your role.
• Volunteer in a fun environment at the heart of your local community.
• Know that your time and effort is making a real difference to the welfare of animals.

Practical Considerations:

• Online induction - you’ll need to complete an online induction, you will need basic IT skills and access to a computer. If you are not able to use IT, we do have a paper-based induction as an alternative.

Disclaimer:

Our voluntary roles are subject to:

• An informal interview and trial period.
• Submission of two referees’ contact details.
• Completion of relevant training and assessments for the role.

Independent Trustee
Hybrid, with meetings typically held in London
Three years, renewable
Voluntary role, with reasonable expenses reimbursed

Help shape the future of child health: become an Independent Trustee at RCPCH

Every child deserves the best start in life. At the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), we work to improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people through education, training, research, advocacy and leadership. Representing more than 25,000 members and Fellows across the UK and internationally, we influence policy, shape professional standards and champion better healthcare for children everywhere.

We are seeking an experienced Independent Trustee who will also chair our People & Remuneration Committee. This is a pivotal Board leadership role, providing strategic oversight of the College’s people, culture, workforce and remuneration agenda, while contributing fully to the governance and strategic direction of the charity.

If you are a senior people leader with a strong interest in organisational culture, leadership and workforce effectiveness, this is an opportunity to influence Board-level decisions and help improve outcomes for children and young people. 

We're particularly interested in hearing from people with experience in:

• People and organisational development
• Human resources, employment relations and workforce strategy
• Executive remuneration, reward governance and succession planning
• Organisational culture, employee engagement and culture transformation
• Employment law and legal practice
• Corporate governance, risk and assurance
• Leading significant organisational change and organisational effectiveness
• Chairing Boards, Committees or senior governance forums

We welcome applications from individuals who can bring independent judgement, strategic thinking and constructive challenge, together with a commitment to good governance and improving outcomes for children and young people. 

Previous Board experience is welcome but not essential, and a full induction and ongoing support programme will be provided.

Why join us?

As an Independent Trustee, you will play an important role in shaping the future of RCPCH and supporting our mission to improve child health outcomes across the UK and globally.

You will have the opportunity to:

• Apply your expertise in people, culture, organisational development and governance to an organisation that makes a real difference to children and young people.
• Influence Board-level decisions on workforce strategy, organisational effectiveness, leadership, remuneration and culture.
• Shape the future direction of a respected national charity and medical Royal College.
• Work alongside senior clinical, executive and non-executive leaders and broaden your strategic impact.
• Gain valuable experience of charity governance while contributing to RCPCH’s mission in the UK and internationally. 

What you’ll bring

We're looking for someone with:

• Senior leadership experience in people, workforce, organisational development, governance, remuneration or employment law.
• Strong strategic thinking, independent judgement and the confidence to provide constructive challenge.
• High personal integrity and the ability to work collaboratively at Board level.
• An understanding of Trustee responsibilities and a commitment to RCPCH's mission and values.
• A passion for supporting children and young people and the willingness to devote time to the role.

Desirable: Previous experience as a Trustee, Board or Committee member, experience of organisational change, culture and workforce development, healthcare, governance, remuneration, talent management, EDI, or supporting under-represented groups.

Key details

• Time commitment: Typically four Board meetings each year, including one full-day Away Day, plus the Annual General Meeting. The role also includes preparation for and chairing of People & Remuneration Committee meetings, reporting to the Board, induction and ongoing engagement. Allow approximately 4–6 hours to read the agenda and papers for each meeting.
• Location: Hybrid, with meetings typically held in London.
• Term of office: Three years, renewable.
• Remuneration: Voluntary role, with reasonable expenses reimbursed. 

Inclusive and diverse governance

We believe our Board should reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

We actively encourage applications from people from underrepresented backgrounds, those with protected characteristics, and individuals who can bring a diverse range of experiences, perspectives and insights to the Board. If you have the skills, experience and commitment to help us achieve our mission, we would love to hear from you.

Join us and help realise our vision of a world where every child is healthy and well.

How to contact us and apply

For an informal chat about this role, please email the Chair at least five working days before the closing date. Details can be found on our website via the application link.

To apply, please read the role description and follow the instructions on our website, via the application link.

Closing date: 12 noon, 21 September 2026.
Interviews: 30 September 2026, via Microsoft Teams

Chair of Trustees - Gorse Hill Studios Community & Cultural Centre (GHSCC)

Help Shape the Future of an Ambitious Youth Arts Charity

Gorse Hill Studios (GHSCC) is seeking an exceptional individual to become our next Chair of Trustees.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead the Board of a respected and ambitious youth arts charity that has transformed the lives of thousands of young people across Greater Manchester. Working closely with our Chief Executive and fellow trustees, you will help shape our strategic direction, strengthen our governance, and champion our mission to ensure every young person has the opportunity to thrive.

About Us

At Gorse Hill Studios, we believe all young people deserve social, emotional, educational and cultural investment in their future.

For over a decade, we have supported young people aged 8 to 25 through a unique combination of arts, youth work and creative learning. Our work focuses on inclusion, disability, youth voice, alternative education and creative engagement, helping young people build confidence, resilience and meaningful pathways into adulthood.

Through our programmes, we empower young people to discover their potential, strengthen their communities and achieve aspirations they may never have thought possible.

The Opportunity

As Chair of Trustees, you will provide leadership to our Board and help ensure GHSCC remains focused on achieving its charitable objectives while operating to the highest standards of governance.

You will act as a trusted partner to our Chief Executive, providing support, challenge and strategic oversight while maintaining the appropriate distinction between governance and operational management.

This role provides a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people while contributing your leadership skills to a values-driven organisation at an exciting stage of its development.

Key Responsibilities

As Chair, you will:

• Lead and facilitate an effective, inclusive and high-performing Board of Trustees.
• Ensure the Board fulfils its legal, regulatory and governance responsibilities.
• Work closely with the Chief Executive to develop and monitor organisational strategy.
• Foster constructive relationships between trustees, staff and stakeholders.
• Support the recruitment, development and succession planning of trustees.
• Ensure risks are appropriately identified and managed.
• Champion GHSCC's mission, values and reputation across the sector and wider community.
• Encourage robust discussion, constructive challenge and effective decision-making.
• Lead Board meetings and the Annual General Meeting.

Who We Are Looking For

We would particularly welcome applications from individuals who can demonstrate:

• Senior leadership or board-level experience.
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement.
• The ability to inspire, influence and build consensus.
• A commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• An understanding of good governance and organisational accountability.
• Experience of leading meetings and facilitating effective group decision-making.

Previous Chair experience is desirable but not essential. We are equally interested in hearing from candidates with strong leadership experience who are ready to take on their first Chair role.

Experience in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous:

• Charity leadership and governance
• Fundraising and income generation
• Marketing and communications
• Education and alternative provision
• Finance or risk management
• Legal or HR expertise
• Public sector or community engagement

Time Commitment

The Board currently meets four times per year in person at Gorse Hill, Trafford.

In addition, the Chair is expected to:

• Meet regularly with the Chief Executive.
• Attend occasional committee meetings and key events.
• Support trustee recruitment and board development activities.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity when appropriate.

We estimate an average commitment of approximately 1 to 2 days per month.

This is a voluntary unpaid role, with reasonable expenses reimbursed.

Our Commitment to Diversity

We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.

We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those who bring lived experience, perspectives and voices that are currently underrepresented in charity governance. We celebrate the richness of our differences, including social class, ethnicity, disability, gender, sexual orientation, faith and age.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV alongside an expression of interest (maximum two sides of A4) outlining:

• Why you are interested in becoming Chair of Trustees at Gorse Hill Studios.
• The skills, experience and perspectives you would bring to the role.
• How your values align with our mission and work with young people.

Deadline midnight 25th September 2026.

Interviews 9th October 2026 afternoon and early evening TBC

Join us as a Trustee and contribute to our campaigning journey to help make the food system healthier and fairer. Be part of the creative, agile and growing team behind Bite Back’s exceptional teenage activists from England and Scotland. Work with a vibrant, dynamic and youth-led organisation that is committed to advancing child rights and creating healthy futures for children across the UK and abroad by improving our global, national, and local food systems.

Trustee Role & Responsibilities

As a Trustee, you will share collective statutory responsibility duties for the governance and strategic direction of Bite Back:

● Strategic Oversight: Ensure Bite Back pursues its charitable objectives by approving and monitoring our long-term strategy and organisational goals

● Compliance & Governance: Ensure that compliance with governing documents, charity law, company law, safeguarding standards, and all relevant statutory regulations in England & Wales, and Scotland.

● Financial Stewardship: Protect and manage the charity’s assets, ensuring financial stability, proper investment, and exclusive application of funds toward our charitable mission.

● Risk & Performance Management: Evaluate performance against agreed strategy, monitor organisational risks, and ensure proper internal controls and policies are in place.

● CEO Support & Governance: Provide support, constructive challenge, and oversight to the Chief Executive Officer.

In addition to statutory duties, Trustees act as critical friends and champions for Bite Back. You will draw on your professional skills, networks, and lived experience to advise the Board and Senior Leadership Team, scrutinise board papers, and support key strategic initiatives.

Person specification

Following a recent governance review and skills audit, we are seeking up to three new Trustees to join our Board during an exciting phase of expansion across the UK. Candidates should bring deep expertise in at least one of the following core priority areas:

1. Scottish Youth Charity & Governance Expertise: Senior leadership experience from across Scotland’s charity sector (ideally, but not necessarily, within the children and young people’s sector), with strong professional networks across Scottish government, civil society, and funders to help guide our growing footprint and programmes as a registered Scottish charity (SC055240). In addition to strong Scottish safeguarding and child protection experience, and Scottish charity governance knowledge.

2. Youth Voice / Education Charity Leadership Expertise: Senior leadership experience within the youth sector (youth voice / development / advocacy) or education sector working with young people, or experience scaling high impact social ventures that improve lives of young people, or movement building, or philanthropic and donor networks to support income generation, organisational growth, and governance trajectory. In addition to strong child safeguarding experience.

3. Political Strategy & Campaign Expertise: Expertise in building high-impact strategic campaigns to influence policy, with strong PR/media/political professional networks to support Bite Back’s young campaigners’ efforts to hold Big Food accountable via fresh, innovative, and digital-forward ways.

Core Qualities Required for All Trustees

● A deep commitment to Bite Back’s mission, values, and youth-led ethos, alongside the strategic vision to help steer a dynamic, growing national movement

● Good, independent judgement and thinking, and the willingness to speak your mind candidly while constructively challenging executive leadership

● A clear understanding and acceptance of the statutory duties, responsibilities, and legal liabilities of trusteeship under charity and company law

● An ability to think creatively, embrace fresh perspectives, and navigate complex policy public health, and campaigning landscapes

● An ability to work effectively as an active member of a team, building strong, supportive relationships with fellow Trustees, Youth Activists, and executive leadership

● An openness to leveraging personal and professional networks to support elevating the voices of Bite Back’s young people and their campaigns.

● A genuine willingness to devote the necessary time, energy, and effort to prepare for board meetings, advise on sub-committees, and champion the organisation externally

● A steadfast commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging alongside full alignment with Nolan’s Seven Principles of Public Life (Selflessness, Integrity, Objectivity, Accountability, Openness, Honesty, and Leadership)

Time Commitment & Location

● Board meetings: 4 meetings per year (held virtually or in London, with hybrid access)

● Sub-Committees: Participation in one Board sub-committee where relevant

● Ad-Hoc Support: Occasional strategic guidance, reading time, and attendance at key Bite Back events or youth showcases

Our Organisation & Governance

Bite Back is a registered charity in England & Wales (1180969) and Scotland (SC055240). Bite Back is led by young people - not consulted as an afterthought, but led. Over 70+ core youth activists who sit on our Youth Board directly shape our strategy, campaigns, and communications, supported by thousands of young people engaged across our UK networks.

Our staff team of about 30 people works in partnership with our Youth Board, using their professional networks and expertise to create platforms for young leaders to drive systemic change.

Bite Back is overseen by a dedicated Board of Trustees, led by Chair Dr. Dolly van Tulleken.

The Board is responsible for ensuring the charity fulfills its mission, remains strictly youth-led, and maintains robust financial and operational governance. Our Board currently includes experienced professionals across health, education, finance, campaigns, and youth engagement, alongside Youth Trustees who bring essential lived experience to our governance. Our Board has a Finance Sub-Committee to support specifically with the long-term financial sustainability of the charity.

Everything we do is guided by the core values developed by our Youth Board: Fresh, Resilient, Energetic, Real, and Respectful.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEI-B)

As part of our commitment to making meaningful progress towards a movement where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered, Bite Back’s DEIB vision statement has been co-developed by Bite Back’s young people, staff and trustees:

A fair food system means our working culture and values - Real, Respectful, Resilient, Fresh and Energetic - reflects this vision. We support our staf , ambassadors and trustees to live Bite Back’s values in their work.

At Bite Back, DEIB means that our people are able to join and navigate the workplace, trusting they’ll be supported to thrive, and that we’ll respond with compassion and make change when things fall short. We recognise the systems of oppression which keep marginalised groups from power, and seek to proactively build equity. We are intentional about representation. We actively recruit under-represented voices, ensuring our staf team and youth board are representative of a wide variety of lived experiences.

We push to improve outcomes for those kept furthest from power, celebrate differences and ensure accessibility is built in, not added on. Our aspiration and intention is that Bite Back is an organisation that recognises, shares and acts on its power and responsibility to young people, employees, community and wider society, driving equity and inclusion in every space, and in every decision.

You can read more about how we approach DEI-B on our website.

We are intentional about representation and equity:

● Youth-Led Representation: We ensure our core movement including over 70+ Youth Activists and thousands of young campaigners across England and Scotland reflects the rich diversity of young people most impacted by food insecurity and junk food marketing.

● Proactive Inclusion: We actively recruit under-represented voices to our staff team and Board of Trustees, celebrating difference and embedding accessibility into everything we do by design.

● Continuous Improvement: We continually review and embed inclusive practices across our recruitment, organisational culture, campaign priorities, and board governance.