Social development research officer volunteer roles
The Sutton Trust is at a pivotal moment in its development. For nearly three decades, we have been the UK’s leading voice on social mobility, working tirelessly to break the link between socio-economic background and life chances. Today, that mission is as urgent as it has ever been. Despite pockets of progress, social mobility in the UK remains low by international standards, with deep inequalities in education, access to professions, and regional opportunity continuing to limit life chances and economic potential.
We are seeking a Trustee with policy expertise who shares our commitment to fairness, evidence, and long-term change. We value diversity of thought and experience, and we are keen to hear from those who can help us navigate an evolving political landscape and leverage our research to challenge systemic barriers, ensuring our voice remains the most influential in the national drive to transform social mobility.
Duties and Responsibilities of a Trustee
Policy Responsibilities
- Providing oversight for the charity’s research and advocacy, ensuring the Trust’s work is mission-aligned, evidence-based, and intellectually rigorous
- Supporting the Board in discharging their collective duties around planning, risk and compliance, particularly in areas such as horizon scanning for upcoming legislative changes, political shifts and shifts in social trends affecting the Trust as well as specific regulations around political neutrality
- Leveraging their professional networks and expertise, enhancing the charity’s credibility and influence, ensuring our research translates into meaningful systemic change
General Responsibilities
- Inputting into and agreeing the Trust’s vision, mission and values and providing advice on the Trust’s wider purpose, goals and activities
- Inputting into and agreeing the Trust’s aims and long-term strategy in furtherance of its charitable purpose
- Ensuring key risks are identified, monitored and controlled effectively as well as keeping abreast of changes in the Trust’s operating environment
- Monitoring the Trust’s performance against its strategic aims, operational plans and budgets
- Safeguarding and promoting the Trust’s reputation, and acting in the best interest of the Trust at all times
- Ensuring the financial stability and sustainability of the Trust
- Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place
- Ensuring proper arrangements are in place for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and renumeration of the CEO and they are held to account
- Contributing to regular reviews of the Trust’s own governance
- Ensuring the Trust complies with its governing documents, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
In addition to the above statutory duties, each Trustee should use their specific skills, knowledge and experience to contribute to the Board’s decision-making, and dedicate sufficient time to carry out their responsibilities effectively. This may involve sitting on Board Committees, scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise.
Trustees aim to support a specific member of the SLT based on their skills and experience or may participate in appropriate subgroups, e.g., Alumni Leadership Board, Education Advisory Group, (Development) Board meetings, etc.
Person Specification
Mission and Values
- Sympathetic to the aims of the Trust and its mission to address educational disadvantage
- High level of personal and professional ethics, integrity, and accountability
- Willingness to safeguard and promote the Trust’s reputation within the wider sector
Strategy and Interpersonal Skills
- Ability to think strategically in order to provide appropriate oversight and scrutiny for the Trust’s overall activity and direction
- Ability to confidently and fairly make evidence-based decisions and constructively challenge the decisions of others if required
- Ability to collaborate and work as part of a team to provide advice, make decisions, and/or solve problems
- A commitment to personal development and a willingness to participate in regular reviews of the Board’s own performance and governance
Governance, Risk and Finance
- Understanding of the legal duties of a Trustee (or willingness to learn), including compliance with Charity Commission and Companies House regulations and commitment to the roles and responsibilities of a Trustee
- Awareness of (or willingness to learn about) financial health indicators and organisational risk management
Specialist Expertise and Experience
- A background in public affairs, civil service, think tanks, education sector organisations or senior policy or research roles in (education) charities
- Strong understanding of how UK government (at local, regional or national level) and/ or the UK education sector works
- Strong influencing and communications skills with the ability to lead discussions, provide expert advice, and influence stakeholders in a professional manner
- Good understanding of how to translate policy jargon into clear, strategic advice for the wider Trustee Board
Interviews
Applications should reach us by 10am, Monday 30th March. First round interviews will take place on Wednesday 15th and Thursday 16th April, and second round interviews will take place w/c 27th April or w/c 4th May. All interviews will be held at our London offices in Millbank Tower.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Dear Applicant,
Thank you for your interest in joining our Board at this exciting and important time for The Young Foundation.
We are currently in the second year of our five-year strategy, and the recent appointment of our new Chief Executive, Dr Sue Griffiths, who joins us on 2 March, marks a significant moment for the organisation. Sue and the Board will work closely to ensure that The Young Foundation continues to deliver against its core purpose: building a just society in which everyone can participate and all contributions are valued.
At The Young Foundation, we know that inequality diminishes lives, corrodes community wellbeing, and reduces prosperity for society. Our mission is to create the conditions in which people and communities can flourish. Working in partnership with the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector, as well as public and private sector organisations, we empower people to fulfil their potential and lead happier, more meaningful lives. Ultimately, our work seeks to unlock shared prosperity.
Very little about the future of society is inevitable. Bound by our shared humanity, we believe that we collectively hold the power to shape our communities and institutions. Drawing on over 60 years of research, innovation and incubation, we put proven tools and approaches into practice to drive meaningful and lasting change.
As an influential and pioneering organisation in our field, we are seeking new Trustees to help us build the strongest non-executive team possible. We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates from across the UK who can offer depth of insight, experience or influence in one or more of the following areas:
· Social innovation and community action
· Local or combined authorities
· Health
· Business and social entrepreneurship
· Higher education
· Political networks
· Finance (an accountancy qualification would be an asset)
· External affairs and influencing, including opinion formers
Our Trustees bring the full breadth of their professional expertise and lived experience into the Boardroom. While we have identified priority areas within our skills matrix, we are committed to building a genuinely diverse and inclusive Board. We welcome candidates who can bring varied perspectives and lived experiences, enabling us to make decisions informed by a complete and authentic picture of life across the UK.
If you believe you have the knowledge, skills and experience to contribute to our work, we would be delighted to hear from you.
How to apply
To submit an application, please apply via CharityJob, where you will be asked to upload:
· A cover letter (maximum two sides of A4) outlining:
o Your motivation for applying
o The experience and insight you would bring to the role
o What you hope to contribute and gain from your time as a Trustee
· A CV (maximum two sides of A4)
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Position
We are looking for a Grants Officer who can support us with diverse tasks that include looking for grants opportunities, project development, proposals writing, and liaising with potential partners and donors. In this role you’ll be a key contributor to the continued existence of Second Tree, which is dependent on grants to survive, and to the creation of new projects and partnerships. To do this successfully, you'll need to employ meticulous time-management and organisation skills, as juggling multiple tasks with competing deadlines is common in this role.
The role will include:
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Researching and identifying new grant opportunities on a weekly basis
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Summarising relevant grant opportunities and suggesting how to best respond and comply with them
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Researching information and data necessary for grants and grant reporting
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Supporting the design of new projects
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Supporting with proposal writing
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Maintaining necessary records, files, reports, databases, and resource materials for the Grants team
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Working with the wider Second Tree team to ensure that all project proposals align with organisational, and programme strategies
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Establishing and maintaining connections with funding bodies
You should be able to:
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Professionally communicate in English (verbally and in writing)
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Read, comprehend, interpret, summarise and follow proposal guidelines
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Work to tight deadlines with flexibility and a problem-solving attitude;
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Conduct thorough, high-quality, independent research
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Work both independently and as part of a team
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Manage and prioritise projects effectively to meet team and proposal deadlines
The ideal candidate will have:
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Working knowledge of project management techniques such as LFA
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Knowledge of and experience with grant-giving bodies and other external funding sources (e.g. European Commission)
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A strong sense of logic while building an argument
What We Offer:
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A nurturing and collaborative working environment. We work hard to help our team members grow, investing in personal and professional development.
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Accommodation in a shared house
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Transportation to/from work
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After completion of a three-month trial, if you commit long-term, a small monthly expenses refund
In certain periods of the year, demand is extremely high, and the shared houses might be full. If you have the means to pay for your own accommodation, please let us know. We would still be happy to host you if space is available. However, in a situation where the shared houses are full, this would allow us to offer an opportunity to someone that cannot afford to pay rent.
Have experience leading a team of this type?
Consider applying to become a Grants Coordinator. Whether your experience lies in the humanitarian sector or elsewhere, we are looking for people with expertise that can drive us forward as an organisation.
Looking for an internship?
If, because of your degree or for any other reason, you would like to have your period at Second Tree credited as an internship, just apply to the vacancy that you’re interested in and mention this. We have agreements with several universities across Europe, and in many other cases, these agreements can be developed on an ad hoc basis.
We encourage applicants to join us in person, but if this is not possible we will consider remote applications for this role.
NOTE: If you require a visa to stay in Greece for the minimum ten-week commitment, please know that as a Greek NGO, we are unable to sponsor your visa.
We challenge the biases that make us see refugees as “the other”. We change the way society perceives refugees, and refugees perceive society.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteer Grant Officer
Southwark Tenants’ Federation – Grassroots Housing Advice Charity
Location: Southwark / Remote (hybrid available)
Time commitment: Flexible (approx. 4–8 hours per week)
Contract: Volunteer
About Us
We are a small grassroots charity based in Southwark and the only surviving tenants’ federation in London. For decades, we have supported tenants and residents to defend their housing rights, challenge poor conditions, and have a collective voice in decisions that affect their homes and communities.
Our social housing advice service supports people facing homelessness, disrepair, evictions, and housing management issues, with a strong focus on empowerment and tenant-led action.
The Role
We are seeking a Volunteer Grant Officer to help us secure funding to sustain and grow our vital work. This role is crucial to keeping an independent, tenant-led voice alive in London.
You will work closely with a small, committed team and help ensure our advice service remains accessible to local residents.
Key Responsibilities
- Research grant funding opportunities suitable for a grassroots, tenant-led organisation
- Draft and submit grant applications to trusts, foundations, and statutory funders
- Maintain a simple funding pipeline and track deadlines
- Work with staff and volunteers to gather service data, outcomes, and case studies
- Assist with basic funder monitoring and reporting
About You
Essential:
- Strong written communication skills
- Good organisational skills and reliability
- Commitment to social justice and housing rights
Desirable (but not essential):
- Experience of grant writing or fundraising
- Knowledge of social housing, tenant organisations, or advice services
We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of social housing.
What We Offer
- Flexible volunteering hours
- Support, supervision, and guidance
- The opportunity to contribute to a unique and historic tenant-led organisation
- Experience in grant writing within the voluntary and housing sectors
- References provided where appropriate
We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of social housing. We are very flexible, so still apply even if you don't have a lived experience but can write a bid
This is an exciting time to join the Endometriosis UK trustee board, as the organisation expands and develops to achieve the changes that are needed to support those affected by the disease and to drive down diagnosis time. We are looking for a new Treasurer to build on this momentum to strengthen our organisation and bring about change for those with endometriosis. We have a skills-based board, with Trustees having one or more identified skills, with the overall membership of the Board providing the complete set of skills.
Endometriosis UK is the largest UK charity for those with endometriosis. Endometriosis UK works to:
• Provide support to those with endometriosis and their families and friends
• Provide clear, objective information about the condition and its treatments
• Raise awareness amongst health professionals and the general public about the condition
• Support research into endometriosis.
This is an unpaid role. Reasonable pre-agreed travel expenses will be paid.
Time commitment:
• Five meetings a year, including preparation for meetings, reading papers etc; and attendance at an annual strategy day and AGM (held on the same days as Board meetings).
• Trustees have the opportunity to take part in Board sub-groups and project groups to develop aspects of the organisations’ work. Current sub-groups include the Finance Committee and Diversity & Inclusion Sub-Group. Trustees are also invited to attend Endometriosis UK events.
We are recruiting for one new treasurer to join the board. We are particularly looking for:
• Personal or professional experience of diversity and inclusion issues
• Marketing and digital marketing
• Communications and social media
• Campaigning and achieving change
• Experience of working in Primary Care
• Charity finance experience
• Currently living in Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales
Personal experience of living with, or having a close family member with, endometriosis, is vital on our Board. Whilst we look favourably on applications from those in the endometriosis community, we already have Trustees with first hand lived experience and new trustees do not need to have endometriosis.
We also particularly welcome applications from trustees from a range of backgrounds and experiences as part of our commitment to diversity.
The role will start at a Board meeting on 28th November 2026, when our current Treasurer reaches the end of their 6-year term of office. Prior to the roles starting, the incoming Treasurer will have the opportunity to observe a Board meeting in September, and induction will be planned in October.
Our Network is here to offer those affected by endometriosis the support and information they need to understand the condition and take control


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Communications Officer (Volunteer)
EQUAL AQUA is an award-winning NGO providing equal access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) in Uganda. Equal Aqua is managed by an international team of 30+ volunteers, based mainly in the UK and Uganda, but spanning over 10 countries.
We are looking to expand and diversify our team of volunteers – seeking candidates with knowledge and skills in various fields, and a deep passion for our cause.
*Please note that all members of Equal Aqua work remotely and on a voluntary basis. We ask that volunteers contribute on average 1 day per week and commit to the role for 12 months as a minimum.*
Role Profile
Join us as part of our Communications team to help deliver powerful content for our internal & external communications strategy. You will be working alongside the Communications Manager & Communications Officer to develop our digital content & increase our presence on social media platforms. Provide creative support for enhancing donor prospects, generating demand & increasing engagement through compelling narratives to support EAU projects & fundraising initiatives.
ROLE & RESPONSBILITIES
- Write engaging, accessible copy for social media posts, blogs, and newsletter updates.
- Develop storytelling materials, such as case studies and fundraising spotlights, aligned with EAU’s brand voice.
- Ensure alignment with the EA communications calendar and major WASH/sector events.
- Work within established brand and content guidelines to ensure consistency.
- Work to project briefs and meet agreed timelines; maintain clear communication with other volunteers.
- Understand how data and analytics informs content performance
KEY REQUIREMENTS
ESSENTIAL:
Experience:
- Proven ability in creation of high-quality social media content
- Strong copywriting, research and storytelling skills (long-from and short-form).
- General understanding of social media best practices.
- An eye for visual consistency and experience working with brand guidelines/briefs.
- A proactive, collaborative, flexible, and self-directed approach to volunteering
Skills:
- Familiarity with tools such as Monday, Google Analytics, Notion, or Mailchimp.
- Knowledge of tools like Monday/Buffer to track tasks and maintain project visibility.
DESIRABLE:
- Skilled at photo & video editing, & graphic design
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, and to travel as needed.
- Previous experience within the voluntary or charity sector is advantageous.
- Experience working with virtual teams.
BACKGROUND
Our Vision: To become a leading organisation in Uganda in addressing inequalities in WASH, and interrelated issues of gender and sustainability
Our Mission: We will achieve this by working with partners and local communities to develop the required WASH skills, knowledge and practical interventions
Objectives:
· To improve access to safe and sustainable WASH for those facing the greatest inequalities in Uganda
· To strengthen the participation of local communities in WASH, in particular women and girls, and displaced peoples
· To take action to protect the natural environment, reduce pollution and tackle climate change
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS:
· 32,866 people with improved access to safe water
· 11,044 people with improved sanitation
· 11,755 people with improved WASH knowledge and skills
· 3,877 people with improved menstrual hygiene knowledge
· British High Commission award winner
VALUES:
At Equal Aqua we champion bottom-up grassroots development. To make this possible, we have created a proactive and friendly environment, which strives to create practical and lasting solutions to WASH-related issues. Each member of Equal Aqua is passionate about WASH inequalities, and our values are a central basis for inspiration and the culture of the organisation.
Why volunteer for EAU?
By volunteering for EAU you will directly contribute to making tangible and positive changes to people’s lives in Uganda. Your efforts will help us to grow and empower our team of international volunteers, enabling us to reach more communities and transform more lives. You will also get to meet & collaborate with a great team of volunteers from all over the world. If you like the sound of this role, we encourage you to apply even if you aren’t confident that you meet all of the requirements – you may be just who we’re looking for.
Interviews will take place via MS Teams where you will meet an informal panel of volunteers.
Data Protection and Privacy:
As a non-profit organization, we are committed to safeguarding the privacy and security of all applicants' personal information. We process your personal data in line with applicable data protection laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) where relevant.
Any information you share with us during the recruitment process will be used solely for assessing your suitability for the position and will be handled confidentially. Your data will be stored securely, accessed only by authorized staff, and retained only for as long as necessary for recruitment purposes.
You have the right to access, correct, or request the deletion of your personal data at any time. By applying, you consent to the processing of your information in accordance with these principles.
DEI statement:
EAU is committed to offering equal opportunities and treatment to all its volunteers. We see diversity as a strength and anyone seeking volunteering at Equal Aqua is considered based on merit, qualifications, competence, and talent. We don’t regard colour, religion, ethnicity, race, national origin, sexual orientation, ancestry, citizenship, sex, marital or family status, disability, gender, or any other legally protected status.
We are extremely proud to be an equal opportunity employer and actively encourage applications from all backgrounds. To make your recruitment experience with us accessible to you, we encourage you to let us know if you have any individual requirements.
‘Equal Aqua’ is a registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) in the UK; it operates equally and in unison with ‘Equal Aqua Uganda’, a registered Community Based Organisation (CBO) in Uganda (‘EAU’ refers to both).
To become a leading organisation in Uganda in addressing inequalities in WASH, and interrelated issues of gender and sustainability.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Help our charity to create new Allotment sites!
Green Allotments is a small, national, charity on a mission to create new allotment sites in England.
We are currently looking for lovely volunteers for various roles which are all home-based:
Volunteer Desk-based Researchers (Our most popular volunteering role!)
Archaeologist (desk-based, minimum of 3 years work experience)
Occasional professional/specialist micro-volunteers
Landscape Architect (minimum of 3 years work experience)
Social Media Supporters
Welsh Language Translators / Gwirfoddoli Cyfieithwyr Cymraeg
There are no set hours when volunteering for us and you can turn down anything that you are offered. Obviously, we will treat you with dignity and respect.
We do not anticipate that you will incur expenses in this role. We expect our volunteers to already have an internet connection and be willing to use that as part of their volunteer role with Green Allotments CIO.
(At present we are unable to accept applications from under 18s, although we hope to be able to do so in the future as our charity grows)
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you passionate about health justice? Medact is seeking a new Chair of the Board to help oversee our governance and support our work.
About Medact
Medact organises the health community to work towards a world in which everyone is able to live healthy, dignified lives, supported by political and economic systems that centre health justice. Our priority work areas are some of the most pressing threats to health and wellbeing, including ending state violence, housing & energy justice, and migrant access to healthcare. Medact seeks systemic solutions to major social problems, and is unafraid to hold decision-makers to account. We launched our new five-year strategy at the end of 2025, embedding our vision for how we win and how we grow.
We’re member-led, and our membership spans a range of people who work in health, including nurses, doctors, midwives and clinical researchers, as well as people from the wider health community.
We are now looking for a new Chair of our Board of Trustees. If you share our vision and passion, why not join our Board and help us fight for health justice?
About the role
Our Board of Trustees provides guidance, governance and final sign-off on major decisions on behalf of our membership. Trustees are collectively responsible for the governance of the organisation in line with the requirements of the Charity Commission. Trustees also contribute to the development of Medact's strategy and participate in a range of other activities to support the Director and staff with our work.
There are four planned board meetings per year, which are hybrid, and it is expected that each Trustee will attend most Board meetings. Trustees are also sometimes asked to give their views or sign off on issues between Board meetings if an issue cannot wait. It is hoped that each Trustee will have the capacity to use their unique skills to support the team more broadly with Medact’s work.
As Chair, you will support the Executive Director and staff to help build on our achievements and realise Medact’s vision. You will work with fellow Trustees to make up a strong and effective Board governing the Charity.
Acting as a Trustee is a voluntary role but reasonable travel expenses can be paid.
Who we are looking for
Our current Board brings a broad range of skills, but we recognise that we do not yet reflect the diversity of the health community. There are also specific types of experience and expertise we would like more of on the Board. In particular, we are looking for potential Trustees with one or more of the following attributes:
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Lived experience of an issue that Medact campaigns on, for instance the Hostile Environment, the health impacts of economic or housing injustice, the health impacts of armed conflict or UK security policies
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Experience as a frontline health worker of any sort, preferably current
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Legal and safeguarding expertise
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Fundraising expertise, particularly individual giving or major donor fundraising
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Human resources expertise
As Chair, you will be actively networked within the health community or broader social justice movement and highly experienced in governance or strategic leadership of a charity or NGO. You will have the skills to line-manage the Executive Director. And you will have the ability to advocate on behalf of Medact’s work, as well as helping to build the membership and public image of the organisation.
We hope all Trustees will:
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Share our vision for a fairer and safer world, and our analysis of the transformational change needed to get closer to it
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Approach Board discussions and conversations with the team with an open mind, able to listen to and genuinely engage with others’ views
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Display collaborative behaviours which promote harmony and good team working which supports Medact to be an effective, well-governed organisation
Previous experience on a charity board or in another governance role is useful but by no means essential. If you are interested in becoming a Trustee but aren’t sure you have the right skills and experience, or would like an informal conversation with an existing board member before applying, please get in touch.
Timeline
Applications are open until 9am on Monday 9th March.
We aim to interview candidates in March. Please let us know when applying if you are unavailable during this period.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Chair of the Board of Trustees — Alliance for Youth Justice
The Alliance for Youth Justice is seeking a new Chair to lead our experienced and knowledgeable Board of Trustees. The AYJ Chair will provide leadership and strategic oversight, foster an inclusive board culture, and support our Chief Executive Officer to build on AYJ’s success into the future.
We are looking for someone who shares our commitment to social justice and achieving positive change for children and young people in the youth justice system. You will have knowledge and understanding of how to govern a charity and bring strong strategic leadership skills to ensure the AYJ is able to achieve its vision, mission, and purpose.
Commitment to equity and inclusion
As an organisation committed to anti-oppressive practice and anti-racism, we recognise the need to consider and rebalance where power lies in our organisation, and we are particularly keen to hear from applicants who are:
- Racially minoritised
- From working-class or intermediate socio-economic backgrounds
- Aged 18–34
- Have lived experience of the youth justice system
- Female
We also aim for 50% of our board members to be representative of our membership, and we are therefore also keen to receive applications from representatives of Alliance for Youth Justice member organisations.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About ReachOut
ReachOut is a national youth development charity and a strategic partner for schools. Through collective mentoring and engaging activities, we build socio-emotional skills that transform outcomes for young people constrained by circumstance.
Role of a Trustee
Our Board of trustees have shared responsibility for the overall governance, financial health and strategic direction of the charity, developing its organisational aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines.
In addition to the statutory duties, each Trustee uses their specific skills, knowledge and experience to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions and support the Chief Executive and Senior Management Team in delivering the charity’s mission.
As a Trustee of ReachOut, you will have the opportunity to help govern an ambitious organisation, knowing that your time will contribute to helping young people, who may not have the same advantages as others, develop the social and emotional skills and opportunities they need to thrive.
Who are we looking for?
We are interested in individuals with any of the below expertise:
- Senior Leaders or Head Teachers from Schools or Multi Academy Trusts
- Research, Monitoring & Evaluation
- Senior Leadership within a Corporate Environment
- Lived Experience aligned to the challenges faced by the young people we are here for
Person Specification
- Enthusiasm for ReachOut’s vision and mission.
- Understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship in the UK charity sector.
- Able to demonstrate strategic vision and think creatively.
- Willing to speak their mind and exercise independent judgement, whilst operating with tact and diplomacy.
- Ability to work with others in a way that supports positive board dynamics.
- Ability to represent the organisation credibly externally.
- Availability and commitment to perform the role and dedicate the time required to fulfil the role.
Important Information
- This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.
- ReachOut board meetings are held in-person in London, online if necessary.
- The overall time commitment for a Trustee is expected to be around 30 hours per annum. There are four full board meetings a year that last approx. 2 hours, outside regular office hours. Meetings are held on weekday evenings.
How to Apply
- Please visit our website for more information and how to apply
- Deadline: 9am 16th March 2026
Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion
ReachOut is committed to being an inclusive and diverse organisation. We actively welcome applications from people of all ethnicities, ages, religious beliefs, gender identities, sexual orientations, and any other protected characteristics, to provide a diverse range of experiences, ideas, and insights into our work.We understand the importance of having trustees and committee members that reflect the backgrounds and experiences of the communities we serve. More than half of the young people we work with are from Black Caribbean, Black African, Bangladeshi, and Turkish backgrounds, so if you are from these ethnic groups, we would particularly appreciate receiving your applications.
Message from the Chair of Trustees
The Trustees represent different backgrounds and experiences, but what pulls us together is a
commitment to SEED’s work on the ground in Madagascar. Several of us have been to Madagascar
and have either volunteered or worked with SEED, so we have seen first-hand how important our
work is, and the positive impact SEED has in the communities we serve. Madagascar is an
extraordinary country with exceptional biodiversity but has severely lacking infrastructure and a
high level of anthropogenic threats due to extreme poverty and considerable dependence on
natural resources.
We are looking forward to welcoming a new Chair of our Board of Trustees to join the amazing
team of dedicated staff and volunteers who are delivering sustainable development, conservation
and community work through a range of projects based on local needs. The current Chair has been
in post since 2022 and served as a Trustee for 2 years prior to that. A change of leadership and a
fresh perspective is timely and will ensure we approach the next phase of our growth and
development with new ideas. You will be assured of a warm and supportive welcome with the
benefit of a team containing years of experience, combined with new members who bring global
expertise in their field.
SEED is growing thanks to successful marketing, fundraising project development and delivery. We
are now looking to build on our implementation of our strategic plan, to deliver sustainable
development for the people of southeastern Madagascar. We are privileged to work with its
wonderful people, and we hope that you will want to join us.
Introduction to SEED
SEED has been working in the southeast corner of Madagascar for over 20 years. SEED stands for Sustainable, Environment, Education and Development and we focus on building meaningful, sustainable change in one the poorest regions of one the poorest countries in the world.
Our projects range from school building to maternal health, from Agroforestry to Lemur Conservation and rights.
We are active on social media where you can find us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube. The majority of our staff are Malagasy, working in Fort Dauphin to design and deliver projects on the ground, alongside our international team, who bring external expertise and international best practices. In Madagascar, we have 95 staff in total (70 Malagasy and 25 international). They are supported by a small UK-based and remote working team of 10.
Governance structures
SEED’s Board of Trustees has 8 members, including the Chair, who meet quarterly. There are three sub-committees of the board focusing on: Audit and Risk; Marketing and Fundraising; and HR. These are chaired by a Trustee and consist of at least one other Trustee and up to two of the Senior Management team. We also have lead Trustees for Safeguarding and Whistleblowing.
The Board is international with Trustees based in a number of different countries, so the Board works remotely.
The operations are run by the Managing Director and the Director of Programmes and Operations who are both long standing senior managers.
The Chair of Trustees role
Chair of Trustee Board
In addition to the general role of Trustee, the Chair of SEED’s Board of Trustees holds overall accountability for the charity delivering its mission. Working closely with the Board and the staff senior team , they will provide leadership and direction to ensure SEED fulfils its charitable aims and objectives and abides by its governing documents and relevant legislation. They will work collaboratively with board members and senior management to ensure SEED delivers maximum benefit to the communities it serves.
Chair Role Description
Terms and conditions: Voluntary role
Responsible to: Board of Trustees
Base: The Board works remotely
Line manager of: Managing Director
Overview of SEED
SEED Madagascar is a successful, growing British Charity working in partnership with communities in the southeast of Madagascar. We integrate high-quality community health, rural livelihoods, schools and conservation programmes to support long term, sustainable change and add to international best practice through research and publication.
SEED has been working in Madagascar for over 20 years and has a wide range of impactful projects ranging from school building to sexual health, from beekeeping to improving lemur habitats. More recently, SEED has been working to address the famine in the southeast with emergency food distribution.
Employing most of its staff in Madagascar, SEED also engages international staff and interns as well as running a volunteer programme. Full details of our operations can be found on our website which includes our annual report and accounts, fundraising advice and information on our staff and Trustees.
The role will carry the usual responsibilities of a Trustee as defined by the England and Wales Charity Commission and we encourage all applicants to read through this prior to making an application.
Accountability:
As a Trustee you are responsible and liable for the governance and functioning of the charity and are accountable in varying degrees to a variety of stakeholders including service users, members, funders, the Charity Commission, and Companies House.
SEED Trustees should uphold the fiduciary duty required of all charity trustees to act in the best interests of both current and future beneficiaries of the charity, being held personally liable for any breach of that duty.
Key Responsibilities
- To ensure that the Board of Trustees understands and fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation
- To provide strategic oversight and ensure that all decisions are taken in the best interests of SEED and its charitable aims.
- To provide leadership for the Board of Trustees in their role of developing and agreeing the strategy of the organisation.
- To ensure that SEED has the effective policies and procedures needed to function properly, legally and safely including those for safeguarding, whistleblowing and anticorruption.
- To effectively chair the Board meetings, facilitating debate and bringing about consensus and clear decision making.
- To work with the Board to bring about strong and constructive working relationships and sharing of the workload across the areas of expertise.
- To oversee the membership of and effective working of the subcommittees
- To build and maintain a constructive and supportive working relationship with the MD. To be overall line manager for the MD, assessing their performance and discussing development needs with them.
- To work closely with the MD to support them in achieving the vision of the organisation ensuring they have the support needed for the effective running of SEED and bring scrutiny as needed so they are held to account for achieving agreed strategic objectives.
- To plan with the MD the annual cycle of Board meetings, setting agendas and monitoring the decisions taken at meetings are enacted.
- To review the Board’s performance and composition to ensure that SEED has a diverse, high performing Board working together in support of SEEDs strategy and Charitable objectives.
- To support recruitment and onboarding of new members to the board as needed to ensure continuity of the board responsibilities.
- To work with each Trustee to support them fulfilling their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity.
- To ensure the Board regularly reviews major risks and associated opportunities.
- To lead the Board in fulfilling its duties to ensure the sound financial health of the charity, with systems in place to verify financial accountability and that SEED is operating within the legal and financial guidelines set out in the current legislation
- To represent the interests of the board and charity externally as and when needed
Person specification
- Knowledge and understanding of the role and responsibilities of a Chair of a Charity and Board Membership – experience as a board member as a minimum
- An understanding and experience of strategic planning within the corporate or charity setting.
- A proven leader with the ability to think strategically and creatively and to challenge proposals with clear logical thinking
- A strong commitment and passion for international development and an understanding of this sector, ideally able to bring experience of working within it.
- Demonstrable alignment to the charity’s mission, vision, and values
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Experience of people management and able to build strong relationships with people who are working on a voluntary basis at senior level
- An understanding of, or a willingness to understand, the strategic, legislative, political and cultural contexts that affect and influence SEED’s work
- Enthusiasm and commitment to equality and diversity in all aspects of SEED’s work
- An interest in Madagascar and an understanding of the challenges of working within different cultures and environments
- Be able to work to and advocate for all of SEED’s policies and procedures, safeguarding those that SEED works with and investigating and/or reporting any concerns appropriately
SEED Madagascar actively encourages equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace and aims to create a working environment free of bullying, harassment, victimisation, and unlawful discrimination, where individual differences and the contributions of all staff are recognised and valued
Time commitments and requirements
There are a minimum of four Board meetings per year with the potential for additional Board meetings and Trustee only discussions. The Chair will discuss and agree the agenda in advance with the Managing Director, Chair the meeting and ensure follow up actions take place. These meetings are on a Sunday, are virtual and typically last 3 hours.
The Chair will participate on one sub-committee which has its own quarterly cycle of meetings. The Chair will manage the MD and have regular discussions about progress and undertake the annual review process. The Chair and all Trustees are required to undertake mandatory training as part of their induction and regular updates and additional training. The Chair will work with the Board to ensure each member is taking an active part in the Board and sub committees.
The Trustee Board are encouraged to have one trustee a year take a trip to Madagascar to familiarise themselves with the environment the SEED works in and to meet and get to know the staff in country (some expenses will be covered).
Are you looking for an opportunity to gain the experience and skills needed to kick-start your career within the conservation and wildlife sector?
We have an exciting opportunity for you to join our Northern Projects reserve team on a dedicated learning and development programme to survey and monitor species such as great crested newts and white clawed crayfish.
This opportunity is for 6 months at 2 days per week
What will you be doing?
On this Voluntary Placement you will gain experience from survey and monitoring projects across the county. You will be based in YWT’s York office with field work predominantly carried out across North and West Yorkshire. You will spend time with our project officers in undertaking activities on third party land, however there will also be the opportunity to shadow other members of the team to enhance your development. You could gain experience in the following areas:
- Species survey and monitoring as part of national and local schemes including environmental DNA (eDNA) and traditional methods
- Riparian ecology, restoration and monitoring
- Land management techniques to improve water quality
- Wetland habitat creation
- Undertaking practical tasks such as habitat creation and restoration
- Gain an understanding of budgets and project management tools
- Mapping, administrative and GIS work using QGIS and Survey123
- Helping to publicising project work via traditional communications, social media and engagement events
- Helping to set up survey work and events with volunteers and landowners
- Involvement in partnership projects and engaging with farmers, landowners and other stakeholders
What's in it for you?
- A full induction to the role
- Regular support meetings with your volunteer manager
- Ongoing personal development, allowing you to develop nature conservation skills and valuable experience towards a career in this sector
- Internal and/or external training to include habitat surveying, and a recognised course in surveying and monitoring of species or habitats, for example a ‘Working with Crayfish’ course
- A programme of in-house training courses will be available throughout your placement
- Access to our free, varied volunteer internal trainee training programme
- Branded uniform
- Reasonable travel expenses
- An intensive and high-quality experience that will stand out on any CV, as a team member of one of the UK’s most vibrant and varied conservation organisations
80% of volunteers on longer term placements with YWT have successfully found employment within the sector or gone on to relevant further studies.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Fundraising volunteer in Cannock (Staffordshire)
Help make a better life for cats – because life is better with cats
Our vision for volunteering
Volunteering is, and always will be, at the heart of Cats Protection. It’s joyful, inclusive, and driven by people working together to transform the lives of cats, people, and communities. When you volunteer with us, you become part of something truly meaningful.
The difference you’ll make
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, Cats Protection helps thousands of cats every year. Our fundraising volunteers play a vital role in making this possible. By using your passion for cats and people, you’ll help raise the funds needed to support more cats and kittens in need.
As a fundraising volunteer, we’ll support you to get involved in a way that suits you best. Whether you enjoy organising events, fundraising online, promoting activities on social media, helping with administration, or coming up with fresh ideas — there’s a place for you here. Whatever your skills or interests, this could be the perfect role.
What you can expect from us
- A warm, welcoming, and inclusive environment in line with our values and behaviours
- Support to help you have a positive and impactful volunteering experience
- Agreed out-of-pocket expenses covered in line with our Expenses Policy
- Access to learning, development, and engagement opportunities
What we need from you
This is a highly flexible role, and you can choose how you’d like to get involved. Opportunities include:
- Face-to-face fundraising – organising or helping at fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, and monitoring collection tins
- Online fundraising – setting up online appeals and writing engaging cat case studies to maximise donations
- Marketing and promotion – spreading the word about fundraising activities via social media and local press
- Administration – processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, and completing Gift Aid paperwork
- Championing our work – helping to develop new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement
- Photography – capturing images of cats in care, cats we’re helping, fundraising events, and all things Cats Protection
Time commitment
This role is flexible and designed to fit around your other commitments. You’ll be part of a friendly team raising vital funds — and having fun along the way.
You could be just the volunteer we’re looking for
We’re committed to building a diverse, compassionate, and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. Together, we’re courageous and compassionate in helping people see the world through cats’ eyes.
Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats. Together, we are all for cats.
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About ReMind UK
ReMind UK is an independent charity and an internationally renowned centre for research, diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Our research aims to improve life for people with dementia and their families and carers, and to find drug and non-drug treatments for people with conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and other diseases predominantly affecting older people. Our contracted NHS Memory Clinic service, paid for memory assessments, and allied activities also provide direct support to patients, families and carers. We are currently in an ambitious phase of development to increase significantly our clinical and academic research programme. We work closely with the Universities of Bath, Bristol and other research institutions, both nationally and internationally, and with the Royal United Hospital.
Role Title
Trustee (Board Member), ReMind UK
Time Commitment
We hold four full Board meetings per year, and an annual away day.
We currently have one subcommittee which is the Finance, Risk and Audit Committee (FAC) that meets four times a year should be a part of it.
Board and Committee meetings are generally of 1-2 hours duration. Once a year there is a remuneration meeting, which is a short meeting held directly after the Board meeting.
We engage between meetings via email on issues of relevance to either individual Board members or collectively where appropriate
Trustees are volunteers and may claim eligible expenses.
Role Purpose
Trustees are responsible for providing strategic leadership, ensuring good governance, and overseeing the charity’s management and administration. The day-to-day running of the organisation is undertaken by the charity CEO and the senior leadership team.
Trustees must act in the charity’s best interests, ensure it is well‑run, and that resources are used effectively to achieve its charitable purposes.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Leadership & Governance
· Ensure the charity has clear priorities, future, and strategic direction.
· Oversee delivery of the charity’s mission to improve diagnosis, care, and research into age‑related disorders.
· Make well‑informed decisions that align with ReMind UK’s charitable objects and the interests of beneficiaries.
· Maintain high standards of governance and accountability.
2. Legal & Regulatory Compliance
· To ensure that the charity complies with its governing document, charity law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
· Act with reasonable care, skill, and diligence in all decision‑making and oversight.
· Manage and declare any conflicts of interest.
3. Financial Oversight
· Ensure the charity is financially sustainable, with adequate controls, appropriate budgeting, responsible use of funds and sound financial planning.
· Support and work with the Finance, Risk and Audit Committee where appropriate and engage in wider discussions around income and expenditure where necessary.
- Safeguard the charity’s assets and ensure funds are spent effectively.
4. Advocacy & Ambassadorship
· Act as an ambassador for ReMind UK’s work in dementia research, memory assessment, and post diagnosis support.
· Promote the importance of early assessment, treatment possibilities, and community‑based support.
· Support relationship‑building with stakeholders, partners, funders, and the wider community.
5. Organisational Support & Risk Management
· The Board have delegated the oversight of the Risk Register to the Finance, Risk and Audit Committee (FAC), however it is also the responsibility of all trustees to identify and manage organisational risks and hold the FAC to account.
· Ensure effective planning and promote resilience across the charity.
· Support and constructively challenge the CEO and senior leadership team.
Person Specification
Essential:
· Commitment to the vision, mission and values of ReMind UK.
· Understanding of or willingness to learn about trustee responsibilities and charity governance.
· Strategic thinking and strong communication skills.
· Integrity, sound judgement, and independence of thought.
Desirable:
· Experience in health, dementia research, social care, charity finance, legal compliance, fundraising, or lived carer experience.
· Previous charity governance or leadership experience.
Eligibility Requirements
Certain individuals are legally disqualified from becoming charity trustees. Applicants must be 18+.
As part of our safeguarding commitment, trustees will be asked to complete an appropriate level of DBS check (Basic or Enhanced, subject to eligibility). We will support you through this process.
How to Apply and closing date
Interested individuals should submit a CV and a short statement outlining their motivation and relevant experience.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Become a Fundraising Volunteer!
Help make a better life for cats – because life is better with cats
Our vision for volunteering
Volunteering is, and always will be, at the heart of Cats Protection. It’s joyful, inclusive, and driven by people working together to transform the lives of cats, people, and communities. When you volunteer with us, you become part of something truly meaningful.
The difference you’ll make
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, Cats Protection helps thousands of cats every year. Our fundraising volunteers play a vital role in making this possible. By using your passion for cats and people, you’ll help raise the funds needed to support more cats and kittens in need.
As a fundraising volunteer, we’ll support you to get involved in a way that suits you best. Whether you enjoy organising events, fundraising online, promoting activities on social media, helping with administration, or coming up with fresh ideas — there’s a place for you here. Whatever your skills or interests, this could be the perfect role.
What you can expect from us
- A warm, welcoming, and inclusive environment in line with our values and behaviours
- Support to help you have a positive and impactful volunteering experience
- Agreed out-of-pocket expenses covered in line with our Expenses Policy
- Access to learning, development, and engagement opportunities
What we need from you
This is a highly flexible role, and you can choose how you’d like to get involved. Opportunities include:
- Face-to-face fundraising – organising or helping at fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, and monitoring collection tins
- Online fundraising – setting up online appeals and writing engaging cat case studies to maximise donations
- Marketing and promotion – spreading the word about fundraising activities via social media and local press
- Administration – processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, and completing Gift Aid paperwork
- Championing our work – helping to develop new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement
- Photography – capturing images of cats in care, cats we’re helping, fundraising events, and all things Cats Protection
Time commitment
This role is flexible and designed to fit around your other commitments. You’ll be part of a friendly team raising vital funds — and having fun along the way.
You could be just the volunteer we’re looking for
We’re committed to building a diverse, compassionate, and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. Together, we’re courageous and compassionate in helping people see the world through cats’ eyes.
Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats. Together, we are all for cats.
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.








