Trustee
We are seeking three committed Trustees to join a national fostering Board at a pivotal time, supporting strategic growth and championing foster care across the UK.
Position: Trustee (Volunteer)
Organisation: The Fostering Network
Location: UK wide. Particular interest in Wales and Northern Ireland
Hours: Approximately 10 to 15 days per year
Term: 3 years, renewable for up to two further terms
Remuneration: Voluntary role. Reasonable travel expenses reimbursed
Closing Date: Monday 23 February 2026
Interview Dates: W/C 16 and 23 March 2026
About the Role
This is an opportunity to join the Board of Trustees at a national fostering charity, following the launch of a new organisational strategy and the appointment of a new Chair in 2025. Trustees play a vital role in setting strategic direction, ensuring strong governance and supporting the organisation to deliver meaningful change for children and young people in foster care.
Key responsibilities include:
· Providing strategic oversight and constructive challenge at Board level
· Supporting delivery of the five year organisational strategy
· Acting as an ambassador for the charity and its values
· Contributing to effective governance, risk management and financial oversight
· Building strong relationships with fellow Trustees, senior leaders and stakeholders
· Attending Board and committee meetings, both in person and online
About You
You will bring personal experience of the foster care sector and a strong commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people.
We are particularly interested in candidates who:
· Are based in Wales or Northern Ireland
· Are qualified social workers working within fostering services
· Have skills in finance, particularly qualified accountants
· Have experience in commercial or business development
You will demonstrate sound judgement, strategic thinking, discretion and the ability to contribute confidently within a Board setting.
About the Organisation
The UK’s leading fostering charity and membership organisation. Founded 50 years ago by foster carers, it works across all four nations to influence policy, improve practice and strengthen the fostering community. At the heart of its work is a belief in the power of relationships to transform lives.
Other roles you may have experience of could include; Trustee, Non Executive Director, Board Member, Independent Board Member, Social Work Leader, Finance Director, Commercial Director, Strategic Advisor.
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!
1. POSITION SUMMARY
At Release Therapy for Women, our mission is to ensure every woman in Sussex has access to high-quality therapeutic support. The Community Outreach & Inclusion Ambassador acts as a vital "bridge" between our charity and the local community. This is an active, relationship-focused role. You will work to build trust within diverse neighbourhoods, speak with healthcare professionals, and ensure that women who might not find us on social media are aware of the free, safe, therapeutic spaces we offer.
2. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Community Mapping & Trust Building
* Local Mapping: Research and identify multicultural community groups, faith centres, and women’s organisations in your specific area (Worthing, Peacehaven, or Brighton).
* Networking: Attend local coffee mornings, community festivals, and group meetings to introduce Release’s services in a warm, accessible, and non-clinical way.
* Targeted Engagement: Actively work to engage all communities by building relationships with respected community leaders.
Health & Social Prescribing Liaison
* GP Practice Outreach: Visit local GP surgeries to ensure Social Prescribing Link Workers and Practice Managers have our latest flyers and understand our referral process.
* Pharmacy & Hubs: Place information cards in local pharmacies and community health hubs, particularly in Peacehaven and East Worthing.
* Removing Barriers: Briefly chat with potential participants to help diffuse any initial anxiety about "joining a group," explaining the supportive nature of our sessions.
3. PERSON SPECIFICATION
Skills and Abilities
* Strong Interpersonal Skills: You are a "people person" who can start warm conversations with individuals from all walks of life.
* Active Listening: The ability to listen without judgment and empathise with the diverse experiences of women.
* Independence: You are a self-starter who is comfortable managing your own local schedule and reaching out to organisations.
* Local Knowledge: You must have strong ties to, or a deep understanding of, Worthing, Peacehaven, or Brighton & Hove.
Knowledge and Experience
* Diversity & Inclusion: An understanding of (or lived experience of) the barriers that prevent marginalised women from accessing mental health support.
* Community Awareness: Knowledge of local community hubs, faith centres, or health services in your area.
* No professional clinical experience is required, but a passion for women's mental health and wellbeing is essential.
4. WHAT WE OFFER YOU
* A Supportive Home: Join a volunteer team that is 19% neurodiverse and 25% ethnically diverse.
* Training & Induction: We provide a comprehensive induction into our therapeutic model, safeguarding, and cultural competency.
* Expenses: We reimburse reasonable travel and out-of-pocket costs incurred during your outreach.