Supporter experience officer volunteer roles

Across the UK, we deliver vital services and support for people affected by MS. We connect people to information andresources, and to others in the MS community — helping build a sense of belonging, shared experience and unity. Living with MS can be challenging and isolating. Sometimes the most powerful support comes from someone who understands it personally.

As a Peer Support Volunteer, you’ll use your own experiences and knowledge of being affected by MS to help others feel understood, informed and empowered. You’ll offer a listening ear, emotional support, and signposting to services and resources that can make a difference. In this role, you’ll develop your listening, communication and people skills, as well as your knowledge of MS and local services. Most importantly, you’ll support people affected by MS to access the help they need. 

What you’ll be doing:

• Offering support by sharing your own experiences of MS 
• Keeping up to date with what services and support are available for people to access nationally, regionally and locally
• Helping people access services and support, including from our MS Helpline, Living Well virtual support, NHS services, local support and online tools 
• Connecting with people to understand their needs and goals   
• Supporting people to improve their wellbeing, reduce isolation and grow their confidence   
• Meeting people regularly (online or via telephone) to check in and continue support   • Listening to feedback and helping us understand what works and where we can improve

What you’ll get in return:

• You’ll be part of our amazing volunteer network
• You’ll develop new skills, which can improve your CV and employability
• You'll be making a real difference to people's lives
• You’ll get a say in influencing our work
• You’ll receive a Volunteer Welcome Pack
• You’ll have an induction to your role
• You’ll get support from your Volunteer Manager
• You’ll gain access to Learning and Development opportunities
• You’ll be reimbursed for any related expenses while carrying out your role 

Join Our Board - Help shape the future of Merton’s vibrant voluntary, community and social enterprise sector.

Merton Connected is seeking two to three new trustees to join us at an exciting time of growth.

Merton's voluntary, community, social enterprise and faith sector is full of energy, ideas and people determined to make a difference. As the borough's infrastructure charity, Merton Connected sits right at the heart of it: connecting, supporting and championing the organisations that support local people every day.

Now we want you to help shape what comes next.

Who we're looking for

We're seeking people who bring curiosity, strategic thinking, and a genuine commitment to inclusive community development. Whether this would be your first governance role or you've supported other boards before, what matters most is your perspective and your willingness to engage.

We're particularly keen to hear from people with insight or experience in:

• Charity management
• Public health, health and social care integration, or partnership working between statutory and VCS organisations
• Marketing and communications
• Digital and AI operations
• Income generation and fundraising
• Impact and performance measurement

We also warmly welcome applicants with diverse lived experience, fresh perspectives, and a strong connection to Merton. There's no single profile we're looking for, and different viewpoints make us stronger.

What you'll be doing

As a trustee, you'll help shape our strategy, strengthen good governance, and champion the voices of local organisations and residents. You'll join a collaborative, supportive board that works closely with our leadership team to ensure Merton's voluntary, community and faith sector continues to thrive.

What you'll gain

• The chance to influence local priorities and make a meaningful difference to people's lives
• Insight into how a well-connected, values-driven infrastructure charity works from the inside
• Opportunities to share your knowledge and develop your own strategic and leadership skills
• A place on a welcoming, inclusive board committed to learning and collective impact

The practical bit

Time commitment: 4–6 meetings per year (including strategy days), with occasional subgroups or events
Support offered: A full induction is provided, and reasonable out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed.

We are actively seeking to expand our board and hope to make at least two trustee appointments over the next two months.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and we may appoint additional trustees where their skills and experience complement the board.

Ready to find out more?

Please apply with your CV and a few screening questions

Evidence & Impact Support Officer 

Are you passionate about community and ready to make a real difference?

We’re looking for someone who wants to help our grassroots club grow, tell our story, and unlock new opportunities for our members!

Why This Role Matters

As our Evidence & Impact Support Officer, you’ll play a key role in shaping the future of our club. The evidence you gather will prove our impact to funders, partners, and the community—helping us become a Community Interest Company (CIC) and secure the support we need to grow.

What You’ll Do

Capture Our Story:
Gather feedback, testimonials, photos, and stories from our activities, events, and workshops.

Listen to Our Community: Help us understand and document what our members and neighbours need and hope for.

Show Our Impact: Summarise surveys, highlight local statistics, and collect evidence that shows why our work matters.

Track Engagement:
Record social media activity, volunteer support, and community involvement.

Organise Proof: Keep our records (photos, sign-in sheets, feedback) organised and ready for grant applications.

Build Connections: Log our relationships with local groups and supporters.

Support Our Growth: Help identify next steps, gaps, and funding opportunities with the club committee.

Who You Are

- Deeply passionate about community and eager to help us grow.

- Organised, detail-oriented, and creative.

- A good listener and communicator—you love gathering stories and feedback.

- Willing to learn, take initiative, and collaborate.

- Experience is a bonus, but your enthusiasm and commitment matter most!

What You’ll Gain

- Make a Difference: Your work will help us become a CIC and access new funding.

- Develop Skills: Community engagement, impact reporting, and more.

- Build Experience: Be part of a grassroots club’s growth journey.

- Recognition & References: We’ll celebrate your contributions and support your future goals.

- Personal Reward: The satisfaction of helping build something meaningful from the ground up.

Why Join Us?

We’re a friendly, welcoming team, united by passion and purpose. If you want to use your skills for good and help shape a brighter future for our community, we’d love to hear from you—no formal experience required!

Interested? 
Send us a message telling us why you’d like to join, or reach out for a chat to learn more.

Help shape the future of the UK's leading LGBT+ young people's charity.

From school bullying and family estrangement to inequality in the workplace, growing up LGBT+ is still unacceptably tough. We want every young person to have the opportunity to thrive and grow up knowing that being LGBT+ is something to be celebrated. 

Since our founding, Just Like Us has grown significantly in both scale and impact. Today, 4 in 5 secondary schools and thousands of primaries across the UK engage with our programmes, we have the UK’s largest cohort of LGBT+ volunteers aged 18 to 25, and our annual income exceeds £1 million. We have published landmark research reports that shape public opinion and influence government policy, and built a network of 14,000+ teachers who support LGBT+ inclusive education.

As we enter our next phase of development, we are seeking an exceptional Chair to lead our Board of Trustees and help guide the organisation through a period of continued growth, increasing organisational maturity and evolving opportunities.

This is an opportunity to provide strategic leadership to an ambitious national charity at an exciting point in its development. We are looking for a Chair who can lead our Board with confidence and sound judgement, support our Chief Executive through the next phase of organisational growth, and help ensure we remain financially resilient, well governed and firmly focused on our mission.

While the Chair will be an important ambassador for the charity, this is first and foremost a governance leadership role. We are looking for someone who understands how effective Boards operate; who can foster constructive challenge and collaboration, and who enjoys helping organisations and people realise their potential.

You may already be an experienced Chair, Trustee or Non-Executive Director, or you may bring substantial executive leadership experience and have worked closely with Boards throughout your career. We welcome candidates with good knowledge of charity governance, from across the charity, education, health, public, commercial and wider social impact sectors who can demonstrate strategic leadership and sound judgement.

We are particularly interested in individuals who have experience of supporting organisations through growth and increasing organisational complexity, who understand the importance of balancing ambition with sustainability, and who can act as a trusted partner to both the board and Chief Executive.

A strong external profile and established networks may be valuable in helping us build partnerships and extend our reach, however, we are equally interested in candidates whose strength lies in leading boards, navigating complexity and building high-performing governance.

Most importantly, we are looking for someone who shares our commitment to improving the lives of LGBT+ young people. We would particularly welcome applications from candidates with lived experience as an LGBT+ person, recognising the valuable perspective this can bring to the role.

This is an unremunerated voluntary position, with reasonable expenses reimbursed. The expected commitment is approximately two per month, including board meetings, preparation, occasional committee meetings and representing the charity at key events.

If you are excited by the opportunity to help shape the future of an ambitious, values-led organisation making a tangible difference to the lives of LGBT+ young people across the UK, we would be delighted to hear from you.

If you are excited by the opportunity to help shape the future of Just Like Us, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please send your CV and a covering letter setting out your motivation for the role and the experience you would bring as Chair of Trustees, to our email as specified in the recruitment pack, by 17:00 on Friday 21 August 2026

Trustee Role Description

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Caudwell Youth achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that we have a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable Caudwell Youth to grow and thrive, and through this, shape young people’s futures.

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Trustee Duties

• Support and provide advice on Caudwell Youth’s purpose, vision, goals and impact.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of Caudwell Youth, approving strategy and annual plans.
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Oversee financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
• Review and approve Caudwell Youth’s annual report and accounts.
• Provide support and challenge to the CEO and executive team, in accordance with our values.
• Promote youth engagement in all that we do Keep abreast of changes in Caudwell Youth’s operating environment.
• Contribute to regular reviews of Caudwell Youth’s own governance.
• Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Caudwell Youth’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.
• Act as an ambassador for Caudwell Youth by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

What We Are Looking For
We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

Personal Skills and Qualities

• A commitment to Caudwell Youth’s vision, mission and values 
• Knowledge and/or interest in youth issues
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Willingness to lead according to our values.
• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

In addition to these, we are particularly looking for skills and experience in charity marketing and communications, as well as public sector funding / commissioning.

We want to grow our volunteering so experience here would also be welcome. As a young people’s charity we are also interested in applications from younger people and those with lived experience aged 18 and over.

Terms of Appointment

Terms of Office

• Trustees are appointed for a 3 year term of office, this can be renewed for a second term. (Maximum of 6 years service).
• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.
   

Time Commitment

• Preparing for, and attending, 4 Board meetings annually. Currently meetings are held 5.30-7.30pm online.
• A strategy day in person in London/Milton Keynes.
• Ad hoc and occasional support through working groups and / or support to the executive team.

· Do you have liver disease or had a liver transplant?

· Have you attended either our virtual or face to face support groups?

· Do you have some free time to support a someone at the beginning of their journey?

· Are you a good listener and empathetic to others affected by liver disease?

· Are you passionate about making a difference to liver health?

If so, we would love to hear from you.

Key responsibilities include:

1. Working alongside your allocated outreach development officer in the facilitation of British Liver Trust patient support groups.

2. Setting up and facilitating both online and face to face support groups as agreed with your allocated outreach development officer.

3. Act as a point of contact for patients attending your allocated support groups.

4. Engaging with patients and families affected by liver disease through peer mentoring to inspire hope, build confidence and help people self- manage their condition.

5. Acting as a peer mentor supporting new individuals who are joining our support services.

Do you have a passion for helping grow support that transforms lives? Are you ready to use your skills to make a difference? 

Join DFN and play a key role in growing the funding and partnerships that support our programmes in India.

Dignity Freedom Network (DFN) works in cities and in rural villages across India. We champion those society sidelines including those from low caste and tribal backgrounds.  Could you help secure funding from grant makers for our education, health and protection programmes?

What will you be doing?

You will support DFN’s fundraising team by helping to identify new opportunities, strengthen relationships with supporters, and contribute to the development of funding opportunities that enable our work to grow.

This role will involve using your writing and research skills to support a range of activities, working closely with the team to help increase DFN’s fundraising capacity and impact. The role is remote, with regular opportunities to connect with the fundraising team and learn more about DFN’s work. You will need access to a computer and the internet. 

What are we looking for?

Skills and experience

Essential 

• Good research skills 

• Excellent writing

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills. 

• Organised, reliable, and able to manage multiple tasks. 

• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusive practice. 

• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in a small team. 

Desirable 

• Experience intrust and foundation fundraising and/or major donors 

• Previousfundraisingexperience (paid or voluntary) 

• Experienceofdevelopingfundraising resources 

What difference will you make?

Your contribution will help DFN strengthen its fundraising approach and secure support for programmes that create opportunities and improve lives.

By sharing your skills and experience, you will help a growing charity expand its ability to deliver meaningful work with communities across India.

What are the Benefits for you?

• Experience in a small, entrepreneurial charity where your contribution has visible impact. 
• Opportunities to develop or broaden your fundraising skills in a supportive environment. 
• Informal training in fundraising skills

• A warm, values‑driven team committed to inclusion, learning, and positive change. 

• References and recognition for your contribution to help you secure your first or next paid role

• An opportunity to make the world a better place!

• Working flexibly, tailored to your availability.

Dignity Freedom Network (DFN) is active across India. We work in large cities and in rural villages, with young children and new mums, with women who have experienced exploitation, and families facing discrimination and prejudice. We work to champion those society sidelines including those from low caste and tribal backgrounds.

Indian colleagues and volunteers deliver impactful education, health, protection and vocational skills programmes - the ladder needed by those we seek to help to overcome the barriers they face.

Could your fundraising expertise help save lives?

The Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) is looking for a Trustee with senior fundraising, supporter engagement and income generation experience to join our Board.

This voluntary role is an opportunity to use your expertise to help shape the future of a life-saving charity. As a Trustee, you'll provide strategic oversight, constructive challenge and specialist governance, helping to ensure we can continue delivering critical care to people across the North East, North Yorkshire, Cumbria and the Isle of Man.

You won't be involved in delivering fundraising activity day to day. Instead, you'll work alongside fellow Trustees to scrutinise strategy, monitor performance, oversee risk and ensure our fundraising remains ethical, effective and aligned with our mission.

We're particularly interested in hearing from people with senior experience in fundraising, development, external engagement or income generation within the charity, social enterprise, public benefit or purpose-led sectors.

You will bring experience in:

· Fundraising strategy and income diversification

· Donor stewardship, supporter journeys and campaign planning

· Fundraising governance, compliance and ethical practice

· Board-level thinking, constructive challenge and sound judgement

· Building relationships and acting as an ambassador for a mission-led organisation

You will also share our mission, values, equity, diversity and inclusion, and Nolan’s seven principles of public life.

Time commitment

The Board meets at least four times a year, plus a strategy day. Trustees are encouraged to sit on two Board Committees, with additional contact usually taking place by email, telephone or Microsoft Teams.

Interested?

If you are passionate about using your fundraising expertise to make a meaningful difference, we would be pleased to hear from you.

Closing date for applications: 28th August 2026

The Association of Anaesthetists (Great Britain & Ireland) is seeking to appoint a lay trustee to its Board of Trustees

This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a well-respected medical membership organisation helping to shape the future of anaesthesia, influence patient safety, and support anaesthetists at every stage of their careers.

With more than 10,000 members across Great Britain and Ireland and internationally, the Association’s mission is to safeguard patients by educating, supporting, and inspiring anaesthetists to deliver the very best care in every healthcare setting.

About the Association

For over 90 years, the Association has been a trusted voice for the anaesthesia community, supporting clinicians through an evolving healthcare landscape.

The Association is registered as a company limited by guarantee and as a charity in both England and Wales and Scotland.

Our work is driven by four strategic priorities: Patient Care and Safety, Education and Research, Advocacy and Support, and Innovation and Growth. These priorities are set out in our ambitious 2024–2029 strategy, launched in 2024, which defines the Association’s vision, mission, values, and long-term direction.

Our core values are at the heart of everything we do:

• Committed: We are a respected and independent organisation, committed to speaking up and speaking out on behalf of our members and the anaesthesia community
• Trusted: For over 90 years, we have helped to set standards, share knowledge, and support thousands of people in a vital profession. Our expertise matters to our members and globally
• Innovative: We look forward, not back. We care about the future of anaesthesia and actively help shape its future on behalf of our members by listening, responding, and innovating
• Connected: We are a dynamic, diverse, and inclusive community. We exist because of, and on behalf of, our members

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic leadership of the charity, overseeing organisational strategy, annual business plans, and financial stewardship. Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer and senior leadership team, the board ensures the Association continues to deliver impact for members, patients, and the wider healthcare community.

For further information on the charity see the latest Foundation Statutory Report and Accounts.

About the lay trustee role

Lay trustees play a vital role in strengthening the effectiveness, governance, and strategic direction of the Association. They bring valuable external insight, independent challenge, and specialist expertise that have significantly enhanced board discussions and decision-making.

As a lay trustee, you will:

• Help shape the future direction of the Association
• Provide independent oversight and constructive challenge
• Contribute specialist expertise and fresh perspectives
• Support strong governance and strategic decision-making
• Act as a trusted critical friend to the organisation

You will work alongside elected trustees who are practising anaesthetists, fellow lay trustees with expertise in finance and technology, and a highly experienced staff team.

Lay trustees also become members of the Association Council, which acts as an advisory body to the Board.

Who are we looking for?

We are particularly interested in applications from individuals with expertise in areas such as:

• Fundraising
• Marketing and communications
• External affairs

Previous trustee experience is welcome but not essential. We value diversity of thought, background, and lived experience, and encourage applications from individuals who can bring new perspectives to our work.

The full role description is shown below.

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to patient care and the future of healthcare while working with a committed and forward-thinking organisation.

By joining the board, you will help influence a profession that plays a critical role in healthcare systems across the world, supporting clinicians, improving standards, and ultimately helping patients receive safer care. If you are motivated by purpose, collaboration, and strategic impact, we would be delighted to hear from you.

The deadline for applications is 17:00 on Friday 21 August 2026. Applications are invited via cover letter and CV to the Chief Executive Officer, Nicky de Beer. In your cover letter, please address how you meet the role description and person specification. We accept the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as an emerging technology but please state if and how you have used AI in your application. Please send your letter and CV.

Following an initial short-listing process interviews will be held via videoconference on the morning of Thursday 10 September 2026.

For further information or an informal discussion

Contact Nicky de Beer, Chief Executive Officer.

Lay trustee role description

Purpose of role: Lay trustees enhance the knowledge, expertise, judgement, and balance available to the Board of Trustees to ensure a financially sound, healthy, and legally compliant organisation. Their principal assets will be their knowledge and expertise, independence, and the confidence and ability to be a critical friend of the Association.

Responsible to: President (Chair of the Board of Trustees)

Key working relationships

• President
• Other trustees
• Chief Executive Officer, senior management team and staff
• Other members of the Association Council
• Other stakeholder organisations such as the Royal College of Anaesthetists, and charity partners

Term of appointment:

Following a successful interview and satisfactory references, the lay trustee will be appointed for a three-year term commencing from the Annual Members’ Meeting in September 2026.

Time commitment

The Board of Trustees meets up to five times a year. The dates for board meetings are set 12 months in advance from October to September. Meetings normally take place on Fridays approximately every 8 weeks as either a half-day or full-day meeting at 21 Portland Place, London or via videoconference, but videoconferencing facilities will be available for all meetings.

Trustees are expected to attend each board meeting and to engage in communication between board meetings with staff and board colleagues as required.

Expenses

This role is voluntary and is unremunerated. Trustees will be reimbursed for their expenses for travel, hotel accommodation and subsistence when attending meetings. Expenses will be paid in accordance with the expenses policy. As this is a voluntary role, trustees are not otherwise compensated for their service.

Training

Training is provided for trustees to enable them to perform their governance duties effectively.

Trustee duties and responsibilities

Please view the Charity Commission guidance CC3 The essential trustee: what you need to know, what you need to do. Trustees of the Association are also directors under company law, and under the Companies Act 2006, there are specific legal duties placed upon company directors. You should familiarise yourself with those legal duties before applying for this role.

Key responsibilities:

Strategic direction and financial oversight.

• Contribute to ensuring that the charity’s purpose is carried out and that all activities support its charitable objectives
• Contribute to and agree the strategic direction of the Association and help set its long term priorities
• Oversee risk management, making sure appropriate controls and policies are in place
• Oversee the financial performance of the Association including budgets, reserves and the responsible use of funds
• Help to ensure that the Association’s equity, diversity, and inclusion objectives are met

Trustees are also expected to:

• Ensure legal and regulatory compliance, including acting in line with charity law, company law, and the governing document
• Attend meetings of the Board of Trustees on a regular basis and be well prepared by reading relevant papers in advance and participating fully in meetings and decision making
• Act with integrity and independence, always in the best interests of the charity
• Participate in wider Association work, assist with ensuring the charity’s purposes and mission are clearly communicated to members and the public
• Undertake training and induction as may be required to carry out the role
• Keep up to date with developments in healthcare. the charity/not-for-profit sector and the role of trustee
• Act as an ambassador for the Association where appropriate

Person specification

We are keen to appoint lay trustees whose values align with ours and have the following key attributes.

Key attributes

Essential

Relevant expertise outside the field of anaesthesia, such as in:

• Fundraising
• Marketing & Communications
• External affairs

The ability to challenge constructively and rigorously and to contribute at a strategic level while listening sensitively to the views of others

Commitment to the Association and its objectives

Sound judgement, integrity, and high ethical standards

Excellent communication skills

Willingness to acquire the expertise and knowledge to discharge responsibilities

An understanding and awareness of equity, diversity and inclusion

Ability to attend board sub-committees and working group meetings, conferences and key events run by the Association

Desirable

Experience of acting as a trustee

Informed about the environment in which the charity operates and the issues it faces

Help us raise the funds that make our life-saving work possible.

Every piece of equipment we provide, every training opportunity we deliver, and every community project we undertake is made possible through the generosity of our supporters. As a Fundraising Officer, you'll play a key role in helping North West First Responder Group secure the funding needed to support Community First Responders and improve community resilience across the North West.

Whether you enjoy organising events, building relationships or coming up with new fundraising ideas, this is an opportunity to make a lasting impact.

What you'll do

As a Fundraising Officer, you may:

• Organise and support fundraising events within your local community.
• Build relationships with local businesses, organisations and community groups.
• Identify new fundraising opportunities and campaigns.
• Encourage supporters to take part in challenge events and community fundraising.
• Help promote our Lifesaver Lottery and regular giving initiatives.
• Assist with donation collections and awareness events.
• Work alongside our Communications Team to promote fundraising campaigns.
• Thank supporters and help recognise the incredible contribution of our donors and fundraisers.

You'll have the opportunity to develop fundraising initiatives that directly support the charity's mission and make a measurable difference.

What we're looking for

We're looking for volunteers who are:

• Passionate about supporting their local community.
• Friendly, confident and able to build positive relationships.
• Organised, proactive and self-motivated.
• Creative, with ideas for engaging local supporters and businesses.
• Comfortable representing the charity at community events.
• Able to work as part of a supportive and enthusiastic team.

Previous fundraising experience is helpful but not essential. If you're enthusiastic, motivated and willing to learn, we'll provide the guidance and support you need.

What you'll gain

By joining our Fundraising Team you'll receive:

• The opportunity to directly support life-saving community initiatives.
• Experience in charity fundraising, stakeholder engagement and event planning.
• Access to training and continuous professional development.
• Opportunities to build relationships with local businesses and community organisations.
• The satisfaction of seeing the direct impact your fundraising has on volunteers and the communities we serve.
• Recognition as part of a growing, ambitious and supportive charity.

Every pound you help raise enables us to invest in our volunteers, deliver community education, provide essential equipment, and strengthen the communities we serve. Your efforts will help ensure we're ready to support those who respond when it matters most.

The Coroners' Courts Support Service (CCSS) is a registered Charity whose trained volunteers give emotional and practical support to bereaved families and other witnesses attending an inquest.

We need volunteers to provide emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending Inquests at Coroners' Court. Our volunteers at court also provide help and assistance to the Coroners' Officers, as and when required.

We are looking for reliable, supportive people with excellent communication skills. A mature and calm attitude is needed in order to be able to talk to people during a sometimes bewildering and emotional experience. Volunteers must be willing to undergo a period of observations and shadowing, as well as attend a 3 day training course. A minimum commitment of one day (9:00am - 5:00pm) per fortnight is asked for. Training and mentoring is provided and travel expenses to the court are reimbursed.

New volunteers should possess good communication and listening skills and the ability to empathise with people they support

The Coroners' Courts Support Service (CCSS) is a registered Charity whose trained volunteers give emotional and practical support to bereaved families and other witnesses attending an inquest.

We need volunteers to provide emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending Inquests at Coroners' Court. Our volunteers at court also provide help and assistance to the Coroners' Officers, as and when required.

We are looking for reliable, supportive people with excellent communication skills. A mature and calm attitude is needed in order to be able to talk to people during a sometimes bewildering and emotional experience. Volunteers must be willing to undergo a period of observations and shadowing, as well as attend a 3 day training course. A minimum commitment of one day (9:00am - 5:00pm) per fortnight is asked for. Training and mentoring is provided and travel expenses to the court are reimbursed.

New volunteers should possess good communication and listening skills and the ability to empathise with people they support.

Chair of the Board of Trustees

The Ripple Pond Charity - Supporting Armed Forces and Veteran Families

A Voluntary Trustee Position
With reasonable expenses reimbursed

Please note that although the closing date for applications is 11 September 2026, we will be reviewing applications as they are received and may interview suitable candidates before the closing date. We therefore encourage interested candidates to apply early, as the recruitment process may close once a suitable appointment is made.

 Help Shape the Future of Support for Military Families

The Ripple Pond is seeking an exceptional individual to serve as Chair of our Board of Trustees.

This is an opportunity to lead a unique and growing charity that supports the families and carers of Armed Forces personnel and veterans who have sustained a service-related physical or psychological injury. Through peer support, advocacy, collaboration and innovation, we help military families feel seen, heard and supported throughout their journey.

We are looking for a values-driven leader with strategic vision, strong governance experience and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of military families and the wider Armed Forces community.

About the Role

As Chair, you will lead the Board of Trustees, ensuring that The Ripple Pond remains focused on its charitable purpose, strategic priorities and long-term sustainability.

Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer and fellow Trustees, you will help guide the charity through its next phase of development, strengthening our impact, partnerships and influence across the military, veterans, health and social care sectors.

You will function as an ambassador for the charity, helping to build relationships, influence decision-makers and create opportunities that support lasting positive change for those we support.

Who Are We Looking For?

The Chair of The Ripple Pond leads a small but complex charity that provides support to more than 1,200 Armed Forces and veteran family members across the UK. Around 20% of new Members joining our services live in environments that place them at high risk.

These challenges often arise from complex and overlapping circumstances, including addiction, suicidal ideation, domestic abuse, safeguarding concerns, risk of homelessness and wider welfare needs.

This places significant responsibility on the Chair to provide strong board leadership, support and develop trustees, maintain effective governance and strategic oversight, and work in close partnership with the CEO to ensure the charity remains focused on delivering meaningful impact for military families. The Chair also acts as one of the charity's principal ambassadors and public representatives.

We are seeking an individual with a broad range of experience and perspectives, ideally gained across multiple sectors. This might include commercial business, the public sector, healthcare, social care, the arts, the Armed Forces, emergency services or the voluntary sector.

You will have experience in developing and delivering regional or national strategies that have achieved sustainable and measurable positive outcomes, preferably through collaboration and partnership with a range of stakeholders.

You will have operated at executive or equivalent senior leadership level and be comfortable working across organisational boundaries, where success is achieved through influence, relationships and shared purpose rather than formal authority alone.

You will possess a strong understanding of risk, including strategic, organisational, and people-related risks, and be able to explain complex issues in a way that is clear, practical, and accessible to others.

Most importantly, you will demonstrate humility, integrity and compassion. You will care deeply about people, value the contribution of others and be motivated by a desire to serve the Armed Forces community and improve the lives of military families.

Role Profile

We are seeking an experienced senior leader who can provide effective governance, constructive challenge and confident stewardship to help guide The Ripple Pond through its next phase of development.

The successful candidate will bring:

Experience and Capability

Organisational Leadership and Change

• Significant executive, board-level or equivalent senior leadership experience.
• Experience of leading organisations through growth, transformation or periods of significant change.
• A proven ability to develop and deliver complex strategies, align stakeholders behind a shared purpose and achieve sustainable outcomes.
• The ability to balance organisational ambition, opportunity, risk and long-term sustainability.

 Governance, Finance and Risk

• A strong understanding of governance, accountability and effective board leadership gained through charity trusteeship, corporate governance, public service or other relevant senior leadership experience.
• Experience of supporting effective decision-making, constructive challenge and organisational assurance.
• Financial confidence and literacy, including the ability to understand budgets, financial performance, investment decisions and long-term sustainability.
• An understanding of risk management and the importance of robust oversight.

Influence, Partnerships and Representation

• Experience of building effective partnerships and relationships across sectors.
• The ability to represent an organisation with credibility, authenticity and professionalism.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to engage and influence a wide range of audiences.

Leadership Style and Values

We are particularly interested in individuals who demonstrate:

Integrity and Accountability
A commitment to ethical leadership, transparency and maintaining the highest standards of governance.

Collaborative Leadership
The ability to build trust, bring people together and create an environment where trustees, Members, workforce, partners and other stakeholders feel valued and able to contribute. You will listen, encourage open discussion and help create a shared sense of purpose both within The Ripple Pond and across the wider community.

Compassion and Respect
An understanding of the experiences of military families and carers, with genuine respect for different perspectives, backgrounds and lived experiences.

Courage and Constructive Challenge
You will be confident asking the difficult questions, challenging thinking and encouraging open and honest conversations. You will build trusted internal and strategic relationships, using your influence to ensure the experiences of military families and carers are understood and reflected in wider conversations and decision-making. This will help ensure that The Ripple Pond continues to play its part in shaping a stronger support landscape for military and veteran families.

Self-Awareness and Learning Mindset
A willingness to listen, reflect and continue developing, recognising that effective leadership requires curiosity, humility and openness to new ideas.

Commitment to Our Purpose
A genuine desire to improve the lives of military families, carers and veterans affected by service-related injury. You will understand the importance of lived experience in shaping services, strategy and practice, ensuring that those we support remain central to organisational decision-making.

Experience within the Armed Forces, veterans, healthcare, social care, public service or charity sectors would be beneficial but is not essential.

Safeguarding and Creating a Safe Culture

The Ripple Pond is committed to creating a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for all Members, volunteers, staff, trustees and partners. Safeguarding is fundamental to our work, and trustees share responsibility for ensuring that people feel respected, listened to and able to raise concerns.

The Chair will champion a strong safeguarding culture, ensuring the Board maintains appropriate oversight of safeguarding practice, risk management, policies and organisational culture.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Ripple Pond believes that diversity of experience and perspective strengthens our organisation and improves the support we provide. We welcome applications from people with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, including those with relevant lived experience.

The Chair will help ensure equality, diversity and inclusion are embedded throughout governance, decision-making, culture and service development, creating an organisation where everyone feels valued, respected and able to contribute.

Time Commitment

The role of Chair is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the lives of Armed Forces and veteran families. While voluntary, it carries significant responsibility and requires a consistent commitment throughout the year.

Key responsibilities include:

• Chairing at least four formal Board meetings annually.
• Participating in occasional committee, strategic planning and development meetings.
• Maintaining regular engagement with the Chief Executive, providing guidance, support and constructive challenge.
• Supporting trustee recruitment, development and succession planning.
• Attending selected events, conferences and stakeholder engagements.
• Acting as an ambassador for The Ripple Pond with partners, funders, supporters and the wider community.
• Providing occasional availability for matters requiring Chair input between scheduled meetings.

Many meetings are held virtually to maximise accessibility and efficiency, although some travel will be required for Board meetings, key events and stakeholder engagement.

Professional Practice

As a national charity supporting over 1,200 military family members across the UK, the Chair will maintain an informed understanding of The Ripple Pond’s work, operating environment, opportunities and risks to provide effective Board leadership and appropriate support and challenge to the Chief Executive.

Applicants should be able to commit sufficient time in line with Charity Commission guidance and recognised principles of good governance. The time requirement will vary throughout the year, with additional involvement likely during periods of strategic development, organisational change or significant emerging issues.

Above all, the Chair will view this not simply as a governance appointment, but as an opportunity to help shape and strengthen an organisation making a lasting difference to military families across the United Kingdom.

Digital Confidence and Ways of Working

The Ripple Pond is a digitally enabled charity, with services, meetings and engagement activity delivered predominantly through online platforms. The Chair should therefore be comfortable working in a digital environment and using technology to support effective governance and communication.

This includes participating in virtual Board meetings, reviewing digital reports and documents, communicating with the Chief Executive and engaging with stakeholders online. Confidence using video conferencing, shared document systems and online collaboration tools is essential to ensure effective participation, timely decision-making and organisational agility.

Term of Appointment

The appointment is for an initial term of three years.

Trustees may be reappointed for further three-year terms up to a maximum of nine years, subject to the charity's governing document and Board approval.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to lead the Board of a growing charity with a clear purpose and a strong commitment to military families across the United Kingdom.

The Ripple Pond exists because the experiences and challenges faced by families caring for injured serving personnel and veterans are often unseen and not fully recognised. As Chair, you will help shape our next chapter, working with an experienced team and community of Members to strengthen our impact, ensure the voices of military families and carers are heard, and help influence wider understanding, services and support.

The Coroners' Courts Support Service (CCSS) is a registered Charity whose trained volunteers give emotional and practical support to bereaved families and other witnesses attending an inquest.

This opportunity will be at both Crook and Durham so volunteers need to be willing to volunteer at both sites.

We need volunteers to provide emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending Inquests at Coroners' Court. Our volunteers at court also provide help and assistance to the Coroners' Officers, as and when required.

We are looking for reliable, supportive people with excellent communication skills. A mature and calm attitude is needed in order to be able to talk to people during a sometimes bewildering and emotional experience. Volunteers must be willing to undergo a period of observations and shadowing, as well as attend a 3 day training course. A minimum commitment of one day (9:00am - 5:00pm) per fortnight is asked for. Training and mentoring is provided and travel expenses to the court are reimbursed.

New volunteers should possess good communication and listening skills and the ability to empathise with people they support.