Treasurer Volunteer Roles

Becoming a Trustee for Herts Musical Memories

Herts Musical Memories are celebrating there 8th Year of becoming a charity and we are now at last, beginning to recover from the Pandemic. We urgently need to expand our board to ensure that the charity continues to grow – the following provides some background to our work and lays out what it means to become a trustee.

Herts Musical Memories purposes are:

• To facilitate structured group sessions designed around the principles of music therapy and group singing for people with dementia and their carers.

Herts Musical Memories objectives are:

• To provide activities for people with dementia and their carers that help stimulate memories

• To provide activities that incorporate social interaction and peer support for people with dementia and their carers

• To reduce feelings of isolation for families coping with dementia and to provide access to artistic and social stimulation

What Herts Musical Memories values are:

Health, wellbeing and equality will be at the core of all Herts Musical Memories activities relating to service users, staff and volunteers and the wider public.

In relation to our service users Herts Musical Memories will actively promote equality for people with dementia.  To free them from fear and isolation and to use our services to demonstrate to the wider public that people with dementia still have a place in society and should be treated with dignity and respect.

The Singing Sessions:

‘Thank you for Bringing the sunshine into my Mum’s week.’  Carer

Herts Musical Memories provides stimulating social activities involving music, seated movement and singing for people with dementia and their carers.  The charity runs 9  groups in 4 weekly blocks across Hertfordshire with an admin and song preparation session every 5th week.  There is an average of 25 people per session with sometimes over 30 people attending.  The sessions last 90 minutes with time set aside for socialising and light refreshments. 

Most of the participants are dealing with the impact of an early diagnosis and are usually accompanied by a family member, usually a spouse.  People who live alone often come with a professional carer.

Sessions are held at fixed dates and times in community centres or church halls. The venues are chosen carefully for ease of access, to be on regular bus routes, good parking and for having good facilities. This does mean that, sometimes the venue can be expensive, but the venue plays an important part in making the sessions a positive experience.

The sessions are structured to include a range of activities that are repeated each week providing the service users with a routine that becomes familiar with regular attendance.  Songs are chosen from popular music from the 1950s going up to the 1970s. The sessions will include; songs that require movement, singing rounds where people get a chance to sing in harmony, rhythm exercises using percussion instruments and exercises in dexterity using bean bags.

The service users are taught new songs – incredibly due to the way the human brain remembers music, people with dementia can cope with this and actively enjoy learning new things – this increases their confidence and boosts their self-esteem.

The sessions are delivered by a professional group leader with the support of volunteers. 

Finances:

Herts Musical Memories has no formal funding – we raise a contribution through fees which are £6 per session, we raise up to £10,000 per year through events held on our behalf another £5,000 through donations and the rest we have to fundraise for.  To run the charity effectively we need to raise just over £10,000 per group.  To help us achieve this we have developed a 5 year fundraising strategy.  Our goals are to achieve enough funding to recruit a part time administrator, create a reserve of 6 months running costs ensuring a sustainable future.

‘I’d like to thank you, you make me feel so happy’ - guest

What Does it Involve to Become a Trustee

Trustees share formal responsibility for the charity and must act in its best interests, regardless of how they're elected or appointed. Some trustees may take on specific roles on the board, such as chair, vice-chair, secretary and treasurer.

Herts Musical Memories meets 4 times per year mainly on Zoom but with some face to face in West Hertfordshire.  If a trustee has particular expertise in finance, fundraising, HR we do occasionally hold one on one sub meetings with the CEO.  No experience is necessary as there is plenty of training available – it is a commitment but it is a rewarding commitment.  Becoming a trustee is about taking on a position where you can make a real difference to the people who live in your local community.

Top five traits of a good trustee

· A good trustee is ready for a challenge – running a small charity is always a challenge and supporting the CEO in facing those challenges is a vital role of a trustee.  Whether it be support, advice or helping to access the necessary expertise that can support the charities development

· They are open and listen to many voices – there are many people prepared to offer advice and many voices to be heard, from the team running the charity to the beneficiaries.  Listening and understanding enables a trustee to offer advice and help the charity seek solutions that will improve and enable it to reach its goals.

· Trustees are team players – running a charity is a team effort which is relevant from the Board through to the beneficiaries by working together as a team a charity is more likely to prosper and grow.

· Trustees have expert knowledge – this expert knowledge can be in training, marketing, fundraising, HR, Law or it could be in a first hand knowledge of the charities services and the impact it has on families and the ability to use that understanding to enhance the charities service for people living with dementia.

· They exercise good judgement and care – this is essential, working with vulnerable adults comes with a lot of responsibility. We need to be sure we work within the parameters of Charity Commission’s guidelines to ensure good practice which protects all involved from the  trustees, staff and beneficiaries.

A good trustee also knows what they are doing within the framework of their role. At a basic level, they should understand and know how to act as described by The Charity Commission.  The regulator’s ‘The essential trustee’ guidance sets out six main duties:

· Ensuring that the charity is working for the benefit of the public

· Compliance with the law

· Acting in the best interests of the charity

· Ensuring accountability

· Financial responsibility

· Acting with reasonable care and skill

It may seem overwhelming to become a trustee but it is, as mentioned so rewarding and the satisfaction, that as a trustee you are truly making a positive difference to people lives.

 Please note Herts Musical Memories is based in Bushey, Hertfordshire (Hence why this is the position location listed), however meetings with trustees are typically held in locations within West Hertfordshire or remotely via Zoom.

Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Chair?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Our branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per month. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.

What would you be doing?

• Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
• Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
• Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
• Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
• Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
• Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. 
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
• Reliability
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
• Good written and spoken English.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Join Irise’s Board of Trustees as our Finance Lead, part of a vibrant global community building a world where a female body is not a disadvantage.

“I learn so much from being a trustee of Irise. I learn about different kinds of leadership, we strive to practice our values, we are collaborative, and we support each other. Being part of such a great team and network of volunteers and advocates is a real bonus.”

Irise International is an award-winning global leader in period equality programming and advocacy, building a world where a female body is not a disadvantage through bringing together young people with firsthand experience of menstrual challenges to create change in their own communities and wider society. We work in the UK and East Africa, in partnership with our sister organisation Irise Institute East Africa and advocate together globally for the changes our community want to see. We’re powered by our community, driven by evidence and committee to feminist leadership. Read more about our shared purpose and values in our Global Strategic Framework.

We were founded in 2014 in response to girls’ voices calling for their menstrual needs to be acknowledged and met. Almost a decade later, our small and agile team has directly supported over 100,000 young people to overcome period inequality, enabled 287 organisations to address period inequality in their work and boasts a community of over 174 groups and community organisations across the contexts where work. We’ve won a global award, sat on a UK government taskforce and been named one of the most effective organisations tackling this issue.

Our current UK Board has 7 committed trustees who are committed to working in a way which is inclusive, welcoming, collaborative, transparent, and reflective. We were shortlisted for a UK Charity Governance Award in 2020 for our approach to Diversity and Inclusion and we are on a continual journey to create spaces where diverse people can find community and a sense of belonging- we invite everyone who joins our community to help us do this better.

Who are we looking for? We are looking for a dedicated and passionate Trustee - Finance Lead, with specific skills and expertise in small charity financial management, who can guide the Irise community through the next phase of our journey. With cuts to funding for girls’ education in the Global South and rising levels of period poverty in the UK, Irise is needed more than ever before and we want to deliver ambitious plans for transformative change, led by the people and communities who need it most.

What difference will you make? As a member of the Board, you will be willing and able to:

•  Ask powerful questions
•  Respectfully challenge yourself and others
• Collaborate with other Board members, Irise staff, volunteers, and external contacts
• Scrutinize Board documents and papers
• Participate in discussions and share accurate information
• Provide advice and guidance (based on individual specific expertise and experience) on strategy, projects and initiatives.

 As Finance Lead, alongside the Treasurer, you will maintain an overview of the Charity's financial position and of the conduct of its financial affairs such that they can and do give well grounded advice to the Board of Trustees and CEO.

Key Responsibilities

• Actively participate as a key member of the Board of Trustees.
• Support the development of the annual budget and future trajectories in line with the aspirations of the Irise’s strategic plan and fundraising strategy.
• Advise on all financial matters, including regulatory compliance.
• Oversee the development and observation of financial policies.
• Keep the Board of Trustees regularly informed of key financial events, trends, concerns and assessment of fiscal health in addition to completing financial reporting in a timely fashion, making these reports available to the Board within reason.
• Have oversight of all financial transactions including monitoring developed systems for keeping cash flow manageable and efficient.
• Advise fellow Trustees on a regular basis of the financial status of the charity and where necessary recommend action.
• Arrange the compilation and agreement of Irise’s annual report, including the annual review of accounts by the independent examiner.

Person Specification

The ideal candidate will have sound financial knowledge and the time needed to comprehensively fulfil the role:

• Competent and experienced in handling finances, ideally within small charities (formal accountancy qualification preferred).
• Good understanding of the charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP)
• An understanding of the voluntary sector and previous experience as a Trustee

In addition, all trustees are required to fulfill the following duties as outlined by the Charity Commission. 

Before you apply, please consider:

Time Commitment: The Board meet at least every 3 months. All of our core Board meetings are held virtually on weekday evenings lasting approximately 1.5 hours. Board papers are circulated 1-week prior to each meeting to enable plenty of time to read through and ask questions prior to the meeting. In between Board meetings you may be invited to provide additional ad-hoc input such as providing insights via email or taking responsibility for researching and writing Board papers on particular issues. We also have 1-2 in-person meetings per year; where possible, we strive for hybrid access to enable inclusion of those people unable to attend in-person events. Trustees are also encouraged to participate in online and in-person events with our wider networks and supporters from the UK and East Africa, and to support our youth leadership initiatives, for example we ask one of our trustees to provide mentorship to our Empower Period Committee. In total, you can expect to spend an average of 1-2 hours per week on activities and meetings related to the role. The role is meant to be compatible with a full time job and caring responsibilities, and we always aim for trustee input to be as flexible and time efficient as possible. We are always open to new ideas to make our Board as accessible as possible.

Term: Trustees serve a mutually agreed term, usually of at least 3 years, as agreed by the trustee and the board depending on the needs and desires of the organisation and the individual trustee. As a Board we engage in a continuous cycle of reflection, and each year our Chair meets with each board member, one to one, to review and reflect.

Expenses: Trustees shall be reimbursed whenever possible for all reasonable traveling, subsistence and other expenses incurred in connection with their attendance at meetings or in carrying out any other duties or responsibilities of the role, but otherwise shall not be paid a remuneration.

How to apply

Please share a bit about who you are, your previous experiences and a short explanation of why you would like to become a trustee of Irise International with our Chair, Linda Baines. You can share a CV, your Linked In profile, a personal website or any other relevant materials that tell us a bit more about who you are and what experiences you’ve had. Please don’t feel that you have to prepare something specially for us.

You’re also welcome to share your explanation of why you’re interested in joining the board in a format that works for you e.g. a short cover letter or a video recorded on your phone. If you have questions about the role, need any help or support to apply or would like to discuss the opportunity in more detail please get in touch to arrange a time for a phone/video call. We’ll arrange a conversation with some of our existing board members to explore with you whether we’ll be a good match. The deadline for applications is 10th July 2024.

fWe’ll also reach out to people as they get in touch with us to explore compatibility. Don’t worry if you miss the deadline - we do also consider expressions of interest in joining our board on an ongoing basis.

Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Chair?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Our branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per month. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.

What would you be doing?

• Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
• Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
• Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
• Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
• Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
• Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. 
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
• Reliability
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
• Good written and spoken English.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Opportunity to join Heard’s Board of Trustees

Would you relish the opportunity to learn how storytelling can drive long-term change in areas including poverty, climate change, trans rights, migration, sexual violence & domestic abuse? We're looking for trustees with legal or HR expertise to help us create impact across all these issues and more. We are looking for candidates who are excited by the opportunity to work with a small and innovative charity and who share our passion for the work. You’d be joining an already incredibly engaged board of a growing organisation. 

Role: Trustee, in particular trustees with a legal or HR background. 

Remuneration: This is an unpaid role, reasonable out of pocket expenses will be covered. 

Duration: Trustees stand for terms of three years, with the chance to be re-elected for a further two consecutive terms of three years.

Time commitment: We estimate the equivalent of 5 hours’ time commitment per quarter. The full Board meets once each quarter for an average of 2 hours.

Location: London, although the majority of our board meetings are hybrid meetings with options to join remotely. 

Start: ASAP

What does the role of Trustee look like?

The role of Trustee is a rewarding, engaging, decision making one where you get to make a real difference, using your skills and experience to help our charity create as much impact as we can. 

You will join a dedicated board of trustees who are ultimately responsible for the governance and finances of the charity, working together to make sure that the charity’s resources are used effectively to achieve its aims. 

Board meetings allow the trustees to come together to fulfill their legal obligations, as stated in the Memorandum and Articles of Association. We don’t expect you to necessarily be familiar with the  ins and outs of these obligations - we will provide you with support and training to navigate your responsibilities. The CEO and Executive Team are responsible for updating and providing the necessary information to the trustees to enable them to make their decisions. 

Trustees are not expected to be experts in every aspect of the running of Heard, this is why we have dedicated employees to provide information to the trustees and specialist trustees such as our treasurer who has the financial expertise to guide the trustees when it comes to the accounts. 

Our trustees also have the opportunity to sit on sub-committees depending on their areas of interest. Our sub-committees are currently Social Affairs, Finance and Human Resources. 

About Heard:

Heard is a charity working with people and the media to inspire content and communication that changes hearts and minds.

We all know that being heard matters. On a fundamental level, good communication means being heard and feeling heard. And good communication is transformative. It can shift perspectives, and move conversations – and society – forward.

Therefore, in a world that can feel loud, divided and awash with misunderstanding, our work is making sure we can hear each other.

It’s about finding common ground on big, important issues. Connecting people. Growing understanding. Check out our core programmes focussed on issues such as climate change, poverty, domestic abuse, transgender experiences, migration and children’s palliative care.

Our name also reflects how we centre and support people whose stories need to be heard at scale. You can read more about what we do at Heard on our website.

Nina (current Co-chair) says “I know how challenging it can be to make a reality of narrative change, and I find it immensely rewarding to be a small part of Heard’s impactful storytelling work”. 

We are committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone regardless of their background or age. We are particularly keen to receive applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic people; people with disabilities (visible and invisible, mental and physical); people who identify as being LGBTQ; and people who identify as working-class or have done so in the past.

Why us? 

Joining Heard’s board is an opportunity to:

• Heard fully onboard their trustees in a way that allows them to get an in depth understanding of the work Heard does. 
• Use your knowledge and skills to increase the impact of a charity that is committed to long term narrative change for society’s most pressing issues.
• Work with creative, forward-thinking and friendly people in an atmosphere of mutual support and learning.
• Meet like minded people, increase your own network, and get to witness our work with senior media professionals and campaigners in person.
• Play a crucial part in enabling a small innovative charity to grow strategically and sustainably. 

General responsibilities of trustees:

• An understanding of and commitment to the values of Heard, and its vision and mission statements.
• Ensure the operational plan and budget reflect the agreed strategic direction and are appropriate.
• To hold the Chief Executive accountable for the achievement of agreed targets and provide them with regular, constructive feedback on both management and overall achievement.
• Support the CEO when requested, sharing expertise, as a member of a working group or in other appropriate ways.
• Agree the charity’s policies and ensure they will assist in the achievement of the strategic and operational plans.
• Ensure the charity has satisfactory financial control systems and procedures in place, and to review the level of risk annually.
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship and to reflect annually on the Board’s performance and your own performance as a Trustee.
• Attend quarterly Board meetings, read relevant papers and be prepared to make a contribution, working with fellow Board members as a team.
• Safeguard Heard’s reputation, and other intangible assets. Be prepared to act as a spokesperson for Heard, attending events as an ambassador for Heard, to network and promote the work of the organisation.
• Assist with fundraising by speaking, networking and otherwise seeking business development opportunities in conjunction with the CEO.

Personal specifications:

• Enthusiasm, energy and time to commit to this role. 
• Practical experience of engaging with strategy and of helping to develop and grow an organisation. 
• An understanding of and commitment to the values of Heard, and its vision and mission statements.
• Influencing skills to bring ideas and opinions to staff, stakeholders and fellow trustees.
• Ability to analyse risks and opportunities and take a balanced approach to both.
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• A strong communicator, a team player, a collaborator.
• Sound, independent judgment and ability to think creatively. 

Desirable:

We are particularly interested in trustees with HR or legal experience. 

• Prior experience as a Trustee, including understanding of governance, best practice and the legal and regulatory environment in which charities operate.  
• Record of supporting a charity/non-profit organisation, demonstrable understanding of the challenges faced by small charities upscaling their work in the current climate.
• Bringing an established network of contacts who may support our fundraising work.
• Guide and advise other board trustees on the legal requirements for and implications of the charity’s strategic plans
• Experience of performance management, HR/employment law issues and implementing them contextually  
• Able to demonstrate a good understanding of current developments in HR, staff and development training and recruitment  

How to apply:

Please send your CV and a covering letter, explaining why you are interested in this position.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

About the Role

The Bridge Project is a well-established Bradford based charity with over 35 years’ experience delivering services and projects addressing a range of issues such as substance misuse, risk taking behaviours, relationships, housing, physical/mental health, and employment. We work with individuals, families, partners, and communities to improve people’s lives in a sustainable way, empowering people experiencing multiple barriers to achieve positive change.

We currently employ over 120 staff, 40% of whom are ‘experts by experience’ and have joined us through our volunteering programme.  We are recognised as being innovative and recovery focused, and our services have been highlighted nationally  as examples of best practice in the sector. Our portfolio of services and projects are constantly evolving in response to the changing needs of our service users and our local communities. Currently this includes recovery focussed drug treatment services, housing and resettlement support, access to education, training, and employment (ETE), volunteering programmes, support for people engaged with criminal justice services and befriending/mentoring services for people with significant barriers to recovery and community reengagement.

What will you be doing?

Our Trustees play a pivotal role in governing the Bridge Project.  They are responsible for setting our strategic vision and priorities, ensuring our financial sustainability, and providing guidance and oversight to our operations. Our Board is committed to excellence, and we are looking for new individuals to bring fresh knowledge and experience to join us in this important work.  We’re committed to creating a Board which is representative of the communities we support, bringing together those with a variety of skills and experiences, to help shape what we do and how we work.  We’re particularly keen to hear from candidates from ethnically diverse backgrounds and from woman, however, we would be pleased to hear from you if you feel you can add value to our Board and would like to help us to make a positive contribution.  This is a rewarding role and you do not need to have experience of been a Trustee before, as there will be a comprehensive induction.

As a Trustee, you will have the opportunity to bring commitment, energy and enthusiasm to the role with a passion for doing your best.  You will work alongside other talented Trustees, engage with our staff and stakeholders, and contribute to our collective mission of empowering people experiencing multiple barriers to achieve positive change.

Our Trustees play a vital role in making sure that the Bridge Project achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that the charity has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the senior leadership team to enable The Bridge Project to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Time Commitment

We ask that you are able to devote time to attend 4 Trustee Board meetings per year, 4 Sub-Committee meetings per year and 1 Planning meeting.  These are a mixture of in-person meetings in Bradford and zoom meetings.  Meetings are currently held in the evening.  Trustees are also encouraged to visit our premises to meet with the staff team and meet the people we support.

What Difference will you make?

You will be joining a friendly, highly engaged, and passionate group of likeminded Trustees who are keen to deepen the impact of the Bridge Project in local communities.  As a Trustee, you will have a real opportunity to offer your unique skill set to help the strategic direction of the charity and directly contribute to these objectives.

You will collectively be responsible for ensuring that the Chief Officer and his team not only grow our services to meet everyone that needs them, but that the service we provide is of the highest quality.  Last year we provided treatment and support to 4,900 individuals.

You will also have an opportunity to expand your knowledge of the voluntary and community sector and give something back to the local community as well as developing new skills.

Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Chair?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Our branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per week. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.

What would you be doing?

• Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
• Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
• Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
• Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
• Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
• Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. 
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
• Reliability
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
• Good written and spoken English.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

As TRAIN's Chair, you’ll lead our Board of Trustees, and oversee the work of our CEO ensuring we deliver brilliant outcomes for the young people we support every day!

Your tasks include:

• Leading our Board meetings
• Supporting our CEO and staff team
• Shouting about our work, and act as our biggest advocate
• Helping make sure our Board fulfils its responsibilities and requirements

GSTTKPA is going through an exciting period of change. As a result, we are seeking to recruit a new Chair to support our ambitious and innovative change programme, so we can continue to achieve the aims and objectives of the charity.

The Chair role provides leadership to the organisation and the Trustee board by ensuring that everyone remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes in order to ensure that GSTTKPA moves forward and continues to benefit kidney patients in the future.

The Chair will also need to set the strategy for the charity for the next few years which is vital for ensuring that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, the new post holder must understand that all the Trustees have a collective responsibility. This means that the Chair and the other Trustees must always act as a group and not as individuals. 

As a Trustee, the new Chair must have a commitment to equality; celebrate diversity and be responsive to the needs of different groups and individuals within GSTTKPA and the wider community. In return, the successful applicant will join a warm and friendly team that works collaboratively to support each other as well as our kidney patients.

Location: Essex – some online meetings

Are you a dynamic leader passionate about social impact? Citizens Advice Essex seeks a dedicated Chair to guide us through our next phase of growth. Lead a significant charity making a substantial impact across Essex, Southend, Thurrock, and beyond.

About Us:

Citizens Advice Essex is the lead charity for nine local offices, supporting around 50,000 clients annually with issues like debt, benefits, employment, and housing. Our consortium, funded by organisations like British Gas Energy Trust and Macmillan, had an income of £2.1 million for 2023/24.

Role Overview:

As Chair, you will provide strategic leadership, ensure high governance standards, and act as an ambassador. You will support the Consortium Director and foster stakeholder relationships. The ideal candidate will have senior leadership experience, an understanding of charity governance, and excellent communication and diplomatic skills.

The expected working hours for this role are 8 hours per week.

Responsibilities:

In this role, you will lead the Board in monitoring strategic priorities and organisational activities. You will serve as a line manager to the Consortium Director and engage with stakeholders, clients, volunteers, and officials. Your responsibility will include fostering a cohesive and effective Board environment, ensuring it has the necessary skills and experiences to meet strategic goals. You will also conduct annual evaluations of the Board and individual trustees and promote equitable and inclusive practices throughout the organisation. A strategic mindset, commercial acumen, and commitment to our values are essential.

Application Process:

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter demonstrating how you meet the role requirements to the email address on website, you can find this via the Apply button.

Informal Enquiries:

For further information, contact David Pickles (Interim Chair) or Martin Lord (Consortium Director), contact details available on our website via the Apply button.

We Stand are recruiting a number of Board of Trustee Volunteers.

We Stand is the only national charity that specialises in helping non-abusing parents and carers to protect and support their sexually abused children.

Our Mission is to provide support in a non - judgmental environment for non abusing parents and carers of sexually abused children. 

Our Services help families at a time of extreme trauma caused by child sexual abuse – providing emotional and practical support to young victims, siblings and non-abusing parents/carers so that they can move on positively with their lives together. 

We are in exciting times as we develop new services across the UK and have recently launched a new program of work in Wales.

We Stand is run by a Board made up of Trustees. We are seeking committed and passionate individuals, we are  particularly interested in applications from those with the following experience but also we are interested in applicants from diverse backgrounds and experiences, to support our work. 

• Charity finance/funding experience - Individuals with day-to-day experience of setting and managing charity budgets. 

• HR experience 

• Legal experience, ideally experience within family law. 

Previous board experience not required

Expectations

• Actively participate in board meetings (which occur once every 6 weeks, on Tuesday evenings), and working groups where required 

• Oversee the strategic direction of the organisation, supporting its development through good governance

• Use personal skills, expertise and time to support the organisation’s development

• Undertake tasks required by the Board from time to time - such as recruitment 

Vacancy - Chair of the Board of Trustees Barbara Bus Fund, Stanmore

The Barbara Bus Fund is recruiting for a new Chairperson.

The Barbara Bus Fund is a registered charity, which was set up in 1968 to help people who cannot get out or use public transport or an ordinary car, because they have a disability that necessitates full-time use of a wheelchair.

Today the BBF operates a fleet of 15 specially converted vehicles from Stanmore, Aylesbury and North Wales. The BBF is operated by a combination of paid and volunteer staff with head office at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore.

The role of Chair is a voluntary position with the requirement to commit to one to two days per month, attend online meetings every 6-8 weeks and the AGM. The Chair will lead the Board of Trustees, chair committee meetings and the AGM.

Previous trustee / charity experience is required and the commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership. Previous experience within the health / care / transport sectors will be a distinct advantage however, other relevant experience and the right attributes will also be considered.

The BBF holds an annual meal to thank the volunteers and staff, and there are other periodic meetings and events throughout the year.

Please see the full Application Pack for further information.

About We Are Family 

We Are Family is an extraordinary peer support community for adopters and prospective adopters. We’re there for parents throughout their adoption journey. Online and in person, our parents’ groups, events, resources, podcasts and talks offer mutual support, information and inspiration to adopters and those considering adoption. We currently operate across Greater London and the Home Counties, with ambitions to scale nationally over the coming years. 

You can find out more about us here. 

The Role

We are looking for new trustees to strengthen and enhance our board. The key responsibilities of the role include, governance, overseeing policy and direction, financial oversight and assisting with the leadership and general promotion of We Are Family to support the organisation’s Vision, Mission, Values and needs.

This is a voluntary opportunity with associated Trustee expenses -  such as travel / childcare -  covered by We Are Family.  Trustees can be based anywhere in the UK. 

Commitment

Trustee capacity to devote the time needed for the following is essential:

• 4 Board meetings per year

• 2 Board away days per year (on a Saturday)

• Membership of at least one sub-committee (which also meet 4 times a year)

We estimate 8-10 hours for the charity per month. The duration of membership for a new Board member is for three years in the first instance, with the possibility of appointment for a further three year term.

Skills and Experience 

All applicants should be able to demonstrate the following:

• Be able to show high levels of professionalism and an ability to work collaboratively with others, including Trustees, our core team and the wider Volunteer network at We Are Family

• Be well-organised, with good written and verbal communication skills.

• Previous board/trustee experience is not necessary and we welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds. A thorough induction, and further trustee training as appropriate, can be provided. 

We are particularly interested candidates with the following experience:

• Working as a professional with or in the adoption sector,

• Advocacy and/or research work;

• Finance/charity finance

• Leadership within a charity

• Education 

• Legal.

Although many of our current trustees are adopters themselves, we are also keen to recruit suitably qualified people who are not, but who can demonstrate a commitment to the values and mission of We Are Family.

One of the great strengths of We Are Family is that we are volunteer and member driven, and we represent a diverse community of adoptive parents. We particularly welcome trustees from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds to ensure that the board can benefit from this diversity of experience. We would also welcome single adopters to the board. 

To Apply 

If the opportunity to join an exciting, rapidly growing charity appeals to you as someone able to make a valuable contribution, please get in touch!

Refer to our job ad for the Applications email address and email our team. If you would like an informal conversation about the opportunity, please let us know.

Please note that applications are received and reviewed on an ongoing basis, therefore an early application is advised.