Legal Advisor Volunteer Roles

Empower Change as a Legal Advisor with Mast Cell Action: Championing Medical Support in the UK

Are you a dedicated legal professional looking to utilise your expertise for a cause that truly matters? Join the dynamic team at Mast Cell Action, a UK-based charity committed to supporting people with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome. Your legal skills can play a vital role in advancing our mission and providing much-needed assistance to those in need.

Position: Legal Advisor (Volunteer)

As a Legal Advisor at Mast Cell Action, you will be a crucial contributor to ensuring our operations align with UK laws and regulations. By providing expert legal guidance, you will enable us to navigate legal complexities and make informed decisions that drive our mission forward. In this role, you will:

Responsibilities:

Offer legal counsel on matters related to UK regulations, compliance, and policies.

Review and draft contracts, agreements, and legal documents to facilitate our initiatives.

Provide advice on matters of governance, organisational structure, and risk management.

Collaborate with internal teams to ensure legal compliance in fundraising, advocacy endeavors, and community outreach.

Represent Mast Cell Action in legal negotiations, disputes, and external communications.

Qualifications:

Qualified solicitor or barrister with current registration in the UK.

Experience in healthcare law, nonprofit law, or related field is advantageous.

Strong familiarity with UK healthcare regulations, privacy laws, and compliance standards.

Benefits:

A unique opportunity to leverage your legal skills for a meaningful cause.

Collaboration with a passionate and dedicated team.

Remote work and flexible arrangements.

Satisfaction in contributing to improved support for individuals in the UK.

Application Process:

If you are eager to apply your legal expertise to drive positive change, we invite you to submit your CV and cover letter. Please highlight your relevant experience and your alignment with our charity's mission.

Mast Cell Action is dedicated to building an inclusive and diverse workforce. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. Together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of individuals affected by mast cell disorders.

Join us in championing medical support and empowerment for all. Apply today to be part of a transformative journey.

At Equal Lives we care about breaking down barriers for people with lived disabilities, we want to create more opportunities for a fairer, more accessible world.  Our Benefits Advisers provide essential support to those who lack the skills or kknowledge to deal with benefits claims or appeals on their own, the people in our community who rely on this vital support in order to live as normal a life as possible.  Together with your help we can extend our support to more vulnerable people within the local community and ensure they get the help they so rightfully deserve.

Our volunteer Benefits Advisers support clients with disabilities in Norwich (NR1-NR7 postcodes). This is a great opportunity for you to learn all about PIP benefits, from finding out about conditions of entitlement to learning how to make the best case for a client. Whether you already have some knowledge and you want to make use of this to help others, or if you have no experience and are keen to learn, this role could provide you with an interesting and challenging volunteering opportunity.                                    

The Benefits Adviser role will involve assisting our clients with the following:

• Assisting them to make claims, including support with form filling 

• Offering information by telephone or email 

• Signposting or referring clients on to other organisations where appropriate. 

• Keeping accurate and up to date case notes

• Ongoing learning to ensure knowledge is kept up to date and accurate 

Full training is available to provide you with the skills and knowledge required to carry out this.

Charity Appeals Advisory Committee Members

Specialist areas: Disability

International Development

Could you lend your skills to help the BBC’s work with charities?

We are recruiting 2 new members to the BBC’s Charity Appeals Advisory Committee (AAC) which is made up of independent experts from the charitable sector.  The AAC is a voluntary body which advises and supports the BBC’s Executive Board in matters relating to good governance and effectiveness of BBC charity appeals.

Role Responsibility

AAC members advise on policy, scrutiny, the allocation of broadcasting time and the strategic development of the BBC’s relationship to appeals. These include BBC Children in Need, Comic Relief, the Radio 4 Appeal, BBC One Lifeline, appeals in the Nations and English Regions, appeals on behalf of the Disasters Emergency Committee and other projects where funds are raised for charities.

 The Ideal Candidates

We’re keen to hear from people who are, or who have been in a senior leadership role in a charity and who can bring expertise in charity governance and management. In particular we’re looking for people with specialist knowledge in one of the following sectors:

· Disability

· International Development

We’ll also need you to be able to demonstrate expertise in at least 2 of the following: social policy, fundraising, finance, grant making, legal issues, monitoring and evaluation.

The appointment will be for three years, renewable for a further three years by agreement. The position is unpaid but reasonable expenses will be met.

For more information please see the full advert here (LINK TO FULL AD) .

Closing date: 12 May 2024

Interviews are expected to be held w/c May 20th 2024.

We are seeking a Trustee Treasurer to help to manage our finances and investments, as well as being involved in strategic decision-making and grant giving.

The Lipman Miliband Trust is a charity whose purpose is to support socialist research and education as well as “educational activities that raise public awareness and understanding of struggles and movements for peace, human rights and a more equal, diverse co-operative and democratic society.”

The Trust was established by socialist businessman Michael Lipman in 1974 and academic Ralph Miliband until his death in 1994. We are celebrating fifty years of the Trust’s existence this year – and looking forward to the next 50!

Having benefited from a significant increase in resources in recent years we have started on an exciting new phase of our development that has meant increasing staff support and expanding our outreach, fund-raising and grant-giving activities.

We are currently a Board of ten trustees and we are now seeking a Trustee Treasurer who shares our values and our belief in the vital importance of socialist education. You will work with our Trust Coordinator as well as external advisors and accountants in helping to manage our finances and investments, and be a member of our Governance and Finance Working Group. As is the case with all charities, our finances are critical to the success of our work so experience or understanding of financial management and accounting would be very welcome. This is a voluntary, unpaid post, but we are happy to pay for appropriate additional training and there will be a lot of support from the Trust Coordinator and other trustees. 

Being a Trustee is a significant commitment and responsibility, but it is also hugely rewarding. The role will require you to attend each of our four Trustee meetings a year, and to participate in regular online meetings of the Finance & Governance Working Group. You will be part of strategic decision-making about the Trust, contribute towards the Trust’s governance and take part in decisions about grant awards.

We are based in different locations around the country and most of our work is conducted online, however we aim to meet in-person as a Board at least twice a year.

Background

Thyroid UK is a charitable company working primarily within the United Kingdom. Formed in 1998, we became a company limited by guarantee in 2007 and in 2008 we became a registered charity.

The provision of quality information for people with both diagnosed and undiagnosed thyroid disorders is the primary concern of Thyroid UK, and we work effectively in this field through dialogue with NHS departments, networking with other voluntary organisations, and providing services directly to patients.

We are a small charity, with just three permanent employees, plus contract staff, but we have a wide influence, and provide a great deal of support to our beneficiaries, within the UK and abroad.  The charity’s annual income in 2023 was £96,900.54 with the majority of that income being spent on both running the charity and conducting campaigns and activities to support our beneficiaries. 

The Thyroid UK Board of Trustees is a diverse group of 7 individuals, including the CEO, a Chairperson, Deputy Chair and this Treasurer role.

Role

We are looking to fill the position of treasurer for our Board of Trustees. Working with the CEO and Finance Manager, this role monitors the financial administration of the charity and reports to the Board of Trustees on its state of financial health, in line with best practice and in compliance with the governing document and legal requirements, to provide the board with the confidence and knowledge to better make operational and strategic decisions. 

The ideal candidate will have experience of finance or finance management, preferably including some experience in a small company or charity.

Time requirement

The role will require a time commitment of an average of 1 to 2 days per month, with more time required in some months than others. This includes three planned board meetings of approximately 3 hours (two held online and one held in London with the option to join remotely, if needed) and the Thyroid UK AGM. 

The Treasurer should be available to support the CEO, Chair and fellow trustees between board meetings, including taking responsibility to deal with issues which may arise, and have one-to-one meetings with the CEO and Finance Manager before board meetings. 

Term of office

The Treasurer’s term is two years, following which the trustees may re-elect the position for a further one or two term(s).

Remuneration

Thyroid UK is a charitable, not-for-profit organisation.  Trustee roles are not remunerated.  However, reasonable expenses for travel can be paid for those not living in London. 

Key Responsibilities 

· Liaise with CEO and Trustees to ensure the financial viability of the organisation’s strategy, advising on the financial implications of Thyroid UK’s strategic plan

· Present Thyroid UK’s financial position and broader context at Trustee meetings, and oversee the production of an annual budget.

· Ensure that the Board of Trustees is aware of its financial duties and responsibilities and the need to comply with all legislation, and take a lead in interpreting financial data to fellow board members.

· Provide oversight and guidance where necessary of accounts prepared for funders and relevant statutory bodies.

· Oversee the appointment of an independent examiner of the accounts and review the appointment on a regular basis.

· Act as counter signatory on charity cheques and some applications to funders, approve payments on banking systems, and spending approval in accordance with financial management processes.

· Work in partnership with the CEO/Finance Manager in executing their responsibilities and achieving their financial goals.

· Ensure that all financial policies, procedures and the appointment of external financial advisors are reviewed on a regular basis.

Person Specification

In addition to fulfilling the experiences, skills and attributes of a trustee, a treasurer must also have:

1. Knowledge and experience of accounting and audit practices in the UK as they apply to companies and charities

2. Be able to interrogate and interpret financial statements

3. Communicate financial information in a meaningful and understandable way to the Board

4. Strong working knowledge of any accounting software

5. Strong attention to detail

Submit your interest by sending us the completed application form, your CV and a short cover letter.

As an External Trustee, you will play a crucial role in guiding the strategic direction of Chester Students' Union, ensuring it is delivering effectively for its members and challenging the University to deliver the best possible University experience.

We are seeking individuals who bring a diverse range of skills, experiences, and perspectives to contribute to our dynamic and student-focused Board. If you are passionate about higher education, student well-being, and making a
positive impact, we invite you to consider the following criteria:

In particular we are keen to see people with experience of the following areas:

• Financial Strategy and Governance
• High level leadership experience within the Students’ Union/Charity sector.
• Strategic Partnerships and Measuring impact within Charity, Public Sector
• and/or membership organisations.
• Governance, and Human Resources/People Leadership.

1. Commitment to the Mission:
Demonstrated alignment with the mission and values of Chester Students' Union, with a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities within higher education.
2. Governance and Leadership:
Previous experience serving on boards or in leadership positions, preferably within the education or non-profit sector.
Strong understanding of governance principles and a commitment to upholding ethical standards.
3. Strategic Vision:
Proven ability to think strategically and contribute to the development of long-term organisational goals.
Experience in strategic planning, risk management, and performance evaluation.

4. Financial Acumen:
Familiarity with financial management, budgeting, and financial reporting. Ability to analyse financial information and make informed decisions in the best interest of the organisation.

5. Legal and Compliance Knowledge:
Understanding of the legal and regulatory obligations of charitable companies in the UK. Awareness of governance and compliance issues relevant to the higher education sector.

6. Networking and Advocacy:
Strong networking skills with the ability to advocate for the Students' Union and build collaborative partnerships.
A willingness to represent the organisation at external events and engage with stakeholders.

7. Student-Centric Approach:
A genuine commitment to student welfare and the enhancement of the student experience. Ability to empathise with and understand the diverse needs of the student community.

8. Effective Communication:
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex information to diverse audiences.
Comfortable engaging with students, staff, and external partners.

9. Innovation and Adaptability:
A forward-thinking mindset with a focus on innovation and adaptability to navigate the evolving landscape of higher education.

10. Time Commitment:
Willingness and availability to commit the necessary time to fulfil trustee responsibilities, attend meetings, and actively contribute to board discussions.

TRUSTEES REQUIRED!

At TOP UK we know how distressing and overwhelming OCD and phobias can be. Nearly 40 years of experience tells us that both conditions have a hugely negative impact on people’s lives. Fear and anxiety are incredibly unpleasant emotions and to frequently experience these emotions on a large scale is traumatic and debilitating. No one deserves that.

At TOP UK we also know that OCD and phobias are poorly understood, under-funded and stigmatised despite affecting millions of people. OCD and phobia sufferers often tell us how misunderstanding of their conditions leaves them feeling isolated, alone and afraid to seek help. At TOP UK, we believe no one should feel alone in facing their fears 

It is an exciting but testing time at TOP UK and we have just launched an ambitious three-year strategy. While we are eager to embark on this new stage of development for our organisation it comes with an acknowledgment that we are working in particularly uncertain and stressful times and there is a greater need to grow our service than ever before. Demand for our service is at an all-time high and continues to grow, currently dramatically outstripping our capacity. Mental health services are at breaking point leaving those with OCD and Phobias often finding it impossible to find help and dealing with debilitating conditions alone.

Meeting this demand will be a challenge, but it is a challenge we are ready and willing to push for but in order to grow and build our organisation we are keen to evolve, enhance and diversify our Board of Trustees

The role is open to those from the public, private and voluntary sectors. You should be someone with a genuine interest in mental health and we are ideally looking for individuals with any of the following experience: Charity Governance; IT & Digital;Marketing, Communications and Brand; Fundraising: Diversity and Inclusion. 

TOP UK also particularly welcomes applications from black and minority ethnic candidates and candidates from the LGBTQ+ community as they are currently under represented in our organisation.

 All board meetings are virtual and take place every other month.

For further details please click on the attached Trustee Application pack below. Application is by letter and CV, please click on the apply button to submit these.

New Horizons are looking for a new Treasurer to join their dedicated and friendly Board of Trustees.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a finance professional to join a committed and experienced team. We are a small charity which makes a meaningful contribution to the community.

Being a trustee is also a chance for you to give something back to your community, by using your skills and experience, you will be contributing to the strategic management of the charity, so we can continue providing activities which promote good mental health, whilst challenging the stigma around mental health issues and helping improve our services for the benefit of the residents of Cwm Taf Morgannwg.

Role Summary

Your role is paramount for the sustainability of our charity. You will support our charity’s financial management and thus help us make well informed decisions and plan accordingly, so we can effectively tackle the different challenges we face as a small organisation.

The Treasurer will help trustees to carry out their financial responsibilities and this involves working with the Director and Chair to -

• present financial reports to the board in a format that helps the board understand the charity’s financial position
• advise the board on how to carry out its financial responsibilities
• work with professional advisors including the accountant
• work with the Director, Chair and accountant to oversee the preparation and scrutiny of annual accounts
• work with the Director to help prepare budgets and financial reports.

Who are we looking for?

• Demonstrated financial/commercial awareness and knowledge
• Good communication and leadership skills
• Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information to members of the Board and other stakeholders
• Analytical and evaluation skills, demonstrating good judgement
• Competent use of IT skills
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• Strong interest in mental health issues
• Senior strategic management and leadership experience

Desirable:

• Dedicated to the organisation’s cause and objectives and willing to act as the charity’s ambassador to external bodies, charities and companies.
• An understanding of the UK charity sector, relevant legislations and statutory requirements.

Time commitment

Up to 5 hours a month. The Board meet every other month.The Treasurer would ideally step in as Chair of the Funding & Business Planning sub group which also meets bimonthly.

Background

We are looking to fill the position of Finance Trustee/Treasurer for our Board of Trustees. Working with the Executive Director and Finance Manager, this role monitors the financial administration of the charity and reports to the board of trustees on its state of financial health, in line with best practice and in compliance with the governing document and legal requirements, to provide the board with the confidence and knowledge to better make strategic decisions.

Time requirement

The role will require a time commitment of 2 - 3 hours a month (with some months potentially requiring additional input), in addition to quarterly, 3 hour board meetings (online/hybrid), and the Medact AGM in September or October. 

The Finance Trustee will ideally be available to work with the Executive Director, Finance Manager and fellow Trustees between Board meetings, including taking responsibility to deal with issues which may arise, and meet with the Executive Director and Finance Manager before board meetings. 

Term of office

The Finance Trustee's term is two years, following which Trustees may re-elect the position for a further one or two term(s).

Remuneration

Medact is a charitable, not-for-profit organisation.  Trustee roles are not remunerated.  However, if finances are a barrier to participation, we would like to discuss how we can overcome that.  Reasonable expenses for travel can be paid for those not living in London. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Liaise with ED and Trustees to ensure the financial viability of the organisation’s strategy
• Advise on the financial implications of Medact’s strategic plan
• Present Medact’s financial position and broader context at Board meetings
• Support the Finance Manager with the production of an annual budget
• Ensure that the Board is aware of its financial duties and responsibilities and the need to comply with all legislation
• Take a lead in interpreting financial data to fellow Board members
• Provide oversight and guidance where necessary of accounts prepared for funders and  relevant statutory bodies
• Oversee the appointment of auditors and review on a regular basis
• Act as counter signatory on charity cheques and some applications to funders, approve payments on banking systems, and spending approval in accordance with financial management processes
• Ensure that all financial policies, procedures and the appointment of external financial advisors are reviewed on a regular basis

Essential skills:

• Good background in financial management and analysis, gained through paid or unpaid experience
• Able to communicate financial information clearly and to people with different levels of financial and data literacy 
• Knowledge and experience of finance practice relevant to voluntary and community organisations
• Knowledge of accounting processes, tools and procedures
• High proficiency in Excel/Google Sheets, Powerpoint/Google Slides for analysis and presentation
• Commitment to Medact’s vision, purpose and culture and its way of working
• Understands and accepts the legal duties, liabilities and responsibilities of Trustees, and the difference between governance functions and management functions 
• High level of integrity and sound judgement
• Able and willing to devote the necessary time to the role

Submit your interest using your CV and a short cover letter speaking to the responsibilities and person criteria.

We're setting up a new youth charity called REMIX and looking for a volunteers to join us in the role of HR Manager who can help us get REMIX set up, leading on the setting up of our volunteer programme and also the HR function at REMIX.

REMIX aims to be a dynamic youth-focused charity passionate and committed to empowering young people from deprived areas and disadvantaged backgrounds across London and beyond by creating opportunities and experiences that address the holistic needs of young people, that EMPOWER young people and INSPIRE change that puts them on a path to TRANSFORM their lives for the better. Our evidence-based programmes will focus on developing essential life skills, fostering healthy lifestyles, and unlocking personal growth by experienced and dedicated positive role models in a safe and non judgemental environment, helping young people discover themselves and the world around them.

We're looking for volunteer HR Manager:

Our HR Manager will play a crucial role in ensuring that the charity’s human resources contribute effectively to its success and sustainability, helping REMIX become an amazing youth charity in London and beyond, especially for its volunteers and staff.

At REMIX you will;

1. Develop and implement HR strategies and initiatives aligned with the overall mission and goals of REMIX.
2. Lead and oversee the recruitment process, from job/role postings to interviewing and hiring, ensuring REMIX attracts and retains competent and dedicated staff and volunteers.
3. Provide support and guidance on HR-related case work and employee issues, fostering a positive work environment and team spirited culture at REMIX.
4. Ensure all HR policies and practices comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
5. Manage training programmes that align with REMIX’s needs, including staff/volunteer inductions and professional development opportunities.
6. Implement performance review processes to help manage staff/volunteer performance in line with the charity’s objectives.
7. Oversee payroll administration, ensuring its effectively managed.
8. Maintain employee/volunteer records, manage HR information systems, and ensure data protection standards are met.
9. Act as an advisor to senior management on all HR matters, providing insights that facilitate informed decision-making.
10. Lead and support organisational change initiatives, helping the charity adapt to evolving circumstances.
11. Promote diversity and inclusion within the charity, ensuring it is a welcoming place for all.
12. Other duties relevant to the volunteer role of HR Manager at REMIX.

Together, let’s REMIX the narrative of our world!

REMIX

EMPOWER | INSPIRE | TRANSFORM

Background 

Home-Start North and West Gloucestershire exists to offer support to families with children under 5 living in Tewkesbury, Cheltenham and the Forest of Dean. We are part of Home-Start UK. 

Thanks to our dedicated team of volunteers and staff, we are able to work alongside parents and help them navigate the challenges they are facing in their parenting journey to help give children the best possible start in life. 

The Treasurer and Trustee Role 

We are looking for a treasurer to join the Board of Trustees and to take the financial lead on our board.  The ideal candidate will have experience of finance management and is able to help ensure the right operational and strategic decisions are made for the long-term future stability of the charity. 

Key Responsibilities:  

• Liaise with the Home Start Team and Trustees to ensure the long-term financial viability of the charity. 

• Present the financial position and broader context at Trustee meetings. 

• Work in partnership with the Operations Manager/Finance Lead and clearly understand the financial needs of the charity giving financial support when required. 

• Oversee the production of our annual budgets and work closely with our accountants.  To also give input when required to our payroll provider. 

• Ensure the Board of Trustees are aware of their financial duties, responsibilities and communicate how they need to comply with all legislation. 

• To work in line with best practice and in compliance with the governing document and legal requirements set out by Home-Start UK.

• Provide oversight and guidance where necessary of accounts prepared for funders and relevant statutory bodies. 

• Act as counter signatory on charity cheques and some applications to funders, approve payments on banking systems and spending approval in accordance with financial management processes. 

• Ensure that all financial policies, procedures and external financial advisors are reviewed when required. 

You should: 

• Have knowledge and experience of accounting and audit practices. 

• Be able to interrogate and interpret financial statements. 

• Be able to communicate financial information in a meaningful and understandable way.

• Have strong working knowledge of accounting software (we use Xero). 

• Have strong attention to detail. 

Time requirement: 

The role will require a time commitment of approximately 10 hours per month.

This includes up to 12 board meetings a year of approximately 2 hours each (some held online and some in our Winchcombe office) and the Home-Start NW Gloucestershire AGM.  

You may also need to attend some meetings with the operations manager, finance lead and our external accountant to ensure clarity of finances and direct where required. 

Term of office: 

The Treasurer’s initial term is two years.

The trustees can then re-elect for a further one, two or three term(s) if the Treasurer would like to continue their position. 

Remuneration: 

Trustee positions are voluntary roles. 

We would love to hear from you if you would like to become involved in a charity that is helping families within Gloucestershire.  

Please do submit your interest by sending us an up-to-date CV and a short cover letter. 

Sutton Mental Health Foundation was established as a charity in 1998 and the aim of the Foundation is to support people with mental health needs in the London Borough of Sutton, helping to keep them well and active and helping them to have a voice in mental health care in the Borough.  Our vision is to provide a community in Sutton which values mental wellbeing and understands how to respond positively to anxiety and distress.  The Foundation works together to promote mental wellbeing resilience and recovery from mental distress.We provide nonclinical support, and we are part of the Voluntary Sector. 

The Foundation is seeking to add to the expertise of our experienced, professional Board of Trustees, who are all volunteers.  All our Trustees need excellent communication skills, the ability to work effectively as part of a team, strategic vision and good, independent judgement.  Although not limited to, we would particularly value the experience and skills in the following areas : 

• Company Secretary/Legal Experience 
• Fundraising in the following areas – Grant, Corporate and Public 
• Marketing 

Lived or shared experience of mental health – desirable. 

Inclusion is one of our values and we are looking for diversity in the makeup of our Board and that we particularly welcome applications from underrepresented communities.

The Board of Trustees meets every six weeks, in the evening at 7 p.m. for approximately 1 ½ hours in Sutton.  Sometimes our Board meetings are on-line.

ILP is an ambitious charity, currently going through an exciting period of development and growth.  We are looking for a qualified accountant to act as treasurer and support our work by ensuring effective governance and financial management.

What will you be doing?

The role of the Treasurer is to maintain effective governance of ILP, ensure financial viability and ensure that the proper processes and procedures exist to maintain all financial records, decisions and delegations.

Key Responsibilities are set out on the attached document but include:

1. Strategic

• Advise on the implementation of ILP’s strategy and resources required;

2. Financial

• Advise the Board on financial matters;
• Present financial reports to the Board;
• Oversee the preparation of management accounts, annual budget and annual accounts;
• Support for recruitment of staff responsible for financial matters;
• Liaise with relevant professional advisors;
• Advise on financial policies and accounting procedures and controls;
• Support the Executive Director and other staff on some day-to-day financial duties.

3. Governance

• Ensure the charity is carrying out its purpose for the public benefit in accordance with the charity’s governing document and the law;
• Ensure financial stability and the proper investment of charity funds;

The expected time commitment is 4 hours per month including attendance at quarterly Board meetings either at our London office or virtually.  The term of office is 3 years, serving a maximum of 3 consecutive terms. The role is unpaid although reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

What are we looking for?

We welcome candidates who satisfy the following:

• Fully qualified chartered accountant or equivalent qualification with charity or similar accounting experience;
• Demonstrable skills in analysing financial proposals and accounts, and examining their consequences;
• Good, independent judgement;
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to effectively support the charity;
• Good communication and people management skills.Qualified accountant or equivalent ideally with Treasurer/charity experience

What difference will you make?

ILP is an alliance of talented and passionate lawyers drawn from diverse countries and cultures across the globe. We pull together teams of pro bono experts to support the policy and legal needs of marginalised communities.

A UK registered charity founded in 2005, we are staffed by a group of lawyers dedicated to using the law to achieve economic and environmental justice through strategic pro bono legal support. For nearly twenty years we have supported partners in more than 80 countries.

We are proud to have a diverse staff team from Africa, Asia and Europe, reflective of the communities we support. Our staff have extensive experience in our focus areas, as well as international law and development. We work primarily in the Global South, with active projects across sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, Asia and Europe.

As a charity, our ultimate aim is to help our partners create long-lasting change in some of the world’s poorest regions.

Our vision is a just and sustainable world in which the law serves as a tool for those who need it most.

Before you apply

Applicants are requested to submit an updated CV of no more than three pages together with a cover letter of no more than two pages which concisely explains why you are interested in the role and how you meet the requirements set out in the Person Specification. 

Interviews will take place as soon as possible after 6 May and will be conducted by a small panel of staff/trustees. The current Treasurer and/or a trustee are happy to answer any questions you may have in advance.

Background

Thyroid UK is a charitable company working primarily within the United Kingdom. Formed in 1998, we became a company limited by guarantee in 2007 and in 2008 we became a registered charity.

The provision of quality information for people with both diagnosed and undiagnosed thyroid disorders is the primary concern of Thyroid UK, and we work effectively in this field through dialogue with NHS departments, networking with other voluntary organisations, and providing services directly to patients.

We are a small charity, with just three permanent employees, plus contract staff, but we have a wide influence, and provide a great deal of support to our beneficiaries, within the UK and abroad.  The charity’s annual income in 2023 was £96,900.54 , with the majority of that income being spent on both running the charity and conducting campaigns and activities to support our beneficiaries. 

The Thyroid UK Board of Trustees is a diverse group of 7 individuals, including the CEO, a Chairperson, Deputy Chair and Treasurer.  Our board members have a collective responsibility. This means that our trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Thyroid UK achieves its objectives. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that Thyroid UK has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support the executive team to enable Thyroid UK to grow, thrive and achieve its mission.

Role

We are looking for a trustee who will support and provide advice on Thyroid UK’s purpose, vision, goals and activities. Their duties include:

· Approve operational strategies & policies and monitor/evaluate their implementation.

· Review/approve Thyroid UK’s financial plans, statements and budgets, and evaluate progress. 

· Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

· Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

· Support Thyroid UK’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

· Hold the chief executive to account for the effective management and delivery of the organisation’s strategic aims and objectives, where appropriate

· Keep abreast of changes in Thyroid UK’s operating environment.

· Contribute to regular reviews of Thyroid UK’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 Thyroid UK’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.

· Contribute to the broader promotion of Thyroid UK’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when the trustees will need to be actively involved beyond board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Time requirement

The role will require a time commitment of an average of 1 to 2 days per month, with more time required in some months than others. This includes three planned board meetings of approximately 3 hours (two held online and one held in London with the option to join remotely, if needed) and the Thyroid UK AGM.

Term of office

The term of a thyroid UK trustee is two years, following which the Trustees may re-elect the position for a further one or two term(s).

Remuneration

Thyroid UK is a charitable, not-for-profit organisation.  Trustee roles are not remunerated.  However, reasonable expenses for travel can be paid for those not living in London. 

Key Responsibilities 

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. You do not need previous governance experience – we will provide a full induction and training.

Personal skills and qualities

· Willingness and ability to understand and accept responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.

· 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.

· Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

· Willingness to lead according to our values.

 Apply by sending us your CV and application form with a short covering letter