Finance Volunteer Roles in Home Based
The Gravesend RNLI fundraising team have a vacancy for a volunteer treasurer. The team work closely with the lifeboat crew and water safety team at Gravesend lifeboat station to hold a rage of events, develop partnerships and drive engagement locally. The treasurer is a key member of the team, ensurring financial compliance and providing a brief report on income at fundraising meetings (currently held every 6 weeks in Gravesend)
We are looking for someone who is financially literate with basic IT skills and is happy to undertake training with our finance team on internal processes and using Salesforce, our accounting system. Full training and ongoing support is available and an accounting or book-keeping background is not necessary. The team are a friendly, welcoming group witht he ambition to do more year on year and whilst the time commitment currently is probably around 2-5 hours per month ths may grow to be closer to 6-8 hours a month in time.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Overall Purpose of Role
- To ensure on behalf of the Board that Plateful Cafe’s assets are properly managed, only used for approved purposes, and applied as effectively as possible
- Jointly oversee the financial affairs of the organisation and ensure they are legal, constitutional and within accepted accounting practice
Main Responsibilities
- Share the responsibility of jointly reporting the financial position (balance sheet, cash flow, fundraising performance etc).
- Jointly oversee the production of necessary financial reports/returns, accounts and audits and the production of an annual budget and propose its adoption at the last meeting of the previous financial year.
- To ensure jointly that proper accounts and records are kept and that Plateful Cafe meets its legal obligations in respect of its financial affairs and financial reporting
- To ensure jointly that Plateful Cafe’s financial resources are spent in line with good governance and legal and regulatory requirements
- To be jointly instrumental in the development and implementation of Plateful Cafe's financial policies
- To jointly supervise and assist Finance assistants
Main Tasks
- Liaising with the appropriate member(s) of volunteers responsible for Plateful Cafe’s
financial activities and financial record-keeping
- Make members aware of their financial obligations and take a lead in interpreting
financial data to them.
- Monitoring that financial systems and controls are in place and adhered to
- Assist the fundraising team and team with Funding applications with the finance
questions
- Assist with preparing budgets and other financial information for funding bids
- Assist volunteers with the preparation of financial reports for funders
- Acting as a financial spokesperson for Plateful Cafe as appropriate
- Ensure proper records are kept and that effective financial procedures and controls
are in place, ie:
- Cheque signatories
- Purchasing limits
- Purchasing systems
- Petty cash/ float
- Others as appropriate
- Appraising the financial viability of plans, proposals and feasibility studies.
- Lead on appointing and liaising with auditors/an independent examiner.
- Undertake bookkeeping duties and/or oversee the finance volunteer ensuring posting
and bookkeeping is kept up-to-date.
- Maintain the petty cash system and regularly process petty cash claims.
- Regularly carry out reconciliations/ oversee regular reconciliations by the finance
volunteer.
- Arrange payments to creditors as appropriate and arrange appropriate signatures on
payments.
- Make the necessary arrangements to collect payments from debtors and bank
payments promptly.
Qualities
Knowledge and experience of current and fundraising finance practice relevant to
voluntary and community organisations.
Knowledge of bookkeeping and financial management (as necessary).
Good financial analysis skills.
Ability to communicate clearly
Previous usage of Free Agent system preferable
Attention to details
Preferable previous experience on payroll
Experience on preparing budget
The Treasurer will oversee the financial and assurance matters of the charity in line with good practice and in accordance with the governing documnet and legal requirements. The Treasurer will report to the Board of Trustees at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation to enable the Board to better make strategic decisions. The Treasurer will ensure that effective financial and other risk measures, controls and procedures are put in place, and are appropriate for the charity.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are Knottingley Foodbank, providing emergency food and compassionate, practical support to people in crisis. Since 2013 we have operated in the Knottingley area and are currently based at Ropewalk Methodist Church, providing 1,714 three-day emergency food supplies to people in crisis last year. Our foodbank is a project founded by local churches and community groups, working together towards stopping hunger in our local area.
As a Trustee you will play a vital role by ensuring that we are meeting the demand for our services, providing help and support to people in crisis in the local community, as well as providing strategic direction for the charity.
Trustees have collective responsibility for the governance of the organisation and for all decisions made by the Board. They set the strategic direction for the organisation, ensuring alignment to our values, and are responsible for setting organisational policy, defining goals, agreeing the financial plan, evaluating performance, and ensuring that strong relationships are maintained between the Trustees and the Senior Leadership Group.
About you:
Knottingley Foodbank are looking for people who want to help their local community and work towards the eradication of food poverty whilst support the food bank to continue to provide emergency food to people who find themselves in crisis. We are seeking to recruit Trustees with an interest in helping others, who are willing to uphold the food bank’s values, and who can bring life experience to the board of trustees.Our ideal candidates would demonstrate a:
- Knowledge of and commitment to the work of Knottingley Foodbank.
- Willingness to actively participate in discussions concerning needs of the foodbank’s beneficiaries, staff, and the trustee board.
- Willingness to act in the best interest of the charity.
- Sound, independent judgement and ability to think creatively.
- Working effectively as a team member and demonstrating a willingness to learn and develop.
The food bank would particularly welcome applications from those with experience in one (or more) of the following areas:
- Administration/Secretarial skills
- Finance
- Governance
- Human Resources
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you looking for a rewarding way to give back to your community and make a lasting impact on the lives of young girls? Look no further! Girlguiding Whitwood Division is on the lookout for dedicated individuals to join us as volunteer Rainbow Leaders.
With a waiting list of eager girls hoping to join Rainbows, we're in need of enthusiastic volunteers to help us provide these girls with the opportunity to develop friendships, learn new skills, and grow in confidence.
As a Rainbow Leader, you'll have the chance to play a vital role in shaping the future of our community. You'll receive all the necessary training and support to succeed in your role, and we'll pair you up with a buddy for training so you'll feel confident and ready to lead your own unit.
But the benefits of volunteering as a Rainbow Leader extend far beyond the personal. By becoming a part of our friendly division, you'll have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of young girls, helping them to become confident, resilient, and empowered individuals.
Volunteering as a Rainbow Leader is also a fantastic opportunity to enhance your own skills and experiences, whether you're looking to develop leadership abilities, build friendships, or enhance your CV with valuable volunteer experience.
If you're ready to take on this exciting opportunity and make a positive impact in your community, we want to hear from you! Join us in creating a brighter future for our girls by becoming a Rainbow Leader today.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Our system keeps your personal information hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for a volunteer to review our finances and financial reporting at the centre. We need to ensure we are compliant with the Charity Commission Guidelines and are have robust financial processes in place.
At Sutton Women's Centre we provide key services to the community supporting women who have experienced domestic abuse as well outreach services educating members of the community on domestic abuse. We provide counselling and other services to help women thrive such as cooking classes and computer courses.
We have grown substantially over the past years and require a full review of our finances and financial processes to ensure we are compliant and to explore efficiencies. It would be great to have an experienced volunteer working alongside us as we work through our finances and ensure they are up to scratch with the relevant legislation.
Job Description:
The Photographic Collections Network (PCN) is seeking an interim Treasurer with expertise in accountancy and/or charity finance and reporting to join our board of Trustees.
We are on the journey to becoming a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), and this will bring great opportunities for us to expand our reach and provide support for the UKs photographic collections and heritage. We are looking for people to help us to build this potential so we can better deliver on our aims. Are you the person that can help lead this change?
You will oversee the financial matters of the Photographic Collections Network in line with good practice and in accordance with the governing document and legal requirements, and report to the Board of Trustees at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation. The interim Treasurer will ensure that effective financial measures, controls and procedures are put in place, and are appropriate for the charity.
PCN welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and would love to hear from applicants who belong to groups underrepresented in the charitable sector.
Job requirements:
Our ideal candidate for the interim Treasurer would have accountancy qualification or an equivalent level of experience and expertise in accountancy and charity finance and reporting. A person working in Finance, Governance, Legal, with Charity experience either through an executive or previous Trustee role would be suitable. The candidate Ideally would have professional experience with organisational Governance and Financial management. A background in the photography or understanding of collections sector is not necessary but an enthusiasm and interest in the charitable sector is. If you have any of the skills listed above, we would love to hear from you.
Job responsibilities:
You will oversee the financial matters of the Photographic Collections Network in line with good practice and in accordance with the governing document and legal requirements, and report to the Board of Trustees at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation.
The interim Treasurer will work with the Board to ensure that effective financial measures, controls and procedures are put in place, as we progress in our journey to become a Charitable Incorporated Organisation.
Please follow the link to download the Job Description
Become the next Chair of The Story Museum, an award-winning one-of-a-kind Museum which immerses thousands of children annually in the world of books, bringing stories to life through boundless creativity and deeply engaging experiences; educating and inspiring the next generation of readers in its incredible reimagining of the written word.
Applications close at: 9 a.m. Tuesday 11th June 2024
Location: Oxford/online
About The Story Museum
The Story Museum exists to enrich lives, especially young lives, through stories. It achieves this from its most unusual Museum in Oxford where great stories are shared in the most incredible variety of powerful, funny and engaging ways.
Thanks to a creative and committed staff, they devise an imaginative programme of permanent and temporary exhibitions, performances, interactive workshops, skills-building courses and online engagement. Located in the heart of Oxford, it brings stories to life, unlocking the next generation’s creativity and imagination.
So much more than simply a ‘museum,’ The Story Museum brings stories to life through interactive exhibits, talks, shows and a beautifully curated collection highlighting the history of storytelling.
The Museum believes passionately in highlighting the human need for stories and takes pride in celebrating and devising the many innovative ways that people can benefit from them. They collect great and diverse stories and share them in the most engaging ways possible.
Founded in 2003 as the first museum dedicated to stories in the world, The Story Museum has grown in scope and ambition. Truly one-of-a-kind, the museum is a fountain of creativity and innovation, rightly recognised with its NPO accreditation, as a Museum of the Year 2022 finalist, the RIBA South Award winner 2022, and a 2021 Civic Trust Awards Regional finalist.
The Story Museum is an innovative, physically engaging world filled with stunning theatrical props, talking trees and incredible attention to detail that bring children’s favourite stories to life.
In terms of outreach, the Museum works with 8 schools and 4 community centres from the Oxfordshire area, offering free activities to the students who need them most.
Children and their education are at the heart of what they do – spaces are designed to stimulate and inspire, and their content is regularly co-created alongside young people who take part in their programmes.
The Museum finds itself at the precipice of the next exciting phase. Following redevelopment, the Museum has set its sights on becoming recognised both regionally and nationally for the iconic work that it does, aiming to be a beacon of education and a cultural leader in the storytelling space.
About the role
With their former Chair stepping down after 3 successful terms, they seek a new Chair to help oversee their governance, prioritise key targets, and drive financial and strategic growth.
The Story Museum is a registered charity with a Board of non-executive trustees who are legally responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of the organisation, with day-to-day responsibilities delegated to the CEO and senior leadership team.
The Chair of the Board provides effective leadership by chairing board meetings throughout the year, working closely with the executive leadership team, and scrutinizing the charity’s progress against its strategy and charitable objects.
The Chair acts as an ambassador for The Story Museum, helping to raise its profile, build its network, and provide support to fundraising initiatives. The Board’s governance is strong, and trustees are highly committed and engaged – bringing the necessary energy and scrutiny to meetings. Led by experienced and renowned CEO Caroline Jones, The Story Museum has a dedicated, engaged and talented executive team — all united by a passion for the importance of children’s storytelling.
The Board and Executive have a healthy, amiable and professional relationship, ensuring the organisation has challenge and support in equal measure.
The Chair of the Board is expected to:
- Establish effective partnerships between the Board, the executive, and stakeholders.
- Ensure the Board operates at a high level underpinned by an inclusive atmosphere and active contribution from all members.
- Attend and chair quarterly Board meetings, quarterly committee meetings, the AGM, and an annual inspiration day board meeting.
- Have regular routine meetings with the Museum Director and other senior staff to act as a sounding board, provide additional scrutiny, and assist in response to urgent issues if they arise.
- Act as an ambassador at external events with an eye to secure additional funding.
- Represent the Museum to key stakeholders, including Arts Council England representatives and funders.
Who we are looking for
The Story Museum is seeking a Chair who can demonstrate:
- Corporate leadership experience at a board level (private or public sector)
- Experience in chairing Board meetings with an excellent knowledge of governance.
- Proven ability of helping to define, support and/or drive the strategic direction.
- A proven track record in stakeholder engagement, with a willingness to engage directly with funders, being mindful of TSM’s status as an NPO.
- Ability to listen, to consult and ultimately to be decisive.
- Ability to delegate effectively.
- Experience in monitoring progress against objectives and milestones.
- Experience in building networks and connections with a view to raising funds for charities and good causes across the not-for-profit sector.
- An experience and understanding of charity finance with the ability to monitor and interpret financial data.
- A passion and commitment to the values, purpose and activity of The Story Museum
- Professional or personal experience in one or more of the following: children’s story in its widest forms, publishing, education, media, the museum sector, arts, heritage and culture
- Being within reach of Oxford and Oxfordshire will make fulfilling the role easier.
- Candidates must bring experience of operating at Board level, with previous/current chairs, vice-chairs, and committee chairs especially welcome.
- A passion for the mission is vital, so experience in one or more of the following is highly desirable: children’s stories, publishing, media, the museum sector, arts, heritage, or culture.
Candidates must demonstrate a strong track record of senior strategic leadership experience and have a good understanding of governance oversight in relation to financial and senior management performance.
The Story Museum seek a strategic, collegiate and inclusive leader who can effectively manage change, challenge appropriately, advise, act strategically, and have a consultative and collaborative style.
As a proactive and vocal ambassador for the Museum, the next Chair must be comfortable articulating the vision and direction of the organisation to internal and external stakeholders alike.
Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.
Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Tuesday 11th June 2024.
What does a Trustee look like?
Look in the mirror!
Right now, less than 3% of charity Trustees are under 30, 8% are people of colour and 36% are women. We are looking for people from across the UK and are keen to recruit trustees from all nations in the UK.
We value the many skills and experiences that you can bring to the Marine Conservation Society. We are committed to a Board culture that enables everyone to be their authentic selves and to enjoy the Trustee experience.
We believe that becoming a Trustee with us will be a rewarding journey for you – we want you to share your experience, your fresh perspectives, and we will listen to your views.
It’s a critical time for our ocean. There is not a moment to waste. Our goal is to recover the health of our ocean so it can help with healing our climate; to make seas protected in law to be protected in practice; and to stop the tide of plastic that’s getting into our waters.
Our Board needs people with a range of backgrounds, life stages, experiences, and skills who come together as a team to offer challenge and energy to one another, and to boost our ability to deliver for our ocean.
By joining as a Trustee, you will help navigate us through the risks and opportunities that we meet.
We want our organisation and Board to be reflective of our society. We recognise that we should all have the opportunity to take responsibility to protect our ocean for the future, so we are particularly interested in applications from groups which are typically under-represented on Boards. You can read our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement here.
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion are essential to achieving ocean recovery so everyone can expect to be treated with consideration and respect in an atmosphere without prejudice, discrimination, harassment or violence.
What we’re looking for
We’re looking for people to join our Board with expertise in one or more of the following areas:
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Finance – you might be a qualified accountant and have a background in finance and audit so that you can provide vital skills to help the Board oversee our financial management. An understanding of charity accounts and regulations would absolutely be an advantage.
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Marketing & Communications – we want to reach new audiences to ensure a diverse and inclusive approach, and we are aiming to do that at scale. You may have experience of providing strategic support for increasing our reach and visibility.
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Marine Conservation - you might have environmental knowledge, ideally on the marine environment, with policy and/or practical experience of conservation. A network of contacts across the marine sector, particularly with business or government, would be an advantage.
What you can bring to our Board can be just as interesting as where you’ve been working. You do not need to have previous charity trustee experience, but you will need to be comfortable participating at a senior level with complex discussions and the need to be comfortable making pragmatic but key decisions.
Why join our board?
Being a Trustee can be a challenge, but it’s also a brilliant opportunity for you to develop your skills, work as part of a team that shapes the direction of our charity in making tangible changes for the future of our ocean and planet. If you’re passionate about what we do, then you’ll feel the same excitement we have in making those changes happen.
You don’t need to understand everything that we do or know the Latin names of fish, or in most cases, even to have experience of the charity sector. As a Trustee, you’ll develop your personal and professional knowledge, work on strategy and develop an approach to managing risk and broaden your influencing and negotiation skills in a new context.
You’ll also gain insight and knowledge from your fellow Trustees, with everyone’s skills being recognised and valued.
Trustees are volunteers, so the role is not paid but we will cover your costs for travelling and any overnight stays to attend meetings or events.
Application and selection process
We value the knowledge and experiences that you will bring to Marine Conservation Society, and they may have been developed in a range of ways, and by many routes.
We understand that the application process can be difficult if you have a condition or disability that you live with. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to shine during your application process, so please let us know what we can do to accommodate you.
Key dates
Closing date: 31 May 2024
1st Interviews June 2024
2nd Interviews End of June/Early July
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About Care for Veterans
Care for Veterans (CfV) was established in 1919 as the Queen Alexandra Hospital Home to care for soldiers returning from World War I with life-changing disabilities. For over 100 years, it has provided long term nursing, rehabilitation, respite and end of life care to Veterans and their families. The 62-bed home has been at Gifford House in Worthing since 1933.
CfV are seeking a Trustee with a finance and/or accountancy background, preferably with an ACCA/ICAEW qualification (or equivalent). The successful candidate will join and in time, chair the Finance Committee.
What will you be doing?
ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Contributing at four board meetings, a strategy offsite and four Finance sub-committee meetings a year. These are usually held during business hours in Worthing.
- Develop a good understanding of CfV’s operations and the environment in which it operates;
- Monitor the performance of CfV in a constructive and inquisitive way;
- Making their time, skills, and experience available to CfV and its executive (in and outside of regular board meetings) and supporting key fundraising events;
- Average time commitment is 12-15 days per year
What are we looking for?
- You will have a background and/or qualification in finance or accountancy (ACCA/ICAEW or equivalent preferred). You will have strong commitment to the improving the lives of veterans and the work of CfV.
- Previous trustee experience is not necessary as new trustees will be given support and training.
- Due to the work of the charity a DBS check and references will be required.
- What difference will you make?
OUR TRUSTEES
- Bring a range of diverse professional and real-world experience to the Board;
- Have a strong empathy with the Armed Services community;
- Are articulate communicators with integrity and a strong commitment to CfV’s beneficiaries;
- Are committed to the highest standards of charity governance.
Before you apply
If you are interested in becoming a trustee, please send an up-to-date CV and supporting statement to us via Reach, via the URL provided.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
GFB are seeking someone with experience of working in a financial role to join the Board as a Trustee, who will be able to advise on financial matters, ensure we meet our financial obligations and help us build a sound financial strategy as we move forward. As a Trustee you will share collective responsibility for the governance of GFB and all decisions made by the board, ensuring the organisation is well run, fulfils its mission, ensuring compliance with charity law and that the charity is open and accountable.
Responsibilities
All trustees are responsible for setting the strategic direction for GFB, ensuring alignment to our values, defining goals, setting organisational policies, agreeing financial plans, evaluating the charity’s performance and ensuring good relationships amongst the trustees and with the senior staff.
Key tasks
All Trustees:
- Embrace the organisation’s vision, mission and values.
- Ensure the charity complies with its governing document and charity law.
- Ensure focus on strategy, performance, risk and assurance rather than operational matters.
- Act with integrity, making objective decisions without undue influence by special or personal interests.
- Ensure openness and accountability, build public trust and confidence in GFB’s work and legitimacy in representing beneficiaries and stakeholders.
- Uphold collective responsibility of the board.
- Commit sufficient time and energy to the role of trustee and make reasonable use of own skills and experience to support the work of the board and GFB.
- Ensure the principles of equity, equality, diversity and inclusion are embedded in GFB and help deliver public benefit.
Specific to the Treasurer Trustee:
- Oversee the financial affairs of GFB ensuring that they are conducted with probity and transparency.
- Ensure the board receives sufficient information to carry out its financial responsibilities.
- Ensure that the charity has robust and effective financial controls.
- Ensure appropriate financial policies.
- Ensure an annual budget is provided for board approval.
- Review management and statutory accounts are produced on time.
- Ensure that organisation risks are reviewed by the board annually.
Trustees may also undertake additional work for the charity between meetings subject to their availability and skill set.
We are looking for people who want to help their local community and work towards the eradication of food poverty whilst support the food bank to continue to provide emergency food to people who find themselves in crisis. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:
- Experience of working in a financial role such as a qualified & experienced accountant or banker. However, previous experience as a charity treasurer is not essential.
- Lived experience in Greenwich Borough
- Passion for our vision and goals.
- Independent judgement and ability to think strategically.
- Able to work effectively as part of a trustee team, contributing and considering others views.
- Demonstrate the 7 principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
- Able to commit the time and effort required.
- Bring relevant capabilities that help the board perform its role effectively and achieve GFB’s vision.
- Understanding and commitment to principles of equality, equity, diversity and inclusion.
Please apply through Reach in the first instance, providing a CV and cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an informal interview with members of the Board of Trustees at Greenwich Foodbank
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Our foodbank is a project founded by local churches and community groups, working together towards stopping hunger in our local area. We are seeking to recruit new trustees to bring extra skills and experience to a current board.
As a Trustee you will share collective responsibility for the governance of GFB and all decisions made by the board. The Trustees ensure the organisation is well run and works to fulfil its mission. They act in the best interests of the charity and its beneficiaries, ensure compliance with charity law and that the charity is open and accountable.
Responsibilities
All trustees are responsible for setting the strategic direction for GFB, ensuring alignment to our values, defining goals, setting organisational policies, agreeing financial plans, evaluating the charity’s performance and ensuring good relationships amongst the trustees and with the senior staff.
Key tasks:
- Embrace the organisation’s vision, mission and values.
- Ensure the charity complies with its governing document and charity law.
- Ensure focus on strategy, performance, risk and assurance rather than operational matters.
- Act with integrity, making objective decisions without undue influence by special or personal interests.
- Ensure openness and accountability, build public trust and confidence in GFB’s work and legitimacy in representing beneficiaries and stakeholders.
- Uphold collective responsibility of the board.
- Commit sufficient time and energy to the role of trustee and make reasonable use of own skills and experience to support the work of the board and GFB.
- Ensure the principles of equity, equality, diversity and inclusion are embedded in GFB and help deliver public benefit.
Trustees may also undertake additional work for the charity between meetings subject to their availability and skill set.
We are looking for people who want to help their local community and work towards the eradication of food poverty whilst support the food bank to continue to provide emergency food to people who find themselves in crisis. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:
- Passion for our vision and goals.
- Independent judgement and ability to think strategically.
- Able to work effectively as part of a trustee team, contributing and considering others views.
- Demonstrate the 7 principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
- Able to commit the time and effort required.
- Bring relevant capabilities that help the board perform its role effectively and achieve GFB’s vision.
- Understanding and commitment to principles of equality, equity, diversity and inclusion.
The food bank would particularly welcome applications from those with experience in one (or more) of the following areas:
- Lived experience in Greenwich Borough
- IT
- Data Protection
- Finance
Please apply through Reach in the first instance, providing a CV and cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an informal interview with members of the Board of Trustees at Greenwich Foodbank
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Benslow Music is looking for new Trustees to join the charity’s Board of Trustees.
Now is an exciting time to join the organisation as it continues to shape and develop its programme. Following the arrival of a new Chief Executive at the beginning of the year, the organisation is entering a period of strategic renewal and building towards its centenary in 2029.
Benslow Music’s Trustees have legal and financial responsibility for the charity and are responsible for overseeing the strategic direction of the organisation in partnership with the Chief Executive. Day to day management of the organisation is delegated to a professional administrative team led by the Chief Executive. Trustees are also ambassadors for the charity, supporting the team in fundraising and developing networks that will enable Benslow Music to realise its ambitions.
We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, lived experience and professional knowledge. Following a recent skills audit, we are keen to hear from individuals with experience in the following areas:
· Professional experience in the cultural/music education sectors
· Finance
· Marketing and communications
· Fundraising
· Strategic development
· Health & Safety and/or building/estate management
· HR
· Charity governance
Application timeline:
Opportunity launched 24 April
Deadline for applications 22 May
Conversations with potential Trustees 3-17 June
Appointment July
Please see the How to Apply section for further details.
About Benslow Music
Benslow Music creates music learning experiences for people of all ages. We support individual development, inspire curiosity, celebrate creativity, and share all the life-long benefits music brings. We do this through a programme of residential, day and online music courses, a concert series and an instrument loan scheme.
At our campus in Hitchin, we welcome and provide learning opportunities to adult musicians of all abilities. We support everyone from late-starters to early-career professionals in unlocking their potential. We offer around 150 short courses throughout the year, covering genres from classical to jazz to folk, and opportunities to explore solo, small and large ensemble playing. Through regular concerts we provide a platform for emerging and acclaimed artists.
Benslow Music is home to the Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme, which holds a collection of over 800 string and woodwind instruments that are lent to young musicians aged 7-25. Each year over 500 loans ensure that borrowers, regardless of background, are able to grow and develop as musicians.
Benslow Music began as the Rural Music Schools Association in 1929, offering musical education to people of all ages who were outside urban centres. In 1952, the four-acre Victorian estate in Hitchin was bequeathed to the RMSA and has since developed into a lively campus for music activity, with two recital halls, practice rooms and accommodation for around 50 people. Renamed Benslow Music Trust in 1986, the Trust subsequently took responsibility for the Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme.
Plans for the future include ongoing development of creative music activities for all ages, an expanded online offer, additional collaborative and partnership working, and further development of our site facilities and accommodation. In short, Benslow Music weathered the pandemic and is now poised for continued evolution and diversification to reach new audiences in each area of activity. This is an exciting time at which to be joining the organisation, as we look towards our centenary celebrations in 2029.
About the Trustee role
Trustees play a vital role in ensuring that Benslow Music is able to achieve its vision and charitable objectives, providing critical challenge and oversight. The Board is a collective body. All Trustees share responsibility for decision making, being expected to act in the best interests of the charity.
Trustees have several areas of responsibility, some of which are defined by the Charity Commission. Additionally, Trustees are expected to:
· Ensure that the organisation uses its resources to pursue its charitable objects
· Oversee the strategic direction of the organisation, supporting its development through good governance
· Ensure that the organisation complies with legal requirements, particularly in the areas of finance, health and safety, and safeguarding
· Use personal skills, expertise and time to support the organisation’s development
· Actively participate in board meetings, committees and working groups as required.
· Act as an ambassador for Benslow Music
· Undertake tasks required by the Board from time to time
Time Commitment
The expected commitment is roughly equivalent to one day per month, although more may be required from time to time.
The Board meets four times per year, plus an Annual General Meeting held in June. These meetings are hybrid, and can be attended virtually or in person at Benslow. Where possible we encourage Trustees to attend meetings in person. Time will also be needed to read meeting papers.
Alongside, further informal meetings are held online, designed to give Trustees more space and time to discuss additional strategic areas. Trustees will usually be allocated to committees and working groups with delegated responsibilities based on their expertise and interests. Trustees are also expected to attend events at Benslow as their time permits.
Terms
Trustees are subject to periodic re-election by members on a rotational basis, typically every three years. There is currently no limit to their total length of service but this is under consideration by the Board. All Trustees are required to sign a declaration that they understand the legal responsibilities of being a Trustee and meet the eligibility requirements. All Trustees are also required to complete an enhanced DBS check.
Being a Trustee is a voluntary role, however reasonable expenses are paid to Trustees to ensure they can effectively participate in Board meetings. This may include expenses such as travel or a contribution towards childcare.
About you
We are seeking individuals who are forward-thinking, fair-minded and committed to the continued development of the organisation. You will be enthusiastic about the work of Benslow Music, sharing our values and vision and excited to join an organisation going through a period of change.
We are keen to hear from individuals who can show:
· Commitment to Benslow Music and its values
· Curiosity
· Openness and integrity
· Ability to make sound and informed decisions
· Creative and strategic thinking
· Ability to collaborate and communicate with a team
· Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
· Strong advocacy skills to act as an ambassador
· Understanding of the legal responsibilities of being a Trustee
We would like the Board to represent a broad range of skills, knowledge and lived experiences to help with its critical and strategic oversight. We are open to hearing from all professional backgrounds, in response to a recent skills audit we are keen to appoint Trustees with experience in:
· Cultural, music or music education sectors
· Finance
· Marketing and communications
· Fundraising
· Strategic or business development
· Health & Safety and/or building/estate management
· HR
· Charity governance
There is no requirement to have previous Trustee experience and training will be given to first-time Trustees.
We welcome all applications from people of all backgrounds, in particular from those who will diversify the lived experience of the Board, for example in terms of gender, disability, age and ethnic background.
Organisation structure
Benslow Music is a group of three entities led by Benslow Music Trust, a registered charity (313663) and a company limited by guarantee (408404). Trustees are both Trustees of the charity and Directors of the company. Benslow Music Trust is the corporate Trustee of Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme (BMILS), a registered charity (313755). Benslow Music Enterprises (registered company 10967344) is a trading subsidiary of Benslow Music Trust through which we conduct non-charitable activity.
The Board of Trustees currently numbers 11, with a number of Trustees due to retire at our next AGM. The Board is a welcoming and collaborative group which enjoys discussion and debate. Trustees act as critical friends to the organisation while meeting their legal and governance obligations.
Management of the organisation is through the professional staff team. This is led by the Chief Executive with support from senior management team (Heads of Finance, Music, BMILS, Operations and Development) and the wider staff team in administration and hospitality, numbering around 40 people in total.
How to apply
To apply, please see our website for details, which details where to send the following:
· Your CV
· A supporting statement (max 2 pages of A4) explaining why you are interested in becoming a Trustee of Benslow Music and how your skills and experience will support the strategic oversight of the organisation. Please state in the letter that you are eligible to become a Trustee and your willingness to complete an enhanced DBS check
· A completed equal opportunities monitoring form (this is anonymous and will be stored separately from your application)
Deadline for applications: 10am on Wednesday 22 May
Applications will be reviewed by the Nominations Committee of current Trustees, who will shortlist candidates to invite for further conversations during 3-17 June to be held via videocall.
We anticipate that selected candidates will be invited to attend and observe a Board meeting before being formally appointed as Trustees.
If you would like to arrange an informal pre-application conversation to discuss the role further, please email Michael Duffy.
We are keen to ensure that our recruitment process is accessible to everyone. If you have any access requirements or barriers to application, please contact Michael Duffy to discuss how we might make reasonable adjustments to the process.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Role title: Chair of the Board of Trustees
Location: Flexible (travel to London will be required at least once a quarter)
Salary: N/A (Volunteer role)
Time commitment: 1.5-2 days per month
Contract: The Chair is appointed for an initial 3-year term with the option of renewal for up to 3 terms. The maximum term for all trustees (including the Chair) is 9 years.
Purpose of the role:
Are you seeking a board opportunity with a high-impact charity that aligns with your values and vision for society? Passionate about refugee welfare, integration, and unlocking talent for the UK? This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader to join a growing, impact-focused and ambitious charity supporting refugees to access meaningful employment and build a new life.
The Chair leads the board, ensuring that it governs Breaking Barriers effectively, in service of our vision and mission. The Chair leads in an inclusive way, supporting the board to work together well, and providing support and challenge to the Chief Executive. The Chair is also an ambassador for the charity.
The Chair of Breaking Barriers provides visionary leadership and strategic direction, ensuring that the organisation effectively achieves its mission while adhering to its core values. This pivotal role involves governance oversight, board leadership, executive support, and serving as an ambassador for the organisation.
What’s in it for you?
Holding the high-profile role at the Chair of Trustees have a number of benefits, including the following:
- Contributing to an important cause: Having appropriate support for refugees in the UK to access meaningful employment does not only benefit the refugee community. It also supports businesses to have access to a wider talent pool and helps foster integration in the society.
- Opportunity to make a difference: As the new Chair for Breaking Barriers, you will have the opportunity to drive the growth of a highly impactful Charity with current funding of circa £4 million per year. Breaking Barriers have ambitious plans to extend its impact and you will play a part in spearheading this.
- Expanding your network: Breaking Barriers partners with some of the most high-profile corporates such as Macquarie, Bank of America, LinkedIn, Ikea, and the Big Yellow Group. Being the Chair of Trustee means that you will have exposure to these organisations. You will also have access to other senior stakeholders within Breaking Barriers’ wider network, amongst the trustees, executive, and founding teams.
To view the full job description and person specification, as well as details on our accessible recruitment process, please view the attached recruitment pack.
Other considerations:
- As part of our safeguarding commitment to our clients, we carry out pre-employment checks to ensure that successful applicants are suitable to work with adults at risk. These include basic DBS checks, obtaining references and verifying a candidate’s identity and right to work in the UK.
- Breaking Barriers is committed to protecting an adult’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect and for their views, wishes and beliefs to be fully considered when deciding action.
- We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion or belief.
How to apply:
If you are looking for a role where you can make a real difference, we want to hear from you. Please apply via Charity Jobs by submitting a cover letter (up to approximately 2 A4 pages), referencing how you believe you best meet the person specification. You are also welcome to include any reasonable adjustments you require for the interview process. Please view the attached recruitment pack for further essential information for candidates.
Closing date for applications is 11:59pm on Sunday 2nd June. Interviews will be held on a rolling basis so please apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
We belong to the Experts by Experience Employment Initiative, which advocates and supports organisations to employ more people from a refugee background. With this in mind, we particularly welcome applicants with experience of seeking asylum and/or a refugee background. If you are an expert by experience (a refugee or a migrant with direct, first-hand experience of issues and challenges of the UK asylum or immigration system), you can ask for an independent and confidential support for your job application from the Experts by Experience Employment Network. Please reach out to HR Manager Dani Meier for further details (we are unable to include email addresses in this advert, but you can find contact details on the final page of the attached recruitment pack).
Breaking Barriers exists so that every refugee can access meaningful employment and build a new life.