Governance volunteer volunteer roles

Action for Refugees in Lewisham is looking for a trustee to act as secretary, supporting the board's governance role helping AFRIL deliver for refugees and vulnerable migrants in south-east London. Time commitment is flexible, and not onerous, and formal company secretary functions are supported by a member of staff.

AFRIL was founded in 2006 to support asylum seekers, vulnerable migrants and refugees in south-east London to lift themselves out of poverty and rebuild their lives in the heart of our community. Our support is holistic: both crisis support to meet immediate need, and longer-term, flexible programmes that tackle the underlying problems that lead to crisis, supporting people to integrate, contribute and thrive. We work in the community across south-east London, including in local asylum hotels.

We are a small charity, with mostly part-time staff, but we make a significant difference. Our client group is predominantly people in, or with experience of, the asylum system. We also support newly granted refugees, and migrants with no recourse to public funds who have complex and unmet protection needs.

AFRIL's board of trustees is collectively responsible for supporting and challenging the charity to oversee its good governance and proper financial control in line with its charitable aims and strategic plan, charity law, and all other relevant legislation. The time required of trustees is not onerous, and is flexible - although it is, of course, possible to take on more responsibility and expand your time commitment.

As a board member, you will be expected to be available for board meetings approximately every two months, which are generally an hour and a half long and take place in a weekday evening. These mostly take place online, with occasional hybrid meetings or meetings in-person.

As secretary to the board, you will be responsible for the timetabling of meetings, the agenda, and for taking and sharing a minute of board meetings – just main points and actions – to support the board in carrying out our remit. You may also assist with other areas of support to the governance for the charity, such as ensuring that we maintain regular review of the organisation’s policies, and providing some assistance from time to time to the member of staff leading on liaison with the Charity Commission and Companies House.

You will also need to be able to commit some ad hoc time to consider papers ahead of meetings, and occasionally to take part in email discussion on issues as they arise. You would also be expected to attend the charity’s AGM, which tends to take place on a Saturday afternoon in January/February.

We value diversity in our trustee team, as we do in the staff team. We particularly welcome applications from anyone who can bring lived experience of the immigration and asylum system, and are always keen to see applications from people with experience with fundraising, or with HR. We welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief.

To apply, please submit a short (no more than one side of A4) letter explaining why you would like to join AFRIL’s board, and what skills and experience you would bring to the role, along with your CV.

RSPCA Norwich is a local Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), with our headquarters based near Wymondham, Norfolk. We employ 25 staff, work with over 150 volunteers and cover 2,500 square miles across Norfolk and Suffolk.

We provide animal welfare services, fundraise, run our education & outreach programmes and operate our shop network across the area.

The animal welfare services that we offer include: 

• Rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming over 500 animals in need per annum
• Subsidised neutering and microchipping schemes
• Veterinary financial aid for owned animals
• Pet food bank for pet owners in need
• Trap, neuter and release feral cat programme
• Advice and education to the public, schools and adult groups

What do RSPCA Norwich Trustees do? 

RSPCA Norwich Trustees are volunteers who shape the work that the charity does and are collectively responsible for governing the affairs of the CIO. This is undertaken via strategic planning, good governance and working with the Senior Management Team to achieve our mission of raising awareness, providing practical support and demonstrating compassion to prevent cruelty and promote kindness to all animals.

“Trustees have overall control of a charity and are responsible for making sure it’s doing what it was set up to do. They may be known by other titles, such as directors, board members, governors and committee members” - Charity Commission. 

Who are we looking for? 

We are looking for applications from people from all social and cultural backgrounds, who are passionate about improving animal welfare. It doesn’t matter whether you are an experienced Trustee or not, as a full induction and training will be provided.

Following our annual skills audit, we have identified some skills gapson the Trustee board that we would like to replenish.

As a result, we are looking for people who understand or have experience of:

• Fundraising
• Marketing
• Legal expertise
• IT

What’s in it for you? 

There are lots of benefits to becoming an RSPCA Norwich Trustee, including: 

• Induction and Trustee training
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones in governance  
• Contributing your skills to improve the work of RSPCA Norwich 
• Working with like-minded people who share your enthusiasm for animal welfare 
• The chance to shape the future of animal welfare services in your local area 
• Volunteering is good for your wellbeing! 

MHFA England are seeking a Non-Executive Director to assist in agreeing and supporting MHFA England’s strategy, ensuring the delivery of our overall purpose and mission as a social enterprise.

In addition, the Non-Executive Director will Chair the Association of Mental Health First Aiders, supporting the development of a thriving membership community.

Reasonable travel expenses are covered.

Principal duties

1. Overseeing the delivery of MHFA England’s strategy and performance
2. Protecting the long-term sustainability of MHFA England
3. Safeguarding the reputation of MHFA England
4. Representing MHFA England at collaboration and network events, and contributing to the development of organisational relationships

Additional Chair of the Association of Mental Health First Aiders duties:

1. Providing strategic leadership to the Association of Mental Health First Aiders, ensuring it is an effective, representative and influential voice for MHFAiders
2. Championing the value of Mental Health First Aiders
3. Acting as a visible ambassador for the Association with members, employers, partners, policymakers and the media

Person specification

• Previous experience chairing Boards or Board committees
• Knowledge of workplace mental health policy and best practice across different sectors
• Be a current, accredited Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider®) with a strong personal commitment to improving mental health in the workplace
• Strong communication skills, including public speaking and presenting to a range of audiences
• Experience of growing and engaging membership communities
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, ensuring the Association reflects and represents the breadth of its membership
• An awareness of economic and political changes that may impact MHFA England
• Sound judgement around corporate governance, financial strategy risk, and opportunity
• A commitment to social enterprise and MHFA England’s values and culture
• Collaborative, solutions-focused and able to provide healthy and supportive challenge
• Curious and embraces innovation
• Desirable attributes include:
  • Media-trained, or able to demonstrate experience of broadcast, print or digital media engagement, with the confidence to act as a visible public champion for the Association and its members
  • Experience of chairing a membership organisation, professional association or volunteer-led network
  • An established professional network within HR, wellbeing, health and safety, occupational health or related sectors

Fort Amherst Heritage Trust cares for Fort Amherst in Chatham, Kent, preserving an important historic site and making it available for the benefit, enjoyment and education of the wider community. The Trust relies heavily on volunteers to help maintain, restore, interpret and promote the site for present and future generations.

Role Purpose

Trustees are collectively responsible for the governance, strategic direction and long-term sustainability of Fort Amherst Heritage Trust. As a Trustee, you will help ensure that the charity fulfils its charitable purposes, complies with its legal duties and makes decisions in the best interests of the Trust and the communities it serves.

Key Responsibilities

· Work with fellow Trustees to set and review the Trust’s vision, strategy and priorities.

· Ensure the Trust carries out its charitable purposes for the public benefit.

· Oversee the responsible management of the Trust’s finances, assets, buildings, grounds and collections.

· Support good governance by complying with the Trust’s governing document, charity law and relevant regulations.

· Monitor risks, policies and procedures, including health and safety, safeguarding, finance, data protection and volunteer management.

· Contribute to discussions and decisions at Board meetings, reading papers in advance and offering constructive challenge and support.

· Act as an ambassador for Fort Amherst, promoting its heritage, community value and volunteer-led work.

· Support fundraising, partnership development and community engagement where appropriate.

· Declare and manage any conflicts of interest and maintain confidentiality where required.

Skills and Experience

We welcome applications from people with a commitment to heritage, community benefit and good governance. Previous trustee experience is helpful but not essential. The Trust is particularly interested in people who can bring one or more of the following areas of experience:

· Heritage, museums, archives, conservation or historic buildings.

· Finance, fundraising, grant applications or business planning.

· Education, learning, interpretation or visitor experience.

· Volunteer management, community engagement or inclusion.

· Marketing, communications, events or digital engagement.

· Legal, governance, risk management, health and safety or safeguarding.

· Property, estates, facilities management or environmental stewardship.

Personal Qualities

· A genuine interest in Fort Amherst, local heritage and public benefit.

· Sound judgement, integrity and a willingness to act collectively with other Trustees.

· Ability to think strategically while understanding practical operational challenges.

· Confidence to ask questions, offer constructive challenge and support good decision-making.

· Commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and respectful working relationships.

· Willingness to give sufficient time and attention to the role.

Global Health Access Trust is looking for a Governance & Charity Administration Volunteer to help strengthen the records, policies and administrative foundations of an international charitable organisation working towards registration.

This opportunity would suit someone with governance, legal, charity administration or senior administrative experience who enjoys bringing order, accuracy and follow-through to important organisational work.

Global Health Access Trust (GHAT) develops, funds and coordinates defined projects that advance health, relieve illness and preserve life for the public benefit. Good governance, safeguarding, accountability and responsible stewardship sit at the centre of how that work is developed and delivered.

What you could contribute

• Help maintain governance policies, registers and organisational records
• Support preparation and organisation of governance documentation
• Help maintain accurate meeting records and action points
• Track agreed actions and follow-up
• Support orderly document management and version control
• Help ensure governance information is complete, current and easy to retrieve
• Work with the Trust team to strengthen practical administrative processes

Who this could suit

This opportunity may suit people with experience in governance, charity administration, legal administration, company secretarial work, compliance or senior administrative roles.

We particularly welcome methodical, discreet people who are comfortable handling confidential information, maintaining accurate records and working within agreed processes.

Strong written communication, attention to detail and dependable follow-through are important.

The opportunity can usually be undertaken remotely from any country and the commitment is ongoing and flexible.

The role is voluntary and unpaid. There is no salary, fee, employment benefit or entitlement to expenses.

How to apply

Applications are handled through the Global Health Access Trust website. When you click to apply, you will be taken to GHAT’s Governance, Safety & Assurance section. There you can review this opportunity in context, explore the other current opportunities within this area and select the opportunity that best matches your experience before submitting the GHAT application form.

Growing Hope Maidstone champions accessibility and provides free therapy for children with additional needs and their families in partnership with local churches. We aim to bring hope to children through providing free therapy. We grow hope for families where hope has been lost due to isolation and rejection through our free courses and workshops, and more. We share hope in Jesus, because he brings hope even in the most difficult situations.  The trustees board is responsible for the governance of the local charity and supports the clinic in delivering its charitable objectives. The Finance trustee will support the Clinic Manager in delivering the Charity’s mission and vision, ensuring our culture of collaboration, curiosity and innovation continues. Trustees may act as a spokesperson and ambassador for the clinic where appropriate.

The Finance trustee will be responsible for advising on the budget and ensuring that payments are made as expected.
They will be expected to liaise with the Finance Officer who runs the day-to-day processes for Growing Hope. They will be required to give a quarterly update to the trustees as to the financial position of the charity (supported by reports provided by the Finance Officer). The role will also involve either running gift aid claims or sourcing a volunteer to do this.

Trustee Role Requirements

• Committed Christian
• Attending Trustee meetings on a quarterly basis (once every three months)
• Ability to work collaboratively and strategically
• Experience of charity governance or a willingness to learn
• Expertise in the area of finance and budgeting
• Commitment to champion the local Growing Hope clinic, offering ongoing support of the Clinic Manager by attending fundraising events and being an ambassador for the charity where appropriate
• The role could also include helping to gather additional support through volunteers, offering additional time to help with grant writing, event organising and similar roles where appropriate
• The role could also include helping to gather additional support through volunteers, offering additional time to help with grant writing, event organising and similar roles where appropriate

About Growing Hope
Growing Hope was founded by Dr Naomi Fox who started the national charity and the first local clinic in Kings Cross in February 2018. Knowing how desperate families are for support, Growing Hope bridges the gap between the need and availability of therapy services. Growing Hope national charity provide support, structures, services and training to local Growing Hope clinics and have a vision to set up twenty clinics in partnership with local churches by 2030.
 

Context
Growing Hope Maidstone is set up in partnership with St. Luke’s Maidstone and seeks to be a collaborative venture with other local churches. The clinics provide free therapy services for children and young people with additional needs and their families living in the local area. The aim is to provide a holistic service which supports parents, carers and siblings - as well as the children and young people themselves. Growing Hope Maidstone currently offers Art Therapy and Speech and Language Therapy.

VOLUNTEER: Company Secretary (Trustee or Non‑Trustee)

SUNSHINE Charity — Positivity • Human Connection • Community • Belonging

SUNSHINE Charity is a vibrant, 100% volunteer‑powered start‑up movement dedicated to bringing SUNSHINE into people’s lives. We aim to help smash loneliness and social isolation by creating welcoming opportunities to connect, participate, learn, volunteer, make friends and feel like you belong.

• We are joyful.
• We are human.
• We are community-powered.
• And now, we are ready for a skilled, organised, confident Company Secretary to help guide our next chapter.

Why We Need You

SUNSHINE is growing — fast. Our programmes, events and volunteer opportunities are about to launch across London, and our governance needs to stay strong, structured and steady as we expand.

Our Founder, who has been carrying the charity forward with enormous heart and energy, is stepping back from leading the board to focus on operational delivery. He will remain as Vice Chair, offering continuity and support — but we now need a Company Secretary who can bring clarity, organisation and governance confidence to a developing board.

Our current trustees are passionate, committed and enthusiastic, but apart from the Founder, they are new to trusteeship. We need someone who can:

• Keep us compliant

• Keep us organised

• Keep us aligned

• Keep us moving

• And help shape a board that reflects SUNSHINE’s culture of positivity, connection, community and belonging

If you’re an experienced governance professional, administrator, trustee, or someone who simply loves structure, accuracy and good process — this role is made for you.

What You’ll Do

As Company Secretary of SUNSHINE Charity, you will:

• Ensure our governance is strong, compliant and well-documented.

• Prepare and circulate board papers, agendas and minutes.

• Maintain statutory records and filings.

• Support the Chair and Vice Chair with board coordination.

• Provide guidance on best practice and charity governance.

• Help newer trustees understand their responsibilities.

• Keep our board running smoothly, positively and professionally.

You’ll be joining a charity where kindness is a superpower, community is everything, and every volunteer helps bring SUNSHINE into people’s lives.

This role can be taken as either:

• A Trustee position, joining the Board formally.

• A Non‑Trustee position, supporting governance without voting responsibilities.

Time Commitment

We keep things simple, structured and manageable.

• Board meetings: Every 3rd Monday, 7–9pm.

• Working groups: Light involvement between meetings.

• Total commitment: Around 4 hours per month.

This is a role designed for someone who wants to make a meaningful difference without an overwhelming time burden.

Who We’re Looking For

You’ll thrive in this role if you are:

• Experienced in governance, admin, compliance or charity operations.

• Confident with documentation, organisation and record‑keeping.

• Calm, structured and detail‑focused.

• Warm, encouraging and people‑positive.

• Skilled at supporting and guiding newer trustees.

• Passionate about tackling loneliness and building community.

• Energised by SUNSHINE’s culture of positivity, human connection, community and belonging.

What You’ll Gain

• The chance to shape a charity with huge heart and huge potential.

• A close, collaborative relationship with the Chair and Vice Chair.

• The opportunity to build strong governance foundations from the start.

• The joy of helping people feel connected, valued and part of a community.

• A role where your organisational superpowers genuinely change lives.

Ready to Bring Your Light to SUNSHINE?

If you’re someone who loves good governance, clear structure and helping a board shine — we’d love to hear from you.

Join the SUNSHINE movement.

Help us bring connection, community and belonging to London.

COME SHINE WITH US.

Chair of Trustees – Mary Frances Trust

Location: Surrey/Hybrid

Time commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month

Remuneration: Voluntary role (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Term: Three-year term, with potential for reappointment for up to two further terms.

We are open to reasonable adjustments and flexible approaches to the role.

About Mary Frances Trust

Mary Frances Trust (MFT) is a mental health and emotional wellbeing charity that works alongside people experiencing any kind of emotional or mental health issues, supporting them for as long as needed to restore and maintain their wellbeing. We provide a range of community-based services, co-produced with people with lived experience of mental health issues. We work closely with partners across the health sector (including NHS), local authority and the voluntary sector.

We believe that anyone experiencing mental or emotional health issues should feel confident to ask for help and receive appropriate support for as long as needed, to live a fulfilling life.

Our values are: Inspiring, Inclusive, Agile and Respectful.

We are a charitable company limited by guarantee with a Board of Trustees responsible for our overall governance, strategy and compliance.

Board culture: Our Board is friendly, established and committed, working collaboratively to provide strong governance and support MFT’s mission.

Please note, Mary Frances Trust reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.

The Role

We’re seeking a Chair of Trustees to provide leadership to the Board as MFT embarks on its next phase of growth and development. This is an exciting strategic role offering the opportunity to drive meaningful change and shape the future of our organisation. You will work closely with a committed team of Trustees, staff and volunteers to set direction, provide governance and ensure MFT continues to deliver real impact for the Surrey community.

The Chair will:

• Lead the Board and support the organisation to fulfil its charitable purpose.
• Ensure effective working relationships between the Board and staff, volunteers, the Advisory Group, Members and key external stakeholders.
• Act as spokesperson and figurehead for the charity where appropriate.
• Supervise and support the Chief Executive, including an annual performance review.
• Plan and prepare Board meetings and the Annual General Meeting (AGM) with the Chief Executive and other staff members as appropriate.
• Chair Board meetings effectively ensuring balanced discussion, clear decisions and actions are assigned and followed through.
• Lead regular reviews of Board effectiveness and support good succession planning for the Chair role.
• Work closely with the Chief Executive and fellow Trustees to ensure MFT meets its legal, regulatory and constitutional duties while staying true to its vision and values.

Person Specification

In addition to the skills and experience required of all MFT Trustees, the Chair will bring:

• Strong governance and leadership capability.
• The ability to chair meetings well and enable inclusive, balanced discussion and clear decisions.
• Sound judgement, and the ability to support and constructively challenge the Chief Executive.
• Tact, diplomacy and strong interpersonal skills.
• Understanding of the mental health and wellbeing sector and/or the wider voluntary sector context.
• The time and capacity to commit to around 1–2 days per month.
• Commitment to MFT’s values and to improving mental health and wellbeing in the Surrey community.

Previous experience as a Chair or Vice Chair (in a charity, public, or non-profit setting) is desirable, but we also welcome applications from candidates who can demonstrate strong governance and leadership experience and the ability to step into this role.

Additional experience that would strengthen the Board (desirable):

• HR / people governance experience.
• Capacity to support Board‑level oversight of complaints or appeals (staff or client related) where matters are escalated.
• Experience of Co‑production, lived‑experience‑led work, or collaborative approaches to service design and governance.
• Lived experience of mental health issues and/or caring experience (we value lived experience alongside governance and leadership skills).

Time Commitment

The Chair is expected to commit approximately around 1–2 days per month.

These include:

• Preparing for and chairing approximately six Board meetings a year.
• Attending the Annual General Meeting (in the autumn).
• Regular meetings with the Chief Executive.
• Occasional representation at external meetings and events.

Eligibility

You must be eligible to serve as a Charity Trustee and Company Director under UK law and be willing to complete the necessary eligibility and declaration checks.

All successful candidates will be required to undertake Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks as well as reference checks. These will be a condition of any offer of volunteering post being made.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. We strongly encourage applications from people with lived experience of mental health issues.

We welcome applications from people under‑represented in charity governance (including disabled people, people from minoritised ethnic communities, and people with lived experience of mental health challenges).
 

We are seeking committed individuals to join our Management Committee, supporting the strategic oversight and governance of Help4Homeless.

This is a voluntary leadership role responsible for ensuring the charity operates effectively, ethically, and in line with its mission to support people experiencing homelessness in Peterborough.

Management Committee members carry out trustee-style responsibilities, providing oversight, guidance, and accountability for the organisation, without being part of day-to-day operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight of Help4Homeless and its long-term direction
• Act in the best interests of the organisation and its beneficiaries at all times
• Attend committee meetings and contribute to decision-making and planning
• Support and challenge the leadership team to ensure effective delivery of services
• Monitor the organisation’s activities, impact, and overall performance
• Help ensure financial transparency and responsible use of funds
• Identify risks and help ensure appropriate safeguarding and compliance measures are in place
• Uphold the values, mission, and reputation of Help4Homeless
• Act as an ambassador for the organisation within the community
• Declare and manage any conflicts of interest appropriately

Please Note

Although this role is titled Management Committee Member, it carries responsibilities equivalent to a trustee position, including governance, oversight, and accountability. The committee collectively ensures the organisation is well-managed and acting in the public interest.

Location

On-site / Hybrid – Peterborough, UK

Working Hours

Approx. 2–6 hours per month (including meetings and review responsibilities)

Expenses

Reasonable expenses may be covered where agreed in advance.

Reports To

Collective responsibility as part of the Management Committee

Works Alongside

• Founder / Operations Lead
• Directors and Senior Volunteers
• Community Engagement Team
• Social Media and Fundraising Teams

Skills & Experience

• Commitment to helping people experiencing homelessness
• Good judgement and ability to think strategically
• Willingness to take responsibility for governance decisions
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to act independently and objectively
• Experience in charity, business, community work, or leadership (desirable but not essential)

Important Governance Note

Help4Homeless is currently transitioning from an informal community group into a more structured organisation. Management Committee members will play a key role in shaping governance, policies, and long-term sustainability.

Why Join Us

This is an opportunity to help shape a growing grassroots charity making a direct impact in Peterborough, ensuring that every donation goes directly toward supporting people in need.

Join the Team and Help Us Build the Future of The Swadhinata Trust 

The Swadhinata Trust is embarking on a journey of significant growth and transformation. Having recently refreshed our purpose, mission, and brand, we are now ready for our next big leap: transitioning from a grassroots volunteer organisation to a scalable charity with paid staff and expanded reach.

To reach our full potential, we need 'roll-up-your-sleeves' leaders who are eager to help us transform. This isn’t just about giving advice from the sidelines; it’s about being the engine of our transformation. Whether you are an expert in your field or looking to develop new skills, joining us as a collaborative partner offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible, lasting impact on our journey.

How Can You Help 

We are looking for both professionals and enthusiasts eager to use their skills to help us transform. Whether you can offer 2 hours a week or 10, your expertise will be a vital part of reaching our big goals. You don’t need to be a veteran in your field; we value a 'roll-up-your-sleeves' attitude and a commitment to our mission just as much as a CV.

Operations Volunteer

The Goal: You are the engine room! You’ll help ensure our day-to-day systems, from IT to HR, are smooth and supportive.

We’d love help with:

• Daily Support: Helping with office admin, logistics, or coordinating meetings.

• Improving Systems: Assisting with our CRM (database) or helping the team get the most out of our tech.

• People Support: Helping with the "welcome" process for new staff or volunteers.

What you bring:

• A proactive, "can-do" attitude and a knack for multitasking.

• Great people skills and an organised approach to busy days.

• Tech-savviness (or a quick ability to learn new software).

About International Lawyers Project

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 individuals, communities and organisations that would otherwise not have access to expert advice.

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. Our focus areas are environment and sustainable development, sustainable finance, governance and accountability (with a focus on anti-corruption measures), and protecting the civic space of those working on these themes. Over twenty years we have supported partners in more than 100 countries.

We are proud to have a diverse staff team from Africa, Asia, the Americas, 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 line with our vision of a just and sustainable world in which law serves as a tool for those who need it the most.

You may find out more about ILP’s work at its website.

About the Role

ILP has a 13-member Board, with members based in the UK, Spain, Kenya and the USA. Successful candidates will be joining a collegial team with a wide range of expertise in the thematic areas of ILP’s work and experience in charity governance.

ILP is a growing and ambitious organisation, with its budget more than doubling in size over the course of the last few years. Currently with a budget of approximately £500,000 and an additional £6 million value mobilised in pro bono hours, we are looking for a trustee and ultimately a Chair who is able to support the team as the organisation continues to grow and move to the next level.

Successful candidates will be appointed initially as an ordinary Trustee. The term of the current Chair comes to an end in mid-2027. Shortly before then the Board will decide on the appointment of a new Chair, with the expectation that the successful candidate will be elected from the Board in accordance with the Articles of Association.

The key responsibilities of Board members are to ensure that the organisation has a clear strategy for the fulfilment of its charitable purposes, and to provide oversight of and support to the executive team, in accordance with the Articles of Association and the guidance on governance obligations established by the Charity Commission.

 In addition to these general obligations the Board Chair’s key responsibilities are to:

• Provide leadership to the Board of Trustees in oversight of the strategic direction and execution of the governance responsibilities of the Charity.

• Chair and facilitate meetings of the Board (hybrid meetings held from ILP’s London office), ensuring that they are conducted in an effective and inclusive manner and monitoring the implementation of decisions taken at such meetings.

• Support ILP’s Executive Director in leading the day-to-day management of the Charity and preparing for Board meetings.

• Take lead responsibility on behalf of the Board for the relationship with ILP’s Executive Director, appraising their performance and holding him or her to account.

• Give direction to Board policy making.

• Act as an ambassador for the Charity, representing its strategy and contribution to its partners and funders.

• Plan for the recruitment and development of Board members as needed in order to improve the performance of the Board.

Term of Office: Trustees are appointed for a 3 year term, serving a maximum of 3 consecutive terms.

Expected Time Commitment: Variable, but up to two days a month as Board Chair. Ordinary trustees attend four two-hour Board meetings annually, for which moderate background reading is required, and may be requested to assist with other contributions.

Compensation: This is a volunteer role, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Specification for Board Chair

• Experience serving on the Board of one or more other registered UK charities.

• Understanding of the Charity Commission’s governance requirements, and the balance of roles between governance and management.

• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to support the charity.

• Professional background related to ILP’s thematic areas of focus and familiarity with the non-profit sector working in an international context.

• Commitment to ILP’s strategic objectives.

• Good communication and people management skills and strong independent judgement.

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, is seeking a Finance Trustee to join our purpose-driven and passionate Council (Board of Trustees). Are you ready to play a leading role in shaping the strategic direction of the UK’S oldest national tri-service charity?

Founded in 1885, SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, provides practical, financial and emotional support to serving personnel, veterans and their families. Today, we remain a trusted source of help for those who serve or have served, and for the families who stand beside them.

Our work is underpinned by our values of understanding, commitment, integrity and compassion, and delivered by a diverse network of volunteers and employees across the UK and worldwide.

Role Responsibilities

As a Trustee, you will:

• Provide strategic financial oversight to ensure the organisation remains financially viable
• Provide strategic leadership, aligning with the Charity Governance Code principles of organisational purpose, leadership and integrity
• Ensure effective stewardship of the charity’s resources and long-term sustainability
• Safeguard SSAFA’s reputation, values and charitable purpose
• Promote a culture of integrity, accountability and inclusive decision-making at Board level
• Ensure compliance with charity law, regulatory requirements and governing documents

We are seeking individuals who can contribute to high-quality governance in line with the Charity Governance Code, bringing:

• A professional background in finance, accounting, banking or investment
• Experience in financial management, planning and governance
• Strategic insight, sound judgement and independence of thought
• An understanding of, or willingness to develop knowledge of, the charity finance and governance framework
• · A clear commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, and the ability to contribute to inclusive Board dynamics

Why Join Us

You will join a committed and purpose-driven Board, operating in accordance with recognised governance best practice. This is an opportunity to help shape the strategic future of SSAFA and ensure it continues to deliver impact for the Armed Forces community, now and in the future.

Closing date: Midnight on 1 September 2026

Interviews: Face to face interviews will be held in October 2026.

Birmingham Cathedral is seeking a dedicated and compassionate individual to join its Chapter as a non-executive member. This is a unique opportunity to contribute as a trustee to the cathedral's strategic direction, provide governance and oversight, and share responsibility for the stewardship and sustainability of the resources that support its mission and ministry.

As a member of the Cathedral Chapter, you will share with the Dean in the oversight of cathedral life. Chapter members are invaluable in shaping the direction of the cathedral and ensuring we continue to fulfil our mission and purpose. You will work collaboratively with clergy, staff, volunteers and external partners to uphold the cathedral’s mission, vision, values and strategic priorities. 

Use your expertise to shape education, influence communities, and grow as a leader 

Roles available at Calderdale College

Are you a business leader or corporate professional looking to make a meaningful impact outside the boardroom? 

By becoming a volunteer governor at a further education (FE) or sixth form college, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of an organisation that transforms lives through education and skills—while strengthening your own governance experience and leadership credentials. 

Why it’s relevant to professionals like you 

Further education colleges train over 1.6 million learners annually, preparing the skilled workforce that keeps our economy moving—from engineers and IT specialists to healthcare professionals and construction experts. 

As a college governor, you’ll sit on the board of an FE institution (and registered charity), where your insight into strategy, risk, people, or finance will have a direct impact on how public funds are spent, how performance is measured, and how learners are supported to succeed. 

This is an opportunity to: 

• Apply your corporate skills in a leadership role 

• Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV 

• Contribute to local economic growth and social mobility 

• Support a vital sector during a time of transformation 

What will you be doing? 

As part of a governing board, you’ll: 

• Set strategic direction: help define the college’s mission and goals 

• Hold leadership to account: monitor finances, performance, and outcomes 

• Ensure governance excellence: make decisions in the best interests of learners and stakeholders 

• Act as a charity trustee: ensure financial sustainability and legal compliance 

You’ll also engage with senior leaders and external stakeholders, including local employers, regulators, and community partners. 

Who are we looking for? 

We welcome professionals from a broad range of sectors, including but not limited to: 

• Finance, Audit & Risk 

• HR, People & Culture 

• Strategy, Transformation & Operations 

• Technology, AI & Digital 

• Legal, Governance & Compliance 

• Marketing, PR & Communications 

• Education, apprenticeships, or vocational courses 

What matters most is your strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment to helping others succeed. 

Prior education experience is not required. Full induction and training are provided, with access to DfE-funded development and peer mentoring where needed. 

Time commitment 

Expect to give approximately 1–2 days per month, including: 

• Attending board and committee meetings (in person or remote) 

• Reading papers and preparing questions 

• Participating in training and occasional college visits 

The time commitment is manageable alongside a full-time role—and many employers actively support staff to take on governance roles as part of their professional development. 

Where you’ll be needed 

Some colleges offer remote governance and meetings take place online. This may suit you best, or we may suggest a role where you volunteer on a hybrid basis at a college within a reasonable distance from you. We are recruiting governors for colleges across England, with new opportunities added regularly. 

What’s in it for you? 

This role offers the opportunity to: 

• Enhance your board-level and governance experience 

• Develop strategic oversight and leadership outside your day-to-day role 

• Expand your professional network 

• Give back in a way that creates long-term, measurable impact 

About Boards for Education 

Boards for Education is a charity that sources and supports volunteers for governing boards. We aim to improve educational outcomes for children, young people, and adult learners by strengthening governance across the education sector. 

With more than 25 years’ experience and a national network of partners, we connect schools, academy trusts, colleges, and education charities across England and Wales with skilled, independent volunteers. 

Ready to step into a strategic, purpose-driven leadership role? 

If you’re ready to bring your corporate insight to the education sector and help shape the future of skills, opportunity, and social mobility—we’d love to hear from you. 

Apply now to become a volunteer college governor.