Governance volunteer volunteer roles

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.

The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) gives old buildings a future - and we’re looking for an experienced strategic thinker and inspiring leader to be our new Chair of Trustees in our 150th anniversary year and beyond.

As Chair, you'll guide us at Board level, champion the SPAB Approach, attend meetings, support our activities and be an ambassador for the country’s oldest heritage organisation.

About Us

We help people to look after old buildings, making them fit for the future while keeping their historic character. We do this through casework, technical research and advice, education and training, awards, outreach and events across the UK and Ireland. 

Our work is underpinned by a conservation philosophy that encourages people to preserve historic fabric. The SPAB Approach provides a well-tested basis for practical decision-making in building conservation. We also encourage excellence in new design to enrich and complement the built historic environment. 

Founded in 1877 by William Morris and his fellow campaigners, the SPAB continues to advocate for old buildings almost 150 years later. 

About the Role

We're looking for someone...​​

• Able to direct the business of the Board efficiently and effectively​

• Skilled in developing and nurturing productive working relationships​

• Willing to challenge and introduce new ways of thinking and acting​

• Nurturing of positive engagement amongst staff, volunteers and members​

• Committed to the SPAB Approach to the conservation of built heritage​

• A member of the SPAB​

Experience Required

You will be...​​

• Familiar with charity or corporate governance​

• Capable of high-level advocacy across a range of media​

• Successful at fundraising and/or entrepreneurial experience​

• Able to deliver growth and change management in an organisation​

• Competent in difficult situations and with resolving conflict​

​Responsibilities

• Provide leadership to the Board in its strategic and policy roles​

• Chair the Board and other meetings to facilitate positive discussion and development​

• Ensure the Board fulfils its legal and charitable responsibilities for the governance of the SPAB​

• Establish a constructive working relationship with the Chief Executive and Honorary Treasurer​

• Reviewing the performance of the Chief Executive and Board​

Key Tasks

• Campaigner: for the SPAB Approach and the conservation of built heritage​

• Strategist: implementing and refining the SPAB’s strategy for 2025-30 by responding to emerging opportunities and risks​

• Fundraiser: supporting the SPAB in fulfilling its fundraising needs​

• Networker: making connections and influencing at a senior level (not just in the heritage sector)​

• Publicist: raising the professional and public profile of the SPAB and its members in the UK and overseas​

• Teambuilder: developing Board members and staff​

• Organiser: facilitating Board processes and leading on improving governance practice​

What We Offer

• The Chair’s role is the most senior voluntary position within the SPAB​

• The postholder will have the opportunity to lead the UK’s oldest building conservation organisation into its 150th Anniversary year and beyond​

• The position of SPAB Chair is highly regarded within the heritage sector and elsewhere​

• The post is voluntary and unremunerated, but reasonable expenses can be claimed​​

​How to Apply

Please submit a CV (maximum two pages) and a covering letter (maximum two pages) clearly explaining why you believe you are well suited to the role by Friday 21 August 2026, 5pm​.

Interviews will be held at ​37 Spital Square, London, E1 6DY​ in early-mid September 2026​ (date tbc)​.

Equal Opportunities​​

We particularly welcome applications from people with backgrounds underrepresented in building conservation.​​

We are looking for a passionate and committed young parent to join the Board of Parents 1st UK as a Lived Experience Trustee.

This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of our organisation by ensuring the voices, experiences and perspectives of parents remain at the heart of our work, strategy and decision-making.

We welcome applications from young parents with lived experience of pregnancy, early parenthood and/or accessing support for their mental health and wellbeing during pregnancy or within the first two years of their child’s life.

You do not need previous trustee or Board experience to apply. We are committed to supporting and developing new trustees and will provide induction, mentoring, guidance and ongoing support to help you succeed in the role.

This role is a valuable opportunity to build confidence, develop leadership skills, gain experience in governance and make a meaningful difference for other parents and families.

As a Trustee, you will have opportunities to connect with staff, learn more about our programmes and see the impact of our work first-hand. You will work alongside the CEO and Programme Leads, helping to shape decisions and priorities that support parents, babies and families across the UK.

We understand that young parents may be balancing family life, work, education or other commitments, and we are committed to creating an accessible and supportive environment where you can participate fully.

Key Responsibilities

As a Young Parent Trustee, you will:

• Help ensure Parents 1st UK remains true to its mission, values and purpose
• Bring the voice and perspective of young parents to Board discussions and decision-making
• Share insight into the experiences and challenges faced by parents accessing services
• Contribute to discussions about strategy, policies and organisational priorities
• Attend and actively participate in Board meetings and discussions
• Work collaboratively with fellow Trustees, staff and volunteers
• Support good governance and help ensure the charity operates responsibly and effectively
• Act as an ambassador for Parents 1st UK and its work within communities and networks where appropriate

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for someone who:

• Is a young parent with lived experience of pregnancy, early parenthood and/or perinatal mental health support
• Is passionate about improving outcomes for parents, babies and families
• Feels able to reflect on and share their experiences in a constructive and supportive way
• Is willing to contribute ideas, ask questions and learn alongside others
• Values inclusion, compassion, respect and collaboration
• Is committed to the aims and values of Parents 1st UK

Previous governance or Board experience is not required. We welcome applications from first-time trustees and will support you throughout your journey in the role.

Time Commitment

• Board Meetings: 6 per year (approx. 2 hours, held virtually)
• Away Days: 2 per year (in person in London, 10:00–16:00)
• Preparation: Reading papers and reports in advance
• Additional: Occasional strategy or planning sessions

Estimated total commitment: approximately 4–6 hours per month

Trustees must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Not be disqualified under the Charities Act

Parents 1st UK is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of families. All Trustees are required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and appropriate due diligence.

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.

Legal and Governance Volunteer

The Goal: Help us stay safe and sound. You’ll support the team in ensuring we operate with integrity and stay up-to-date with all the "must-haves" of running a charity.

We’d love help with:

• Keeping us Current: Helping us review and update our internal policies and guidelines.

• Research: Looking into specific charity regulations or data protection (GDPR) questions.

• Organising Governance: Supporting the Board with paperwork and ensuring our records are in top shape.

What you bring:

• A legal or administrative background (or you’re currently studying in these fields).

• A keen eye for detail and a love for clear, fair rules.

• The ability to take complex information and make it easy for the team to follow.

Dacorum Heritage is seeking a committed and people-focused Trustee to join its Board of Trustees and help shape the future of a charitable museum dedicated to preserving and sharing local heritage.

You will play a key role in supporting the people who make the Dacorum Heritage’s work possible. You will help ensure volunteers and staff feel valued, heard and well supported, while contributing to the Board’s wider responsibility for good governance, financial oversight and strategic direction.

This is an opportunity to bring your experience, judgement and enthusiasm to a small charity with an important community purpose. Working collectively with fellow Trustees, you will help ensure Dacorum Heritage remains legally compliant, financially sustainable and focused on delivering its charitable objects for current and future beneficiaries.

Purpose of the Role

· Help create a positive, inclusive and well-supported environment for Dacorum Heritage’s volunteers and staff;

· Provide Board-level oversight of volunteer engagement, staff and director recruitment, and relevant HR matters.

What You Will Do

· Work with the Museum Manager to identify volunteer and staff needs, and support best practice in recruitment, induction and retention;

· Support the development of and attend informal volunteer coffee mornings and other social events in person where possible helping volunteers and staff to feel included, informed and valued;

· Develop clear routes for volunteers to share feedback, ideas and concerns;

· Oversee recruitment, interviews and appointments for the museum manager and trustees if required;

· Act as a trusted link between the Board, employees and volunteers;

· Support proportionate, effective HR and volunteer policies aligned with Dacorum Heritage’s strategic plans;

· Contribute actively and constructively to Board discussion, challenge and decision-making;

· Share collective responsibility for good governance, risk management and strategic direction; and

· Represent Dacorum Heritage positively and help build strong relationships with stakeholders and the wider community.

IAPWA is seeking an experienced HR Volunteer to provide strategic guidance and independent oversight of our people practices. This role is focused on supporting good governance rather than delivering day-to-day HR operations.

Working alongside the CEO and relevant staff, the volunteer will help ensure the charity's HR policies, procedures and practices remain compliant with UK employment legislation, reflect best practice, and support a positive and inclusive working environment.

This is an advisory role requiring a couple of hours per week, with flexibility around when those hours are completed. The volunteer will act as a trusted source of HR knowledge, helping the charity identify potential risks, strengthen governance, and continuously improve its people practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide independent advice and guidance on HR matters to support good governance.
• Review HR policies and procedures periodically, recommending updates to reflect changes in legislation and best practice.
• Support the charity in maintaining compliance with UK employment law and relevant Charity Commission expectations.
• Provide advice on people-related risks and help identify appropriate mitigation measures.
• Offer guidance on employee relations matters where required, whilst recognising that operational HR activities are undertaken by others.
• Support the development of fair, consistent and inclusive HR practices.
• Review and advise on staff handbook content and employment-related documentation as required.
• Provide input into organisational culture, employee wellbeing and engagement initiatives where appropriate.
• Help ensure appropriate HR records, governance processes and documentation are maintained.
• Provide guidance on safer recruitment, equality, diversity and inclusion, learning and development, performance management and other HR best practice.
• Attend occasional meetings (virtually or in person) as agreed.

Essential Experience/Skills

• Previous experience working within Human Resources, People Management or a related HR profession.
• Good knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice.
• Experience developing or reviewing HR policies and procedures.
• Ability to provide balanced, pragmatic and confidential advice.
• Understanding of good governance and organisational risk management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organisational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and manage a small voluntary time commitment.
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Understanding of confidentiality and data protection requirements.
• A commitment to the values and aims of the charity.

Desirable

• Chartered membership or associate membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).
• Previous experience within the voluntary or charity sector.
• Experience supporting small organisations with HR governance and compliance.

Role- Head of Governance and Legal (Voluntary)

Reporting- CEO/CPO

Location- Remote, UK-based

Commitment: We estimate this role requires 4–6 hours per week, with flexibility to manage your own time. All meetings are remote and scheduled in advance.

Compensation: Voluntary role (non-paid)

About YouthAdvantage UK

YouthAdvantage UK is a volunteer-led, research-based organisation championing the rights and wellbeing of young people aged 11 to 25 across the UK. We influence national policy, deliver grassroots projects, and elevate youth voice in key debates; from education to mental health, climate action to justice reform.

We are seeking a passionate, committed Head of Governance & Legal to join our senior leadership team and help shape the strategic foundations that support our work.

About the role

As Head of Governance & Legal, you will lead a small team focused on risk, compliance, and governance excellence. You will ensure our work is rooted in sound legal and ethical frameworks and will support our growth with robust, transparent policies and guidance. You’ll also provide strategic support to our Board of Trustees and act as the senior point of contact for all legal matters.

This is an ideal opportunity for a governance, legal, or compliance professional looking to gain sector leadership experience while supporting a values-driven youth organisation.

 What you’ll gain

• Strategic leadership experience in a national charity
• A portfolio of governance and legal work with social impact
• Board-level exposure and public recognition of your contribution
• A flexible and supportive remote-first culture
• Testimonials, references, and public acknowledgment upon completion
• A chance to help shape youth policy at a systemic level

What you’ll do

• Lead and support the Governance & Legal Support Manager and team
• Design, update, and implement governance frameworks and organisational policies
• Maintain regulatory compliance across charity law, safeguarding, and data protection
• Liaise with the Board of Trustees - prepare agendas, minutes, and reports
• Oversee legal documentation and contracts
• Maintain and review the organisation’s risk register
• Build relationships with regulators and external legal advisors
• Embed a culture of accountability, transparency, and ethical practice

Who we’re looking for

We welcome applications from a broad range of professional backgrounds. You might be:

• An experienced lawyer, company secretary, or governance lead
• A compliance or legal professional seeking strategic exposure
• A postgraduate in law or non-profit management looking for leadership experience
• Returning to work and keen to rebuild your senior-level skillset
• Recently semi-retired and passionate about giving back

 Essential:

• Experience in governance, legal, or compliance leadership (minimum 12 months)
• Familiarity with UK charity law and regulatory frameworks
• Ability to lead and support others with tact and clarity
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Commitment to equity, youth empowerment, and ethical standards

To Apply

If you’re interested, just send us your CV and a few lines about why the role appeals to you — this can be a short paragraph in your email or a separate note. If you'd prefer an informal chat before applying, we’d love to hear from you. Just drop us a message and we’ll arrange a time.

Volunteer Acknowledgement

Although this is a volunteer role, we’re committed to recognising your contribution. Upon successful completion of your commitment, you can request:

• A LinkedIn testimonial or written reference
• A public thank-you post on our social media
• Permission to list your role with YouthAdvantage UK on your CV and LinkedIn

About the Trustee role

We have a detailed role description and person specification over the next few pages to

help you understand the requirements of the role.

The main purpose of our role:

As trustees at Back Up, we are volunteers with a specific legal responsibility to:

· Ensure our aims and objectives are being met

· Act in the best interest of the charity

· Manage responsibility for what we have (our people, our money etc)

· Act with reasonable care and skill

You can find more information from the charity commission.

What you will gain:

· An insight into how a charity runs, particularly how a charity board runs

· A new group of friends and colleagues

· A sense of pride when hearing about the difference our services make and that you

· A role in transforming lives affected by spinal cord injury.

· Confidence in building relationships with a wide range of people and speaking up at meetings

· An opportunity to develop your skills and experiences

· An opportunity to use your skills and experience to the benefit of the charity

Being a trustee is a voluntary role, therefore unpaid, but expenses including for travel are reimbursed.

You will receive a full induction to help you in the role at Back Up. In addition, where there is a training need, a range of training courses are on offer. You’ll need to commit time and energy to attend these, building up your knowledge so that you feel confident in the role. This often takes longer than you think, but we understand that – we were all new trustees once too.

Trustee Person Specification

Key Skills:

· Ability to support, motivate and inspire people to get involved

· Excellent communication skills in person, in writing and on the telephone

· Respect for others, for confidentiality and able to treat people equally

· Highly organised: able to manage multiple tasks, conflicting priorities, and responsive to deadlines

Qualifications and Experience:

Specific experience that would be useful to Back Up. You may have one or more of these:

· Accountancy

· Third Sector Knowledge

· Fundraising knowledge

· Personal experience of spinal cord injury

Personal Attributes:

· Integrity and honesty

· Proactive – seek out answers to your questions without a prompt

· A demonstrable commitment to Back Up's aims and values

· Honest, reliable, enthusiastic and conscientious

· Team player, flexible and adaptable

· Willingness to understand and hear about issues relating to spinal cord injury

Time Commitment:

· Currently, three and a half hourly board meetings four times a year, evenings in SW London

· One to two away-days per year

· Two-hour committee meetings (four times per year)

· Spending two to three hours prior to meetings, reading and absorbing information

· Reflecting and discussing by telephone

· Follow up to meetings – reading and commenting on minutes, carrying out any

· agreed actions

Requirements:

You must be…

· Over 18

· Not bankrupt

· Subject to satisfactory DBS check and references

· Not excluded by Companies House or Charity Commission

· Not bound by conflicts of interest that would be so significant as to undermine the role in general e.g. a member of a group that discriminates against people based on gender or ethnicity

Specific responsibilities

Role Description: Trustee

Reports to: Chair of Trustees

Accountable to: People affected by spinal cord injury, Charities Commission and Companies House

Summary:

The Board supports the vision and mission of the organisation. We ensure the delivery of the strategy, so that people affected by spinal cord injury can realise their full potential.

Vision and Mission

· To uphold the values of the charity, undertaking the duties of trusteeship in a way that adds to public confidence and trust in the charity

· Promoting and developing the charity in order for it to grow and maintain its relevance to society

· To support decisions that are in the best interest of service users, donors, volunteers and stakeholders at all times

· To take big decisions about the future

Compliance, quality and effectiveness

· Support development of policies that further the aims and objectives of Back Up and to monitor their success

· Ensure compliance with our memorandum and articles

· Ensure Back Up’s accountability and legal obligations

· Maintain sound financial management of the charity’s resources, ensuring expenditure is in line with the organisation’s objects and investment activities meet accepted standards and policies

· Ensuring resources are used in an efficient and cost-effective manner

· Maintain effective board performance

· Remain aware of the legal responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship and act in accordance with liabilities

· Manage/declare any personal conflicts of interest.

· Strive for best practice in governance, through proactive learning and Development

Carers Support is looking for a new Chair of Trustees to lead our Board and support the next stage of our development. This is an important voluntary role for someone with strong board or senior governance experience who wants to make a real difference to unpaid carers.

About Carers Support

We are an independent charity supporting thousands of unpaid carers of all ages across Bristol and South Gloucestershire. We provide advice, information, practical help, emotional support, training, young carers services and more.

Our vision is that all carers are recognised, valued and supported. We work closely with the NHS, local authorities and voluntary organisations, and hold the Trusted Charity quality mark

Main duties would include:

As Chair of Trustees, you will:

• Lead the Board and help set the charity’s strategic direction

• Support and work closely with the Chief Executive

• Make sure the Board fulfils its legal and governance duties

• Encourage a positive, open and inclusive Board culture

• Ensure meetings are well-run and support good discussion and decision-making

• Help the charity respond to the needs and views of unpaid carers

• Ensure risks, finances and performance are monitored effectively

You do not need previous chairing experience. We are looking for someone with solid board or committee experience who can guide a group and support strong governance.

What we’re looking for

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and lived experiences. We are looking for someone who can bring:

• Board, governance or senior decision-making experience

• Calm, confident leadership and good people skills

• The ability to facilitate effective meetings or a willingness to learn

• Sound judgement and the confidence to ask questions

• A commitment to improving the lives of unpaid carers

• Time to prepare for and attend meetings

Time commitment

• 4 board meetings per year (2 hours each)

• Regular meetings with the Chief Executive

• Occasional committee meetings, events or development sessions

• Additional committee meetings, events or development sessions, as required

What you’ll gain

• A meaningful leadership opportunity with social impact

• Strategic experience in a respected local charity

• Supportive induction, training and ongoing guidance

• A warm and collaborative Board environment

 There’s lots more we could tell you, but why not apply and come and see for yourself.  If you’d like any further information, please email our recruitment team with your details and we’ll arrange for someone to call you back.

Please visit our website for all the information you need and details of how to apply.  All expressions of interest and CV’s should be returned to our recruitment inbox.

Closing date for applications is 30th September 2026 (however this vacancy may close early if we find a suitable candidate).

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer, and our workplace is free of barriers and fully accessible for people with disabilities.  We are committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults; from recruitment of staff through to supporting our team working with families and carers in crisis.

Registered Charity No:  1063226

We are seeking individuals from a wide range of backgrounds to join the Advisory Board for CIMSPA’s Workforce Governance and Registration Scheme project.

CIMSPA has been commissioned by Sport England to deliver this ambitious project over a three-year period (2026–2029). The aim is to ensure that everyone participating in sport and physical activity can enjoy safe, high-quality experiences, supported by a skilled and trusted workforce in a positive environment.

The success of this project depends on meaningful collaboration with the sector. This Advisory Board will play a critical role in shaping and supporting its delivery.

As an Advisory Board member, you will provide strategic insight, advice and guidance to CIMSPA, helping to shape the development and implementation of the workforce governance and registration scheme.

You will contribute to key decisions that will have a long-term impact on the sport and physical activity workforce and the organisations that oversee it.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

The Advisory Board will oversee three core workstreams:

• Ensuring sports are register-ready
• Developing the Registrar function to oversee accredited register holders
• Leading the digital development of a publicly searchable national register

Board members will also contribute to important decisions such as:

• Defining the level of scrutiny applied within the system
• Agreeing monitoring and governance processes
• Shaping and approving the Registrar’s identity, purpose, and structure

Time commitment

• Approximately four meetings per year over an 18-24-month period
• An initial in-person induction/standardisation meeting (where possible)
• Subsequent meetings held remotely, with papers circulated in advance
• Attendance at two national stakeholder events per year

Future opportunity

Over time, this Advisory Board is expected to evolve into the governing board of the appointed organisation responsible for overseeing the scheme (the Registrar).

Who we're looking for

We welcome applications from individuals with diverse skills, experiences, and perspectives, who are passionate about improving standards, governance, and public trust within sport and physical activity.

Charity Trustees (volunteer) – North West, Stoke-on-Trent, Shropshire and Staffordshire

This is an opportunity to join a Board engaged in real strategic decisions, where your contribution will have direct and lasting impact. 

About us

Adoption Matters is a children’s charity and one of the largest voluntary adoption agencies in the UK. We recruit, train and support individuals, couples and families looking to adopt and offer ongoing support and training. We also offer a support service for adopted adults and birth families, and a specialised therapy service.

In 2024, we launched our not for profit fostering agency, Foster Care Matters. As a non profit provider, the service is committed to reinvesting resources to deliver high quality support and ongoing training for foster parents. More recently in 2026, we acquired 1st Affinity Fostering Service in Wrexham, securing a not-for-profit future for the agency in Wales.

What we’re looking for

We are seeking Trustees to join our purposeful and dedicated Board of Trustees and contribute to our organisation and the lives of children and families. We are looking for individuals who share our ambition and have the skills and ability to make a meaningful contribution.

This is a meaningful opportunity to help shape the future of a children’s charity that transforms the lives of children who cannot live with their birth families. For many of the children we support—often older, in sibling groups, or with complex needs - adoption can be life-changing.

For further information, please refer to the Person Specification in the Trustee Recruitment Pack. 

Term commitment 

The term of appointment will be three years initially, with a review of performance for renewal for a further three years and again after this period, up to a maximum of nine years. In exceptional circumstances, the term may extend beyond this period.

Remuneration and expenses 

This position is unremunerated; however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Why become a Trustee? 

Make an impact, gain experience, expand your network, and enhance your skills and knowledge. If you are passionate about what we do and believe you can add value to the current Board of Trustees, we would be very interested to hear from you. 

What we offer in return 

• Our values: Honesty, Empathy, Ambition, Respect, and Together — which we hope align with your own. 
• The opportunity to make a difference, feel valued, and achieve the role satisfaction you’ve always wanted. 

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement 

At Adoption Matters, we are committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered. Our ambition is to create a culture that embraces diversity, promotes equality, and ensures inclusion for all. 

We are open to discussions about any adjustments or flexible arrangements you may need at any stage of the process. If you join us, we will support you to reach your full potential. The only aspect we assess in your application is how you have demonstrated your ability to meet the essential requirements of the role. 

Together, we can build a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive future.

Our values: Honesty, Empathy, Ambition, Respect, and Together - which we hope to align with your own.

The opportunity to make a difference, feel valued, and achieve the role satisfaction you’ve always wanted.

What’s next? It’s easy!

How to apply

Apply with your contact details and we will be in touch with the full Recruitment Pack and Application Form.

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.

CVS Cheshire East exists to ensure local voluntary and community groups are strong, empowered organisations that make a difference in our community. We are seeking trustees with a passion for the VCFSE sector, a desire to make a difference and achieve change, and the commitment and dedication to engage with the Board and senior leadership to actively drive the organisation forward.

Trustees are collectively responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of CVS Cheshire East. They develop the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with its governing document, legal obligations and regulatory guidelines, ensuring the charity operates effectively and delivers genuine public benefit.

Being a trustee is both a privilege and a responsibility. It means lending your experience, skills and insight to strengthen not just CVS Cheshire East, but the wider VCFSE sector across Cheshire East.

Key Responsibilites

• Legal and Governance Duties
• Financial Responsibility and Risk
• Safeguarding
• Strategic Leadership
• Supporting the Chief Executive
• Collective and Individual Responsibility for descisions

Time commitment

Trustees are expected to read all Board papers in advance of meetings and come prepared to contribute. In addition, trustees may receive requests for information or decisions between meetings and are expected to respond in a timely manner: we anticipate that in addition to the meetings outlined above, trustees will need to spend between 2-4 hours per month contributing to CVSCE governance.

Skills

CVS Cheshire East welcomes applications from people with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences.

What matters most is passion for the VCFSE sector, a desire to make a difference and achieve change, and the commitment and dedication to engage with the Board and senior leadership to actively drive the organisation forward.

We are particularly keen to recruit trustees who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, and those with lived experience of being an employee or trustee of one of our member organisations.

We are seeking an inspirational Chair of Trustees and a Vice Chair to lead Studio Upstairs into its next exciting chapter.

This pivotal role requires integrity, compassion, and strategic vision to ensure our much-loved arts and mental health charity fulfils its charitable objectives, maintains the highest standards of governance, and continues to thrive as a respected and trusted organisation.

The Board of Trustees plays a vital role by steering and supporting the charity development. 

We are seeking to appoint a Chair,Vice Chair or initially to join the board as a Trustee.. The Studio Upstairs Board is drawn from a diverse range of backgrounds and has a variety of skills. To complement the current Board, we would envisage that the Chair had a wide experience of running organisations and a particular interest in the charity sector. We are keen to hear from candidates with skills in the areas of Corporate Governance and Business Development ie: Charity Financial Management, Partnership working or Fundraising as well as those within Digital Technologies, Health or Legal expertise.

Studio Upstairs exists to transform lives through creativity. We have branches in Bristol and London. We are a trusted arts and mental health charity offering open studios and a creative community. We help people overcome challenges through therapeutic art practice and supportive peer interaction.

In addition to the full board meetings  there may be occasional committee meetings or meetings of specific task groups. It is expected that the Chair will also maintain regular contact with the Managing Director and other Board members.

The Board Meetings are to be held four to six times a year in London (currently online). 

A clear empathy with the aims of the charity are essential. You can find out more about our work on our website. 

The shortlisted candidates will be offered an opportunity to discuss the role informally prior to an interview.