Do you have professional expertise you could use to help a good cause? Are you passionate about animal welfare? We are looking for enthusiastic and reliable people to actively volunteer for the Branch as trustees, ensuring that the Branch is governed and managed effectively, whilst continually having animal welfare at the forefront of their minds.Trustees serve on the governing body of the charity and have the responsibility of the running of the Branch.

As a trustee of a Branch you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals.

Main activities: To be familiar with and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA. To be familiar with the Branch rules and follow them at all times.

To work with your fellow trustees and Branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the Branch and the RSPCA. To ensure the Branch meets all the minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS). Where they are not met, to work with national RSPCA staff to meet the standard as soon as practicable. In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch support specialist (BSS), to write, adopt, monitor & review a Branch development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your Branch. To actively participate in Branch committee meetings and attend the Branch annual general meeting and regional conference. To be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives.

To attend the trustee training course. To actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new Branch trustees and volunteers. To welcome new trustees and volunteers to the Branch. Each Branch appoints a Secretary, Treasurer and Chair. Role outlines for each of these Branch Officer roles are available.

We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with a variety of experience and skills to draw on, whether these have been formed through life or work situations. You must be committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives, so having a passion for animals is very helpful.

Most people aged 18 or over are eligible to become a trustee and you will need to become a member of the RSPCA. You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense and the ability to be objective is vital. Specific skills such as finance, legal, fundraising, project management, business experience, awareness of employment and/or charity legislation can be useful to help ensure we have a sound and robust business model and long term strategic development plan, however they are not essential. We are also looking for people who are creative, innovative, who have experience of or are part of the groups and communities we want to attract, who can bring new ideas, different experiences and fresh perspectives to the Board and to help put those ideas into action.

New RSPCA trustees are provided with a document “Guidance for Branch Trustees” and asked to attend a training course which provides information and guidance about a trustee’s role and responsibilities. Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and that they accept the post.

As of 1st August 2018 in addition to our standard declaration of willingness, trustees also need to complete the new declaration from the Charity Commission and read their guidance for individuals on who can’t be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary dependent on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties such as the role of chairman, treasurer or secretary.

You must have your own vehicle or access to a vehicle, and your own computer or access to one that can be used securely. Trustees are elected for a 12 month term each year. Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. References will be required. 

Do you have professional expertise you could use to help a good cause? Are you passionate about animal welfare? We are looking for enthusiastic and reliable people to actively volunteer for the Branch as trustees, ensuring that the Branch is governed and managed effectively, whilst continually having animal welfare at the forefront of their minds.Trustees serve on the governing body of the charity and have the responsibility of the running of the Branch.

As a trustee of a Branch you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals.

Main activities: To be familiar with and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA. To be familiar with the Branch rules and follow them at all times.

To work with your fellow trustees and Branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the Branch and the RSPCA. To ensure the Branch meets all the minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS). Where they are not met, to work with national RSPCA staff to meet the standard as soon as practicable. In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch support specialist (BSS), to write, adopt, monitor & review a Branch development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your Branch. To actively participate in Branch committee meetings and attend the Branch annual general meeting and regional conference. To be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives.

To attend the trustee training course. To actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new Branch trustees and volunteers. To welcome new trustees and volunteers to the Branch. Each Branch appoints a Secretary, Treasurer and Chair. Role outlines for each of these Branch Officer roles are available.

We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with a variety of experience and skills to draw on, whether these have been formed through life or work situations. You must be committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives, so having a passion for animals is very helpful.

Most people aged 18 or over are eligible to become a trustee and you will need to become a member of the RSPCA. You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense and the ability to be objective is vital. Specific skills such as finance, legal, fundraising, project management, business experience, awareness of employment and/or charity legislation can be useful to help ensure we have a sound and robust business model and long term strategic development plan, however they are not essential. We are also looking for people who are creative, innovative, who have experience of or are part of the groups and communities we want to attract, who can bring new ideas, different experiences and fresh perspectives to the Board and to help put those ideas into action. New RSPCA trustees are provided with a document “Guidance for Branch Trustees” and asked to attend a training course which provides information and guidance about a trustee’s role and responsibilities. Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and that they accept the post.

As of 1st August 2018 in addition to our standard declaration of willingness, trustees also need to complete the new declaration from the Charity Commission and read their guidance for individuals on who can’t be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary dependent on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties such as the role of chairman, treasurer or secretary. You must have your own vehicle or access to a vehicle, and your own computer or access to one that can be used securely. Trustees are elected for a 12 month term each year. Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. References will be required.

The Cardinal Hume Centre is committed to the safety and welfare of all who use our services. We operate a zero tolerance policy to abuse. The Centre is committed to working collaboratively with other agencies to prevent the abuse of children or adults at risk and to respond quickly when abuse is suspected.

Main purpose of this role:

• To provide independent advice and developmental support on safeguarding for the Cardinal Hume Centre.
• To take an active role in our 6 weekly Safeguarding working group and help us to evaluate and develop its purpose and practise.
• To ensure the group has an independent, objective and authoritative identity.

How does this role make a difference?

The Safeguarding Working Group is responsible for ensuring we maintain a robust approach to safeguarding and to continue developing a good practice response. We have attached the terms of referent for the group.

What will you be doing?

We are looking for someone with expertise and experience in Safeguarding practice and procedure to advise and chair the working group. Below is a list of tasks or areas of work we would like this role to fulfil. 

1. Oversee the group to ensure that practise reflects learning from investigations and any case reviews and other areas of work.
2. Ensure that performance management is integrated into the role and function of safeguarding to deliver improved outcomes for service users.
3. Provide advice and independent support to the organisation on safeguarding issues.
4. Oversee the development of good practice across the organisation.
5. Provide support to the development of effective safeguarding practise and procedures
6. Seek to ensure that partner organisations are held accountable.
7. Encourage multi agency working and practice.
8. To ensure that the group operates objectively in overseeing decision making.
9. To oversee the development of an effective safeguarding reporting and monitoring system for the director of Advice and Assessment.
10. Provide advice and support on developing safeguarding practice to the wider organisation.

What are we looking for?

• A relevant professional qualification such as a qualified practising social worker.
• Up to date practice knowledge and experience in at least one area of safeguarding
• Knowledge of multi-agency working in order to improve outcomes
• An understanding of the voluntary sector and the landscape in which it operates

What is the time commitment?

The safeguarding working group meets every 6 weeks for 90 minutes. We do not envisage you having to be on site for longer the 3 hours in this 6 week period. We would like the volunteer to attend this and occasional other meetings. Other research and work could be undertaken from home or in the CHC offices and is flexible.

We are looking for a commitment of at least six months, ideally longer.

How will you be supported?

• You will be supported by the Manager of Family Services and Safeguarding lead

• You will receive a Centre induction (1 hour)
• You will be required to undergo on-line training modules in safeguarding and professional boundaries.
• You will be reimbursed for reasonable and agreed ‘out of pocket’ expenses such as travel and for lunch if working a full day.

Chair of Trustees.
Crossness Engines Trust.

Bexley, London, UK.

The Crossness Engines Trust was established as a charity in 1987, with the aim of restoring and preserving the nineteenth-century buildings and giant beam engines of the southern outfall of Sir Joseph Bazalgette's London sewer system. Crossness Engines is open to the public.

You will be joining a Board of Trustees who bring a range of experience to the charity and who share a passion for conserving and sharing this jewel of Victorian engineering.

The Chair will:

• Act as an ambassador and the public face of the Trust.

• Comply with Nolan's seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

• Hold the Board, its supporting committees and executive team to account for delivering the Trust's Mission, vision and strategic plans.

• Provide inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees, executive & volunteers, ensuring that each trustee fulfils their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the Trust.

• Ensure that the Board functions as a unit and works closely with the members of the Trust to achieve agreed objectives.

The Chair will serve a three-year term and will be eligible for re-appointment.

This is a voluntary role requiring a commitment of approx 3 days per month.

For further details on this role please e mail your CV and covering letter to:

Closing date: 31 January 2020.

Aylesbury Youth Action is a Youth Volunteering Charity, specialising in providing opportunities for young people to take action in the community to meet local need.

Do you want to help shape young people's lives? AYA are looking to appoint an passionate, dedicated and motivated Chair with a vision to lead a small exciting and local Youth Volunteering charity forwards.

Role summary

We are looking for a passionate, dedicated and motivated individual to work with the Trustee Board and staff to add energy, experience and purpose to the team as it moves forward to successfully achieve its aims. The key responsibilities are to provide leadership and experience to the Trustees and AYA Manager, working with them to set the strategic direction and framework of the charity, and to ensure financial stability and sustainability. They must also act as an ambassador to the charity and represent the organisation at a variety of events and meetings with key stakeholders. The Chair is expected to have regular meetings with the AYA Manager as well as bi monthly Trustee meetings to discuss relevant strategic development and one or two additional meetings and events per year to concentrate on specific key areas.

Person specification

We are looking for an individual who has a clear passion and commitment to shaping young people’s lives through youth volunteering. 

We welcome applicants with a range of skills and backgrounds to develop and progress the charity forwards. Experience of operating at a strategic leadership level within an organisation would be beneficial, together with familiarity of charity governance working with or part of a Board of Trustees. In addition, an individual would need to have an understanding of charity financial management. A candidate would need to have strong inter-personal and relationship building skills and be able to demonstrate tact and diplomacy with the ability to listen and engage effectively.

We would greatly appreciate applicants with a proactive and friendly nature, with a willingness to learn new skills, as much as to bring existing strategic direction and leadership expertise to the team. A potential candidate would need to be adaptable and happy to work within a team environment, with the flexibility of getting involved during the evenings as and when required.

As long as you have an enthusiasm for providing opportunities for young people to develop their life and employability skills through youth social action, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Time commitment

Standard Trustee meetings every 2 months in evenings. Key strategic meetings: 5 per year. Liaising with office regularly and home working 3 hrs a week.

AYA covers Aylesbury Vale, so it would be beneficial if the candidate lives or works within this area.

How to apply

Applications should be made via Reach Volunteering in the first instance. Please submit your CV showing what skills and experience you will bring to the board.

Aston-Mansfield Charitable Trust holds assets (property and investment funds) from which it derives income to support the work of charities which develop the community wealth of East London, and which promote a diverse and inclusive society in which all are free to participate. The most significant grant is made to Aston-Mansfield, a charity connected by common objects and unity of administration. Grants are also made to other projects, within the objectives and area of benefit of AMCT.

Role summary

We will be redeveloping one of our main sites in Forest Gate, Newham, and making significant changes to the use of our Manor Park site, with a view to taking a more commercial approach to managing our property portfolio.

The Forest Gate site comprises a Community Centre, a New Business Centre, Social Housing and a parade of shops, adjoining a Crossrail station. We are therefore particularly interested in bringing onto the Board an additional Trustee with substantial experience in mixed use property project management with a strong property development background, in order to:

1. To advise the Trustees on the long term planning for and development of AMCT’s property assets, in line with its objects and mission
2. To advise the Trustees on the project management of specific property projects.
3. To ensure that AMCT complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
4. To ensure that AMCT manages its resources appropriately, and uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects
5. To ensure that AMCT is accountable, both in relation to statutory accounting and reporting requirements, and in any authority that is delegated to staff or volunteers
6. To contribute actively to the board of trustees’ role in giving strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets
7. To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation
8. To ensure the financial stability of the organisation
9. To protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity’s funds

Person specification

• Knowledge and experience of property development and property project management
• Ability to communicate clearly and work constructively with others
• Tact and diplomacy
• A willingness to listen to the views of others but also to speak one’s mind
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• An understanding of the legal responsibilities and liabilities of a trustee
• An interest in, and commitment to the mission, values and activities of AMCT

Time commitment

Trustees meet quarterly. Other commitments will include occasional teleconferences, reviewing papers, and meeting property advisors

How to apply

Applications should be made via Reach Volunteering in the first instance. Please submit your CV showing what skills and experience you will bring to the board.

Deadline: 31 January 2020

Based in Welwyn Garden City, Herts Vision Loss is a Hertfordshire- wide independent charity providing support to our county’s visually impaired residents. Previously known as The Hertfordshire Society for the Blind we have been providing charitable services for over a century.  Delivering services in hospitals, local venues and clients’ homes, covering information services, befriending, advice and support along with counselling and group activities, for adults and children with eyesight difficulties.  The Board of Trustees lead the Charity’s strategic direction, governance and financial control.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Ensure the organisation complies with its governing articles of association, charity law, company law and other legislation or regulations.
• Ensure the organisation pursues its objectives
• Ensures the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuit of its objectives.
• Contribute actively to the Board in giving firm strategic direction, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance.
• Safeguard the reputation and values of the charity.
• Ensure effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• Ensure financial stability of the organisation.
• Protect and manage the property of the charity.
• Ensure proper investment of the charity’s funds.
• Appoint the Chief Executive Officer and monitor their performance.
• Maintain Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
• Recognise and declare any Conflict of Interest that may occur in the exercising of the role.
• Ensure compliance with Charities Commission regulations applicable to Trusteeship.

Tasks

Trustees need to be available to attend Board meetings quarterly and be part of one or more of the Sub committees between Board meetings, along with becoming involved with the Fundraising and events run by the Charity.

Use own skills to help the Board make sound decisions, scrutinise, lead discussions, focus on key issues, and provide relevant advice.

Person Specification

• Commitment to the organisation.
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
• Logical, reasoned independent judgement.
• Ability to think strategically.
• Willingness to speak your mind.
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Ability to work as a member of a team.
• Have a variety of generalist or specific skills and knowledge from all walks of life.
• Ability to view the wider picture.
• Meet Charity Commissions eligibility requirements.

• Have experience either working or volunteering with a charity, though not essential.

As a Future Leaders in Sport volunteer you will play a vital role in the programme. You'll get the opportunity to mentor the young BAME leaders selected for the programme, using your professional skills and experience to help them turn their ideas for a new Sport for Social Change project into reality.
 
As a Sported volunteer, you will also have opportunities to lend your time and professional expertise to help the charity’s other community groups and programmes across London. This includes helping our members become more inclusive and accessible to under-represented groups (e.g. women and girls, disabled young people), and creating more opportunities for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. 
 

Why volunteer with Sported?

• Have a lasting impact on your local community
• The opportunity to share your professional skills and expertise
• Full induction, plus training and development opportunities
• Support from a designated Sported Regional Manager and the Volunteer Services Team
• The chance to work with a range of different communities and types of organisations
• Travel expenses covered

What’s involved?

The tasks and assignments you are asked to undertake will be based on your skills and expertise.

Some examples of support requests include:

• Supporting a member to develop a business plan
• Helping a member become savvy with social media
• Reviewing a member's funding application
• Delivering a workshop or webinar to members in your own specialist area
• Supporting a member to update or develop policies and procedures
• Supporting a member to understand and develop impact measurement
• Helping a member to develop a financial forecast, budget or improve their financial reporting

At RSVP, we believe that everyone deserves a life free from sexual violence and abuse. We offer empathic services to support and inspire children and adults of all genders who have been affected by sexual violence and abuse.

We are currently seeking a number of Trustees with varying skills and backgrounds to join our board

Trustees have and must accept ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of RSVP, ensuring it is solvent, well-run, and delivering the outcomes for which it has been set up.

The Board will:

• Ensure RSVP is run in compliance with its values and governing document.
• Set or approve policies, plans and budgets to achieve RSVP's strategic objectives.
• Monitor performance against the strategic plan.
• Ensure RSVP remains solvent, financially strong and performs well.
• Ensure that RSVP complies with all relevant laws, regulations and requirements of its regulators.
• Agree all policies and decisions on matters which might create significant risk to RSVP, financial or otherwise.
• Set and maintain a framework of delegation and internal control.

What are we looking for?

• Commitment to the organisation.
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort and to impart the benefit of their skills and experience.
• Strategic vision.
• Good, independent judgement.
• Ability to think creatively.
• Willingness to speak their mind.
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
• Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
• Leadership skills.

If someone is open to considering taking on the role of Vice Chair or Chair that would be desirable. These roles are currently filled but it may be that we need someone to step into these roles in the future.

We are particularly interested in individuals with the following skills: 

• Marketing and PR
• Communications
• Charity fundraising
• HR

Please note, our strategic aim is to apply to become a member of Rape Crisis England and Wales. This requires the Vice Chair and Chair to be female and overall 75% of the Board must be female too. Given the current make up of our board we are only accepting applications from women at this time in order to meet this requirement. 

We are also keen to increase representation on our board. We would especially welcome applications from people from a variety of ethnic minority backgrounds and younger people.

There is an induction process in place to ensure new trustees feel welcome and informed.

What difference will you make?

You will have the opportunity to help set the future direction of the organisation, shape the strategic business plan and monitor performance to ensure that we meet the needs of our beneficiaries. 

What’s in it for the volunteer?

You will be joining a friendly and committed board. By providing your skills and experience you will help to ensure that the organisation continues to provide its invaluable services to the beneficiaries.

Time commitment

It is estimated that trustees can expect to commit approximately 50 hours a year / 12.5 hours per quarter to RSVP Board and related activities including:

• Management Committee meetings
• Sub-committee activities
• Attendance at one or two training / planning sessions
• Reading Management Committee papers etc.
• Please note that board meetings are held outside working hours.

A few more details

We do need a DBS check, we cannot accept a DBS check done by another agency but we can accept an online portable one. Also, for safeguarding we do require two references and an interview to take place with two people. All Board members will be entitled to payment of expenses incurred in carrying out their duties, in line with the charity’s financial procedures.

Before you apply

In order to apply please request a copy of the application form.

The Lichfield Garrick theatre is a thriving, vibrant cultural hub at the heart of Lichfield, it attracts patrons from well beyond the local area as well as some of the top performers touring the UK. Its community and education work is building loyal and enthusiastic audiences, participants and practitioners.

The Lichfield Garrick Theatre seeks a highly motivated, well connected and locally based arts enthusiast and business leader to head up the charity board of trustees.

What will you be doing as Chair?

Our Chair must be able to advocate for the theatre, influence stakeholders, spearhead fundraising initiatives and bring a wide range of relevant experience.

As a leader of a modern board of trustees, the chair will need to be comfortable running meetings, ensuring that the trustees are fulfilling their duties within Charities Commission guidelines, taking responsibility for actions decided upon in board meetings and being a visible and vocal advocate for the theatre.  The chair should be comfortable taking an active role in fundraising and influencing for the theatre.

The Board of Trustees needs to fulfil the modern-day requirements of an arts organisation, steering the charity, whilst providing access to philanthropic givers, influencing local stakeholders and offering specialist expertise when the business requires.  The chair should be based locally, knowledgeable about the city and its infrastructure and enthusiastic about the role the theatre and the arts play in society. The chair should be skilled in running meetings to ensure that all trustees are able to input their views and experience.  As volunteers, our trustees aim to support the theatre’s development by bringing their time and experience; it is hoped that our chair would be in a position to lead by example and that his/her enthusiasm and passion for the arts would help to guide the trustees’ decision making.

What are we looking for?

• Commitment to the theatre
• Support a culture which ensures equality and fairness for all, an inclusive programme and ethos, and a trail-blazing artistic role within our community.
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
• Strategic vision
• Good, independent judgement
• Ability to think creatively and a willingness to speak their mind
• Leading discussions in a manner which ensures that all trustees’ opinions are heard
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• Willingness to make and stand by collective decisions, including those which may be unpopular
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team, building relationships with stakeholders including trustees, Garrick staff members, LDC and supporters
• Willingness to introduce supporters/donors to the theatre
• A wide range of contacts within Lichfield and local area

Time Commitment

Estimate of time needed is up to five hours per month.  There are around eight meetings per year (average four hrs per meeting); three Press Events (average four hours consisting of drinks reception/watching a show)

What's in it for the volunteer?

These are challenging times for the arts; this opportunity allows an individual to take a creative approach to building on the already considerable achievements of a successful arts organisation. 

How to apply

Applications are made via Reach in the first instance where you should submit a CV which outlines your experience to date and interest in the theatre along with an expression of interest letter.

Blackpool CAB has been serving the community since 1939. Developed out of need during the Second World War, the CAB has been supporting people with advice for over 77 years.  We have developed a strong volunteer base and deliver advice across a range of specialisms. During our development, we have seen shifts in the economic and political agendas, changes in policies that affect people in their everyday lives and as such have become a strong voice for the vulnerable and often most marginalized in society.

About the role

By becoming a Trustee with us you will be joining a friendly and committed board. You will also have the chance to see how the services delivered by our dedicated staff and volunteers make such a positive difference to the community we serve in Blackpool.

Main duties and responsibilities:

• Actively contributing to setting policy and strategic direction, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance.
• Actively seeking to further the strategic objectives of Citizens Advice Blackpool, and acting in the best interests of the organisation at all time.
• Monitoring whether the service complies with its governing document, whether it meets Citizens Advice standards and how well the advice needs of the local community are being met.
• Monitoring the financial position of the organisation and ensuring that it operates within its means and objects, and that there are clear lines of accountability for day-to-day financial management.
• Supporting the development of the organisation through participation in agreed projects.

Person specification

Each trustee brings their own skills, experiences and qualities to the board. They add to the collective knowledge and experience by providing:

• Commitment to the aims, principles and policies of the Citizens Advice service, including those relating to equal opportunities, independence and social policy.
• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees, and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement, and work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion; and numeracy to the extent required to understand financial records and accounts.
• Willingness to gain knowledge of local needs and resources that are available to deliver services.

We are particularly interested in candidates with the following skills:

• Marketing
• Fundraising
• Finance

Time commitment

• Meetings are held every 6 to 8 weeks, alternating between lunch and evening meetings.
• For the Finance Trustee you will be expected to sit on the Finance Committee which meet before the board meetings.
• Meetings are held at the organisation or at the local Salvation Army.

How to apply

Applications must be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance. To apply please submit your CV along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation, how your skills would add value to the board and any other relevant information.

Red Balloon is a dynamic education charity with a number of Learner Centres throughout the UK who support young people who self-exclude from school and are missing education because of bullying or other trauma. They provide both an academic and therapeutic programme to enable their students to get back on track and reconnect with society and in addition to offering centre based programmes they also offer a distance learning provision (Red Balloon of the Air) which offers students a bespoke integrated programme of academic education and wellbeing provision, delivered both online and face-to-face. Langton recruited a new CEO for Red Balloon Group at the end of 2018 and although each of the centres operate as individual charities the direction of the charity is overseen by “Group” and is in good hands.

Red Balloon Learner Centre North West London (Harrow) are now looking to strengthen their Board and we are seeking a Health and Safety / Property Trustee – in order to assist the centre with all property related matters. They are currently in the process of acquiring another property and relocating some of the teaching to this site and experience in building inspections, property maintenance, lease negotiations and working in an environment where health and safety is of paramount importance would be a perfect fit for this role.

Please note that all Trustee roles are unremunerated although reasonable travel expenses are paid. Trustee meetings take place 6 times per year as well as occasional term time commitments to work alongside the Centre Director.

Do you have professional expertise you could use to help a good cause? Are you passionate about animal welfare? Trustees manage the affairs of a local RSPCA Branch to promote and provide animal welfare within the branch area.

As a trustee of a branch you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals.

Key activities

• To be familiar with and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.

• To be familiar with the branch rules and follow them at all times.

• To work with your fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.

• To ensure the branch meets all the minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).  Where they are not met, to work with national RSPCA staff to meet the standard as soon as practicable.

• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch support specialist (BSS), to write, adopt, monitor & review a branch development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.

• To actively participate in branch committee meetings and attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.

• To be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives.  

• To attend the trustee training course.

• To actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers.

• To welcome new trustees and volunteers to the branch.

• Each Branch appoints a Secretary, Treasurer and Chair. Role outlines for each of these Branch Officer roles are available.

Times & preferred duration of commitment

Will depend on the areas of responsibility undertaken. Trustees are elected for a period of twelve months and are expected to attend monthly meetings. 

Experience / skills / knowledge / personal qualities required

• Most people aged 18 or over are eligible to become a trustee and you will need to become a member of the RSPCA. You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense and the ability to be objective is vital.

• Specific skills such as finance, fundraising, project management, business experience, awareness of employment and/or charity legislation can be useful, but not essential.

• New RSPCA trustees are provided with a document “Guidance for Branch Trustees” and asked to attend a training course which provides information and guidance about a trustee’s role and responsibilities.

• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and that they accept the post.

• As of 1st August 2018 in addition to our standard declaration of willingness, trustees also need to complete the new declaration from the Charity Commission and read their guidance for individuals on who can’t be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.

Emmaus Village Carlton is looking forward to welcoming new trustees to our board.

Emmaus Village Carlton is a homelessness charity based in north Bedfordshire offering active support to formerly homeless people. We provide a real workable alternative to homelessness, offering people a home, as well as meaningful work in our social enterprise.

This is an exciting time to join us as we have recently been achieving above expectations financially and are exploring new avenues for the organisation, to which discussions we will value your contribution.

What will you be doing?

Main purpose of the trustee role:

• Fiduciary responsibility, holding the organisation in trust and ensuring public confidence;
• Overall responsibility for the organisation's strategic direction;
• Ensure that it meets its legal duties, remains solvent and is well run;
• Ensure the organisation delivers its vision, mission and values;
• To provide leadership.

What are we looking for?

We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates with experience and skills in one or more of the following areas:

• Marketing, PR & communications
• Legal
• Social services or healthcare
• Homelessness

Trustee person specification:

• Commitment to the charity and willingness to learn about the ethos of Emmaus.
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
• Strategic vision.
• Good, independent judgement.
• Ability to think creatively.
• Willingness to speak their mind.
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
• Nolan's seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
• The skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences.
• Willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis.

What's in it for the volunteer?

The reward for this work is the knowledge that this is a unique model which works well. The companions are the best reward - we see so many flourish. Some choose to stay and make Emmaus their permanent home; others leave once they have found work and accommodation.

Time Commitment

The board meets every other month in Carlton. It is also desirable for trustees to attend the monthly operations committee meeting where possible.

How to apply

Applications should be made via Reach in the first instance. Please provide your CV, along with a covering letter stating why you wish to work with the organisation, how your skills would add value to the board and any additional information.