Volunteer roles

Voluntary Trustee Position for the Molly Huggins Foundation

Location: A combination of in-person/virtual - Travel will be required on occasions to London.  Out of pocket travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Time commitment: 5 meetings per year including a strategy day, with time to prepare before meetings and collaborate in between

Remuneration: Voluntary (expenses reimbursed)

Help shape the future of a new, ambitious charity

Launched in 2024 by Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing (MTVH), the Molly Huggins Foundation was created to deliver long-term, place-based investment in communities facing inequality and disadvantage. MTVH is one of the UK’s leading not for profit housing associations providing a range of social and affordable housing across London, the south east and East Midlands.

Our purpose over the next decade, is to raise and distribute £75 million into initiatives that strengthen communities and improve people’s lives.

We’re now looking for up to four Trustees to join our Board at an exciting stage of the Foundation’s development.

The role

As a Trustee, you will:

• Help shape the Foundation's strategy and priorities
• Provide governance, support and constructive challenge
• Act as an ambassador for our mission and impact

What we are looking for

You may bring:

• Experience at Board, senior leadership or strategic level in a charity, social enterprise, or mission-led organisation
• Knowledge of governance, accountability, and organisational oversight
• Strategic thinking, sound judgement, and the ability to influence at Board level
• Understanding of fundraising, social investment, grant-making, or income generation
• Knowledge of housing, regeneration, or community development
• Experience in the health, education, employment sectors or working with people seeking asylum, refugees and migrant communities.

Join Our Board: Chair-Elect & Trustee Opportunities
 

Cambridge House is an equity-based multiservice social action charity established in 1889 and now
working across 29 London and 17 English and Welsh local authorities.

Our services include a Law Centre, statutory advocacy services, disabled peoples empowerment services, and advice services for private rented sector tenants.

We Transform Lives through personalised, place-based access-to-justice and resilience-building services
for families and people facing crisis, deprivation and social inequity.

We Transform Society by producing evidence, research and thought leadership to improve policy and
practice and challenge structural barriers.

We’re particularly looking for people with the following knowledge and experience:
▪ Frontline delivery — charity services in community settings, particularly legal/advice
▪ Campaigning & influencing — political/parliamentary affairs at a national level
▪ Commissioning & systems — public sector commissioning across welfare, health, housing,
refugee/asylum and/or social care
▪ Strategic enablers — AI in the workplace/service delivery, or marketing/communications/PR, or donor
development/corporate partnerships and fundraising
Diversity and Inclusion

To address underrepresentation on our current Board, we especially welcome applications from people
with lived experience of insecure housing/homelessness, the welfare/disability benefits system, and/or
minoritised faith/language groups, and people who are:
▪ Queer/LGBTQIA+ and/or from Black, Asian and global majority communities
▪ Women or Trans/Non-binary
▪ Disabled, neurodiverse and/or living with a mental or physical health condition

Do you enjoy socialising and meeting new people? 

We are looking for friendly volunteers who love a dance and would like to join us as at Friendship Disco on the second Saturday of the month.

Activities will include: 

Supporting the Disco at the following times: 

• Set up between 16:00-17:00 (Help with the music equipment, tables, decorations etc) 

• During the disco between 17:00-20:00. (Help selling raffle tickets and refreshments, taking song requests on a phone, calling the raffle at the end). Plus joining in with dancing and helping everyone to have a great time! 

• Clean up between 20:00-21:00.Helping to wipe and take down tables, floors, etc). 

 
You will have the flexibility to attend the times that are convenient to you.The Disco will take place at Marshfield Village Hall in Cardiff 

About you: 

We are looking for someone who is: 

• Friendly and enthusiastic

• Organised and helpful

• Comfortable chatting with people with learning disabilities and autism 

• Reliable /dependable and willing to volunteer on the listed times on the second Saturday of the month

• Happy to join in the fun!

A DBS check and two character references will be required for this role. 

What you’ll gain from being a Dimensions volunteer: 

Dimensions provide support for autistic people and people with learning disabilities across the UK. 

Our volunteers play a vital role in our work and in return, we support them with: 

• Access to free online training (with access to 800 plus courses) 

• Comprehensive support from professional and friendly Dimensions staff 

• Reasonable expenses may be reimbursed at manager’s discretion 

• An opportunity to gain real experience in the social care sector 

Want to apply for this role? 

If you’d like to be a Dimensions volunteer, please get in touch!

Activities Volunteer

Location: Woodcock Court, Gillingham

Timings: 8 Hours per week

About Waythrough

Waythrough provides specialist support across mental health, alcohol, drugs and related areas. We delivery high-quality, evidence-based services designed around the real needs of the people we serve.

Every year, we support around 125,000 people through over 250 services - and it's all made possible by our 3,500 brilliant staff and volunteers.

Make a real difference in your community 

Are you passionate about helping others live safer, healthier, more independent lives? Join our team at Waythrough and support people facing challenges around mental health, substance use, housing or domestic abuse. This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to build meaningful relationships and create lasting change. 

Reach Drug and Alcohol Service is the commissioned community drug and alcohol provision for Dorset. It provides a range of support, interventions and treatments for adults and young people wanting to make positive changes to their drug and/or alcohol use, as well as supporting family members and running campaigns and events that raise awareness of addiction and celebrate recovery in the community.

Reach is delivered in partnership between Waythrough, Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership and Essential Drug and Alcohol Services. This role is based with the adults service.

Activities form part of the holistic recovery offer at Reach, offering the people we support time to connect with each other, with nature and to be more .

The role:

Activity Support Volunteers will support with the running of a weekly allotment group and different projects within the North Dorset team. This is an active volunteer role that will include a range of gardening related tasks but may also include creative activities and group co-facilitation across the North Team within REACH. You will be a friendly, welcoming face to people who join the activities.

Tasks may include:

• Help with setting up and packing away before and after each session
• Providing support and guidance on all things allotment and gardening related; including what to plant when and how to look after the growing plants
• Suggesting how to cook the produce and sharing potential recipes
• Producing charts or information leaflets as required to educate and guide people we support about organic growing from soil to plate.
• (co)Facilitate the sessions, ensuring activities are safe and risk assessed as appropriate
• Report any concerns, including safeguarding related, that may arise in the group
• Support people attending the group to develop their own skills and interests
• Promote the activities on offer with the people we support, through posters, presentations and conversations

What We Offer

We value the people who make a difference every day. Alongside meaningful work, you’ll enjoy:

• Discounts from various schemes

• Training and personal development

• A chance to make a real difference in people’s lives

• Free induction and role-specific training

• Support from experienced staff and regular supervision

• Opportunities to meet new people and develop your confidence

• Reimbursement for travel and agreed expenses

• Valuable experience that can support your personal or career development

Inclusion and accessibility 

Waythrough is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities, especially those with lived experience of the issues we support. 

We have signed up to the Disability Confident Scheme  - all applicants are welcome, and adjustments can be made to enable fair participation.

Every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. Which is why we’re here, in people’s homes, centres and communities, focusing on the things a person can do, not what they can’t. We celebrate the moments of connection that bring more joy to life. Together, we always find a way, no matter how many barriers a person might face.

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.

About the role:

As a Shop Volunteer you’ll be joining a friendly, welcoming team of volunteers and staff who support each other and have a lot of fun along the way. We value every volunteer and the unique perspective, skills and energy you bring. 

Whether you’re sorting donations, creating beautiful displays, or chatting to customers, every task you take on helps to build a more inclusive world. 

We value volunteer development, and as part of this role your can develop your skills further by training to become a till user alongside your regular shop volunteer responsibilities, or progressing into a Key volunteer, a role which includes opening, running, and closing the shop in the absence of the manager.

No matter your reason for volunteering – whether it’s to meet new people, build new skills or support Sense’s cause – there’s a place for you in one of our shops. 

Due to the nature of the role, we require all applicants to be aged 16 or over. You must have a UK address to volunteer with Sense.

Key responsibilities: Shop volunteer 

You’ll spend time doing a range of activities, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service, helping create a wonderful shopping experience.
• Receiving donated items from the public, thanking them for their support.
• Sorting, steaming and preparing donations for sale.
• Helping to display stock in eye-catching and exciting ways.
• Keeping the shop floor clean, safe and tidy.
• Talking to customers about Sense and the work we do.

Key responsibilities: Till volunteer

Being a till volunteer includes all the same responsibilities as a shop volunteer, however, when you’re ready, we’ll provide you with additional training to:

• Serve customers on the till in a warm and friendly way.
• Put sales through the till, packing them and thanking the customer for shopping with us.
• Talk to customers about Gift Aid and other fundraising initiatives.

If you are interested in becoming a till volunteer straight away, please select ‘Till volunteer’, as well as ‘Shop volunteer’, when asked which volunteer role/s you are interested in during your application.

Key responsibilities: Key volunteer 

Being a Key volunteer includes all the same responsibilities as a shop and till volunteer. However, if you’re interested in taking on additional responsibilities, you can train to become a Key Volunteer, helping the shop manager by:

• Helping supervise the shop and other volunteers.
• Supporting the shop manager to make sure customers have a great experience.
• Opening and closing the shop when needed.
• Cashing up at the end of the day. 

If you are interested in becoming a Key volunteer straight away, please select ‘Key volunteer’ when asked which volunteer role/s you are interested in during your application.

Skills and qualities:

This role would suit you if you’re:

• Passionate about Sense’s work to support disabled people with complex needs.
• Calm, kind and have a friendly personality.
• A team player who enjoys working with others.
• Enthusiastic, motivated and someone with a positive attitude.
• Respectful of others. 

What we offer you:

As one of our volunteers, you’ll get:

• Full training with ongoing support and guidance from your team.

• Reasonable volunteer expenses reimbursed in line with our Volunteer Expenses Policy.

• A chance to meet new people.

• A great way to develop new skills and share your existing skills.

• The feeling you get knowing you’re making a difference to the lives of disabled people with complex needs.

• A reference to support future applications for paid or voluntary roles.

• Support from our Mental Health First Aiders, should you need it.

Our values:

Everything we do is underpinned by five core values. These values shape the way we work every day. Our values are:

• We're creating change
• We're always learning
• We're better together

About the Role

As a Maintenance Volunteer, you will help maintain and improve the homes and environments of people with autism, sight loss, and learning disabilities. Your support will help create safe, comfortable, and welcoming spaces where people can thrive.

This role involves practical tasks such as painting, decorating, gardening, and general DIY. Please note that electrical, plumbing, and gas work are not included in this volunteer role.

The Difference You Will Make

By volunteering, you will help to:

• Improve the appearance and comfort of people's homes.
• Create safe and welcoming environments.
• Support people to feel proud of where they live.
• Enhance the wellbeing of the people we support.

What You Will Do

• Assist with painting and decorating projects.
• Conduct basic DIY tasks and minor repairs.
• Help with gardening and outdoor maintenance.
• Support with assembling furniture and equipment.
• Follow health and safety guidance at all times.
• Report any maintenance concerns to SeeAbility staff.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for volunteers who are:

• Practical and dependable.
• Friendly and approachable.
• Happy to work as part of a team.
• Enthusiastic about making a difference.
• Committed to inclusion and equality.

Previous DIY or maintenance experience is essential.

Requirements

• Aged 18 or over.
• Volunteers need to live near Bicester
• Complete volunteer induction and training.
• Provide references.
• Complete a DBS check if required.
• Follow SeeAbility policies and health and safety procedures.

About SeeAbility

SeeAbility is a charity that supports people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss to live ambitious and fulfilling lives. We help people develop skills, build independence, and achieve their goals through specialist support, services, and volunteering opportunities.

By volunteering with SeeAbility, you can help create environments where people feel safe, valued, and empowered.

About the Role

As a Maintenance Volunteer, you will help maintain and improve the homes and environments of people with autism, sight loss, and learning disabilities. Your support will help create safe, comfortable, and welcoming spaces where people can thrive.

This role involves practical tasks such as painting, decorating, gardening, and general DIY. Please note that electrical, plumbing, and gas work are not included in this volunteer role.

The Difference You Will Make

By volunteering, you will help to:

• Improve the appearance and comfort of people's homes.
• Create safe and welcoming environments.
• Support people to feel proud of where they live.
• Enhance the wellbeing of the people we support.

What You Will Do

• Assist with painting and decorating projects.
• Conduct basic DIY tasks and minor repairs.
• Help with gardening and outdoor maintenance.
• Support with assembling furniture and equipment.
• Follow health and safety guidance at all times.
• Report any maintenance concerns to SeeAbility staff.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for volunteers who are:

• Practical and dependable.
• Friendly and approachable.
• Happy to work as part of a team.
• Enthusiastic about making a difference.
• Committed to inclusion and equality.

Previous DIY or maintenance experience is essential.

Requirements

• Aged 18 or over.
• Live close to Aylesbury
• Complete volunteer induction and training.
• Provide references.
• Complete a DBS check if required.
• Follow SeeAbility policies and health and safety procedures.

About SeeAbility

SeeAbility is a charity that supports people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss to live ambitious and fulfilling lives. We help people develop skills, build independence, and achieve their goals through specialist support, services, and volunteering opportunities.

By volunteering with SeeAbility, you can help create environments where people feel safe, valued, and empowered.

At One Degree, our mentors, ambassadors, and teachers are more than just volunteers—they’re lifelines for students often overlooked in their schools and communities. By offering direction, encouragement, and a sense of possibility, our volunteers transform lives while experiencing the profound reward of making a real, tangible impact.

Most of our mentors are young professionals, bringing passion, patience, and empathy to help GCSE/Year 11 students (ages 15–16) navigate their challenges. These volunteers serve as role models, guiding students who might otherwise feel left behind toward brighter futures.

To foster meaningful connections and provide continuity, we ask volunteers to commit to at least three in-person or online sessions per year. This ensures students build trust and form bonds with the people dedicated to helping them succeed.

Join us and be the difference that changes a life.

What time commitments are required?

Preparation

1. Mentor registration (2 minutes)
2. Online mentor training course (30 minutes)
3. Online safeguarding course (30 minutes)
4. Online DBS/CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check (15 minutes)
5. Online personalised 1-on-1 mentor training (2 x 30 minutes)

Total time needed to become a mentor – approximately 2.5 hours

Mentoring

1. Choose availability that fits your schedule – whether it’s 5 hours a week or just 30 minutes a month.
2. Mentor online from anywhere in the world.
3. Adjust your availability as your circumstances change.
4. Focus on mentoring subjects you’re confident in.
5. Access support from our experienced teachers and tutors.

Total time needed to be a mentor – flexible

What it takes

Anyone who meets the following criteria is welcome to apply:

• Able to volunteer a minimum of three sessions per programme
• Patient, empathetic and considerate
• Willing to participate in group activities and sports

Important Note! You do NOT need exceptional skills in Maths or English, or previous mentoring or teaching experience to be a One Degree mentor.

What’s in it for you

Our innovative online version of our in-person programme combines group and 1-on-1 support via our custom-built online network.

We now offer 7-day-a-week mentoring for our GCSE students and programme alumni:

1. This is flexible – with no set days and times, you can make yourself available based on YOUR schedule and you can update availability with our new integrated calendar system (training required here)
2. This is innovative – during our 1-on-1 training we will run through this new addition to our custom-built online mentoring platform where you can a) connect your personal and work calendars b) select provisional availability and c) be booked by One Degree students based on their availability, your availability or by mentor speciality. This also now extends to supporting One Degree alumni.

About the Commonwealth Education Trust

According to the UNESCO Institute of Statistics, in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, only 62% of primary school teachers have the minimum teaching qualifications.

In 2023, only 9% of young people in lower secondary education in Zambia reached the minimum level of proficiency in reading. Lifelong learning opportunities and economic growth are being stunted.

All children deserve a quality education from a transformative and supportive teacher. The Commonwealth Education Trust (CET) invests in teachers in low- and middle-income settings by providing accessible teacher professional development, including via its flagship programme, Teach2030. There are 9 online courses that improve foundational teaching skills in the classroom.

Job description

We are looking for a volunteer who can create videos for our courses that can be uploaded to our WordPress site.

This role offers the flexibility of:

- Design. This includes video style and choice, along with the programme used. Animations look great in our courses.

- Placement. Courses are all online. You can choose where the video will go, transforming text already there into a video.

- Hours. Work at your own pace and whatever hours suit you.

What are we looking for?

- Creativity and flair

- Self-motivated and self-starter

- Ability to create videos

- A teaching background is not required, as all script is provided for you.

Do you want to make a real impact on the lives of vulnerable individuals in your community?

We are looking for Client Support Volunteers to assist in the Garden alongside our horticulturists in the supervision of our adult clients and teenagers with a variety of disabilities.

Our volunteers work in the garden with clients, helping them with various tasks such as planting, harvesting, pruning and mowing to name a few, under the guidance of our team of horticulturists. 

As well as general gardening work you will be assisting our clients, both children and adults with the opportunity to achieve a qualification in horticulture.

Other tasks our volunteers help with include general garden maintenance, DIY tasks or craft/cookery activities.

No gardening experience is required, just the ability to get along with others and muck in! This can be a great stepping stone to further education or work opportunities.

At present, we are looking for Volunteers who can offer a regular weekly commitment.

Join our friendly team, working alongside our horticulturists supporting adults and teenagers with a range of challenges or disabilities.

Remote Volunteer Technical Support Role 

Job description 

This is a volunteer role (approx. 4 hours per week) based remotely. The Volunteer Technical Support is responsible for the oversight of the NGO’s digital infrastructure, maintaining security protocols, and responding to critical technical emergencies. They will report directly to the CEO and work to formalize IT procedures to ensure long-term organizational continuity. This role is a fixed one-year term and includes a one-month handover period for their successor. 

Role specification 

Infrastructure and Security Management: 

• Act as the primary administrator for the Microsoft 365 environment

• Perform regular security audits to manage permissions, remove dormant accounts, and ensure the principle of "least privilege" across the team. 

• Help with offboarding protocol to ensure all digital keys and account ownership are transferred back to the NGO when staff or volunteers depart. 

• Consult with the team to ensure all technical systems adhere to organizational safeguarding policies, specifically regarding data privacy and the protection of member information. 

• Maintain a secure digital environment for staff and members by identifying operational risks and reporting potential vulnerabilities or breaches immediately to the CEO. 

Critical Support and Strategy: 

• Act as the on-call point of contact for critical system failures (e.g., total email loss, or security breaches). 

• Utilize a structured ticketing or request system to streamline technical support

• Advise the CEO on technical "vetting" and trust markers for future IT volunteers to safeguard the organization’s power and data. 

Knowledge Transfer and Communication: 

• Act as a technical mentor to the staff, explaining the logic behind security policies (the "why") rather than just issuing instructions. 

• Help foster an empathetic security culture where technical guardrails are seen as tools for mission success rather than roadblocks. 

• Lead a 1-month handover period at the end of the term to train the incoming volunteer, ensuring a seamless transition of power and knowledge. 

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

There are currently four Committees that report directly to the Board of Trustees, one of them is the Safeguarding Committee, of which you will be a member.

The Safeguarding Committee provides assurance, advice, and recommendations to the Board on safeguarding matters.

The Committee provides strategic leadership, ownership and oversight of The Scout Association (TSA)’s safeguarding policies and procedures, and ensures that safeguarding policies, procedures and practice remain fit for purpose and sector leading in protecting young people in Scouting.

The Committee also provides strategic oversight, challenge and assurance in relation to TSA’s safeguarding arrangements, including the safeguarding of adults where relevant.

The Independent Member aged 18-24 brings a young adult perspective to Committee discussions and helps ensure that the experiences, views and needs of young people are considered in safeguarding strategy, policy, practice and assurance. The role is not operational: it is a strategic governance and assurance role, with support, induction and mentoring provided.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

· Provide a young adult perspective to Committee discussions and decision-making.

· Ensure that the perspectives, experiences and voices of young people are reflected in safeguarding discussions, policy development and Committee decision-making.

· Help ensure the experiences and views of young people are considered in safeguarding strategy, policy and practice.

· Contribute to discussions on safeguarding risk, assurance, organisational learning and continuous improvement.

· Support the Committee’s consideration of emerging safeguarding issues affecting young people, including risks in online and digital environments.

· Assist the Committee in reviewing safeguarding performance, learning and assurance information.

· Contribute to the Committee’s review of safeguarding assurance activity, quality assurance findings, thematic reviews, and organisational learning arising from safeguarding incidents and case reviews.

· Contribute ideas and constructive challenge to help improve safeguarding across Scouts.

· Support the Committee in ensuring safeguarding arrangements remain fit for purpose and responsive to changing risks.

THE PERSON

Skills

· Communicate confidently and respectfully with a range of audiences.

· Listen carefully and contribute effectively in meetings.

· Analyse information, ask constructive questions and share views clearly.

· Work collaboratively as part of a committee.

· Develop a broad understanding of Scouts, its governance arrangements and safeguarding practice.

Experience

No previous committee experience is required. The Committee is looking for someone who can demonstrate some of the following.

· An interest in safeguarding and the welfare of young people.

· An interest in digital safeguarding, online safety, digital harms, social media risks or emerging technologies.

· Experience of volunteering, leadership or participation in youth organisations.

· Experience of representing the views of young people or contributing to youth voice activity.

· Education, employment or voluntary experience connected to safeguarding, social care, criminology, law, psychology, education, digital technology, online safety or related fields.

 Characteristics

· Aged 18-24 at the time of appointment.

· Passionate about helping create safer environments for young people.

· Commitment to the values and purpose of Scouts.

· Curiosity, willingness to learn and readiness to contribute.

· Sufficient time available to fulfil the role.

TIME COMMITMENT AND MEETINGS

The Safeguarding Committee normally meets four times per year, with three meetings held virtually and one longer meeting held face-to-face. The appointed member will be expected to read papers in advance and contribute to discussions during meetings. Support, induction and mentoring will be provided.

Applicants should expect to spend around two days per quarter on Committee business after the induction phase, including preparation, attendance and follow-up activity.

APPOINTMENT TERM

Appointments will normally be for three years, subject to a six-month review, and may be extended by mutual agreement provided the individual remains within the 18-24 age range at the start of any subsequent term.

REMUNERATION AND EXPENSES

In common with other registered charities, there is no remuneration directly associated with the role. The Scout Association will reimburse reasonable and properly documented expenses incurred in performing the role in accordance with its Expenses Policy.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

There are currently four Committees that report directly to the Board of Trustees, one of them is the Safeguarding Committee, of which you will be a member. The Safeguarding Committee provides assurance, advice and recommendations to the Board on safeguarding matters.

The Committee provides strategic leadership, ownership and oversight of The Scout Association (TSA)’s safeguarding policies and procedures, and ensures that safeguarding policies, procedures and practice remain fit for purpose and sector leading in protecting young people in Scouting.

The Committee also provides strategic oversight, challenge and assurance in relation to TSA’s safeguarding arrangements, including the safeguarding of adults where relevant.

Independent Members bring external expertise, independent scrutiny and constructive challenge to support the Committee in fulfilling its responsibilities. The role is not operational: it is a strategic governance and assurance role, focused on strengthening oversight, improving learning and helping Scouts respond effectively to current and emerging safeguarding risks.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

· Provide strategic advice, challenge and independent scrutiny to support the Committee in discharging its responsibilities.

· Assist the Committee in ensuring that Scouts remains at the forefront of safeguarding practice and development.

· Review safeguarding performance information, assurance reports, learning reports and risk information to support effective oversight.

· Contribute to the Committee’s review of safeguarding assurance activity, quality assurance findings, thematic reviews, and organisational learning arising from safeguarding incidents and case reviews.

· Contribute to the development and review of safeguarding policies, procedures, guidance and assurance arrangements.

· Help identify emerging safeguarding risks and opportunities affecting young people, volunteers and the wider organisation.

· Support the Committee’s oversight of safeguarding culture, organisational learning and continuous improvement.

· Participate in monitoring and reviewing safeguarding risks delegated to the Committee by the Board.

· Contribute to discussions on strategic priorities and future safeguarding developments across Scouting.

· Act as an advocate for excellent safeguarding practice and a culture that places the safety and wellbeing of young people at its centre.

THE PERSON

Skills

· Communicate effectively with senior volunteers, trustees, staff and external stakeholders.

· Analyse complex information and exercise sound judgement.

· Provide constructive challenge and independent scrutiny.

· Contribute effectively within a strategic committee environment.

· Work collaboratively while maintaining independence of thought.

· Quickly develop an understanding of Scouts, its governance arrangements and safeguarding framework.

EXPERIENCE

The Committee is particularly seeking candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas.

· Priority area: substantial expertise in digital safeguarding, including online safety, digital harms, safeguarding in online environments, social media risks, emerging technology risks and child protection risks associated with digital platforms.

· Additional areas of interest: family law, social care practice or leadership, child protection and safeguarding within statutory services, law enforcement experience relating to safeguarding, horizon scanning, regulatory or inspection environments, quality assurance, or safeguarding within youth, education, faith or voluntary sector settings.

CHARECTERISTICS

· Commitment to the purpose and values of Scouts.

· Strong personal integrity and sound judgement.

· Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk.

· Ability to operate strategically and objectively.

· Sufficient time available to fulfil the role.

TIME COMMITMENT AND MEETINGS

The Safeguarding Committee normally meets four times per year, with three meetings held virtually and one longer meeting held face-to-face. Members will also be expected to read papers in advance of meetings and may occasionally be consulted between meetings on specific matters.

Applicants should expect to spend around two days per quarter on Committee business after the induction phase, including preparation, attendance and follow-up activity.

APPOINTMENT TERM

Appointments will normally be for an initial three-year term, subject to a six-month review, with the possibility of reappointment for a further term by mutual agreement.

REMUNERATION AND EXPENSES

In common with other registered charities, there is no remuneration directly associated with the role. The Scout Association will reimburse reasonable and properly documented expenses incurred in performing the role in accordance with its Expenses Policy.

The Association of Anaesthetists (Great Britain & Ireland) is seeking to appoint a lay trustee to its Board of Trustees

This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a well-respected medical membership organisation helping to shape the future of anaesthesia, influence patient safety, and support anaesthetists at every stage of their careers.

With more than 10,000 members across Great Britain and Ireland and internationally, the Association’s mission is to safeguard patients by educating, supporting, and inspiring anaesthetists to deliver the very best care in every healthcare setting.

About the Association

For over 90 years, the Association has been a trusted voice for the anaesthesia community, supporting clinicians through an evolving healthcare landscape.

The Association is registered as a company limited by guarantee and as a charity in both England and Wales and Scotland.

Our work is driven by four strategic priorities: Patient Care and Safety, Education and Research, Advocacy and Support, and Innovation and Growth. These priorities are set out in our ambitious 2024–2029 strategy, launched in 2024, which defines the Association’s vision, mission, values, and long-term direction.

Our core values are at the heart of everything we do:

• Committed: We are a respected and independent organisation, committed to speaking up and speaking out on behalf of our members and the anaesthesia community
• Trusted: For over 90 years, we have helped to set standards, share knowledge, and support thousands of people in a vital profession. Our expertise matters to our members and globally
• Innovative: We look forward, not back. We care about the future of anaesthesia and actively help shape its future on behalf of our members by listening, responding, and innovating
• Connected: We are a dynamic, diverse, and inclusive community. We exist because of, and on behalf of, our members

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic leadership of the charity, overseeing organisational strategy, annual business plans, and financial stewardship. Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer and senior leadership team, the board ensures the Association continues to deliver impact for members, patients, and the wider healthcare community.

For further information on the charity see the latest Foundation Statutory Report and Accounts.

About the lay trustee role

Lay trustees play a vital role in strengthening the effectiveness, governance, and strategic direction of the Association. They bring valuable external insight, independent challenge, and specialist expertise that have significantly enhanced board discussions and decision-making.

As a lay trustee, you will:

• Help shape the future direction of the Association
• Provide independent oversight and constructive challenge
• Contribute specialist expertise and fresh perspectives
• Support strong governance and strategic decision-making
• Act as a trusted critical friend to the organisation

You will work alongside elected trustees who are practising anaesthetists, fellow lay trustees with expertise in finance and technology, and a highly experienced staff team.

Lay trustees also become members of the Association Council, which acts as an advisory body to the Board.

Who are we looking for?

We are particularly interested in applications from individuals with expertise in areas such as:

• Fundraising
• Marketing and communications
• External affairs

Previous trustee experience is welcome but not essential. We value diversity of thought, background, and lived experience, and encourage applications from individuals who can bring new perspectives to our work.

The full role description is shown below.

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to patient care and the future of healthcare while working with a committed and forward-thinking organisation.

By joining the board, you will help influence a profession that plays a critical role in healthcare systems across the world, supporting clinicians, improving standards, and ultimately helping patients receive safer care. If you are motivated by purpose, collaboration, and strategic impact, we would be delighted to hear from you.

The deadline for applications is 17:00 on Friday 21 August 2026. Applications are invited via cover letter and CV to the Chief Executive Officer, Nicky de Beer. In your cover letter, please address how you meet the role description and person specification. We accept the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as an emerging technology but please state if and how you have used AI in your application. Please send your letter and CV.

Following an initial short-listing process interviews will be held via videoconference on the morning of Thursday 10 September 2026.

For further information or an informal discussion

Contact Nicky de Beer, Chief Executive Officer.

Lay trustee role description

Purpose of role: Lay trustees enhance the knowledge, expertise, judgement, and balance available to the Board of Trustees to ensure a financially sound, healthy, and legally compliant organisation. Their principal assets will be their knowledge and expertise, independence, and the confidence and ability to be a critical friend of the Association.

Responsible to: President (Chair of the Board of Trustees)

Key working relationships

• President
• Other trustees
• Chief Executive Officer, senior management team and staff
• Other members of the Association Council
• Other stakeholder organisations such as the Royal College of Anaesthetists, and charity partners

Term of appointment:

Following a successful interview and satisfactory references, the lay trustee will be appointed for a three-year term commencing from the Annual Members’ Meeting in September 2026.

Time commitment

The Board of Trustees meets up to five times a year. The dates for board meetings are set 12 months in advance from October to September. Meetings normally take place on Fridays approximately every 8 weeks as either a half-day or full-day meeting at 21 Portland Place, London or via videoconference, but videoconferencing facilities will be available for all meetings.

Trustees are expected to attend each board meeting and to engage in communication between board meetings with staff and board colleagues as required.

Expenses

This role is voluntary and is unremunerated. Trustees will be reimbursed for their expenses for travel, hotel accommodation and subsistence when attending meetings. Expenses will be paid in accordance with the expenses policy. As this is a voluntary role, trustees are not otherwise compensated for their service.

Training

Training is provided for trustees to enable them to perform their governance duties effectively.

Trustee duties and responsibilities

Please view the Charity Commission guidance CC3 The essential trustee: what you need to know, what you need to do. Trustees of the Association are also directors under company law, and under the Companies Act 2006, there are specific legal duties placed upon company directors. You should familiarise yourself with those legal duties before applying for this role.

Key responsibilities:

Strategic direction and financial oversight.

• Contribute to ensuring that the charity’s purpose is carried out and that all activities support its charitable objectives
• Contribute to and agree the strategic direction of the Association and help set its long term priorities
• Oversee risk management, making sure appropriate controls and policies are in place
• Oversee the financial performance of the Association including budgets, reserves and the responsible use of funds
• Help to ensure that the Association’s equity, diversity, and inclusion objectives are met

Trustees are also expected to:

• Ensure legal and regulatory compliance, including acting in line with charity law, company law, and the governing document
• Attend meetings of the Board of Trustees on a regular basis and be well prepared by reading relevant papers in advance and participating fully in meetings and decision making
• Act with integrity and independence, always in the best interests of the charity
• Participate in wider Association work, assist with ensuring the charity’s purposes and mission are clearly communicated to members and the public
• Undertake training and induction as may be required to carry out the role
• Keep up to date with developments in healthcare. the charity/not-for-profit sector and the role of trustee
• Act as an ambassador for the Association where appropriate

Person specification

We are keen to appoint lay trustees whose values align with ours and have the following key attributes.

Key attributes

Essential

Relevant expertise outside the field of anaesthesia, such as in:

• Fundraising
• Marketing & Communications
• External affairs

The ability to challenge constructively and rigorously and to contribute at a strategic level while listening sensitively to the views of others

Commitment to the Association and its objectives

Sound judgement, integrity, and high ethical standards

Excellent communication skills

Willingness to acquire the expertise and knowledge to discharge responsibilities

An understanding and awareness of equity, diversity and inclusion

Ability to attend board sub-committees and working group meetings, conferences and key events run by the Association

Desirable

Experience of acting as a trustee

Informed about the environment in which the charity operates and the issues it faces