Volunteer roles

Chair of the Board of Trustees

Design and Technology Association

Location: England (meetings held in-person and online)

Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
Time Commitment: Approximately 1 to 2 days per month

Are you passionate about shaping the future of education and inspiring the next generation of designers, engineers, and innovators?

The Design and Technology Association, the leading UK charity dedicated to supporting and promoting the teaching of design and technology (D&T) in schools, is seeking a visionary and strategic Chair of the Board of Trustees.

This is a unique opportunity to lead a dynamic and influential organisation at a pivotal time for education and industry. As Chair, you will guide the Chief Executive, Tony Ryan, and the Board in setting the strategic direction, ensuring strong governance, and championing the value of D&T in preparing children and young people for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

We are looking for someone who:

• Brings strategic leadership experience, ideally at board level, within education, industry, or the charitable sector.
• Is a strong communicator and collaborator, able to inspire and unite stakeholders around a shared vision.
• Has a deep commitment to educational equity and innovation and understands the transformative power of Design and Technology.
• Can act as an ambassador for the Association, building relationships with government, industry, educators, and funders.

What we offer:

• The chance to make a lasting impact on education and society.
• A committed and expert Board of Trustees.
• A passionate and professional staff team.
• A platform to advocate for a subject that is vital to the UK’s creative, engineering, and manufacturing future.

If you believe in the importance of D&T education and want to help shape its future in schools across England, we would love to hear from you.

Closing date: 24 October 2025.

Interviews: informal meetings via zoom weeks beginning 3 & 10 November and formal in person interviews weeks beginning 17 & 24 November at Banbury office (OX16 3TB).

Amica Care delivers exceptional, person-centred care for older adults across the West and Southwest of England. Their network includes five nursing and residential care homes and three independent living sites, offering a full spectrum of services from daycare and assisted living to specialised dementia and end-of-life care. Each site contains excellent facilities, enabling residents to balance independence with community.

Alongside providing outstanding support and care, Amica is committed to enriching each resident’s life. They help residents have meaningful experiences, creating special memories with friends and family. With aspirations to expand and serve more communities, they’re seeking a new Trustee.

· Unremunerated: This is a voluntary position, without remuneration, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

· Location: Gatchell House, Gatchell Oaks, Trull, Taunton TA3 7EG

· Time Commitment: Board meetings are held bi-monthly face to face. Every other month there is an hour Teams call. Visit homes to support events when required and to monitor services. Approximately 6 hours per month of time required.

Trustees are responsible for defining Amica’s charitable objectives and setting a clear strategic direction. They hold the Executive Team accountable for delivering the organisational mission, reviewing their performance against agreed targets. Furthermore, Trustees act as ambassadors for Amica, representing them at external functions, meetings and events.

Knowledge/Experience Essential

All sector experience welcome, these are just some areas to highlight:

o Adult Social Care

o Occupational Health

o Property Management

o Property Planning

o IT

First-time Trustees are welcome to apply.

Retail Lead Volunteer - PDSA

Could you support your local PDSA shop - and help us care for the pets of people in need? 

Every PDSA shop needs an amazing team of volunteers to make it a success and we’re on the lookout for people to join us. 

Our shops raise funds to support our 48 pet hospitals and increase awareness of the work we do to get the nation PetWise. 

With some roles, you may have the opportunity to become a Lead Volunteer or to gain a nationally recognised qualification (NVQ). Lead Volunteers are trained in all aspects of running the shop and can deputise for the manager, so this is a fantastic opportunity that would really enhance your CV. There are many different ways you can help and even a couple of hours a week will make a difference. 

This is a varied and responsible role where you’ll be supporting the Shop Manager and Assistant with the day-to-day running of the shop. You’ll be encouraged to lead on new projects and may be asked to provide cover when the Manager is absent from the shop. 

What skills do I need? 

• Are you a natural team leader and problem solver? 
• Do you have great communication skills? 
• Do you have previous management experience? 
• Are you commercially aware? 
• Do you have good IT skills? 
• Are you confident working independently? 

If the answer is yes to most of these, this could be the ideal role for you. We provide training and we reimburse travel expenses so you won’t be out of pocket 

We can offer you the chance to: 

• Develop fantastic retail and supervisory skills for your CV 
• Work flexible hours that suit you. 
• Make new friends. 
• Gain a qualification (if you meet the requirements)  

We’re looking for people who are: 

• Positive and friendly 
• Willing to take responsibility and manage others 
• Confident with cash handling 
• Aware of health & safety issues 
• Happy working as part of a team 
• Flexible and keen to learn 

Get in touch today to talk to us about volunteering in one of our stores, we’d love to hear from you! 

PDSA positively encourages volunteer applications regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity. 

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, adults at risk and all our colleagues and expect everyone who works for us to also share this commitment and to treat people with courtesy and respect. 

To support this commitment, our recruitment & selection processes are robust and rigorous and all appointments will be subject to satisfactory references and appropriate background checks. A basic DBS check is required for this role.

Volunteer Role (10 Positions)

Role: Community & Session Volunteer

About The Cultural Ambassadors Project
Point of Growth is launching The Cultural Ambassadors, a 9-month community project in Greater Manchester beginning September 2025. Our mission is to support newcomers and migrants settling in the UK by co-creating a culturally informed guidebook, running safe conversational and information sessions, and building peer networks. The project is centred in Oldham, Rochdale and Ashton-under-Lyne (Greater Manchester), with participants drawn from these areas. Volunteers and childcare supporters will play a vital role in making sessions accessible, welcoming, and safe.

Location: Greater Manchester (venues in Oldham / Rochdale / Ashton) — specific session venues will be shared in advance

Time Commitment:
Typically 1–2 days per month (or 3–5 hours per session). Flexibility is built in.

What You’ll Do:

• Assist with set-up, registration, and welcoming participants
• Help facilitate group conversation, ice-breakers, or small group breakout sessions
• Support digital or hybrid participants (e.g. help with online forms, Zoom links)
• Distribute materials, refreshments, and cleaning up
• Provide informal signposting or peer support during breaks
• Work under supervision and follow safeguarding and inclusion policies

What You’ll Gain / Benefits:

• A volunteer certificate and reference
• Reimbursement for travel and meal costs (within agreed limits)
• Training in safeguarding, cultural awareness, and digital inclusion
• Experience in community work and event facilitation
• Being part of a meaningful, story-sharing project

Important:
This role is voluntary (unpaid).
Travel and meal expenses will be reimbursed

We are delighted to be working with Restore, an Oxfordshire-based charity that has been offering employment support to people with mental ill-health since 1977. Restore supports people - through recovery groups, coaching and learning - to take control of their own recovery, develop skills, and progress towards their own goals to live more fulfilling lives. It works within the community to increase knowledge, awareness and reduce stigma associated with mental ill health. Restore is also home to the Oxfordshire Recovery College for therapeutic peer learning and is an expert provider of formal mental health training.

Restore are now seeking to appoint a Treasurer, to join the Board to support the organisation to achieve its goals. They will have a strategic role ensuring that the organisation complies with its purpose, charity law and company law and that the organisation pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document.

The Treasurer will have relevant accounting/finance experience to oversee all financial aspects of Restore, on behalf of the Board, to ensure its short and long-term sustainability. They will partner with the CEO and Head of Finance and Administration, along with chairing the Finance sub-committee to ensure that Restore operates within the financial guidelines set out in current legislation, by the charity commission and in Restore’s governing document.

Aside from specialist skills, the successful candidate will need excellent communication skills with great leadership qualities, the ability to confidently lead the Board, promote a collaborative team, deliver the vision of the charity and bring people together.

The successful candidate will need these essential skills:

• Some Board-level or governance-related experience
• Strategic vision and sound independent judgement
• Creative thinking and problem solving
• An understanding of legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• A commitment to and passion for Restore’s aims and objectives 
• Integrity, objectivity, accountability, honesty and leadership.

Restore has been a fairly diverse board over the years and are still looking for ways to improve. The Board recognises the need to be entirely representative of the community it serves in Oxfordshire and surrounding areas and is keen for the board to reflect it.  We welcome and encourage adult applicants of all ages, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, sexual orientation, socio-economic background, religion, neurodiversity and lived experience. 

Time Commitments:

You’ll need to be able to:

• Attend quarterly board meetings from 4:30pm to 7pm. 
• Attend the Annual General Meeting (AGM) alongside the CEO once per year.
• The Treasurer will Chair the Finance Sub Committee
• Trustees will join a Sub Committee linked to skill set, in order to get a proper feel for what is going on and contribute to discussion and decision-making.
• Make visits to recovery groups and head office teams to ensure you stay close to the services we are providing
• Correspond by email to discuss items and make decisions between meetings
• Attend other activities/fundraising events. 

Meetings are currently hybrid, where attendance can be in person or online. Restore are aware that people who are working full-time or have family/other responsibilities may not always be able to travel to the meetings in person. It is important that Trustees are able to visit services, attend at least some meetings in person and have a connection with the community to which we deliver services. With this in mind, it’s unlikely that you will be based outside of Oxfordshire and its surrounding counties. 

Tenure:

Trustees can join at any time during the year but are formally appointed at the November AGM for a three-year term at a time which can be extended twice (plus an extra year by agreement).

If you feel you have a passion for mental health and the aims of this charity, we would like to hear from you. For more information, please contact Sandra Smith, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your application should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

Closing date: 2 November 2025 - Please apply asap as the client will be reviewing candidates and may close earlier if a suitable candidate is appointed

YMCA Essex seeks two new Trustees to help shape brighter futures for young people across the county.

Location: Chelmsford

Time commitment: 1 day per month

Closing date: 9 a.m. Monday 3rd November

YMCA Essex is a much-loved local charity supporting thousands of children, young people and families every year through youth clubs, childcare, supported accommodation and family services. Their mission is simple but powerful: building lives, hope and futures.

YMCA Essex is part of the world’s oldest and largest youth movement: an inclusive Christian charity working with people of all faiths and people of none. For nearly 150 years, they have supported local communities across Essex, providing safe places, positive activities, role models and mentors for young people, and helping families through difficult times.

Guided by their values, Kindness, Fairness, Professionalism, Perseverance and Joy, they believe every person is unique and should have the chance to develop their full potential in mind, body and spirit.

They are now looking for two new Trustees to join their friendly, committed Board. This is an exciting moment to get involved as they expand their reach across Essex, develop new services, and embark on a transformational redevelopment of their Chelmsford base.

If you share their values and their passion for giving young people the best possible start in life, and you’re ready to bring your skills, ideas and energy to a collaborative Board, they would love to hear from you.

Who we are

YMCA Essex has been serving local communities since 1877. Today, they work with 2,000–3,000 young people each year through supported housing, youth groups, childcare, family support and wellbeing services.

They are part of the YMCA Federation, one of the largest youth-focused charities in the world, reaching 64 million people in 122 countries. YMCA Essex is a Christian charity, inspired by faith, hope and love, and welcoming people of all faiths and none.

At the heart of their work is the belief that every young person deserves the chance to belong, contribute and thrive. Whether it’s providing a safe home, running holiday clubs and youth sessions, supporting young carers, or offering counselling in schools, they are trusted partners helping young people unlock their potential.

About the role

As a Trustee, you’ll have the chance to shape YMCA Essex’s strategy and support its senior leadership team as they grow services, strengthen governance, and champion their mission in the community.

You might draw on your experience of:

• Leading teams or organisations, and offering strategic insight.
• Supporting and constructively challenging senior colleagues.
• Bringing sound judgement around governance, finance, or risk.
• Acting as an advocate or ambassador in your community or professional networks.

You will:

• Join quarterly Board meetings and sit on either the Finance or Governance Committee.
• Contribute around 4 hours a month, including occasional events.
• Support the CEO and leadership team as a trusted adviser and sounding board.
• Champion and celebrate the staff and volunteers who bring their mission to life.

As a Trustee, you will help YMCA Essex deliver on their mission, ensuring their services make the greatest possible difference.

Who we are looking for

YMCA Essex welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds who share its values and commitment to helping young people thrive.

The Board is particularly keen to hear from those with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Fundraising, marketing, or communications
• Property, capital projects or stakeholder engagement
• Digital or operational leadership
• Finance or commercial management

Beyond technical skills, the Board is looking for Trustees who are:

• Collaborative, empathetic and confident in contributing to debate
• Essex-based and community-minded
• Comfortable representing YMCA Essex at events and in the community
• Willing to commit time outside meetings to support and advise the senior team

You might be a first-time trustee or bring leadership experience from another setting. What matters most is your enthusiasm for their mission and values, and your willingness to contribute your time, skills and perspective.

First-time trustees are very welcome, and full induction and ongoing support will be provided.

If you care deeply about building stronger, kinder, more hopeful communities, we would love to hear from you.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the job description and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 3rd November.

We are delighted to be working with Restore, an Oxfordshire-based charity that has been offering employment support to people with mental ill-health since 1977. Restore supports people - through recovery groups, coaching and learning - to take control of their own recovery, develop skills, and progress towards their own goals to live more fulfilling lives. It works within the community to increase knowledge, awareness and reduce stigma associated with mental ill health. Restore is also home to the Oxfordshire Recovery College for therapeutic peer learning and is an expert provider of formal mental health training.

Restore are now seeking to appoint a Chair of Trustees to provide leadership and direction to the Board of Trustees as their current Chair will step down later this year after ten years. The Chair will lead the Board of Trustees and work closely with the charity’s CEO and Executive Team to achieve its goals. They will have a strategic role ensuring that the organisation complies with its purpose, charity law and company law and that the organisation pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document.

The Chair will also ensure that the Board functions properly and that effective decisions are made and implemented. The Chair, alongside the CEO, acts as a spokesperson and advocate for the organisation.

The successful candidate is likely to have Board experience as a Chair or Deputy Chair although you may have been a Trustee for some years and now be looking for your next step. You will have excellent communication skills with great leadership qualities, the ability to confidently lead the Board, promote a collaborative team, deliver the vision of the charity and bring people together.

Essential skills:

• Board-level leadership and governance
• Strategic vision and sound independent judgement
• Creative thinking and problem solving
• An understanding of legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• A commitment to and passion for Restore’s aims and objectives
• Integrity, objectivity, accountability, honesty and leadership.

Restore has been a fairly diverse board over the years and are still looking for ways to improve. The Board recognises the need to be entirely representative of the community it serves in Oxfordshire and surrounding areas and is keen for the board to reflect it. We welcome and encourage adult applicants of all ages, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, sexual orientation, socio-economic background, religion, neurodiversity and lived experience.

Time Commitments:

You’ll need to be able to:

• Lead quarterly board meetings from 4:30pm to 7pm.
• Lead the Annual General Meeting (AGM) alongside the CEO once per year.
• Join the Finance Sub Committee and attend others as needed to contribute to discussion and decision-making.
• Make visits to our recovery groups and head office teams to ensure you stay close to the services we are providing
• Correspond by email to discuss items and make decisions between meetings
• Attend other activities/fundraising events.

Meetings are currently hybrid, where attendance can be in person or online. Restore are aware that people who are working full-time or have family/other responsibilities may not always be able to travel to the meetings in person. It is important that Trustees are able to visit services, attend at least some meetings in person and have a connection with the community to which we deliver services. With this in mind, it’s unlikely that you will be based outside of Oxfordshire and its surrounding counties.

Tenure:

Trustees can join at any time during the year but are formally appointed at the November AGM for a three-year term at a time which can be extended twice (plus an extra year by agreement).

If you feel you have a passion for mental health and the aims of this charity, we would like to hear from you. For more information, please contact Sandra Smith, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your application should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

Closing date: 2 November 2025 – Please apply asap as the client will be reviewing candidates and may close earlier if a suitable candidate is appointed 

Trustee

The charity Citizens Advice Lewisham (CAL) is a member of the national Citizens Advice (CitA) organisation. We deliver free, impartial and confidential advice to those who live, work or study in the London borough of Lewisham.

We are a highly engaged board who are passionate about ensuring our charity makes a big difference to Lewisham residents, especially to the most vulnerable people. We work in a collegiate way, respecting the diverse viewpoints board members bring to the table and hold ourselves to high professional standards.

Role focus for this appointment

This role is aimed at candidates with senior leadership experience within a charity. We are particularly interested in individuals who can bring strategic insight into fundraising, risk, governance and impact to ensure the organisation continues to deliver its charitable purpose.

What will you do?

• complete an induction for your role
• maintain an awareness of how the local Citizens Advice is operating
• read papers for board meetings and attend 5 meetings per year
• depending on your skills and experience, work on specific projects with other trustees or staff within the local Citizens Advice and the Citizens advice network to further strategic objectives
• Provide thought leadership in areas agreed with the Chair (for example Governance, Fundraising, Finance, Technology).
• Act as a senior charity voice on the Board, offering strategic challenge and support on governance, risk, safeguarding and organisational effectiveness.
• Take an active part in discussions during board meetings and work with other trustees to:
  • set policy and strategy direction, set targets and evaluate the performance of the local Citizens Advice within the quality assurance frameworks set by the network
  • monitor the financial position of the local Citizens Advice ensuring that it operates within its means and objectives
  • ensure that all the finances and supporting financial control systems of the local Citizens Advice are in order including that full financial records are kept for all transactions, that money is only spent for the purpose given, and that proper financial controls are in place to safeguard the organisation’s resources
  • monitor the financial position of the local Citizens Advice ensuring that it operates within its means and objectives, ensuring that there are clear lines of accountability for day to day financial management
  • seek the views of all sections of the community and monitor how well the service meets the needs of the local community
  • ensure that the service plans for the recruitment and turnover of staff and volunteers
  • review its own work and how effectively it operates including action for improvement

What’s in it for you?

• use your experience to make a positive impact for people in your local area by ensuring the local Citizens Advice is sustainable and meeting the needs of the community
• meet people and build relationships with trustees, staff and other volunteers
• build on your governance, leadership and strategy knowledge and skills 
• increase your employability

And we’ll reimburse expenses too.

What do you need to have?

You don’t need specific qualifications but you’ll need to:

• understand and accept the responsibilities and liabilities as trustees
• be non-judgmental and respect views, values and cultures that are different to your own
• have good listening, verbal and written communication skills 
• be able to exercise good independent judgement
• have good numeracy skills to understand accounts with the support of the treasurer
• Senior leadership experience within a charity (for example Chief Executive or Executive Director, Director, Head of Service, or equivalent senior role)
• a strong grasp of charity governance, risk management and strategic planning
• confidence reading management information and contributing to financial decision-making at Board level
• be willing to learn about and follow the Citizens Advice aims, principles and policies, including confidentiality and data protection
• be willing to undertake annual mandatory training in your role

How much time do you need to give?

Trustee boards usually meet in the evenings to accommodate the needs of trustees,  and you’ll likely need to give a few hours a month to read papers and support the board.  You may need to attend other meetings if you’re involved in specific projects, or meet with volunteers and staff occasionally within the local Citizens Advice. We can be flexible about the time spent, so come and talk to us.

Valuing inclusion

Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and we particularly welcome applications from disabled people, people with physical or mental health conditions, LGBT+ and non-binary people, and people from ethnic minority communities.

If you are interested in becoming a trustee and would like to discuss flexibility around location, time, ‘what you will do’ and how we can support you please contact us. 

Closing date: 26 October 2025. We do reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

Opportunity to join York Archaeology’s Board of Trustees

York Archaeological Trust for Research and Excavation, an educational and research charity, is currently looking for new trustees to join its board during an exciting period of development.

Having celebrated our 50th anniversary in 2022, we are committed to building on the vision that began with the Coppergate excavation in York and the opening of the internationally renowned  Jorvik Viking Centre, and to harnessing archaeology for educational and public benefit. Engaging with more than 1.2 million people annually, and with centres of archaeology and conservation in York and Nottingham we work throughout the UK and internationally providing leading-edge field investigation, analysis and connecting communities with their past.

We are seeking to recruit candidates from a range of different backgrounds and with different perspectives, both to ensure the best possible decision-making, and to reflect the range of communities in which we work. We are keen to hear from those who can offer expertise and experience in any of the following areas:

• Strategic financial management. With succession planning in mind for the role of Chair of our Finance and Audit Committee, we are seeking a candidate with considerable professional financial expertise, underpinned with a formal first-tier accounting qualification and proven commercial acumen. Business experience of the charity sector from either an employed or voluntary capacity would be an advantage
• Business process improvement, IT and cyber security. This trustee position is open to non-finance specialists as well as those who have a financial background
• Strategic leadership of a visitor attraction in the heritage sector
• Educational strategy, including the role of virtual and online learning
• Archaeology in a commercial context
• Charitable fundraising

However, no-one is excluded from applying. Above all, we are looking for people who share our aim of making the past accessible for everyone, and who want to help lead the Trust accordingly. We are open to applications from those who don’t have previous board experience. Experience of the charity sector is desirable but not essential.

Trustees are appointed for a three-year term, renewable to a maximum of nine years. The role includes a commitment to attend four board meetings per year and the Annual General Meeting.  Trustees are also expected to contribute some additional time to sub committees and/or Steering Groups in line with their interests and expertise. Trustees are not remunerated, but we can cover reasonable travel and accommodation expenses.

The closing date for applications is Friday 7th November, and we expect interviews for short-listed candidates to be held in the second half of November.

Join the board of YMCA and help its work supporting communities through training, wellbeing and social inclusion.

Location: London, WC1H

Closing date: 9 a.m. Monday 17th November

Who we are

Established in 1844, Central YMCA is the founding organisation of the global YMCA movement, now present in over 120 countries.

Central YMCA works at local, regional and national levels, providing high-quality education, training and qualifications. As one of the largest charity Independent Training Providers in the country and the holder of substantial contracts from the Department for Education, Central YMCA provides education and opportunities for employment for young people and adults, irrespective of their background and experience. We work with some of the most socioeconomically disadvantaged groups, and we believe we can have the greatest impact for those falling through gaps in provision or struggling to engage with mainstream provision.

The sectors in which we work have been carefully selected to reflect the Charity’s commitment to supporting careers in areas that are essential for building strong communities. We deliver employability courses, qualifications and apprenticeships in Health and Fitness, Health and Social Care, Early Years and Education, Horticulture and Business Services. We work with key partners in each sector to promote our courses and amplify our reach.

Some of our work is strategically based in socially and economically disadvantaged communities; supporting the vulnerable and those on low incomes, those who have low prior attainment and are facing personal challenges, alongside those needing support through life transitions.

Through our awarding and end-point assessment organisation, Central YMCA also develops qualifications and learning and assessment resources to enable learners to start or develop their careers, predominantly in the physical activity and wellness sector.

Founded in the heart of London in 1844, Central YMCA is the world’s very first YMCA. For over 180 years, we’ve been inspiring people to reach their full potential in body, mind, and spirit. From pioneering youth education and fitness programmes to supporting communities through training, wellbeing, and social inclusion, Central YMCA has always stood for positive change.

Today, we continue that proud tradition by offering recognised training and qualifications, and a range of community programmes that empower people of all ages and backgrounds. We believe in opportunity for everyone — no matter your starting point. Whether you want to improve your health, gain new skills, or make a difference, Central YMCA is here to help you grow stronger, together.

Central YMCA — A historic legacy. A modern movement. Your community.

About the roles

Chair of Trustees

As Chair, you will provide inspirational leadership and clear direction to the Board, ensuring effective governance, long-term sustainability, and strategic excellence across all that we do. You will play a pivotal role in supporting and constructively challenging our CEO and senior leadership team to deliver lasting social impact and drive performance across the organisation.

This is a rare opportunity to help guide one of the most respected charities in the UK as we continue our mission to break barriers to life-enhancing opportunities through education, training, health, and wellbeing.

As Chair, you will:

• Lead the Board of Trustees, ensuring that governance is robust, inclusive, and forward-looking.
• Provide strategic oversight, helping shape the Charity’s vision, policy, and direction.
• Champion Central YMCA’s mission and values, ensuring decisions are aligned with our charitable purpose.
• Support and hold to account the CEO and senior team, ensuring effective delivery of the organisation’s aims.
• Represent Central YMCA externally – across the YMCA movement and with key stakeholders, partners, and policy makers.
• Oversee Board development, succession planning, and the recruitment of new Trustees to maintain a diverse and skilled team.

Chair of the Resources Committee

The Chair of the Resources Committee leads on financial stewardship, ensuring the Charity’s funds and resources are managed responsibly, transparently, and in line with our charitable objectives and legal obligations. The Committee oversees finance, investments, HR, IT, and other resource-related areas.

As Committee Chair, you will:

• Lead the Resources Committee, ensuring meetings are well-organised, effective, and aligned with the Charity’s governance framework.
• Provide strategic guidance and oversight on finance, staffing, and resource allocation.
• Advise the Board on the financial implications of major decisions and long-term plans.
• Lead the annual budget review and monitor performance against financial plans and reserves policies.
• Ensure robust management of investments, reserves, and overall financial sustainability.
• Work collaboratively with the Chief Executive and senior team to support effective resource planning.
• Liaise with the Chair of the Risk and Audit Committee to strengthen financial controls and risk management.
• Support the preparation and presentation of annual accounts, ensuring clarity and transparency.
• Keep the Board informed of its financial duties and promote openness in public reporting.

Safeguarding Trustee

The Safeguarding Trustee works closely with the CEO and Designated Safeguarding Leads to provide assurance to the Board that safeguarding remains a strategic priority across the Charity. They ensure our safeguarding framework is robust, effective, and fully compliant with legal, regulatory, and sector expectations.

As Safeguarding Trustee, you will:

• Provide assurance to the Board on the effectiveness of safeguarding practices and compliance with statutory requirements.
• Offer guidance and expertise in developing and monitoring the Charity’s safeguarding, child protection, and Prevent strategies, policies, and action plans.
• Ensure safeguarding considerations are embedded in all strategic decisions and risk management processes.
• Champion a strong, transparent, and inclusive safeguarding culture aligned with our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion commitments.
• Ensure arrangements meet legislative and regulatory expectations, including Ofsted and statutory guidance such as Keeping Children Safe in Education.
• Work with trustees and senior staff to embed safeguarding across all learning environments and youth-focused provision.
• Monitor the implementation of safeguarding and Prevent action plans, escalating risks or concerns to the Board where necessary.
• Provide assurance that safeguarding concerns are reported, escalated, and addressed appropriately, with clear routes for staff, learners, and the public to raise issues.
• Represent Central YMCA’s safeguarding commitment externally, promoting best practice with partners, funders, and sector bodies.
• Attend Board meetings, relevant sub-committees, and safeguarding briefings, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding and Prevent developments.
• Support transparency by promoting public visibility of safeguarding arrangements, including statements and reporting routes.

Who we are looking for

Chair of Trustees

We are seeking a Chair who:

• Brings a strong commitment to Central YMCA’s values and purpose.
• Demonstrates inclusive, strategic, and inspiring leadership.
• Has experience of governance, either in a charity, public, or corporate setting.
• Is confident working with senior executives to balance support with appropriate challenge.
• Has the ability to represent Central YMCA with credibility and integrity across a wide range of audiences.
• Brings strong networks and the ability to connect the organisation to new opportunities and partnerships.
• Proven experience in governance — ideally as a Chair, Trustee, or Non-Executive Director — within the charity sector, social impact organisations, or relevant industries.
• The ability to chair meetings effectively, foster collaboration, and build consensus.
• The confidence to make informed decisions under pressure, even when challenging majority opinions, and to provide constructive challenge and influence at Board level.

Chair of Resources Committee

The ideal candidate will bring:

• A recognised financial qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or substantial senior financial management experience.
• A strong understanding of education and charity finance, SORP, and relevant regulatory requirements.
• Excellent analytical and evaluation skills, with the ability to exercise good judgement and interpret complex information.
• The ability to chair meetings effectively, foster collaboration, and build consensus.
• A solid understanding of governance principles, business models, finance, funding, and charity regulation compliance.
• The interpersonal skills to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

Safeguarding Trustee

The ideal candidate will bring:

• Experience of overseeing safeguarding arrangements in an education or youth care setting (including children’s social services or local authority), with direct experience managing safeguarding issues affecting young people aged 14+.
• Strong working knowledge of government safeguarding, Prevent, and child protection strategies, as well as safer recruitment practices.
• Familiarity with Charity Commission guidance on safeguarding and governance expectations for trustees.
• Commitment to promoting and supporting equality, diversity, and inclusion across all areas of the Charity’s work.
• Experience of working at a senior level in post-16 or vocational education, or within a local authority involved in education policy or strategy.

Why join Central YMCA?

At Central YMCA, we’ve been changing lives for over 180 years. Today, we continue to support people from all walks of life through education, employability, health, and wellbeing programmes. Joining us as Chair offers a unique chance to shape the next chapter in this proud history – ensuring we remain as relevant, inclusive, and impactful as ever.

If you are an accomplished leader who believes in the power of community and lifelong opportunity, we would love to hear from you.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 17th November. 

Join Bright Futures Ten Thousand Futures Campaign Board and positively change the story for over 10,000 young people disadvantaged through long-term illness, every year.

Location: London/UK Wide

Every morning in the UK, thousands of children wake not to the bustle of a school day, but to the quiet of their bedrooms or hospital wards. For many, long-term illness has turned what should be years of learning, laughter and growth into years of absence and isolation. Bright Futures UK exists to change this story. Founded in 2016 by Josh Pelled, whose own education was shattered by childhood cancer, we are the only UK charity dedicated to helping young people return to education during or after illness. 

For every child we support, there are dozens waiting, unseen and unsupported. By 2029, we aim to change that by helping 10,000 children annually – around 3-4% of the national cohort. Our focus will be on those from disadvantaged backgrounds, for whom the barriers are highest and opportunities most limited. 

The Campaign

To deliver this vision, we are launching Ten Thousand Futures – a bold strategy for growth at our 10th anniversary. To succeed, we need to raise £4 million over the next four years. We have carefully modelled this planned growth. The investment will expand our network of skilled volunteers to meet demand, grow tutoring, mentoring and befriending into a national programme, strengthen our long-term impact measurement, and secure sustainable growth so that every child who needs us can access our personalised support.

Join our Campaign Board

Bright Futures stand at a pivotal moment. The need has never been greater, and the opportunity to make a generational difference has never been clearer.

The Campaign Board will be a group of philanthropically minded and well-connected individuals who, with the support of the professional team, help to raise the lion’s share of income for the campaign through their networks. The Board will ensure that no child facing illness is left behind. Together, we can build ten thousand brighter futures every year and give young people back their education, their confidence, and their future.

Josh Pelled will work closely with the Campaign Board, which will also be supported by the Charity’s Board of Directors.

From tutoring and mentoring to befriending and in-hospital workshops, the programmes are designed to meet each young person’s unique needs with care, flexibility and understanding.

Every day, you will work alongside a passionate team, incredible volunteers and inspiring young people. Together, you can prove that illness should never define a future – and that every young person deserves the chance to learn, thrive and reach their potential.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

South Bank Students’ Union is unapologetic about doing things differently. Bring your expertise as a Trustee to their Board and support their next strategic phase.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Monday 17th November.

South Bank Students’ Union is the representative body of 15,000 students at London South Bank University. We are dedicated to creating a Union that is relevant, responsive and transformative for a diverse student body, from carers and nurses to entrepreneurs and last-chance learners. Our bold changes over recent years have doubled student engagement and positioned us for an ambitious strategic future.

The ideal candidate will have experience in, or a strong understanding of, financial management, especially with regard to charity finance and developing long-term strategic financial plans and reserve strategies. The ideal candidate will also understand HR principles.

If you are enthusiastic about using your skills to make a tangible difference for students from all walks of life and want to be part of a forward-thinking, inclusive organisation, this is the role for you. You will play a key part in shaping strategy while influencing key decisions that directly improve student experiences, and helping to ensure the Union maintains robust governance, financial resilience, and a strong foundation for continued success.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 17th November.

About Reprieve

Reprieve is a leading international human rights organisation. Our aim is simple: to consign the death penalty and abuses carried out in the name of “counter-terrorism” or “national security” to history, drawing public and political attention to these past harms with a view to preventing them from occurring again.

In our view, you can best judge a society by how it treats prisoners, criminal defendants, and the far-flung targets of an ever-changing counter-terror policy. To us, the rule of law means little if we selectively apply it to people we agree with. It is for all of us. Liberty is always eroded at the margins.

Reprieve’s staff is made up of courageous and committed human rights defenders. Founded in 1999, we provide free legal and investigative support to people facing the death penalty and those victimised by states’ abusive counter-terror policies – rendition, torture, arbitrary detention and extrajudicial killing.

We fight our clients’ cases in courts around the world; investigate their mistreatment; and advocate on their behalf, encouraging public and political debate of human rights issues.

Reprieve’s main office is in London, UK. Reprieve also supports full-time Fellows, who work as lawyers, investigators and campaigners in the countries in which we work. We work closely with a number of partner organisations in jurisdictions all over the world, who provide access to clients, expertise, knowledge and guidance on specific issues or regions. We work in cooperation with relevant government officials, individual lawyers and human rights defenders, as well as individual, corporate and foundation funders to further the cause of our shared goals.

Reprieve works in close partnership with its independent sibling organisation Reprieve US.  This collaboration is mutually beneficial to both Reprieve and Reprieve US as it enables each organisation to work more effectively and take advantage of the strategic locations to increase the impact of our work.

About the Role

Our work would not be possible without the highest levels of governance provided by our Board of Trustees and its Chair.

The Board meets four times a year (normally January, May, July and October). Two Board meetings are in person, and we ask that the Chair attends other events when they can to meet staff and other key stakeholders, including donors. 

Day-to-day management of Reprieve is provided by the Senior Management Team. 

About You

Our new Chair will be passionate about our vision and mission and will be able to bring inclusive and knowledgeable insight to the Board and the Executive. They will have a keen sense of strategic purpose and an inclusive leadership style that inspires and supports other Trustees, the Executive, staff and key stakeholders to participate. They will be comfortable with challenge and debate and able to encourage that in others whilst fostering a collaborative Board environment. They will be able and willing to act as a figurehead and ambassador, and champion Reprieve’s work through personal networks, social media (if appropriate), and other channels.

They will be willing to lead according to Reprieve’s values and have a passion for seeking justice for the victims of extreme human rights abuses. They will support our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion at Reprieve and share our commitment to fighting against racism and advancing racial justice, both in our work and within Reprieve.

They will have a passion for seeking justice for the victims of extreme human rights abuses. They will support our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion at Reprieve and share our commitment to fighting against racism and advancing racial justice, both in our work and within Reprieve.

Responsibilities

Your main duties will include:

• Leading the Board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of Reprieve
• Chairing and facilitating Board meetings including giving direction to board policy-making and ensuring that decisions taken at meetings are implemented
• With the Executive Director:
  • Planning the annual cycle of Board meetings
  • Setting agendas for Board meetings
  • Developing the Board of trustees including induction, training, appraisal and succession planning
  • Addressing conflict within the Board and within Reprieve, and liaising with the Executive to achieve this
  • Liaising with the Executive Director to keep an overview of the organisation’s affairs and to provide support as appropriate
• Being an ambassador and figurehead for Reprieve.

Person Specification/ Criteria

• A willingness to speak your mind and challenge both the Executive and the Board
• A keen sense of strategic purpose
• An inclusive leadership style: able to inspire and support other Trustees, the Executive, staff and key stakeholders to participate 
• Experience constructively challenging and appraising senior leadership
• A willingness to be available to the Executive and staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis
• A clear commitment to Reprieve’s vision and mission
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
• Willingness to commit two days a month to the role
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship, as they apply to the Chair of the Board
• Experience of fundraising and its importance to a charity 
• Experience of committee work or being on a charity board.

Apply your education expertise to strengthen the Board at The Children's Trust, the UK's leading charity for children with brain injury and neurodisability.

Applications close Monday 3rd November.

Who we are

The Children’s Trust is the UK’s leading charity for children with brain injury and neurodisability. With a clear vision for the future and a renewed leadership team, we are positioned to lead innovation in childhood brain injury and neurodisability rehabilitation. We have an ambitious new strategic direction focusing on innovative rehabilitation approaches that will help more children rebuild their lives after brain injury and neurodisability. We operate our pioneering special school, which is rated Outstanding by regulators. Our school serves children and young people with neurodisability leading to lifelong and life-limiting complex health needs, creating profound and complex barriers to learning. With recent CQC and Ofsted inspections continuing to be extremely positive, we are about to launch our ambitious five-year strategy, focused on helping more children and young people with brain injury and neurodisability to live the best life possible.

We are currently exploring the strategic place and future of our school, which makes this an ideal time for an education professional to join our Board and help chart a new future for this vital service. With this, we’re seeking an exceptional Trustee with education expertise to help guide us through this transformational phase.

About the role

We have made a number of key appointments to the Board and senior leadership team in the last 12-18 months, including a new Chair and Chief Executive. With some of our longest serving Trustees approaching the end of their terms, we are looking to make further appointments to our Board and committees to bring fresh, external perspective, challenge and leadership.

We are seeking an individual with education experience to join our Board and strengthen the voice of education expertise as we look to the future of our school and the exciting opportunities it presents. This appointment will help ensure our Board has the specialist knowledge needed to support our ‘Outstanding’ school and its continued development.

Who we are looking for

We are interested in hearing from professionals from the education sector who have had senior-level experience and who have a good understanding of SEND, and school organisations and structures. This could be from a variety of different environments and sectors such as schools, multi academy trusts, special schools, local authority and/or central government or regulation. While experience in special education is important, we are primarily seeking someone with a broad education expertise who understands the wider education system. Experience in commissioning or setting up new special academies or MATs would be particularly valuable. We are looking for someone with an understanding and experience of safeguarding, particularly for children with SEND, alongside their broader education expertise.

We are looking for a Trustee who aligns with our mission and is genuinely excited by our work with children with brain injury and neurodisability. You’ll be joining a Board that’s been significantly

refreshed over the past two years. We’re particularly committed to increasing diversity on our Board and would be especially pleased to hear from candidates with lived experience of brain injury, neurodisability, disability or neurodiversity, those from diverse ethnic backgrounds, lower socio-economic backgrounds, or who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ communities.

• Time Commitment

Our board typically meets 6 times a year, including our annual strategy away day, and committees typically meet 4-6 times annually. Outside of the formal meeting schedule, it is likely that additional time will be needed for relationship building and ad hoc discussions with the executive team and fellow board members.

Board meetings take place in person at our Tadworth site in Surrey, and we have a strong preference for in-person attendance to maximise engagement and relationship building, though we maintain some flexibility for online participation in certain circumstances. The Education Committee meets throughout the year, usually in person.

This is an ideal time to join The Children’s Trust. We have stable finances, a clear strategic direction, and the opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation in childhood brain injury rehabilitation and help chart a new future for our Outstanding school.

If you’re looking for a Trustee role where you can make a real difference to some of the most vulnerable children in our society, where your expertise will be valued and utilised, and where you’ll be part of a forward-looking organisation with genuine ambition for the future, we’d love to hear from you.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications close Monday 3rd November.