Volunteer roles

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? Are you a leader who could authentically lead and grow a movement of volunteers in a Community, including helping them navigate change? Do you have a strong commitment to educating, developing and engaging people? We are seeking a dynamic and dedicated individual to take on the role of Network Leader who can work and lead volunteering groups and leaders in their own way, supported by our central teams.

Impact

Accountable for creating a network of St John people and supporters that are empowered and enabled to deliver community impact in the form of community first aid, community education and community fundraising.

Accountable for ensuring the people within your network feel that they have sense of purpose, belonging and joyfulness, as well as access to development and growth opportunities.

Expected time commitment: 30 hours per month

Responsibilities

• Leading and inspiring a volunteer movement across a community or geography to deliver community first aid, community education and fundraising activities
• Delivering a diverse, inclusive and positive volunteering experience for those within your network
• Building strong relationships with local communities and organisations (e.g., Local Authorities, NHS, Council for Volunteering Services, etc)
• Leading your community first aid network to respond to the needs of your local communities.

What you will be accountable for

• Convening all St John people in your geography to collaboratively develop a clear plan to deliver against St John’s priorities, as set out in our new strategy.
• Delivery of collaboratively set KPIs in the following areas – Clinical cover at local events, Fundraising, Community Engagement including educating the public and communication and media, and expansion of our work with Young People.
• Developing an operating model for your geography that supports adults and young people, Priory and SJA volunteers, operational and non-operational volunteers to join in, either directly through network delivery or through associated ‘spokes’.
• Inspiring and supporting volunteers to try new ways of working to put the above in practice to deliver more impact in communities.
• Ensuring St John is represented at local networking opportunities and events to raise our profile or advocate for community health.
• Ensure that all volunteers in your network are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge
• Ensure the work of St John and our people is rewarded and recognised
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives based on feedback and best practices, particularly feeding back on the early adopter cohort learning in establishing a network.

You will need to following (personal specification):

• Impactful leadership and people management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to motivate, inspire and support others
• Ability to build relationships with a wide range of people
• Effective planning and organising skills
• Leadership and people management skills
• Ability to work proactively and on own initiative
• Understanding of change and leading people through change empathetically

Training and Support

The training and support we will make available for you is as follows:

Mandatory:

• Welcome programme introducing you to the project & wider charity
• Training in appropriate SJA policies
• St John Safeguarding training relevant to your role
• GDPR
• Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
• Keeping you safe at St John Ambulance
• Care Quality Commission
• Leadership training

Optional

• Speaking and listening skills
• Media engagement skills
• Finance process skills.

SJA will provide uniform for this role.

Screening requirements

• Right to Volunteer check.
• Two references

Our values

This role requires the volunteer to embrace the organisation’s vision and values, which are: Communities that preserve and protect life through volunteering for health and first aid.

The way we do things as a charity is underpinned by our ‘HEART’ values. We expect all ourpeople to uphold and apply these values in all they do.

This role is exempt from the provisions of the Rehabilitations of Offenders Act.

This role profile is intended as an outline indicator of general areas of activity and will be amended considering the changing needs of St John Ambulance. It is expected that the post holder will be as positive and flexible as possible in using this document as a framework

Inclusive Boards is pleased to be supporting Child Action Northwest (CANW) in their search for Trustees.

CANW is a charity dedicated to supporting children, young people, vulnerable adults and families who need help and we’ve been doing this for 130 years.

Our history stretches all the way back to the founding of Blackburn Orphanage in 1886. A lot has changed since then, but many of the challenges facing those in need are similar today.

We have the experience and the passion to focus on the support needed by children, young people, families and communities across the North West and beyond.

CANW is seeking to recruit up to four new Trustees. Applicants should bring all of the following skills, experience and attributes: 

• A commitment to the organisation

• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort

• Strategic vision

• Good, independent judgement

• An ability to think creatively

• A willingness to speak their mind

• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship

• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team

• A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates with skills in one or more of the following areas: Finance and treasury, Commercial Law, Business Development and Growth, and Digital.

At CANW, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive and to being a place where all belong. We are keen to ensure our board membership reflects our values and therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who represent faith and cultural communities and from young people especially those who may have lived experience of the care environment.

By joining our board, you will contribute to a cause that truly matters and have the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of the children, young people, vulnerable adults, and communities we serve.

Our partner promotes access to specialist reconstructive surgical care and professional training in low income countries through volunteer led programmes that build local capacity and improve patient outcomes worldwide.

They are seeking a Treasurer to join the Board and strengthen financial oversight as the organisation works to simplify its accounting processes and manage expenditure more efficiently. The role involves reviewing systems, supporting financial planning and reporting, and ensuring compliance with charity regulations.

The ideal candidate will be a qualified accountant with strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and experience in charity finance or audit. The ability to communicate clearly with non-finance trustees and to recommend practical, proportionate improvements will be key.

The Board meets remotely, with one in-person meeting each year in London. The expected commitment is around two to three hours per week, with occasional peaks around Finance Sub-Committee meetings.

______________________________

For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website.

Our partner supports the creative regeneration of historic buildings and community assets, transforming underused heritage spaces into sustainable hubs for work, culture and community activity.

They are seeking a Treasurer to join the Board and play a key role in ensuring sound financial governance and supporting the organisation’s continued growth. Working closely with the senior team, the Treasurer will oversee financial management, strengthen internal controls and reporting, and advise the Board on strategy, budgeting, and compliance.

The ideal candidate will bring accounting or treasury experience, strong analytical and organisational skills, and an interest in regeneration, community enterprise, or heritage-led development. Experience of Xero or financial oversight within a Community Interest Company would be an advantage.

The Board meets remotely, with occasional in-person meetings in Ramsgate. The expected time commitment is around one to two days per month, including meeting preparation and liaison with the executive team.

_________________________________

For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website.

Our partner is an international development charity improving lives in Zambia through construction, training, and community projects. Since 2006 they have trained over 2,200 people in building skills and completed 58 schools, health clinics, and other community facilities, benefiting more than 400,000 people.

They are seeking an experienced finance professional to join their UK Board as Treasurer and Chair of the Finance & Audit Committee. Working closely with counterparts in Zambia, the Treasurer will help ensure the charity’s financial integrity, sustainability, and compliance, providing strategic oversight and guidance on financial policy, risk, and reporting.

The ideal candidate will be a qualified finance professional with senior-level experience and strong governance understanding. You should bring the ability to communicate complex financial matters clearly, support effective Board decision-making, and provide independent challenge where needed.

The Board meets four times per year, usually in London although remote attendance is possible. The expected time commitment is around 1–2 days per month, including additional time for Finance & Audit Committee duties which meets online.

_________________________________

For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website.

In this role, you will build relationships and connect with people, places and organisations to raise awareness of stroke and of the Stroke Association within the community. By building these relationships you will contribute to improving the experience of people affected by stroke where they live and work. 

What would you be doing

• Providing a valuable extension to our teams based within local areas across Wales. 
• Build relationships with people, places and organisations to raise awareness of stroke and the Stroke Association. 
• Engaging with your local community to represent the Stroke Association. This could include delivering presentations or talks (either face to face or digitally), attending fundraising events or sharing your experience of stroke to others. 
• Helping to set up and support Stroke Café Groups. 
• Attending information points at community events or at local hospitals. 

What will you bring to the role?

You have…

• The passion and enthusiasm to raise the awareness of stroke and the Stroke Association. 
• Ability and willingness to share how people affected by stroke can access support from the Stroke Association. 
• An enjoyment of talking to people and communities, either one to one, or presenting to groups. This includes speaking to groups or individuals face to face or online digitally. (This is available to you only if you feel confident to do so – it is not a strict requirement of the role). 
• A keenness to demonstrate our values, and to help improve care and support for stroke survivors. 
• The ability to travel to venues and events by yourself. 
• A willingness to use technology e.g. Zoom and Microsoft Teams to engage with people outside of your local area, and our intranet and learning platform to access resources and training 

Requirements of the role:

• Must be 18+
• Ability to travel around your local community. 
• Have empathy and compassion for stroke survivors.
• Enjoy interacting with stroke survivors, community groups and local businesses.
• Ideally have lived or personal experience of stroke.
• Availability of a minimum of 2 hours on a weekly basis. 

What the role can offer you personally 

• Support with learning new skills – Full training provided. 
• Meeting new people, building a network and engaging with your local community. 
• In this role, you will build relationships and connect with people, places and organisations to raise awareness of stroke and of the Stroke Association within the community. By building these relationships you will contribute to improving the experience of people affected by stroke where they live and work. 
• You’ll have an opportunity to get together (either face to face/digitally) with other Community Connectors from your locality to discuss local priorities and opportunities 

Interested in applying?

If you are interested in applying, please contact: 

• Sally Head, Volunteer Manager. 

Our vision is for there to be fewer strokes, and for people affected by stroke to get the help they need to live the best life they can. 

Our core purpose is to be the trusted voice of stroke survivors and their families. We want to drive better outcomes in stroke prevention, treatment and lifelong support for everyone affected by stroke.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Our partner is a student-led charity that supports a large student body in the South East. They focus on enhancing academic success, fostering social inclusion, and preparing students for future success.

The Finance Trustee will oversee financial strategy, including advising on budgeting, reserves policy, and reporting. As Deputy Chair, the successful candidate will assist the Chair in providing leadership, chairing meetings, and ensuring strong governance. They will also mentor fellow Trustees and contribute to strategic planning.

The ideal candidate will bring financial expertise, preferably from outside the Students' Union sector, and have experience in governance roles, such as chairing or deputising. Strong interpersonal skills are essential to foster effective relationships with the Board and stakeholders.

The Board meets 4-5 times per year, with additional sub-committee responsibilities. Meetings are typically in person in Portsmouth, with online options available. Trustees are expected to commit 1-2 days per month, including meeting preparation and key initiatives.

_________________________________

For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website.

Our partner works to transform higher education into a force for peace. They campaign for universities to end ties with the global arms trade and instead become champions for justice, equality, and social good.

They are seeking a Treasurer to join the Board and play a key role in ensuring financial sustainability and good governance. The Treasurer will maintain oversight of the organisation's financial affairs, ensure compliance with legal and regulatory standards, and support sound financial planning and reporting.

The ideal candidate will bring experience in finance, governance, or charity management, with the ability to review budgets and accounts, advise on policy, and communicate clearly with fellow Trustees and staff. A shared commitment to peace, justice, and education reform is essential.

The Board meets once annually in London and once online in May, with an additional online AGM early each year. The expected time commitment is around one day per month, including meeting preparation and liaison with the executive team.

____________________________________

For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website.

Our partner is a long-established charity providing vital advice, support, and advocacy for refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants in South East London. They help people to know and exercise their rights, rebuild their lives, and thrive as part of an inclusive and welcoming community.

They are seeking a Treasurer to join the Board and play a key role in ensuring effective financial management and governance. Candidates should be qualified finance professionals, ideally with knowledge of charity finance and a commitment to the organisation’s mission of justice, inclusion, and empowerment for migrant communities.

As Treasurer and Trustee, you will support the Board in fulfilling its financial responsibilities including advising on financial strategy, budgeting, and reserves policy; reviewing management accounts and annual reports; overseeing audit processes; and ensuring effective systems of financial control. You will also contribute to wider Board discussions, bringing financial insight to strategic planning and risk management.

The Board meets quarterly (alternating between online and in-person evening meetings in London), and Trustees typically devote around 1–2 days per month to their duties.

______________________________

For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website.

Join Us as Chair of Trustees

SEAS Sailability & All Afloat – Merging for Greater Impact

About SEAS All Afloat

SEAS Sailability and All Afloat, two well-established charities operating across Wales since 2017, are merging to combine their experience, resources, and passion for inclusion on the water.

SEAS Sailability has built a successful partnership with a commercial activity provider, delivering weekly evening sessions and monthly weekend activities during the spring and summer months for disabled people, their families, and carers. Over the past five years, SEAS Sailability has secured approximately £200,000 in grants and donations to support this work.

All Afloat has focused on breaking down barriers to water sports and expanding access to sailing and boating for disadvantaged young people and those with disabilities. The charity has supported ten RYA Training Centres across Wales, delivering more than £150,000 worth of projects, providing over 4,500 sessions for more than 3,500 young participants, opening clear pathways to RYA qualifications from introductory sailing through to Dinghy Instructor certification.

As the new merged organisation, SEAS All Afloat will build on this strong foundation to secure sustainable funding that maintains current activity while enabling the growth of similar partnerships across Wales. Our ambition is to use our combined experience, equipment, and networks to expand opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy the water safely and inclusively.

Through community projects and activity clubs, we will continue to deliver safe, engaging, and inclusive on-water experiences that build confidence, develop skills, and foster wellbeing — particularly for those facing barriers to participation.

The Role of the Chair of Trustees

Our volunteers and trustees play a vital role in steering the charity and ensuring we deliver on our mission.

The Chair of Trustees provides leadership to the Board, ensuring effective governance and strategic oversight. Working collaboratively with trustees, volunteers, and partners, the Chair helps set the vision and direction of the charity and acts as a key ambassador.

The Chair ensures that the Board operates effectively, decisions are well-informed, and the charity remains compliant with all legal and regulatory requirements. They also represent SEAS All Afloat publicly, championing its values and strengthening its relationships with stakeholders.

About You

We are looking for someone with:

• A passion for making outdoor activities accessible for all.
• Strong leadership and governance experience (charity, corporate, or public sector).
• Excellent communication and people skills, with the ability to build consensus.
• Confidence in representing the charity externally and acting as a spokesperson.
• A collaborative and inclusive approach.

Experience in sport, youth development, disability inclusion, or fundraising would be an advantage, but is not essential.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to lead a newly merged organisation at a pivotal stage in its journey.
• A meaningful and rewarding role that makes a real difference to people’s lives.
• The chance to work alongside a dedicated team of trustees, staff, and volunteers.

Time Commitment

This is a voluntary role, with reasonable expenses reimbursed. The time commitment is around 6–10 meetings a year, plus regular contact with the leadership team and occasional events.

Chair of Trustees  - Role Description and Person Specification

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership of the Board:
• Provide leadership to the Board, ensuring trustees fulfil their responsibilities for governance, strategy, and oversight.
• Facilitate effective, inclusive board meetings—ensuring decisions are made collectively and in the best interest of the charity.
• Provide leadership and clarity of purpose in decision-making.
• Strategy and Governance:
• Work with the board, staff and service users to develop and agree the charity’s long-term vision, strategy, and goals.
• Oversee compliance with governing documents, charity law, and regulatory requirements.
• Safeguard the charity’s assets and ensure sound financial and risk management.
• Promote effective governance practices and continuous improvement of the Board’s performance.
• Lead the recruitment, induction, and development of new trustees. Encourage succession planning and development within the Board.
• Representation and Advocacy:
• Act as a spokesperson and ambassador for SEAS All Afloat.
• Build and maintain relationships with funders, regulators, and community partners.

Specific Tasks

• Chair regular trustee meetings and the Annual Wash-up.
• Work with the operations manager and secretary to set agendas and circulate meeting papers in good time.
• Monitor and follow up on Board decisions and agreed actions.
• Ensure financial reports and budgets are presented and understood by the Board.
• Act as the main contact with the Charity Commission on governance matters, ensuring annual report and accounts are submitted as required.
• Lead an annual review of SEAS All Afloat policies and procedures, ensuring that they meet best practice and the requirements of the Charity Commission, Welsh government and any specific grant funding bodies such as the National Lottery.
• Ensure fundraising processes (e.g. grant applications and reporting) are in place, appropriate, accurate, and delivered to a high standard.
• Represent SEAS All Afloat at external events, meetings, and within the community.
• Provide support and oversight to operations manager and senior volunteers involved in day-to-day operations.
• Be available to trustees and volunteers for ad hoc discussions between formal meetings.

Person Specification

• Essential Skills and Experience:
• Proven leadership ability, including chairing meetings and facilitating consensus.
• Understanding of trusteeship and charity governance (or willingness to learn).
• Strong strategic thinking skills with experience shaping vision and direction.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to represent the charity externally.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Ability to analyse information, assess risks, and make impartial decisions.
• Strong teamworking and collaboration skills.
• Willingness and capacity to commit sufficient time to the role.
• Desirable Skills and Experience:
• Understanding of, or lived experience with, issues relating to disability and accessibility, especially in the context of outdoor or water-based activities.
• Experience or awareness of fundraising and income-generation processes, including grants and reporting.
• Previous experience as a trustee, chair, or senior volunteer.
• Ability to communicate effectively in Welsh (spoken and/or written)
• Maritime, water sports, or youth development experience (professional or voluntary).
• Local community links and networks to strengthen partnerships.
• Advocacy and influencing experience with funders or stakeholders.
• Personal Qualities:
• Passion for the mission of SEAS All Afloat.
• Integrity, objectivity, and openness.
• Ability to inspire confidence and trust.
• Respectful of diverse views and skilled at building consensus.
• Resilient and able to handle sensitive matters with discretion.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Heartwood House is a dynamic education charity that supports young people who self-exclude from school and are missing education because of bullying or other trauma. They provide both an academic and therapeutic programme to enable their students to get back on track and reconnect with society. Heartwood House has been delivering services in NW London for 20 years.  They have supported many students in their return to mainstream education, further education and employment.  They work with many local authorities such as Harrow, Hillingdon, Hertfordshire, Brent, Ealing, Barnet, Camden and many more.

Heartwood House (based in Harrow) is now looking to strengthen its Board and we are seeking a Legal Trustee – you will bring insight and understanding of charity law, Charity Commission legal regulations, Company Legislation and best practice. 

Trustees have a duty to ensure that the charity is well run, solvent, legally compliant, and working towards the charitable purpose for which it was established, and Trustee roles are an important and a highly rewarding way to support an organisation. Please note that Trustee roles are unremunerated voluntary positions, although reasonable travel expenses will be paid.

Heartwood House is committed to equality of opportunity, supports, and encourages under-represented groups, and values diversity. We seek people from a wide range of backgrounds, who will bring a fresh perspective to the Board, and having reviewed existing Trustee's diversity, skills, and experience, Heartwood House are keen for the Board to reflect the diversity of the communities that they work with and therefore welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Please contact Heidi Earp, Director of Langton Not 4 Profit our retained consultants for further information on the role.

Bring your AI and digital expertise to the Board at Ada by becoming a Governor and working to support our mission ‘to educate and empower the next generation of diverse digital talent’.

Time commitment: up to 10 hours per month.

Location: Greater London and Manchester

Who we are

Ada is a specialist further education college, whose mission is, ‘To educate and empower the next generation of diverse digital talent.’ Every sixth form student takes Computer Science, and every diverse higher-level and degree apprentice works in skills-shortage disciplines within innovative, blue-chip companies.

The UK has 800,000 unfilled IT jobs, and the digital skills gap is costing the UK economy an estimated £63 billion a year in lost GDP, but young people are not being adequately supported to bridge this gap, with over 50% of secondary schools in the UK not even offering Computer Science.

Ada seeks to fill this skills gap, but in a different way: one that ensures young people are being equipped with the skills industry actually needs and one that empowers young people who are currently underrepresented in UK tech. Ada’s core focus is on reaching individuals from low-income households, young women and those from ethnic minority backgrounds to address the diversity challenges in tech-focused roles.

About the role

The College is seeking a strategic and forward-thinking individual to join our Governing Board as a Governor with expertise in artificial intelligence (AI). This role is critical in helping the college navigate the opportunities and challenges presented by AI, ensuring our curriculum, infrastructure and strategic direction remain relevant and future-focused.

Do you see technology fundamentally changing the economy and world around you and care passionately about building an organisation to educate and empower those currently least likely to benefit from these developments? Ada does and it has big plans.

Working closely with its many high-profile partners, Ada seeks to harness tech as a positive tool for social mobility and improve the gender balance in tech-focused roles.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking professional to join our Governing Board as an External Member, bringing insight and strategic guidance on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital innovation.

As the College continues its digital transformation, this role offers a unique opportunity to shape how emerging technologies enhance our teaching, learning, operations and community impact. We are looking for someone who can help the College navigate the opportunities and challenges of AI responsibly, ethically and effectively — ensuring we remain at the forefront of innovation in further education.

You will bring a strong understanding of artificial intelligence and its applications across education, industry or public services, coupled with the ability to think strategically and provide effective governance oversight.

Your expertise will support the Board in embedding AI within the College’s long-term vision and strategic planning, ensuring alignment with our mission, values and commitment to inclusivity and excellence. You will help ensure that innovation is pursued responsibly — with attention to ethics, data governance and the broader societal implications of technology in education.

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.

About the organisation

Operating across multiple campuses in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Surrey, we are dedicated to delivering first-class education and training opportunities for young people and adults alike. We take pride in the diversity of our provision and the communities we serve. To ensure we continue to succeed and build on our quality, partnerships, and impact, we have developed a clear five-year plan to achieve our ambitious goals.

Our 2024–2029 Strategy for Outstanding, focused on five key objectives—Growth, High Quality, Personalised Learning, Strategic Alliances, and Financial Health, commits our colleges to driving transformative progress and achieving excellence across all areas of The Windsor Forest Colleges Group.

We have clearly defined our vision, purpose, and values to ensure our strategic objectives closely align with a student-centred approach and reflect our core principles.

Our Vision

Our students will be recognised locally and nationally for their positive impact on the community and industries in which they choose to work.

Our Purpose

To inspire our students to gain the skills, knowledge and behaviours they need to be resilient and thrive in an ever-changing world.

Our Values

Excellence: A culture of creativity, high expectations, ambition and aspiration. Respect: Fairness, courtesy, mutual respect and our environment. Integrity: Honesty, openness and trust at the heart of College life. Diversity: Celebrating diversity and inclusivity as a key to our success

About the role

• Time Commitment: Termly commitment of circa 15 hours.

The Windsor Forest Colleges Group Corporation is the overarching body that governs Slough & Langley College, BCA, Strode’s College, and Windsor College. The Corporation was formed following the formal merger between East Berkshire College and Strode’s College in Egham on 9 May 2017 and then the subsequent merger with BCA (Berkshire College of Agriculture) on 1 August 2022. The Corporation Board, which is a non-executive board, meets at key stages throughout the academic year and is supported through sub-committees. These are as follows:

• Audit Committee
• Resources Committee
• Remuneration Committee
• Strategy, Governance & Search Committee
• Quality and Curriculum Committee
• Capital Development Steering Group

The Board and Executive Team share a strong, collaborative relationship built on mutual trust, shared ambition, and common goals. This positive and open environment encourages transparency, rigour, and dynamic discussion—where challenge is welcomed, difficult questions are asked, and diverse perspectives are valued.

This healthy dynamic underpins strong governance and supports bold, innovative thinking across the organisation.

Who we are looking for

The Corporation seeks to welcome new members who share our passion for education and our commitment to The Windsor Forest Colleges Group’s purpose.

As a Governor, you will work closely with our Group Principal and Chief Executive Officer, Gillian May, our Chair of the Corporation, Jo Croft, and the wider Board to help steer the Group’s strategic direction.

We’re particularly interested in hearing from leaders from a range of sectors who can bring valuable insight, offer constructive challenge, and contribute meaningfully to our discussions. Your expertise will help ensure effective governance, scrutiny, and support as we continue to grow and innovate.

We are particularly interested in individuals with experience in the following areas:

1. Audit and Finance
   We are seeking a qualified accountant, ideally with audit experience, to join our Audit Committee and contribute.
2. Risk Management or Cyber Security
   We are particularly interested in hearing from senior professionals with strategic expertise in risk management, those with responsibility for risk oversight, and/or individuals with a specialised focus on cybersecurity.
3. Higher Education
   We are also seeking individuals with experience in higher education. This may include expertise in academic leadership, finance and estates, IT and digital, or curriculum development and transformation.

If you are a committed, experienced professional passionate about supporting education and shaping the future of The Windsor Forest Colleges Group, we would be delighted 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 1st December

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is a leading children’s hospice charity caring for babies, children and young people with life limiting conditions and their families.  Our bespoke support is free of charge and available 365 days of the year. The supplementary support to our paid staff that our volunteers offer ensures the best experience for our supported families. The hospice recognises and values the unique contribution volunteers make. 

Role Purpose

Shooting Star Children's Hospices is seeking an experienced and dedicated academic with a strong interest in paediatric palliative care, or related field to join our Research Governance Committee as a Volunteer Academic Member. 

This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the strategic development of research at a research active children’s hospice, to ensure that our research activities meet the highest standards of integrity, ethics and governance.

You will work with the Committee Chair, the Research Fellow, and other committee members to support research that makes a meaningful difference to children with life-limiting conditions and their families as well as bereaved families, including those where a child died unexpectedly. 

Appointment to the Committee will be subject to confirmation by the Shooting Star Children’s Hospices Trustee Board.

Duties and key responsibilities

• Participate in quarterly meetings: Attend and contribute to online committee meetings held four times per year (papers and slide deck will be prepared by the Chair). 
• Review research proposals: Provide expert review of project proposals, contributing to the assurance of ethical and governance standards. 
• Support research oversight: Help ensure that all research complies with regulatory and ethical requirements and reflects best practices. 
• Contribute academic expertise: Share your knowledge and experience to strengthen the quality and impact of the charity’s research portfolio. 
• Promote collaboration: Encourage partnerships between Shooting Star Children’s Hospices and wider academic, clinical, and research communities. 
• Champion good governance: Actively promote equity, transparency, and excellence in research oversight. 

Essential Skills and Experience

• Proven experience in academic research, research governance, and research ethics. 
• Strong academic background in higher education, and health or social care research. 
• In-depth understanding of research compliance frameworks (e.g., GDPR, HRA, UKRIO, Caldicott Guidelines, or equivalent). 
• Ability to evaluate research proposals and provide constructive feedback. 
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills. 
• Confidence using virtual meeting platforms and digital collaboration tools. 

Desirable Attributes

• Academic research background with a track record of publications in the area of paediatric palliative care or related field.
• Previous experience serving on or chairing a research committee or governance board.
• Commitment to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in research.

Commitment

• Quarterly committee meetings (Approximately 1 hour per meeting).
• Reviewing project proposals (Approximately 1 hour per month).
• Email communication and ad hoc queries (Approximately 1 hour per month).
• 2–3 years in the role would be appreciated for both parties to gain the most out of this experience.
• This is a voluntary role. Reasonable expenses related to attendance and participation will be reimbursed. 

What can I expect from volunteering for Shooting Star Children's Hospices?

• Full training and Induction for the volunteer role.
• To make a valuable and worthwhile contribution to the services we provide
• Ongoing Support from a line manager and the Volunteer Development team.
• Reimbursement of agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our volunteer policy.
• A monthly volunteer newsletter with news about the charity and any ad-hoc volunteering opportunities.
• The possibility to switch volunteer roles if you decide that you would like to try something different.
• An invite to our yearly Volunteer thank you event.
• An opportunity to provide feedback via our feedback forms, surveys and our Volunteer Forum

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.