Volunteer Roles in Scotland

The GRAB Trust was established to address waste and recycling issues in Argyll & Bute and this year is celebrating its 25th year! The GRAB Trust exists to seek the preservation and maintenance of the outstanding natural quality of Argyll and Bute’s environment by participating in and encouraging sustainable environmental and waste management activities by the wider Argyll and Bute public.

GRAB recognises that the key to its work continuing successfully is through engaging the local community - the public need to be interested and active in sustainable environmental projects. They need to be suitably informed of the relevant issues and offered a range of accessible, enjoyable and rewarding community projects:

• To promote increased levels of re-use through the landmark Lorn & Oban Reuse Initiative (LORI) in order to for Argyll and Bute become a Zero Waste society; offer volunteering opportunities for more local people; and offer opportunities for the long-term unemployed and community service offenders through their pioneering training and job search programme

Find out more here: LORI Project

• The promotion of beach cleaning and marine issues through continuing delivery of the Argyll and Bute Beaches and Marine Litter project: Beaches and Marine Litter Project
• Delivery of community clean-ups around beaches and roadside verges utilising publicly funded litter grants: Litter Pick Projects
• The delivery of professional waste, recycling and wider environmental education, awareness and training activities to all sectors of the Argyll and Bute public including schools, households, businesses and visitors: GRAB Education Projects
• Fostering, encouraging and supporting local community involvement and participation in a range of sustainable, recycling and environmental projects across Argyll and Bute.

Recently the GRAB Trust has supported over 8,000 individuals through LORI; reached over 55,000 people via social media; and engaged hundreds of participants in beach cleans and workshops. They’re now looking for new people to join the board as trustees so they can continue this vital work.

Find out more about the GRAB Trust’s valuable work here: GRAB Trust

Who they’re looking for

Traditionally, GRAB trustees have been residents of the Argyll and Bute area but GRAB would also welcome interest from candidates who are from further afield. New trustees are sought who offer insights and experience in:

• Buildings and properties maintenance and development, such as improvements and renewals to drive income from current GRAB buildings and securing new facilities for expansion;
• Any type of recycling programmes and/or environmental protection;
• Fundraising, in particular trusts and foundations or securing governmental/grants funding;
• Stakeholder or partnership development, locally and beyond the Argyll and Bute region

How to Apply:

If you share a passion for communities, climate change mitigation and the local environment in Argyll and Bute this could be the role for you!

Please email to request a copy of the candidate information pack. 

Candidates are kindly asked to submit their comprehensive, up-to-date CV and a supporting statement that highlights their suitability for the role and motivation for applying.

Closing Date: Monday 28th October

If you have any questions about these roles, please get in touch so we can help find the answers for you.

*Candidates are kindly reminded to let us know if any dates in the recruitment schedule are inconvenient so an alternative may be found. Please also advise if you need any additional support during this process so BTA can make every effort on your behalf (e.g. larger print docs; different colour text)

This search is being conducted exclusively for The GRAB Trust by BTA (Bruce Tait Associates). Our leadership team have all worked in the voluntary sector and we use this experience to match organisations and individuals to create great appointments

We are currently seeking two new trustees to join our board. The Board of Trustees is responsible for the governance of the charity, setting and overseeing its strategy. They ensure the organisation is run effectively and that its activities and outcomes are properly accounted for. We welcome applications from both members and non-members of the organisation.

Main responsibilities 

1. Developing and reviewing strategic aims consider the Region as a whole, including its trading operations, and its members:

• reflect our vision, strategy, major policies and values always.

• contribute specific skills, experience and contacts in support of our activities.

2. Ensuring policies and practices are in keeping with aims:

• abide by the principles laid down in the person specification (and code of conduct).

• attend meetings of the Trustee Board (there are normally 4 per year as well as the AGM) and the reporting committees if required (frequency varies).

• reflect the Trustees’ policies and concerns in all interactions with the Movement.

• assist in the implementation of our strategic goals.

• monitor and evaluate performance against strategic aims.

 3. Exercise effective control and ensure best practice:

• attend training and development opportunities as appropriate.

• work effectively as a team member of the Trustee Board in exercising its responsibilities and functions.

• take an active role in a reporting committee and/or subcommittee or working groups, contributing specialist skills, experience and knowledge as required.

• protect the assets and integrity of the charity, regarding best practice.

• maintain good relations with our staff.

• fulfil such other duties and assignments as may be required from time to time by the Trustee Board.

• engage with members of the Region at other levels in the organisation.

JOIN OUR BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Do you have a passion for theatre and the arts? Would you like to help shape the future of one of the South-West's liveliest arts organisations? This is your chance!

We're currently seeking a number of new Trustees to join our Board. This is an opportunity to participate in the ongoing development of one of the south-west region's most exciting multi art form organisations and we would particularly welcome applications from younger candidates or those who can bring diverse voices and experiences to our Board including across a full range of characteristics: ability, gender and gender identity, ethnicity and socio-economic background.

Wiltshire Creative comprises a leading producing theatre, Salisbury Playhouse, Salisbury Arts Centre, and Salisbury International Arts Festival and we are seeking enthusiastic individuals to help bring new insights and lived experience to this vibrant organisation and help shape its future.

Being a Trustee is a highly rewarding opportunity to work alongside talented creative people in helping to sustain the success and prosperity of this dynamic arts organisation and charity.

Social media volunteer

Thank you for your interest to become a Fundraising Volunteer at Cats Protection!

Our vision is a society where every cat has their best possible life because they are protected, cared for and understood by everyone.

We are a movement of people championing the welfare of cats. We lead society in a richer understanding of all cats and care for those that need our help.

Our Purpose is to help people see the world through cats’ eyes

Our brand-new Community Fundraising Hub is here to support you in this role, so there's never been a better time to get involved!

A bit about this role

Our social media volunteers use their passion and knowledge of social media to promote the activities of local volunteer groups and teams though various channels. They directly help cats by raising awareness of Cats Protection. A higher profile can help us raise the funds we need for our work, ensure people know they can adopt a cat from us, help promote neutering and help as many people as possible learn more about feline welfare.

What can you expect to be doing?

· Promoting the work of Cats Protection through various social media channels, for example, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter

· Gathering information from across the organisation and locally within your team or volunteer group

· Writing and creating social media content, ensuring it complies with policies and guidelines

· Scheduling and posting social media content

· Monitoring activity and responding to comments on social media channels

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge, and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by raising the profile of Cats Protection through social media. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

● A passion for social media and experience of using social media channels regularly

● Knowledge of the advantages and disadvantages of using social media

● Good IT skills

● Excellent writing skills, including good grammar and spelling

● Good communication skills

● Willingness to be part of a team

Time expectation

Our social media volunteers can expect to spend between two to five hours per week in this role. This role is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

The Diocese of London is seeking an experienced leader, for our next Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee, to play a key role in the work of the London Diocesan Fund (‘LDF’), as we seek to do everything we can to support the church in London as it contributes to the flourishing of people and communities across the city

The size and missional opportunity of the Diocese of London is huge. The population of around 4.8 million is served by 400 parishes, around 100+ additional worshipping communities, around 1,000 clergy and ministers and approximately 70,000 regular worshippers.  The LDF is the central support organisation and has a staff of over 100 people.

We want to see the church building communities, transforming lives and being a constant presence in an ever-changing city and our 2030 vision is ‘for every Londoner to encounter the love of God in Christ’.

We are looking for an experienced leader to:

- Help ensure that the charity’ external and internal audit functions are operating efficiently and effectively

- Ensure that the risk management process adopted by the charity enables the identification of key risks as well as internal controls to mitigate these risks.

- Help the charity in maintaining adequate and effective financial controls and processes.

We are seeking someone who is a committed Christian with a track record of being an effective Chair with extensive experience of audit and risk management frameworks to help mature the Board’s exercise of stewardship, helping trustees and clergy without financial management experience understand and participate in this aspect of their responsibilities.

The Diocese of London is committed to creating and sustaining a diverse and inclusive workforce which represents our context and wider community. We know that those of Global Majority Heritage/United Kingdom Minority Ethnic (GMH/UKME), women, and disabled people are currently under-represented among our clergy and workforce, and we particularly encourage applications from those with the relevant skills and experience that will increase this representation.

We are looking for somebody who will share our values. This post is subject to an occupational requirement that the holder be a practicing Christian under Part 1 of Schedule 9 to the Equality Act 2010. Candidates should worship at an Anglican church.

The time commitment is approximately 8 to 12 days a year. This includes four Committee meetings per year, preparation and reading of papers and informal ad hoc interactions.

The Diocese of London is committed to the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults, therefore any appointment is conditional upon the successful completion of a DBS check.

If this opportunity excites you, we look forward to receiving your application and discussing this opportunity with you further.

HEKIMA

HEKIMA promotes children rights and the well-being of the children and youth. We work under the guidance of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).

Hekima is a Tanzanian organization dedicated to promoting child rights and protecting youth from violence. They achieve this through community accountability, empowering children and young people to demand their rights and re-strengthening child protection systems. Their focus areas include street children, child labor, and child trafficking.

Welcome for contributing your effort and being open-minded to learning in a small organization that matters to helping children and youth.

Sustainability Strategist

Role Description

1. Updating Program Documents:

Regularly revise and maintain all program-related documents. Ensure they align with the latest goals, strategies, and donor requirements.

1. Creating Program Materials:

Design user-friendly, impactful resources for program implementation. Adapt materials for different audiences, such as stakeholders and beneficiaries.

1. Engaging Partners:

Define clear partnership models. Show how partners can support the program through funding, expertise, or resources.

1. Developing, Fundraising, and Implementing Programs:

Identify community needs and design relevant programs. Create a strong fundraising strategy to support these programs. Oversee the successful implementation and monitoring of each program.

Volunteer 10+ hours per week for 1-2 months remotely.

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. 
Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care. 
We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, employees and supporters.

A bit about this role

As a charity we rely on funds donated by generous members of the public to continue to help cats and kittens in need. Our fundraising volunteers are part of a passionate team that help raise funds to help our feline friends in need. They help plan and deliver exciting and varied fundraising events, which can be anything from craft fairs, cake sales, sponsored abseils – and anything in between!

What can you expect to be doing?

• Helping organise fundraising events in your local area 
• Sharing fundraising ideas with other volunteers and putting these into practice 
• Sharing your passion for cat welfare and promoting Cats Protection
• Promoting National fundraising initiatives where appropriate

A bit more information about this role and the team...

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and help raise funds that will make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens in need. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• Good communication skills
• Confidence in handling money
• Willingness to be part of a team
• Confidence in speaking to members of the public
• Knowledge of local community networks (would be an advantage)

Time expectation 

Our fundraising volunteers usually spend 2 to 3 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. 

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

Action for Stammering Children is looking for a Treasurer!

Please read on …

Action for Stammering Children (ASC) is looking to recruit an enthusiastic and suitably qualified person to join our Trustee Board as Treasurer to replace our current Treasurer who has sadly come to the end of his term. 

Who are Action for Stammering Children?

Action for Stammering Children is the UK charity for children and young people who stammer, their families, and the communities who support them. We are a small charity, founded in 1989, but one that punches above its weight and with Dr Ria Bernard, who joined us as Chief Executive in 2022, we have big ambitions! 

We’re here to make sure that every child who stammers has the support, respect and confidence to live the life they want to lead. 

We support and empower parents, caregivers and professionals; facilitate and champion research; and campaign for changes in policy and societal attitudes 

What do we do?

Information, community and support

We provide resources, advice and guidance for children and young people who stammer, their families, and the professionals who support them. 

Changing policies and attitudes 

We make sure the voices of children and young people who stammer are heard. We work with politicians and other decision makers to ensure the unique needs of children who stammer are reflected in public policy. But we know we can’t stop there. That’s why we campaign to challenge prejudices and misconceptions, seeking to change how society treats stammering and promote acceptance. 

Championing research 

We support and promote research into childhood stammering in order to build understanding and feed into our advocacy work, informing positive changes in policy and practice. 

Our team

ASC currently has a staff team of three (one of whom is part-time) but we hope shortly to recruit a part-time book-keeper and an events co-ordinator, in order to be able to deliver on our ambitious strategic objectives. 

Our Board of Trustees has been chaired by Dame Jane Roberts since 2021. With a number of trustees having come to the end of their term, we have had a number of trustees join the board recently including a new Company Secretary and two new trustees who had previously been members of ASC’s Youth Panel. With the Chair, the Company Secretary has been reviewing our governance to ensure that we conduct ourselves in line with best practice in charity governance. The Youth Panel is made up of young people who themselves stammer and who inform our strategic direction as well as engage in projects of their own. Our Annual Report for 2022-23 is available on the Charity Commission website, in addition to Trustees’ Reports for previous years. 

Executive and Non-Executive, we are a professional but friendly bunch who would extend a warm welcome to a new Treasurer as well as ensure that there was a generous handover period with the current Treasurer.

Who are we looking for as Treasurer?

We would like to attract a qualified accountant, perhaps still working, perhaps recently retired. You might have a personal connection to stammering but this is not required. Your interest, enthusiasm and experience are the most important. 

We’d love to hear from potential interested applicants to explain more about what we do and who we are looking for. 

In the first instance, please contact Jane Roberts. Please apply with a letter explaining your interest in the role, your CV and two references to my e-mail address.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Dame Jane Roberts
Chair
Action for Stammering Children 

Role description of the Treasurer

Purpose

• To monitor the financial matters of the organisation and report to the Board of trustees at regular intervals on its financial health in line with good practice and in accordance with the governing document and legal requirements
• To oversee arrangements for risk management and ensure that these are adequate to organisational need, governance requirements and legal obligations.

Main responsibilities:

• Oversee the framework of internal controls and, in conjunction with the Company Secretary and Chair, the charity’s policies, procedures and delegated responsibilities in line with good governance, legal and regulatory requirements
• Oversee and review the preparation of budgets, management accounts and the annual financial statements, ensuring that they are brought regularly and in a timely manner to the Board 
• Monitor and advise on the financial viability of the charity, including the adequacy and use of charitable reserves and other funds
• Oversee the risk management framework, ensuring that the risk register is brought regularly to the Board for review
• Develop a working knowledge of the activities, services and products of Action for Stammering Children
• Provide advice and financial analysis to other Board members 
• Play a key role in the annual accounts, budgeting, cash flow and management accounts processes 
• Act as a liaison with the external auditors 
• Monitor the charity’s reserves and use of funds 
• Act as a counter signatory on all financial transactions and applications to funders when required

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.

Trustee Role Description

Purpose of role:

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of Wandsworth Care Alliance (WCA).

Scope and objectives:

Trustees have a duty individually and collectively to:

• Determine the overall direction and development of WCA through good governance and clear strategic planning.
• Ensure that WCA pursues the objectives defined in its governing documents, and complies with charity law, company law, employment legislation, and with all other relevant legislation, constantly striving for best practice in governance.
• Uphold the financial responsibilities invested in their position, undertaking such duties in a way that adds to public confidence and trust in WCA.
• Ensure that WCA uses its resources in pursuit of its charitable objects.

Main duties:

• To contribute actively to the Board’s role in providing direction for WCA, in setting overall policy and in maintaining a framework of good governance and accountability, and in evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• To give clear direction, leadership, guidance, and advice to the WCA director and staff.
• To safeguard the good name and values of WCA and to act as an ambassador for the organisation.
• To provide vision, inspiration, and support to the WCA director and staff.
• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of WCA.
• To ensure the financial stability of WCA.
• To appoint the director and monitor his/her performance.
• To use specific skills, knowledge, or experience to help the Board of Trustees to reach sound decisions.

This may involve:

• Scrutinising Board papers;
• Contributing to or leading Board discussions;
• Acting as a board champion for a particular area of WCA’s work;
• Identifying and focusing on key issues;
• Providing guidance on new initiatives;
• Being part of a working group.

Duty of care:

Each Trustee will:

• Apply reasonable care and skills as a Trustee, using their knowledge and experience to ensure that WCA is well run and efficient;
• Be ready to consider the need for external professional advice on matters where there may be material risk to the charity, or where the Trustees may be in breach of their duties;
• Safeguard the good name and values of WCA.
• Maintain absolute confidentiality about sensitive information received in the course of responsibilities as a Trustee.

Each Trustee will:

• Ensure that the charity is and will remain solvent; keeping informed of the charity’s activities and financial position;
• Avoid undertaking activities that might place the charity’s property, funds, assets or reputation at undue risk.

Each Trustee is required to act reasonably and prudently in all matters relating to the charity and must always bear the interests of WCA in mind.

Section 72(1) of the Charities Act 1993 disqualifies anyone who:

• Has been convicted of an offence involving deception or dishonesty unless the conviction is spent.
• Is an un-discharged bankrupt.
• Has previously been removed from trusteeship of a charity by the court or the Charity Commissioners.
• Is under a disqualification order under the Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986.

It is an offence to serve as a charity trustee while disqualified unless the Charity Commission has given a waiver under section 72(4) of the Charities Act 1993.

Accountability:

The law imposes a duty of care on Trustees to act responsibly and prudently in all matters relating to their charity and to act in the best interests of the charity.

WCA is a registered Charity and Company Limited by guarantee and Trustees are therefore accountable to the members, the Charity Commission, and to Companies House (as company directors).

Suitability as a WCA Trustee will include many of the following:

• Commitment to Wandsworth Care Alliance (WCA).
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
• Availability to attend meetings regularly.
• Strategic vision.
• Good, independent judgement.
• Ability to think creatively.
• Willingness to participate actively in discussions, listening to others and con- tributing accordingly.
• To use professional experience and any technical skills and knowledge to contribute to Trustee decision making.
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
• Ambassadorial ability and willingness to represent WCA in a range of situations.
• Experience of involvement in community or residents’ groups and/or in building community involvement.
• Commercial awareness including, but not limited to: marketing, branding, fundraising and social media.
• Skills and experience within finance or communications.
• Valuing diversity, with experience and/or knowledge of minority issues and perspectives.
• Capacity to pursue potential sources of charitable investment in WCA.
• Willingness to take part in training and learn new skills.

Person specification

Trustees should possess:

• Commitment to Wandsworth Care Alliance (WCA);
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. This will include attending a minimum of six out of the eight Board meetings a year, plus additional related meetings, in addition to the Annual General Meeting;
• Contribute to WCA Strategic vision;
• Good, independent judgement;
• Ability to think creatively;
• Willingness to speak their mind, and to lead and contribute to discussions enabling their professional experience to contribute to trustee’s decision- making;
• Willingness to use their experience and or specific technical skills for work areas reserved for Trustees;
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship and the governance role;
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team;
• Ambassadorial ability;
• Chairing skills or the willingness to develop them.

If you are interested in the role, please apply with your CV.

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.

Following the decisions of the 2023 Conference, the Methodist Church seeks to appoint additional members for its Nominations Committee.

The purpose, role and remit of the Nominations Committee are set out in the report on Oversight and Trusteeship to the 2023 Conference. The Committee exists to ensure that the nominations which are made to the Conference or the Methodist Council (from 2024, the Connexional Council) for appointment to the Connexional Council, the Missions Committee, the Ministries Committee, the Resourcing Committee and any other bodies the Conference or Council refers to it are brought as a result of processes which conform to the requirements for the body concerned and in accordance with the church’s principles for Justice, Dignity and Solidarity.

 Members of the Committee are appointed annually by the Conference and would usually serve for a period of four years. 

The Nomination Committee has four main responsibilities:

• To scrutinise and to sign off the (volunteer) role descriptors for a member of the Connexional Council or one of the committees in order that a seat could be advertised.
• To agree that the process of recruitment for a particular role has been followed correctly and in line with HR recruitment policies and the JDS strategy.
• To work with the chairs of the bodies concerned on a periodic review of those appointed to such bodies to ensure that the committees continue to function appropriately. The Nomination Committee will also advise the Connexional Council on matters concerned with training of those appointed to such bodies.
• To bring nominations with reasoned statements to the Conference or Connexional Council as required in each case.

Expectations

• Attendance at monthly meetings. The committee meets online and usually for no longer than an hour each month
• Willingness able to read and comment on draft paperwork for recruitment processes.
• Willingness to respond promptly to e-mail communications to sign off paperwork between meetings as necessary.
• Willingness to share particular expertise and experience in the fields of recruiting, discernment and EDI.
• Willingness to serve on interview panels or participate in other ways in a discernment process.

The Committee requires a range of experience and expertise, including the knowledge of HR, recruitment and discernment processes; experience of serving on connexional committees in the Methodist Church; understanding of protected characteristics and the diverse gifts that potential candidates for roles might offer.

To apply: Please read the supplementary documents (see the above link and below) andfill in an on-line Expression of Interest Form via this website.

The opportunity has no set deadline for when applications will close.

Applications will be reviewed an ongoing basis.

Interview date: tbc

Responsible to: Chair of Trustees 

Start date: November/December

Who We Are

M4RD is a UK charity that is advancing rare disease training for medical professionals. The aim of our work is to help reduce diagnostic delay and improve patient experience for those impacted by rare conditions.

We work with an extensive network of patients, carers, advocates and advocacy groups to deliver training to medical schools, foundation schools, royal colleges, hospitals and trusts.

The charity is small and consists of a friendly group of staff and Trustees. The work can be intense but is very rewarding, as the charity responds to the needs of the rare disease political landscape.  

Please take a look at the M4RD website for more information on our team, and our work. You can also find more details on this position here.  

Why Join Us

At M4RD we are not just talking about change; we are making it happen - as evidenced by the attitude change towards rare disease training in healthcare driven by M4RD for the last five years. By becoming a Trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare for people with rare conditions. Working with a dedicated team committed to systemic change in medical education, you will bring skills, experience, and knowledge that will support M4RD in achieving their objectives. 

Open Trustee Positions

We are expanding our board and seeking individuals with specific expertise to help us achieve our mission. Our new Trustees will be passionate about supporting the charity to deliver its objectives, and have skills and/or experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Income generation 

• Lived experience of a rare condition 

• Healthcare education 

• Clinical practice 

• Lived experience of health and/or social inequality

• Lived experience of societal marginalisation

Key Responsibilities

• Ensuring the organisation pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its governing document, by supporting the development of - and agreeing - a long-term strategy

• Ensuring that the organisation complies with its CIO constitution, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations

• Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects for the benefit of the public

• Ensuring that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets

• Safeguarding the reputation and values of the organisation

• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place

• Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation

• Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds

• Following proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal, and remuneration of the Chief Executive

Why this Role is for You

• You are passionate about the landscape of rare disease.

• You have the skills and experience M4RD is looking for.

• You are prepared to challenge systemic inequities within healthcare and medical education.

• You are ready to make a long-term commitment to improving the lives of people impacted by rare disease. 

Time Commitment: The expected time commitment is:

• 4 online Trustees meeting per year;

• 1 face to face strategy meeting or event; and 

• Some ad hoc committee work. 

However, we are also keen to invite those who are passionate about the charity's work and able to support in other areas.

Please take a look at the Job Description for more details on this role. 

We look forward to hearing from you!

Responsible to: Board of Trustees

Start date: November/December

Who We Are

M4RD is a UK charity that is advancing rare disease training for medical professionals. The aim of our work is to help reduce diagnostic delay and improve patient experience for those impacted by rare conditions.

We work with an extensive network of patients, carers, advocates and advocacy groups to deliver training to medical schools, foundation schools, royal colleges, hospitals and trusts.

The charity is small and consists of a friendly group of staff and Trustees. The work can be intense but is very rewarding, as the charity responds to the needs of the rare disease political landscape.  

Please take a look at the M4RD website for more information on our team, and our work.

Why Join Us

At M4RD we are not just talking about change; we are making it happen - as evidenced by the attitude change towards rare disease training in healthcare driven by M4RD for the last five years. By becoming a Trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare for people with rare conditions. Working with a dedicated team committed to systemic change in medical education, you will bring skills, experience, and knowledge that will support M4RD in achieving their objectives. 

Open Trustee Positions (multiple Trustees & Chair)

We are expanding our board and seeking individuals with specific expertise to help us achieve our mission. Our new Trustees will be passionate about supporting the charity to deliver its objectives, and have skills and/or experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Income generation 

• Lived experience of a rare condition 

• Healthcare education 

• Clinical practice 

• Lived experience of health and/or social inequality

• Lived experience of societal marginalisation

Key Responsibilities - Chair of the Board of Trustees

In addition to the general responsibilities of a Trustee, duties of the Chair include:

• Providing leadership to the organisation, and the Board, by ensuring everyone remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes in order to benefit the public

• Chairing and facilitating board meetings 

• Giving direction to board policy-making 

• Ensuring decisions taken at meetings are implemented 

• Representing M4RD at functions and meetings, and acting as a spokesperson as appropriate 

• Bringing impartiality and objectivity to decision-making 

With the Chief Executive: 

• Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and other general meetings where required

• Setting agendas for board and other general meetings 

• Continuous development of the Board of Trustees

• Addressing conflict within the board and within the organisation

• Liaising with the Chief Executive to maintain an overview of the organisation’s affairs, and to provide support as appropriate

• Leading the process of supporting and appraising the performance of the Chief Executive

• Sitting on appointment and disciplinary panels

Why this Role is for You

• You are passionate about the landscape of rare disease.

• You have the skills and experience M4RD is looking for.

• You are prepared to challenge systemic inequities within healthcare and medical education.

• You are ready to make a long-term commitment to improving the lives of people impacted by rare disease. 

Time Commitment: The expected time commitment is:

• 2 online meetings per month with the CEO;

• 4 online Trustees meeting per year;

• 1 face to face strategy meeting or event; and 

• Some ad hoc committee work. 

However, we are also keen to invite those who are passionate about the charity's work and able to support in other areas.

Please take a look at the Job Description for more details on this role. 

We look forward to hearing from you!

Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO)

Trustees

Non renumerated

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) is the national membership body for charities, voluntary organisations, and social enterprises in Scotland. With a mission to champion and support the voluntary sector, SCVO works to build a fair and inclusive society. Its community of over 4,000 members is dedicated to driving positive social impact. SCVO also offers advocacy, resources, and networking opportunities to strengthen the voluntary sector and ensure it thrives at the heart of Scotland’s development.

The role

SCVO are looking for two passionate and strategic individuals to join SCVO's Board of Trustees. This is a highly rewarding role, offering the chance to shape SCVO’s strategic direction and help shape the future of Scotland’s voluntary sector. You will contribute to  high-level decision making, and support the leadership team, and safeguard SCVO’s long-term sustainability. Trustees will contribute to governance, compliance, and key organisational events, while ensuring adherence to legislation and robust financial controls. You will give strong strategic insight, an understanding of Scotland's voluntary sector, and a commitment to SCVO’s mission. This role requires a time commitment across quarterly meetings and key internal and external events such as The Scottish Charity Awards and The Gathering.

The person

The ideal candidates will have a strong belief in the value of the voluntary sector in Scotland and SCVO’s contribution to it. While previous experience as a trustee is beneficial, it’s not essential. Key qualities include strategic planning, performance monitoring, and effective team collaboration. Trustees should demonstrate good governance knowledge, sound judgement, and a values-driven approach. An understanding of the voluntary sector’s context in Scotland, coupled with the ability to challenge constructively and work collectively, is crucial to support SCVO’s mission and long-term vision.

If you have a query or would like an informal discussion, please contact Pringle or Debbie Shields at Aspen People.

Closing date for applications: Monday 14th October 2024

For more information, including how to apply, please visit the Aspen People website.

Museums Galleries Scotland

Chair

Non-remunerated

Edinburgh

Museums Galleries Scotland are an independent charity and the National Development Body for Scotland’s Museum Sector. They are leading the way for the delivery of Scotland’s Museums and Galleries Strategy 2023-2030, which aims to bring the sector together to build a more sustainable and inclusive future. They also provide support for 449 museums and galleries through the provision of advice, development of workforce and advocacy.

The vision of Museums Galleries Scotland is to connect Scotland’s museums and galleries and to allow them to be thriving and resilient organisations, which are accessible and inclusive to all. They do this by being committed to becoming an anti-racist organisation, by changing how they work and identifying how actions can contribute to structural racism. MGS has also made the commitment to prioritise climate action across the organisation.

We are looking for a new Chair with experience of charity governance and working with Scottish Government, to act as a passionate advocate for Scotland’s museums and galleries and to lead the Board in support Museums Galleries Scotland to effectively develop and champion the sector. Candidates should also have a commitment and appreciation of the importance of museums and galleries as integral institutions of Scotland’s cultural sector.

For further information on the role including more about MGS, key responsibilities and person specification is available on the Aspen People website.

The Chair appointment is for a fixed term of four years and the time commitment is estimated as approximately 2 days per month. This post is unremunerated and reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

For a confidential discussion about the post please contact Catriona Mackie or David Currie at our recruitment partners, Aspen People.

Closing date: Sunday 20th October

To apply, please visit the Aspen People website.