Volunteer roles

Key information about London PLAY and the Co-Chair role

About Play

Play is important. It is deemed so vital to children’s health, happiness, and development that the right to play is enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Yet play in London is under threat:

• Space for play is threatened by development and traffic.
• Freedom to play is stifled by perceptions of risk, and fear.
• Time for play is limited by more testing in school and sedentary activities.
• Funding for play workers and play spaces is increasingly scarce. About London PLAY London Play works to ensure children have the space, time and freedom to play.

We want every child in London to have high quality, free play opportunities, near to where they live. We’re working to achieve this through campaigning, organising events, supporting play providers and play workers and others whose work or lives include children, and creating opportunities for more and better play across the capital.

About the role

London PLAY is seeking a Co-Chair of Trustees to work alongside our current Chair, oversee the implementation of our strategy, and help us increase our impact and influence. The Co-Chairs will work closely with other trustees and staff to ensure effective governance, and to achieve London Play’s aims. After a period of transition, it is envisaged that the new Co-Chair will take on the full responsibilities of the role of Chair.

Key responsibilities (shared with the other Co-Chair)

In addition to the general duties and responsibilities of a trustee, the Co-Chair will: ▪ Plan the annual cycle of board meetings, in conjunction with the Director. ▪ Set agendas for board meetings, in conjunction with the Director. ▪ Chair and facilitate board meetings. ▪ Give direction to board policy-making. ▪ Bring impartiality and objectivity to decision-making. ▪ Represent the organisation at functions and meetings. ▪ Meet regularly with the Director to gain an overview of the organisation’s affairs and operation and for the purposes of providing support. ▪ Liaise with the Director to continually develop the board of trustees. ▪ Lead the annual performance appraisal process for the Director. ▪ Sit on selection, disciplinary, grievances and complaints panels, as necessary, and in particular where the appointment of new trustees is concerned. ▪ Support the organisation’s overall development. 

Person specification: Co-Chair of the board of trustees

▪ A commitment to the organisation, its vision and passion to make play accessible for all children. ▪ A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. ▪ An ability to think creatively and strategically. ▪ An ability to work effectively as a member of a team. ▪ Selflessness, integrity, and objectivity. ▪ A willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis.

Other key information

• The role of Co-Chair is not remunerated, but reasonable expenses will be paid.
• The board meets four times a year, twice in person and twice online.
• In person meetings are held in London.
• The Co-Chairs (and board members) serve a three-year term to be eligible for reappointment at the end of each term for a maximum of two additional terms.

Summary and how to apply

This is an exciting role and opportunity to co-lead a small but influential charity that has championed children's right to play for nearly 30 years. If you are interested in applying for this role, please email (email address listed below) a copy of your CV and a cover letter explaining why you are applying for the role and outlining your relevant experience. Your cover letter should be no more than two sides of A4.

We are committed to being an inclusive organisation and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We particularly encourage applications from groups currently underrepresented on our board including younger people, people from ethnically diverse groups, and people with disabilities.

Important dates to note

• Deadline for applications: Thursday 13 November, 5:00pm.
• Note that first-round interviews will be held online on Thursday 20 November.
• Second-round interviews will be held in-person (in Hackney) on Monday 24 November.

If you cannot attend an interview on either of these dates, please state this in your application and we will do our best to work around your availability.

Other information to note

Current Chair of Trustees (to become Co-Chair): Melian Mansfield

Current Co-Vice Chairs: Barry Walden and Hal Davidson

The Circle is a global feminist organisation supporting marginalised and vulnerable women and girls confronting gender-based violence and economic injustice across the world. To help achieve that we are looking for two new Trustees, including a Vice-Chair, to join our board. We are particularly looking for one individual with overseas programmes and grant-making experience and one with public campaigning experience. 

About The Circle

The Circle is a global feminist organisation, founded by Annie Lennox and other leading women in 2018, supporting marginalised and vulnerable women and girls confronting gender-based violence and economic injustice across the world. What started as a small group of influential women, including activists, lawyers and creatives coming together, has grown into a global network of thousands.

The Circle brings together Global Feminist changemakers to use their resources, networks and creativity to cultivate long lasting change. Through the delivery of frontline services, fundraising, advocacy and convening and connecting, our global network supports each other on the journey towards a future where there is safety and equality for all women and girls.

We are on a mission to dismantle the economic barriers women and girls experience and end the pandemic of violence they face by funding & supporting frontline grassroots organisations in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. We advocate for long-term structural change and use our collective voices and those with lived experience to strive for progress. Global Feminism is our guiding light.

Since 2008, The Circle has supported over 1.5 million people directly on women’s rights and empowered more than 700,000 women and girls facing violence, discrimination and fear globally. The Circle has supported the creation of safe spaces and refuges, counselling, educational workplace training programmes, emergency assistance and much more.

Role Specification

• Ensure that The Circle is carrying out its vision and purpose. Understand its objectives, be able to explain them and ensure they are adhered to.
• Contribute actively to the Board in giving strategic direction to the charity, agreeing on overall strategy, policy, targets and evaluation performance.
• Ensure The Circle is complying with its governing document, legal obligations and statutory and accounting reporting requirements.
• Manage The Circle’s resources responsibly (including its finances, assets, reputation and value)
• Use any specific skills, knowledge, and experience to offer challenge and advice to help the Board reach sound decisions
• To safeguard the good name and values of The Circle
• The Vice Chair supports the Chair and the Board, deputizes in the Chair’s absence, and helps maintain good governance and strategic direction.

Person Specification

We are seeking two new Trustees (including a Vice-Chair) to join our Board with energy, commitment and specific skills and experience in the following areas (with the understanding that candidates may have more than one of the skills listed):

• Senior experience in international development/gender programming, including grant-making
• Public or digital campaigns for advocacy
• Additional skills such a corporate connections and networks will also be desirable.
• We recognise the importance of having a diverse and inclusive Board, and The Circle is committed to achieving greater diversity. We welcome applications regardless of sex, gender, race, age, sexuality, belief, or disability. Trustees will be required to be UK-based, but we welcome applicants with connections and heritage to the countries we work in. A commitment to our values of anti-racism, oppression and decolonisation will be essential.
• Most importantly we are looking for Trustees who share and want to be actively involved in our passion for an equal and safe world for women and girls.

The Connexional Council is seeking to welcome a lay person who is passionate about justice, diversity and inclusion, to become a member of the Justice, Dignity and Solidarity Committee. Appointments will be for a term of up to 3 years renewable annually for up to a further 3 years. The Committee values the contributions of both ministers and lay people in shaping its work and seeks to strengthen this balance by welcoming an additional lay member. This is an opportunity to help guide the Church’s continuing journey toward becoming a fully inclusive community.

As a member of the JDS Committee you will have the opportunity to influence policy and practices that impact Diversity and Inclusion within the life of the church.  The Committee meets five times a year for a combination of business meetings and a team-building session, creating space for both shared reflection and collective shaping of its work.  If you feel enthusiastic about championing the work of Justice and Inclusion in the Methodist Church, partner with us on our journey to create a truly inclusive Church where the values of justice, dignity, and solidarity are at the heart of everything we do and say.

There will be an opportunity to speak to current Committee members who will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the process and to share more information about the role.

Open Sessions will be held via Zoom on Thursday 6th November 2025 at the following times:

• 11am – 12pm
• 7pm  – 8pm
   

If you would like to join one of these sessions, do let us know and the link and joining information will be sent to you nearer the date.

Closing date: Monday, 10th November 2025. 

Online Interview date: Monday, 1st December 2025.

We are New Wine

New Wine is a network of leaders and a family of churches, committed to seeing local churches thrive and communities transformed.

Our strategic priorities are:

• Equipping Leaders – Investing in current and emerging leaders through training, mentoring, gathering and practitioner-led ministry.
• Empowering Younger Generations – Investing in ministries that raise up children, youth, and young adults to know Jesus and lead with courage and conviction.
• Multiplying Churches – Supporting church plants, revitalisations, and pioneering expressions of church in diverse contexts.

Representing over 1,000 churches, 4,000 church leaders and 50,000 individuals, building networks, equipping leaders and empowering people to advance the Kingdom of God through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus’ church is always facing challenges and opportunities, and it’s as true now, and for New Wine, as it’s ever been. At this time of tremendous opportunity, we are seeking a new Chair of Trustees to work with our Board and Leadership to oversee and steward our mission, people and strategic priorities.

Could you be that person?

We’re looking for an exceptional, Godly person as our next Chair who has:

• A vibrant faith in Jesus, evident in their life and leadership, who is actively engaged in a local church aligned with New Wine’s vision and values, and who is passionate about seeing the Kingdom of God advance in the power of the Holy Spirit.
• Proven governance experience, with an ability to bring wisdom, accountability, and spiritual discernment to lead the Board in fulfilling New Wine’s mission and values.
• A proven ability to bring strategic oversight and discernment, that will help shape and steward the New Wine’s vision and priorities in pursuit of its mission.
• Strong emotional intelligence, with an ability to lead collaboratively and build consensus to enable effective and unified decision-making.
• Exceptional relational and leadership abilities, with an ability to inspire, influence, and build effective working relationships across the Board and the wider New Wine network.

This is a time of amazing opportunity.

As the ‘quiet revival’ continues across our nation, New Wine’s mission of local churches changing nations feels more spiritually potent than ever. We are living in a time of exceptional opportunity for New Wine and we will need a Chair who can help us realise the full potential God has for us.

Could you be that person?

Closing date for expressions of interest is12pm GMT on Friday 21st November 2025.

National Clinical Lead (Nursing) – Volunteer Role

Location: Wales-wide
Time Commitment: Minimum 25 hours per month
Expenses: Reasonable travel and subsistence costs reimbursed
Tenure: Initial 3-year term, extendable by approval

St John Ambulance Cymru is seeking a dedicated and experienced nursing professional to take on a strategic volunteer leadership role as our National Clinical Lead (Nursing). This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of clinical care across Wales and make a meaningful impact in communities through expert guidance, collaboration, and innovation.

About the Role

As the Clinical Lead for Nursing & Midwifery, you will:

• Provide national clinical leadership and support the implementation of clinical strategies.
• Develop methods to recruit, retain and support the work of nurses, midwives, health visitors, nursing associates, associate practitioners, and students within St John Ambulance Cymru - including integrating them into frontline practice.
• Lead on infection prevention and control, regulatory compliance, and clinical governance.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to drive quality improvement and best practice.
• Participate in senior clinical advisory duties and contribute to forums, reviews, and consultations.
• Line manage healthcare professionals and support their professional development.

You’ll work closely with the Deputy Chief Clinical Officer and other National Clinical Leads, ensuring our services remain safe, compliant, and of high quality.

What You’ll Bring

• NMC registration and NHS equivalent experience at Band 8 or above.
• Proven leadership in clinical settings, with experience in regulatory compliance and risk-based management.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• A collaborative mindset and ability to influence change.
• Commitment to safeguarding, health and safety, and the values of St John Ambulance Cymru.

What You’ll Gain

• A key role in modernising clinical practice within a national charity.
• Opportunities to influence strategic direction and improve volunteer satisfaction.
• The chance to make a lasting impact across Wales.
• Development of transferable leadership and operational skills.
• Connection with a diverse network of professionals and volunteers.

Support and Training

You’ll receive ongoing support from the Clinical Director and National Headquarters staff, along with access to statutory and mandatory training.

Do you have senior clinical service experience and a passion to improve the lives of people with a life-limiting illness and their families?

We are looking for applicants with health care experience at a senior management or board level. As a member of the Board of Trustees this position will support the Executive Board to deliver our organisational strategy and ensure that our Charity has in place appropriate and effective controls to deliver outstanding standards of care and services to all stakeholders.

Key skills and experience for this Trustee role

• Extensive health service experience at leadership level in either primary or secondary care

• Clinical experience in community care with shown ability to enable change management

• Quality standards and requirements of the Care Quality Commission

• Ideally, active in clinical practice

• Safeguarding (adults and children), risk management and data management

• Keen interest in professional education, research and development

• Developments within the field of palliative care

National Clinical Officer (Paramedicine & AHPs)

Volunteer Role | Approx. 25 hours per month | 2 posts available
Location: 1 x South Wales | 1 x North Wales
(While each role will focus mainly on its base area, there is an expectation of providing support across all of Wales when required.)

About St John Ambulance Cymru

We’re Wales’ leading first aid charity, dedicated to saving lives and enhancing community health. Every day, our volunteers deliver care, compassion, and professional expertise across the nation — from first aid cover at local events to frontline support alongside the NHS.

About the Role

We’re looking for two National Clinical Officers (Paramedicine & AHPs) to join our National Clinical Team.
These key volunteer leadership roles will provide strategic clinical leadership, management, and expert advice to ensure our clinical services remain safe, compliant, and of the highest quality.

Working closely with the National Clinical Lead (Paramedicine & AHPs) and the wider National Clinical Team, you’ll help shape the direction of Paramedicine and Allied Health Professional practice across St John Ambulance Cymru.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead on the development and implementation of national clinical strategies.

• Support the recruitment, development, and engagement of Paramedics, Associate Ambulance Practitioners, and AHPs within the organisation.

• Provide expert advice on clinical governance, regulatory standards, and medicines management.

• Collaborate with colleagues across Wales to share best practice and deliver quality improvement initiatives.

• Represent St John Ambulance Cymru on relevant committees, forums, and professional networks.

• Support and mentor volunteers and healthcare professionals to maintain excellence in practice.

What You’ll Gain

• A unique opportunity to shape the future of Paramedicine and AHP practice in Wales.

• Experience in national-level clinical leadership.

• Professional mentorship and CPD opportunities through the National Clinical Team.

• The chance to represent your profession across Wales and the wider UK.

• The satisfaction of making a real difference within Wales’ leading first aid charity.

About You

You'll be registrated on the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC) with at least three years’ clinical experience. You bring energy, integrity, and strong leadership skills, and you’re comfortable influencing and collaborating at all levels.

You understand the opportunities and challenges of working within a volunteer-led organisation, and you’re committed to upholding our core values: Compassion, Quality, Inclusion, and Integrity.

Essential Requirements:

• HCPC registration

• Enhanced DBS clearance

• Valid First Aid and Group B Safeguarding qualifications - gaining this can be supported 

• Level 3 Safeguarding Adults & Children

• Minimum three years’ clinical experience

• Strong communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement skills

Commitment

Approx. 25 hours per month
Initial three-year term, with the option to extend for a further three years.
Mentorship, training, and ongoing professional support are provided.

The National Safeguarding Panel (NSP) is seeking to appoint two Independent Members with specialist skills in the scrutiny of children's safeguarding to join its multiagency, multidenominational advisory body.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the safeguarding work of the Church of England by offering expert insight, challenge, and strategic advice on matters relating to children's safeguarding policy and practice.

About the Role

As a panel member, you will:

• Provide independent scrutiny and advice on children's safeguarding matters.
• Participate in up to six panel meetings per year, including fact-finding and scrutiny sessions.
• Contribute to the development and review of safeguarding policies, practices, and priorities.
• Collaborate with a diverse panel including survivors, safeguarding professionals, and faith representatives.
• Help ensure that safeguarding approaches reflect best practice and are informed by lived experience and professional expertise.

Who We're Looking For

We welcome applications from individuals who:

• Have substantial experience in children's safeguarding, particularly in scrutiny, policy development, or strategic oversight.
• Can offer independent, constructive challenge and insight.
• Are committed to improving safeguarding outcomes for children within faith-based contexts.
• Are comfortable working collaboratively in a multiagency setting.

Experience may come from statutory services, academia, regulatory bodies, charities, or other relevant sectors. Prior panel experience is welcome but not essential.

Support and Induction

All new members will receive a full induction programme, including:

• Meetings with key panel and safeguarding team members.
• Access to relevant resources and support.
• Ongoing review discussions and opportunities for feedback.

Remuneration and Expenses

A fee of £25 per hour will be paid for attendance at meetings, along with reimbursement for travel expenses. Members are expected to attend six meetings per year and undertake one hour of reading in preparation for each panel meeting. Additional reasonable expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with the Church of England's NCI expenses policy, subject to approval by the Chair.

How to Apply

To apply, please email your current CV, along with a personal statement of no more than 500 words demonstrating your relevant skills, experience and reason why you are interested in the role to .

Applications close on Tuesday, 18 November. Candidates whose applications are taken forward will be invited for an interview on Tuesday, 02 December.

Volunteer at Walk for Home, Shelter’s flagship event!

Would you like to have a great evening out, while supporting Shelter’s fundraisers?

Walk for Home is Shelter’s winter walking event in London. 3,000 people will be taking to the street to raise money for families facing homelessness this winter. We’re looking for enthusiastic, passionate volunteers with a can-do attitude to help support the team on the day. 

Date: Tuesday 02 December 2025

Time: 15:30-22:30

Location: Our start line is 26 Leake Street, London, SE17 7RY. But our biggest volunteering opportunity will be to marshal along the 5km and 10km route around some of the City of London’s most famous sights and cheering walkers along the way.

Roles include:

• Check Point Team – Marshalling the route and being a cheer squad for walkers as they come past.
• Finish line team - ultimate cheer squad ready to welcome and thank walkers as they return

Roles will be allocated on the day but we will do our best to keep groups together. If you have any medical concerns or specific accessibility requests which need to be taken into account on role allocation, please let us know.

It’s such a fun night, an opportunity to meet new people and spend time with others. Snacks and a Walk for Home bobble hat will be provided on the day.

To consider: This will be an evening in December and outside, you will need to be comfortable standing for long periods of time in the cold. Please make sure you bring suitable layers.

This role fights the housing emergency by creating an inspirational buzz and providing much needed support to everyone walking the route, helping them in their mission to raise money for our Fight for Home.  

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter

Volunteers are essential to Shelter’s mission to end housing injustice. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. The insights and life experiences our volunteers bring to Shelter are valued as much as their contribution through volunteering.

We aim to provide our volunteers with a positive experience. This is by prioritising accessibility and tailoring the support we provide to the needs of the individual. We make sure our policies and processes are equitable, which means that no-one is unfairly disadvantaged while volunteering because of their background or identity.

Next steps

If you would like to volunteer at this event, fill in an application. After you have applied, we’ll be in touch to say hi and discuss the volunteering opportunity further.

Please note, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions. Having a criminal record does not mean that you cannot volunteer with us. It may limit the different ways that you can get involved, but please contact us if you require more information.

�� Volunteer Social Media Coordinator

Location: Remote (UK or international welcome)
Commitment: Part-time volunteer (flexible hours, approx. 7-10 hrs/week)
Reports to: Head of Marketing 
Team: Marketing & Communications

�� About ArtClusiv

ArtClusiv exists to amplify and empower Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) creatives — musicians, visual artists, designers, performers, and beyond. We provide spaces where creativity, culture, and community intersect, breaking systemic barriers in the arts and building an equitable ecosystem for underrepresented voices.

If you’re passionate about representation, storytelling, and the power of digital platforms to drive change, we’d love to have you on our team.

�� The Role

We’re looking for a Volunteer Social Media Coordinator to help bring ArtClusiv’s message to life online.
You’ll be responsible for liaising with the marketing team and posting pre-created content on ArtClusiv’s social platforms (mainly Instagram and TikTok). You’ll also play a key role in ensuring that our social media activity reflects current trends, algorithms, and audience engagement strategies.

�� Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Content Creators and Marketing Lead to schedule and post approved content.

• Manage ArtClusiv’s Instagram and TikTok accounts, ensuring posts go live at optimal times.

• Stay up to date on social media algorithms and trending formats to advise the team on best practices.

• Monitor audience engagement (likes, comments, shares) and flag high-performing posts to the team.

• Maintain a consistent tone, style, and brand identity across all posts.

• Participate in weekly marketing check-ins to plan and review campaigns.

• Help brainstorm new ways to amplify our artist features, educational content, and advocacy campaigns.

�� You’ll Thrive in This Role If You

• Have a solid understanding of social media best practices, including what performs well on TikTok and Instagram.

• Know how to use scheduling tools (e.g., Later, Meta Business Suite, or Planoly).

• Have experience creating or coordinating digital content (personal or professional).

• Understand the importance of representation, inclusion, and visibility for BIPOC creatives.

• Are proactive, communicative, and comfortable working in a small, collaborative team.

�� What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience as part of a creative social enterprise.

• Mentorship and collaboration opportunities within the marketing and creative teams.

• A chance to contribute to meaningful storytelling that spotlights underrepresented artists.

• Portfolio-worthy experience managing social channels with purpose and impact.

We’re really excited to be recruiting for a Home Search Volunteer to work closely with our new Landlord Liaison Coach at Crisis Birmingham.

In this role, you’ll play a key part in helping people experiencing homelessness to access safe and secure housing by building relationships with local landlords and letting agents.

What you’ll be doing:

• Making initial contact with landlords and letting agents.

• Searching for rental opportunities on platforms such as Gumtree, SpareRoom, and social media.

• Introducing Crisis and explaining what support we can offer to landlords.

• Keeping our contact spreadsheet up to date with details of who has been contacted and the outcomes.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Can volunteer from our office for 3–4 hours per week, ideally on a Tuesday or Thursday.

• Is confident using the internet and making phone calls.

• Is organised, friendly, and comfortable speaking with new people.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience in housing and homelessness services while making a real difference in people’s lives.

If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you!

A message from our Chair of Trustees – Andrew Carter

Thank you for your interest in joining the team at Off The Record South East Hampshire (OTR).

This recruitment pack provides the information you need to apply to be a Trustee including:

• Details of our vision, mission and values.

• Information about the work we do, our impact and our future plans

• An overview of our organisational structure

• Information about the role and expectations of our trustees

If you would like any further information about the role before applying, please advise in your cover letter and she can arrange an informal chat with me.

We look forward to receiving your application.

Best wishes,

Andrew

Chair of Trustees

OTR

A message from our CEO: Corniche Plumridge

As the chief executive,  my role and the trustees is all about teamwork and support. I'm here to bring Off The Record’s strategic vision to life by sharing accurate and timely information, making sure they have what they need to make great decisions. In return, the trustees provide valuable guidance and oversight, helping us stay on track with our organisation's mission.

ADVERT

Are you passionate about young people's wellbeing?

Off The Record (OTR) are looking for new trustees to join our Board of Trustees.

Our vision is to support young people’s mental health to fulfil their potential for a brighter future.

We believe that young people should have more control and influence in how services for them are managed and changed, by being part of the organisation that develops the services that support their community.

We particularly want to attract applications from young people, people who identify as LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent and disabled, and people of colour, because they are under-represented in our Trustee team.

Off The Record (OTR) is an independent charity based in the Havant Borough. We have been supporting young people and their families in Southeast Hampshire and surrounding areas since 1977.

We offer free 1-2-1 and family counselling, group work services for those 11 to 25 and support for their families, we deliver a young carer programme to young people ages 8 to 25.

This is an opportunity to really make a difference to the lives of young people in our community!

We are actively seeking trustees from all areas of life,

You will play a crucial role in guiding the governance of OTR. You will work collaboratively with other members of the Board of Trustees to ensure effective management and sustainability of our charity.

This is an unpaid voluntary position, requiring a commitment of approximately 4-6 hours per month. 

Our Trustee board meet every month; in-person bi-monthly for 2 hours with the months in between a shorter 1-hour online meeting. On occasion there will ad-hoc meeting to meet the needs of the organisation and to carry out the trustee role.

OTR embraces equal opportunities, diversity, and inclusion. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.

Responsibilities:

· Provide strategic guidance and expertise to support Off The Record's vision and mission.

· Actively participate in board meetings, contributing ideas, insights, and constructive feedback.

• Assist in the development and provide oversight of operational policies, procedures, and initiatives to further the organisation's objectives.
• Help oversee the governance of the charity in accordance with the Charity Commission’s published guidelines. 

· Promote the Charity’s work and values within your networks and wider communities.

· Collaborate with fellow trustees, staff, and volunteers to ensure the smooth running of the charity's operations.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

The statutory duties of a trustee

· To ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations

· To ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document

· To ensure the organisation uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objective

· To contribute actively to the board of trustees' role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals, and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets

· To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation.

· To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation

· To ensure the financial stability of the organisation

· To protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity's funds

· To observe and follow the latest version of the Charity Commission Guidance

Other duties

· Scrutinising board papers

· Leading discussions

· Providing guidance on new initiatives

· Other issues in which the trustee has special expertise

· Participating in working groups outside of Board meetings

Trustee person specification

 · Commitment to the organisation

· Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort – which could be several hours per week to keep up with incoming emails and correspondence, Monthly Trustee meetings and the Annual General Meeting.

 · Strategic vision

· Good, independent judgement

· Ability to think creatively

· Willingness to speak their mind

· Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship

· Ability to work effectively as a member of a team

Qualifications and Skills:

· A genuine interest in the well-being and mental health of young people.

· Previous experience as a trustee or in a similar governance role would be advantageous but not essential.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

· Knowledge and understanding of the voluntary sector and charity governance or willingness to learn.

• Ability to promote the Charity’s work and values within your networks and wider communities.
• Expertise in one or more of the following areas: safeguarding, counselling, mental health, fundraising, finance, marketing, law, or HR would be desirable (but not essential).

Benefits:

· The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people through Off The Record (OTR).

· Gain valuable experience and develop your skills in a governance role within a charity.

· Expand your professional network and collaborate with like-minded individuals.

· Gain satisfaction from being part of a dedicated team working towards a common goal. 

About us

You will be joining the charity at an exciting time.

OTR has been part of our community since 1977, our purpose has remained the same throughout, to

support young people’s mental health to fulfil their potential for a brighter future, however during this

time we have evolved, expanded and developed our services. We put young people at the heart of what

we do, by integrating youth voice into our services we are continuously evolving to meet current needs

of young people and their families.

You will be joining an amazing and established team.

A staff of 16 cover all bases, with an established admin and front-line group work and Young Carer

teams, and leadership team that oversee admin, therapeutic and youth services, business support,

volunteers, finance, safeguarding and clinical supervision. Our dedicated counsellors and volunteers

deliver the therapeutic services and information and support calls. Our trustees meet every month,

alternating between formal board meetings, and trustee ongoing development meetings.

You will be joining a safe and respected service, that is long standing and held dearly by our

local community.

Our policy and procedures ensure a high standard of operational and clinical governance across the

organisation, that is brought to life with an excellent induction and training programme, and varied and

topical CPD opportunities throughout the year. We are always reminded of our legacy by the continued

support from local community groups and businesses because of the difference our support made to

them or someone they care about.

You will be joining an inclusive and caring culture.

If you feel you have the expertise,please apply with the following:

· A full CV

· A covering letter detailing all of the below:

o What skills/knowledge will you be bringing

o Explanation of any gaps in your CV

Successful applicants will be invited for an informal chat with the chair of trustee and CEO prior to an interview being arranged.

As part of our commitment to safe recruitment, all appointments are subject to Enhanced DBS with

Barred List checks and references will be taken up.

OTR embraces equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion. We are committed to building a team that

represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our

work will be.

Please advise us of any requirements to support your application to us.

Details:

· Hours; 4-6 per month

· Location: Online and in person

· Application deadline: Ongoing

Want to support a good cause?

We offer:

· A team that really cares, supports and champions one another.

· Friendly environment and practices.

· Access to training.

· Social events to spend time with the team and have some fun!

It is an exciting and challenging time for the international development sector. Vision Action is seeking to appoint two new Trustees, one of whom will serve as Chair Designate, to bring experience, insight, and energy in support of our ambition to increase equitable access to basic eye care services in Ghana, Zambia, and Ethiopia (with plans to expand further).

Vision Action was born in 2022 out of the merger to two charities, Vision for a Nation, an award-winning charity founded by the philanthropist James Chen and operating in Rwanda which developed a unique model for providing basic eye care in under-resourced settings, and Vision Aid Overseas, founded in the 1980s to establish accessible vision centres across Africa.  To learn more about our work please visit our website at Vision Action. The role of the Board of Trustees is to oversee the direction and activities of the charity, including its policies and procedures, to ensure that they are consistently in accordance with the charitable purposes defined in the objects clause in its Constitution. The Board sets and monitors the strategic direction of the charity, although the implementation of strategy is achieved through the executive team.

Terms of service

For Vision Action the Trustees are Members who have been elected to serve on the Board. Vision Action’s constitution allows for up to 12 Trustees, who can serve a maximum of three consecutive terms of three years.  Vision Action is a company limited by guarantee and the Trustees are its legal directors. The Trustee role is voluntary but out of pocket expenses are paid.  Trustees are appointed by the Vision Action Board of Trustees annually at the Board meeting following the Annual General Meeting. The time commitment in being a trustee involves attendance at four Board meetings per year, one of which will be an all-day strategy session. Otherwise, Board meetings are usually half a day in the afternoon of a weekday with at least half the meetings online.  Papers are circulated for reading in advance. There may be other ad-hoc meetings or online events to discuss specific topics.

Main tasks

Charity Trustees have and must accept ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of the charity and ensuring it is solvent, well-run and delivering the charitable outcomes for the benefit of the public for which it has been set up. Each Trustee will be expected to join one of the two sub-committees (Finance and Fundraising; and Programmes and Research). The Committees meet remotely at least four times per year, usually timed with or in advance of the board meetings. 

General Responsibilities

• Ensure that Vision Action complies with its governing document (i.e. its Constitution and Bylaws), charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensure that Vision Action pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
• Ensure Vision Action applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects, i.e. it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be.
• Contribute actively to the Board’s role in the formulation and review of strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Ensure that all policies are implemented, monitored and reports are acted upon, (including the policies on Harassment and Misconduct, Safeguarding, Recruitment, Child Protection and Anti- Bribery).
• Appoint and support the Co-Chief Executive Officers and monitor their performance.

Additional Specific Responsibilities

In addition to the above, we are looking for a Trustee who can be the Chair Designate and assume the role of Chair in December 2025.

Person Specification

Essential Requirements

Each Trustee must demonstrate:

• A commitment to the mission and values of Vision Action.
• A commitment to Vision Action’s key organisational policies, including those on Harassment and Misconduct, Safeguarding, Whistleblowing, Recruitment, Child Protection, and Anti-Bribery.
• Good, independent judgement.
• Willingness to represent, advocate for, and support the work of the charity.

Desirable Experience

While not essential, experience in the following areas would be an advantage:

• Leadership or senior management experience in business, the third sector, or civil service.
• Understanding of the International Development or Global Health sectors.
• Fundraising, philanthropy, or partnership development.

1.  Terms of Service.

The Chair is appointed by the Board annually for a maximum of 3 consecutive terms. He/she will normally assume his/her appointment at the Board meeting following the AGM in November.

2.  Main Tasks:

• To lead the Board in ensuring it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of Vision Action.
• To ensure the Trustees set and regularly review policy, overall strategy and objectives.
• To undertake a supportive role in achieving Vision Action’s funding target.
• To guide the Co-Chief Executives, to help achieve Vision Action’s objectives.
• To monitor approved strategies and business plans.

3.  Specific Duties relating to:

3.1 Ensuring the Board fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of Vision Action:

• To chair meetings of the Board, seeing that it functions effectively and carries out its duties.
• To ensure the Board works within the framework of law, Charity Commission guidelines and management best practice.
• To ensure that the policies of the Board are compliant with its charity objectives.
• To ensure the Trustees set overall strategy and policy objectives and regularly review them.
• In conjunction with the Treasurer, to ensure Vision Action’s financial dealings are prudently and systematically accounted for in compliance with legal requirements.
• Make recommendations on the composition of the Board, with a view to succession, and future Chair.
• To serve as an additional spokesman for, and promoter of Vision Action (Note: The Co-Chief Executives act as the primary spokespeople)

3.2 To ensure Trustees develop overall strategy and policy objectives and regularly review them:

• To incorporate the skills and experience of the trustees and the Co-Chief Executives’ team in the development of strategic objectives and planning processes.
• Identify with the Co-Chief Executives, clear objectives and key performance indicators

3.3 Helping the Co-Chief Executives achieve Vision Action’s mission:

• The Chair should always adopt an attitude of strategic overview and avoid becoming immersed in the day-to- day details of running Vision Action. Such matters are the responsibility of the Co-Chief Executives.
• To support and monitor the work of the Co-Chief Executives.
• To assist in the promotion of Vision Action to a wider audience of potential donors and beneficiaries.
• To undertake a supportive role in achieving Vision Action’s fundraising target.

3.4 Optimising the relationship between the Board, staff, volunteers and other stakeholders:

• In consultation with the Co-Chief Executives, to agree the annual calendar of Board meetings and major events involving Vision Action.
• To thank and encourage Vision Action volunteers, staff and other stakeholders as opportunities present themselves.
• To conduct the annual appraisal of the Co-Chief Executives and agree their annual objectives and performance measures.

A fantastic opportunity to build knowledge of the UK asylum system, gain experience of casework and deliver an essential service to young asylum seekers.

About Care4Calais

Care4Calais is a volunteer-based charity providing essential aid and support for refugees in France and the UK.

In northern France we operate year-round from Calais, providing warm clothing, bedding, food and assistance to refugees who live in appalling and dangerous conditions. 

Across the UK we collect and distribute clothes, shoes, mobile phones and other essential items, as well as offering social support and interaction, including language lessons, sport and music workshops. We also help with vital access to legal, medical and educational services.

Our Legal Access Department is an access to justice project that exists to arrange critical legal representation for people seeking asylum and, more than this, to support people through the hostility and difficulty of claiming asylum. The department, made up mostly of volunteers, works tirelessly to ensure that people feel informed, empowered, and far less isolated and alone.

About the role

This role provides crucial one-to-one casework and support to people seeking asylum in the UK. Our Age Dispute Team assists young unaccompanied asylum seekers whose age is disputed, and are subsequently treated as adults though they are children, to access the support they deserve through referrals to local authorities and legal representatives. The casework support provided is invaluable and ensures that clients have someone to turn to and someone advocating for their safety and care in a confusing and often scary system. 

You’ll have the chance to gain broad experience of working in a fast-paced and experienced team while meeting the ever-changing needs of those we support. So, if you thrive in a collaborative environment and are looking for a role where you can make a real difference, we want to hear from you! 

We ask volunteers to commit to a minimum of 6 hours per week. We can be flexible in how this time is allocated. Successful applicants will be provided with the induction and training needed for them to succeed in the role. 

We are looking for people who have a genuine passion for human rights and refugee protection. If this is you, please get in touch. 

Responsibilities:

• Supporting people seeking asylum to understand the process and ensuring that they are able to make their own, informed choices.

• Attend induction, ongoing training and keep up to date with resources and procedure to ensure you can carry out the role effectively and efficiently.

• Working independently and managing your time, sometimes working to tight deadlines.

• Taking on new cases regularly, whilst also providing ongoing support to existing clients.

• Sorting and organising client’s paperwork and accurately maintaining client records.

• Liaising with other professionals including lawyers, Migrant Help, children's services and other C4C teams.

• Following safeguarding procedures and reporting safeguarding incidents appropriately.

• Provide emotional support and reassurance and make referrals and signpost to more appropriate support if needed.

• Keeping the management team updated of any issues that may impact your ability to carry out the role effectively.

Person Specification

Essential criteria:

• Ability to use spreadsheets, Google Workspace, messaging platforms and secure databases.

• Dedication to social justice with a clear understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, or a willingness to learn about these.

• Ability to work sensitively with a diverse range of clients, demonstrating cultural competence, respect and compassion.

• Experience or transferable experience in efficiently managing high volume caseloads while maintaining a high standard of care and attention.

• Resilience in the face of challenging and emotionally demanding situations, with a positive and solution-oriented mindset.

• Proactive and self-motivated, with the ability to take initiative.

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to communicate with people who do not have English as their first language, working alongside interpreters to ensure clients’ understand the process.

• Professional and dedicated to ensure that the best interests of the clients and Care4Calais are represented at all times.

​Not essential but we welcome individuals with the below skills to offer:

• Proficiency in one or more of the languages spoken within asylum seeking communities, such as but not limited to Arabic, Farsi, Pashto, Dari, Kurdish Sorani, Tigrinya, Amharic, is a strong asset. 

• Having experience of the asylum system in the UK is a strong asset.

• Knowledge of local authority's responsibilities to unaccompanied asylum seeking children.

Lived Experience Inclusion:

We are an anti-racist organisation and a proud member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network (EBE), which aims to create a charitable sector led by individuals with lived experience of the asylum system.

As part of our membership, we are dedicated to creating inclusive employment practices that recognise and accommodate the unique circumstances and strengths of people with lived experience. We actively move away from a one-size-fits-all approach, ensuring our recruitment processes are fair, supportive, and accessible.

We warmly encourage applicants with lived experience to make use of the guidance and resources available on the EBE website (ebeemployment)

In addition, applicants with lived experience are welcome to connect with the EBE support team for tailored assistance with completing the application form and, where available, one-to-one interview preparation. 

Importantly, we recognise the significant cultural, linguistic, and experiential insights that individuals with lived experience of the UK asylum system bring to this role. As such, all applicants from this background who meet the essential criteria will be automatically shortlisted and invited to interview.

Application Instructions:

To apply, please submit your CV and complete the application form in full. Kindly note that incomplete applications (i.e. missing a completed form) will not be considered.

We look forward to hearing from you.