Trustees Volunteer Roles

Are you passionate about making a meaningful difference in your community? Do you have expertise in finance and a desire to contribute to a cause that positively impacts lives?  If the answer is yes, then this could be the perfect role for you!

STAMP Revisited is a small but ambitious charity, which provides advocacy and emotional support to those experiencing mental health difficulties. We support them to access vital services they need that they would not be able to access independently.  We have already supported thousands of the most disadvantaged people to have their voice heard and respected.

We are currently recruiting a new Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees. As a Trustee of STAMP Revisited, you will play a crucial role in setting the strategic direction of the charity and ensuring good governance.  You will contribute to ensuring that the charity fulfils its mission, operates effectively, and remains accountable to those experiencing mental health issues.

In addition to the general duties as Trustee, as Treasurer you will play a pivotal role in securing the financial integrity and sustainability of our charity. You will ensure that effective and appropriate financial measures are put in place and report to the Board at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation.

If you are interested in finding out more about being a Treasurer and sitting on our Board, we would love to hear from you. Our Board welcomes people from diverse backgrounds, aged 18 or over with a wide range of skills. We are keen to welcome people who have personal experience of mental health challenges, including service users and carers.

Can you spare a few hours a month to support STAMP Revisited, a local mental health charity?

We are, a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), which has provided advocacy services for the people of Teesside for almost 30 years, and we are currently looking for new Trustees to join our Board.

Our advocates provide advocacy to adults who are experiencing mental health difficulties that impact on their ability to make their voice heard and are unable to independently navigate personal issues such as aspects of their health, finances, or housing needs.

Trustees are essential to the success of a charity, and the Board is the charity’s governing body. Trustees are responsible for ensuring the charity meets its objectives and are responsible for its general administration and control of the charity.

If you are interested in finding out more about being a Trustee and sitting on our Board, we would love to hear from you. Our Board welcomes people from diverse backgrounds, aged 18 or over with a wide range of skills. We are keen to welcome people who have personal experience of mental health challenges, including service users and carers.

The Gold Standards Framework (GSF) charity are seeking new Trustees to join our Board to support the important work of enabling generalist frontline teams improve care for people nearing the end of life. We are seeking in particular, new Trustees who have business development, finance, charity or fundraising expertise or experience, who might be interested in this area, as well as others interested in social care, education or palliative or end of life care.

The Gold Standards Framework (GSF) Centre recently celebrated 25 years of work improving end of life care given by generalist frontline teams. GSF is the leading provider of training in end of life care for generalist front line staff across health and social care. We have trained and accredited thousands of teams, influenced national policy and practice and GSF has improved the care for many millions of people and their families.

Much has been achieved but there is still more to do ... We have a bold and exciting vision to ensure that everyone experiences Gold Standard end of life care. We want to see a big increase in the number of people that are trained, and we want to influence policy to make Gold Standard end of life care a requirement. We have recently become a CIO charity and as we enter a new chapter of our story, we are seeking new trustees to help us to achieve our vision and contribute to our strategic purpose. 

Could you help us achieve these goals? We are a small team and value the contribution of our trustees, partners, associates and professional reference groups. Trustees will typically attend 4-6 online board meetings a year, along with other communications and support between meetings, plus occasional strategy away days. 

For full details, read more on the Gov (dot) UK website.

We are looking for people with the same shared values and commitment to improving end of life care in our country. We need experienced and passionate trustees to help our excellent team to meet our vision. We are particularly interested in:

• Finance Fundraising Business management, especially in the charity or training sectors
• Marketing/communications
• Health and/or social care provision
• Palliative/End of Life Care/GSF in practice
• Senior board level/charity experience
• Integrated care systems/local authorities
• Health & Care Policy

Please email Keri Thomas, Sue Richards, or Julie Armstrong-Wilson if you’re interested in having an informal chat. More information on GSF can be found on our website

Role Overview

A rare and exciting opportunity has arisen for a high calibre and committed Governor. We are seeking those who can support in the areas of Education, Finance and HR to join our Governing Board and vibrant School community.

To excel in this role, you will have proven experience of working within the charity sector, perhaps in a CEO role, working as a NED, or some other strategic leadership or governance role.

You will contribute to the work of the Board in ensuring high standards of achievement for all children and young people in the School by ensuring clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction, holding executive leaders to account for the educational performance of the organisation and its pupils, the performance management of staff, and overseeing the financial performance of the School and making sure its money is well spent.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

The successful applicant will be subject to rigorous recruitment checks, an Enhanced DBS check, and Section 128 check. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Eligibility criteria applies.

The Council of Deans of Health is a dynamic and influential charity and membership organisation representing the interests of university faculties engaged in education and research for nursing, midwifery, and the allied health professions across the UK.

With a presence spanning England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, and Gibraltar, we operate as a charity registered across the UK, advocating for the vital role our members play in health and social care. With over 100 member institutions from across the tertiary education system educating approximately 200,000 current and future health professionals and conducting research that directly impacts the health and wellbeing of our population we truly represent those responsible for healthcare education throughout the UK. 

Trustee opportunities

We are currently seeking enthusiastic individuals who are willing to learn, collaborate effectively, demonstrate emotional intelligence, and engage fully with the aims and objectives of our organisation to join our Board. We are looking for people who can bring a variety of skills and experience, including the ability to work strategically, expertise in charity governance and compliance, and commercial acumen.

As we embark on shaping a new strategy for the Council to run from 2025 onwards, we are particularly keen to welcome Trustees who will bring diverse perspectives and ensure our Board is inclusive and representative.

As a trustee, you will have the opportunity to play a pivotal role in influencing policy, strengthening membership engagement, and shaping the future direction of our organisation. Our values of inclusivity, innovation, and impact underpin everything we do, and our strategic aims reflect our commitment to advancing healthcare education and research. 

We are looking for people who share our vision and values. Previous board experience is not required.

How to apply

Eastside People is supporting the Council of Deans of Health in recruiting for these roles. Please apply by submitting your CV and cover letter, which should cover the following:

• Why are you interested in a trustee role at the Council of Deans of Health?
• How you can contribute to the Council as a trustee? Please highlight relevant experience and demonstrate how your skills match the specific requirements of the role set out in the candidate pack.
• Why do you think you would be a good fit for the Council?

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. Please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can make the application process work for you.

The closing date for applications is Friday 24 May with online shortlisting interviews taking place the week after. Face to face interviews with the recruitment panel at the Council will take place early to mid-June.

For over seventy years the Osteopathic Foundation (initially the Osteopathic Education Foundation) has been supporting osteopathic education, research, and development. We fund research and education activities through our grant-giving programmes. Since 2000, we have distributed over £1 million of support to advance osteopathic practice for public benefit.

We are seeking new Board members to sit on the Board of the Osteopathic Foundation. The Board meets quarterly online/in person to approve grants, monitor investment performance and report on activities. Please see the attached role specification for full details of the responsibilities.

We are looking for potential Board members with broad experience and a practical attitude. A proven track record in one or more of the following would also be helpful, especially in relation to charities: finances, business acumen, legal management, and/or fundraising. Osteopathic or medical experience is not a prerequisite for this role, but curiosity and self-awareness are.

Interviews will likely take place in early June. If you are interested in this opportunity to shape the development of UK osteopathy, please submit your CV along with a covering letter detailing how you meet the role specifications by close of business on Friday 17th May.

Who We Are:

The Osteopathic Foundation is a registered charity which raises and administers funds in support of all aspects of UK Osteopathic development, education, research, promotion and practice for the benefit of public health, in the main through the provision of grants, as well as support for undergraduate and postgraduate education.  Founded originally some seventy years ago as the Osteopathic Education Foundation, the oF works under the stewardship of the Institute of Osteopathy, the professional association for UK osteopaths.

Our trustees play a vital role in ensuring Glasgow SE Foodbank meets its core purpose by overseeing the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that Glasgow SE Foodbank has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision.

Overview of the role:

As a trustee you are responsible for the governance of the foodbank and setting the strategic objectives. Board members have a collective responsibility, meaning trustees always act as a group and not as individuals. As a small charity, there may be times when the trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Duties:

• Support and provide advice on Glasgow SE Foodbank’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee Glasgow SE Foodbank’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Review and approve Glasgow SE Foodbank’s financial statements.
• Provide support and challenge to Glasgow SE Foodbank’s management team in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.
• Keep abreast of changes in Glasgow SE Foodbank’s operating environment.
• Contribute to regular reviews of Glasgow SE Foodbank’s own governance.
• Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Glasgow SE Foodbank’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.
• Contribute to the broader promotion of Glasgow SE Foodbank’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

About Circles South East

Circles South East, based in Oxfordshire, is an award-winning charity which works to reduce the impact and instances of sexual harm through prevention, rehabilitation, education and safeguarding.

We have a long record of working within the field of reducing impact of sexual harm. We work with Survivors and others impacted by sexual violence to help them heal and perpetrators to help them to avoid re-offending. 

We are organisational members of the BACP, and take referrals from organisations such as Victim Support, Children’s and Social Services, Rape Crisis, Probation Victim Liaison Units, GP Surgeries etc as well as from potential clients themselves.

Volunteers are at the core of what we do, and operate across all aspects of our work.

What will you be doing?

Trustees ensure their charity has a clear strategy and that all decisions put the needs of the service users first. They safeguard the charity’s assets – both physical assets, including property, and intangible ones, such as its reputation. They make sure these are used well and that the charity is run sustainably. They hold the CEO to account and provide support and encouragement to them and the team. Trustees are jointly responsible for all their decisions and work together to ensure the charity delivers it’s aims.

A full list of duties can be found in the candidate pack attached.

This role is mainly home-based.

What are we looking for?

We are particularly, but not exclusively, interested from hearing from people with the following skills/experience:

· Legal

· Business

· Marketing & Branding

· London communities. We work in a lot of London communities and have no one on our board with knowledge of this part of the UK

We would especially welcome applicants who are from Black, Asian or other minoritised ethnic groups, people with a disability, and young people under the age of 35’ who are all under-represented on our board. We strongly value the contribution that people with these characteristics would bring to our board discussions.

What difference will you make?

We are looking for a Trustees to contribute to our plans for an exciting future. While continuing to provide Circles across the South East we aim to further develop our complementary services of counselling, victim support and training. We are constantly innovating new methods to deliver our goals and currently have two funded pilot projects which we hope to further develop. We have recently secured sustainable funding for our core Circles work providing trustees with a fabulous opportunity to be part of the charity as we build on this.

Commitment:

Estimate of time needed: up to five hours per month.

The board normally meets 5 times a year. The board meetings are quarterly and usually take place 4-6pm on a weekday. We are currently meeting remotely.

What will you be doing? 
 
We are currently looking for a new, dynamic, creative and inspiring Chair of Trustees who can bring their energy and expertise to the organisation. We’re looking for someone with lived experience of emotional distress or maybe helping someone else through a tough time. We want to hear from people who like to think outside the box, brave enough to consider new ways of doing things and want to help bring around a new wave of support to our communities. Consider yourself a bit of a maverick, we want to hear from you!

We are particularly keen to recruit a Chair who is experienced in the following areas: 

• At least one year of being Chair for another small Charity 

• Excellent knowledge and understanding of Charity governance 

• Lived experience of mental health challenges/suicidal thoughts/attempts or experience of supporting others with these issues 

• Qualified counsellor/therapist is desirable

At Mid Norfolk Mencap we are passionate about supporting people with learning disabilities and their families. Enabling people to live independently, person-centred care is at the heart of what we do.

Our mission is to support and enable the people who use our services to lead fulfilling lives, to be involved in their local wider community, and to have access to the same opportunities as all members of society.

Mid Norfolk Mencap was established since 1977, and every year we provide residential living, social opportunities, and specialised Community Outreach support for more than 100 people with a learning disability in Norfolk. However, with around 16,500 adults in Norfolk with a learning disability, we know we can do so much more.

This is an exciting time for us as we work to grow and strengthen our services. As a trustee you will play a vital role in helping us deliver a stronger and more sustainable organisation for the benefit of our service users, their families, and for the staff who work to deliver those services.

Position: Trustee

Location: Trustee Board meetings and many of our charity’s activities take place in Dereham. In addition, some work may be required remotely using Zoom/ Teams, or in other parts of Norfolk from time to time.

Salary: This position is unpaid but reasonable expenses may be paid.

Responsibilities

This role is suited to candidates who can demonstrate professional or skills-based knowledge of benefit to the charity. We would particularly welcome applications from people with experience in the third sector, PR, fundraising, governance, risk management, management and law, and accountancy.

This job is for you if:

• You have a proven track record of integrity and respect for confidential and proprietary information.
• You are a keen and respectful listener who can empathise and respectfully challenge.
• You have a commitment to the charity, are approachable for our service users, and are enthused for its vision, mission and aims.
• You understand and accept the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.
• You are willing to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a trustee (c. 2 – 3 hours per week depending on your role and any specific responsibilities within the Board).
• You are willing to participate in frank and open discussion and can work effectively as a member of a team.
• You can analyse proposals and their consequences, have a good level of competence with IT.
• You are willing to be available to provide guidance to the senior management team on an ad hoc basis.

Training

You will be given a basic induction to the charity and opportunities to meet with the senior management team. We also strongly encourage trustees to spend time participating in our services delivery, getting to know our staff and volunteers – and most importantly, our beneficiaries. We will customise a training and familiarisation package for the successful candidate based on prior knowledge and experience.

Our Recruitment Process

Excellence is important to us, and we know that being a trustee is a great commitment, so it has to be right for both the organisation and for you. Our recruitment process typically includes:

• Two interviews, providing the opportunity for you to meet with at least two existing trustees.
• An invitation to attend the Mid Norfolk Mencap head office and residential home, meeting some of our service users and staff
• An informal meeting with a member of our senior management team
• Dedicated email/phone support for any queries or concerns

Our recruitment process is designed to facilitate a two-way dialogue. We recognise that you need to be as comfortable with us and our operating model as we are with you. Our commitment throughout, is to be open, transparent and to give you as much information as we possibly can so that you can be sure you are making an informed choice to volunteer as a trustee with us.

We look forward to meeting you!

Overall responsibility:

• Leading on the financial affairs of the Foodbank; ensuring that they are conducted within the required legal, accounting and good practice conventions;
• To work in partnership with the Chair and Trustees to ensure the financial viability and development of the Foodbank..

Key tasks are to ensure that the Trustees:

• Fulfil their financial responsibilities
• Have proper systems for budgeting, financial control, insurances, and reporting;
• Are informed by written report, at least on a quarterly basis; ensuring they have a clear picture of the financial health of the food bank;
• Develop a long-term strategy for the Foodbank with clear objectives, monitored and flexible
• Have reports in proper format, comprehensible and discussed properly at Trustee meetings including the AGM;
• Provide Annual Reports as required by the Charity Commission after proper independent examination

Other responsibilities - include working with Trustees to support appropriate:

• Financial plans for future budget allocations; looking after contractual agreements with external partners awarding money for core costs;
• Procedures to comply with current legislation and good practice; including employment, health and safety, equal opportunities, safeguarding, GDPR compliance/data protection;
• Promotion of the Foodbank to a wider audience of potential funders and beneficiaries; promote the Foodbank within the wider community;
• To act  with reasonable care and skill, giving time, thought and energy to your role.

Welcome Personal Skills and Attributes:

• To have a knowledge and understanding of the work of the Foodbank;
• To be respectful of the values the Foodbank was founded upon;
• To be enthusiastic about and involved with the operation;
• Previous experience and/or demonstrated ability in financial accounting and reporting procedures; communicating financial information to those who may have little financial background; and keeping all financial records up to date.

By leading on the financial matters for the Foodbank, you are part of providing an important support responsibility in your local community; ensuring a dignified experience to our clients and all who come into contact with Rochdale Foodbank.

In volunteering you will be using your existing skills to make a difference; you will meet people who share your passion to eradicate poverty in the local community and you will make a real difference to the running of the Foodbank.

A full Trustee induction is in place to support a prospective candidate within their role, as well as access to local voluntary Trustee training through Action Together or the Trussell Trust. 

Refugee and Migrant Forum of Essex & London (RAMFEL) seeks a dedicated and passionate individual to hold the Board and Executive Team to account in delivering on the organisation's mission and vision, in addition to providing leadership to the Board of Trustees.  

About RAMFEL:

RAMFEL is a charity that supports vulnerable migrants to access justice as well as providing vital support in moments of individual crisis. RAMFEL provide immigration advice (OISC level 3) and generalist advice in a range of areas to support clients. This goes alongside destitution services and support to build a new life in the UK, with ESOL classes and referrals for support accessing the labour market.

 About the Chair Role:

The Chair will be taking on this pivotal role at a crucial time in RAMFEL's growth and development as an organisation. To continue being the trusted voice on refugee and migrant issues, a suitably experienced individual with the right motivation and willingness to lead from the front in an ambassadorial role will be ideal.

 You will be responsible for:

• Holding the Board and Executive Team to account for the Charity's mission and vision, providing leadership to the Board of Trustees.
• Working closely with, and support, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO); ensuring that objectives are set in line with RAMFEL strategy, as well as providing healthy challenge where needed.
• Be responsible for promoting and maintaining a collaborative and inclusive culture among the Board, ensuring that members work together as a team to achieve agreed objectives
• Act as an ambassador and the public face of the charity in partnership with the Chief Executive.  

RAMFEL is committed to operating as an equal-opportunity organisation. We warmly welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this Chair role. We are looking for individuals to culturally add to this organisation, rather than fit an existing mould. We particularly encourage applications from individuals from the Global Majority and individuals who have first-hand lived experience themselves or through their parents as refugees and migrants. Your unique perspective and insights are valuable contributions to our community

Time commitment

We anticipate the chair will spend approx. 15 hours a month and this will flex depending on the requirements at the time. The Board meets 4 times a year and there will be two away/onsite days a year.

How to Apply:

Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to RAMFEL on this appointment. If you believe your values align with those of RAMFEL and you are keen to be pivotal in driving forward the organisation's values and strategic goals, then we would love to hear from you.

To receive the full recruitment pack, which has the details about this role and how to apply, please send your CV to Senior Appointments at Charity People

 Timeline:

Q&A Webinar hosted by RAMFEL, where they will share further insights and answer any additional questions you may have. Please register your interest in attending this webinar with your consultant and we will send you a link:

Webinar : Tuesday 23rd April 18:00

Closing date for applications: Fri 10th May 12pm

First round interviews: w/c 20th May

Final interviews: w/c 27th May  

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.  

Charity People actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion. We match charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we know greater diversity will lead to even greater results for the charities with which we work.

Join the world-class Newcastle University as Lay Member of Council and use your legal, PR or IT expertise to play a vital part in the governance of the institution as it seeks to advance education, learning and research in the North East of England and globally.

Applications close at: 9 a.m. Monday 6th May 2024

Location: Newcastle

About Newcastle University

Newcastle University exists for the public benefit to advance education, learning, and research. We are a world-class university that advances knowledge, provides creative solutions, and solves global problems.

Newcastle University is proud to be a values-led, research-intensive university that makes a significant contribution to our city, region, and globally.

The University’s core values of equality, diversity, inclusion, social and environmental justice, and academic freedom are at the heart of everything we do.

We are passionate in our belief that universities should play a fundamental role in creating and fostering more equitable societies.

We aim to work collaboratively with our many external partners to shape brighter futures, grow the economy and champion social justice.

About the role

Lay members of Council have a vital part to play in the governance of the University and bring knowledge and experience of particular value, given the nature of the environment in which universities work.

Lay Members are expected to play an appropriate part in ensuring that the necessary business of Council is carried on efficiently, effectively, and in a manner appropriate for the proper conduct of public business. You will be expected to make rational and constructive contributions to debate and to make your knowledge and expertise available to Council as opportunities arise.

Members have a responsibility to ensure that the governing body acts in accordance with the instruments of governance of the University and exercises efficient and effective use of the resources of the University to meet its charitable objectives, maintain long-term financial viability, and safeguard its assets.

Members do not play an executive role, which is primarily advisory and facilitating, and we expect Members to establish a constructive and supportive, but challenging, working relationship with the University.

Members are covered by the University’s Professional Indemnity cover in respect of fulfilling their duties.

Members of Council are appointed for three years and membership may be renewed for up to two more terms of three years. It is hoped that Lay Members will serve on one or more of the Council’s sub-committees.

As such, the University is seeking Lay Council Members who can commit up to 16 days per year to this role, which roughly equates to a time commitment of one to two days per month.

You will be provided with a full induction and training opportunities to support your work on Council.

Who we are looking for

Newcastle University is seeking exceptional individuals to join the Council as Lay Members. This is an excellent opportunity to make a considerable contribution to advancing the University’s core mission.

We are particularly interested in those who bring the following experience, expertise, skills, and commitments:

• Expertise or background in the legal profession.
• Senior strategic leadership and/or policy experience in Public Relations or Information Technology.
• Prior governance experience, although not essential is advantageous.
• Collaborative, inclusive, and enabling approach.
• Commitment to being a strong external and internal ambassador for Newcastle University.
• Ability and willingness to contribute to a broad range of University matters.
• Committed to offering your time and expertise to meet the duties of the role.
• Strong commitment to the University’s values, mission and EDI ethos.

Newcastle University is committed to being a fully inclusive global University, which actively recruits, supports, and retains staff from all sectors of society. We value diversity as well as celebrate, support, and thrive on the contributions of all our employees and the communities they represent.

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from everybody, regardless of race, sex, ethnicity, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital status/civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, as well as being open to flexible working practices.

If you think you meet these criteria and have a genuine interest in supporting Newcastle University as a Lay Council Member, please do get in touch.

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

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 6th May 2024.

SAFEGUARDING TRUSTEE

Blue smile is looking for a Trustee to join our friendly, committed and active Board, taking the lead on safeguarding, supporting the Chair of Trustees and Charity Director.

Blue Smile’s mission and purpose

Blue Smile's mission is to transform the mental health and life chances of Cambridgeshire children through arts-based therapies.  We help over 200 children a week to be happier and have brighter futures.  We work with schools in Cambridge and the region providing children with one-to-one therapy.  We also directly support both schools and parents to help their children through our extensive Menu of Services.  We work in particular, in accordance with our charitable aims, with those who face disadvantage or deprivation.

The charity has over 70 clinical experts working with us.  Our office team supply essential management and administrative support to this clinical work. 

Safeguarding is central to all Blue Smile activities, and we recognise that the welfare of all children, young people and adults at risk, is paramount and that all have equal rights of protection. We have a duty of care when they are in our charge, and we will do everything we can to provide a safe and caring environment whilst they attend our activities.

Blue Smile's Trustees

The Trustees are responsible for appointing and overseeing the work of the Charity Director, making key decisions about the charity, and ensuring it is run appropriately and in compliance with the law and good governance.  The Trustees must ensure the charity carries out its purposes for the public benefit.  They must act in the charity’s best interest, manage its resources responsibly, act with reasonable care and skill and ensure the charity is accountable.

Why become a Trustee for Blue Smile?

This is an exciting time to be joining Blue Smile as we implement our Strategy for 2024 onwards.  Building on our excellent reputation for high quality, specialised work with young children, we want to develop our services and evaluation, invest in new systems, and grow our service to meet the increased need for child mental health support.  We also want to increase reach through additional services which impact the whole school community.

You will be joining a friendly, committed, and active Board and induction and training will be provided.

THE ROLE OF THE SAFEGUARDING TRUSTEE

Though safeguarding is the responsibility of all trustees the Safeguarding Trustee will take the lead on safeguarding supporting the Chair of Trustees and Charity Director.

The Safeguarding Trustee will:

• Have oversight of the safeguarding policies and procedures. Ensuring there is an annual review which is reported to the other trustees. 
• Consider the charity's strategic plans in the light of safeguarding legislation and other relevant obligations and the safeguarding expectations of the Charities Commission.
• Check the charities risk register reflects safeguarding risks properly and work with the Board and Charity Director to plan sensible measures to take.
• Ensure there is space on the agenda for safeguarding reports and help trustees understand and challenge those reports.
• Attend relevant safeguarding training events.
• Support the trustees in developing their individual and collective understanding of safeguarding.

Experience and Skills we are looking for in a Safeguarding Trustee:

• Experience working in safeguarding for children and young people.
• Awareness of relevant guidance, particularly, Working Together to Safeguard Children 2023 and Keeping Children Safe in Education 2023.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality on sensitive and confidential information.
• Commitment to the values (and ethics) of the charity.

Role type: Unremunerated/Volunteer (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Location:  Trustee meetings currently take place mainly online but attendance at Blue Smile offices in Central Cambridge, or other locations where we work, may be required from time to time

Commitment: Six meetings a year of the Trustee Board (usually on a weekday evening) Trustees are also represented on subcommittees and advisory groups which report to the Board. We would encourage the Safeguarding Trustee to be part of the Clinical and Ethics Committee which meets once a term.

Trustees may also offer support with projects and events as required and as their time allows.

We are committed to a diversity of voices in our organisation.  We welcome applications from all backgrounds.  We would encourage younger people to consider applying – you do not need to have held a trustee or similar role before.  We would also love to hear from you if you are from an under-represented groups at Blue Smile such as individuals from Black, Asian or minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQI+ people and people with a disability, or if you have experience of child and family statutory services in your own personal life.

Blue Smile is committed to safer recruitment and trustees will be expected to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service check.

If you would like to be part of a welcoming and well-respected charity whose aim is to help children enjoy happier childhoods and brighter futures please send your CV and a covering letter outlining why you are interested in the Safeguarding Trustee role. Thank you!

About Smart Works 

Smart Works is a dynamic, high profile and fast-growing UK charity that dresses and coaches unemployed women for success at their job interview. We empower each woman by giving her the clothes and the confidence she needs to succeed. After visiting Smart Works, 69% of clients secure a job within a month, gaining financial independence and transforming their lives.

Smart Works Leeds, operating as a licensee of Smart Works Charity, is led by a Board of passionate and dedicated trustees, who are responsible for the governance and strategic direction of the Smart Works service across Yorkshire.

More information about who we are can be found on our website.

About the opportunity  

The Smart Works Leeds Board of Trustees consists of: Chair, Treasurer, People, Wardrobe & Property, Corporate Fundraising & Partnerships, Events, and Communications & Media Trustees. 

A fantastic opportunity has arisen to join the Smart Works Leeds Board of Trustees. The newly created Ambassador & Volunteer Trustee will lead on two fundamental activities at the Centre: 

• Ambassadors: Smart Works Leeds currently has one Ambassador. The Board is looking to grow our ambassador community. The position will help identify, onboard and work with the team of Smart Works Leeds Ambassadors to raise the profile of the Charity across the Yorkshire region.
• Volunteers: Smart Works is powered by a community of skilled volunteers who use their time, talents and kindness to help our clients. The position will oversee volunteer management and engagement for Smart Works Leeds and will work closely with the staff team to keep the volunteer community motivated and engaged in the charity’s mission. 

If you have valuable experience and skills to contribute to the Smart Works mission and would like to use your professional experience for good, we would love to hear from you.

General Duties of a Smart Works Trustee 

• Work with the Chair of the Board of Trustees to ensure the centre is well-run and governed effectively. 
• Provide support to determine the strategic direction of the Centre. 
• Advocate for the Centre, raising its profile and the awareness of the Smart Works service in the geographic area. 
• Build strong working relationships with the Chair, fellow trustees, staff, volunteers and supporters. 
• Work in a small team and tailor strong interpersonal and communication skills to all levels of seniority.

Personal Specification 

The successful Ambassador and Volunteer Lead Trustee will have excellent interpersonal skills and stakeholder management experience. 

They will use their skills and experience to attract, utilise and maximise the Ambassadors for Smart Works Leeds and they will nurture, coordinate and motivate the Smart Works Leeds volunteer community. 

As this is a voluntary, unpaid role it requires a self-starting and proactive approach with the capacity and time to challenge, engage and contribute to the work of the Board in a positive manner. 

It is essential that all applicants believe in the mission of Smart Works and align with our core values, share a commitment to fairness and to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion, acting at all times with honesty and integrity. 

If you possess the relevant experience and are seeking to give something back to the community in Yorkshire, then we would love to hear from you. Please note, you do not need to have previous experience of sitting on a board to join us although it would be an advantage.

We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, disabled candidates, and candidates with lived experience of unemployment, because we would like to increase the representation of these groups at Smart Works.

How to Apply  

Please visit our website or click "Apply Now" to find out more information - we can't wait to hear from you.