Trustees Volunteer Roles

Job Description:

The Photographic Collections Network (PCN) is seeking an interim Treasurer with expertise in accountancy and/or charity finance and reporting to join our board of Trustees. 

We are on the journey to becoming a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), and this will bring great opportunities for us to expand our reach and provide support for the UKs photographic collections and heritage. We are looking for people to help us to build this potential so we can better deliver on our aims. Are you the person that can help lead this change? 

You will oversee the financial matters of the Photographic Collections Network in line with good practice and in accordance with the governing document and legal requirements, and report to the Board of Trustees at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation. The interim Treasurer will ensure that effective financial measures, controls and procedures are put in place, and are appropriate for the charity.
PCN welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and would love to hear from applicants who belong to groups underrepresented in the charitable sector.

Job requirements:

Our ideal candidate for the interim Treasurer would have accountancy qualification or an equivalent level of experience and expertise in accountancy and charity finance and reporting. A person working in Finance, Governance, Legal, with Charity experience either through an executive or previous Trustee role would be suitable. The candidate Ideally would have professional experience with organisational Governance and Financial management. A background in the photography or understanding of collections sector is not necessary but an enthusiasm and interest in the charitable sector is. If you have any of the skills listed above, we would love to hear from you.

Job responsibilities:

You will oversee the financial matters of the Photographic Collections Network in line with good practice and in accordance with the governing document and legal requirements, and report to the Board of Trustees at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation.

The interim Treasurer will work with the Board to ensure that effective financial measures, controls and procedures are put in place, as we progress in our journey to become a Charitable Incorporated Organisation.

Please follow the link to download the Job Description

Become the next Chair of The Story Museum, an award-winning one-of-a-kind Museum which immerses thousands of children annually in the world of books, bringing stories to life through boundless creativity and deeply engaging experiences; educating and inspiring the next generation of readers in its incredible reimagining of the written word.

Applications close at: 9 a.m. Tuesday 11th June 2024

Location: Oxford/online

 

About The Story Museum

The Story Museum exists to enrich lives, especially young lives, through stories. It achieves this from its most unusual Museum in Oxford where great stories are shared in the most incredible variety of powerful, funny and engaging ways.

Thanks to a creative and committed staff, they devise an imaginative programme of permanent and temporary exhibitions, performances, interactive workshops, skills-building courses and online engagement. Located in the heart of Oxford, it brings stories to life, unlocking the next generation’s creativity and imagination.

So much more than simply a ‘museum,’ The Story Museum brings stories to life through interactive exhibits, talks, shows and a beautifully curated collection highlighting the history of storytelling.

The Museum believes passionately in highlighting the human need for stories and takes pride in celebrating and devising the many innovative ways that people can benefit from them. They collect great and diverse stories and share them in the most engaging ways possible.

Founded in 2003 as the first museum dedicated to stories in the world, The Story Museum has grown in scope and ambition. Truly one-of-a-kind, the museum is a fountain of creativity and innovation, rightly recognised with its NPO accreditation, as a Museum of the Year 2022 finalist, the RIBA South Award winner 2022, and a 2021 Civic Trust Awards Regional finalist.

The Story Museum is an innovative, physically engaging world filled with stunning theatrical props, talking trees and incredible attention to detail that bring children’s favourite stories to life.

In terms of outreach, the Museum works with 8 schools and 4 community centres from the Oxfordshire area, offering free activities to the students who need them most.

Children and their education are at the heart of what they do – spaces are designed to stimulate and inspire, and their content is regularly co-created alongside young people who take part in their programmes.

The Museum finds itself at the precipice of the next exciting phase. Following redevelopment, the Museum has set its sights on becoming recognised both regionally and nationally for the iconic work that it does, aiming to be a beacon of education and a cultural leader in the storytelling space.

About the role

With their former Chair stepping down after 3 successful terms, they seek a new Chair to help oversee their governance, prioritise key targets, and drive financial and strategic growth.

The Story Museum is a registered charity with a Board of non-executive trustees who are legally responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of the organisation, with day-to-day responsibilities delegated to the CEO and senior leadership team.

The Chair of the Board provides effective leadership by chairing board meetings throughout the year, working closely with the executive leadership team, and scrutinizing the charity’s progress against its strategy and charitable objects.

The Chair acts as an ambassador for The Story Museum, helping to raise its profile, build its network, and provide support to fundraising initiatives. The Board’s governance is strong, and trustees are highly committed and engaged – bringing the necessary energy and scrutiny to meetings. Led by experienced and renowned CEO Caroline Jones, The Story Museum has a dedicated, engaged and talented executive team — all united by a passion for the importance of children’s storytelling.

The Board and Executive have a healthy, amiable and professional relationship, ensuring the organisation has challenge and support in equal measure.

The Chair of the Board is expected to:

• Establish effective partnerships between the Board, the executive, and stakeholders.
• Ensure the Board operates at a high level underpinned by an inclusive atmosphere and active contribution from all members.
• Attend and chair quarterly Board meetings, quarterly committee meetings, the AGM, and an annual inspiration day board meeting.
• Have regular routine meetings with the Museum Director and other senior staff to act as a sounding board, provide additional scrutiny, and assist in response to urgent issues if they arise.
• Act as an ambassador at external events with an eye to secure additional funding.
• Represent the Museum to key stakeholders, including Arts Council England representatives and funders.

Who we are looking for

The Story Museum is seeking a Chair who can demonstrate:

• Corporate leadership experience at a board level (private or public sector)
• Experience in chairing Board meetings with an excellent knowledge of governance.
• Proven ability of helping to define, support and/or drive the strategic direction.
• A proven track record in stakeholder engagement, with a willingness to engage directly with funders, being mindful of TSM’s status as an NPO.
• Ability to listen, to consult and ultimately to be decisive.
• Ability to delegate effectively.
• Experience in monitoring progress against objectives and milestones.
• Experience in building networks and connections with a view to raising funds for charities and good causes across the not-for-profit sector.
• An experience and understanding of charity finance with the ability to monitor and interpret financial data.
• A passion and commitment to the values, purpose and activity of The Story Museum
• Professional or personal experience in one or more of the following: children’s story in its widest forms, publishing, education, media, the museum sector, arts, heritage and culture
• Being within reach of Oxford and Oxfordshire will make fulfilling the role easier.
• Candidates must bring experience of operating at Board level, with previous/current chairs, vice-chairs, and committee chairs especially welcome.
• A passion for the mission is vital, so experience in one or more of the following is highly desirable: children’s stories, publishing, media, the museum sector, arts, heritage, or culture.

Candidates must demonstrate a strong track record of senior strategic leadership experience and have a good understanding of governance oversight in relation to financial and senior management performance.

The Story Museum seek a strategic, collegiate and inclusive leader who can effectively manage change, challenge appropriately, advise, act strategically, and have a consultative and collaborative style.

As a proactive and vocal ambassador for the Museum, the next Chair must be comfortable articulating the vision and direction of the organisation to internal and external stakeholders alike.

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. Tuesday 11th June 2024.

Mind in Salford is an independent, user focused charity providing vital services that make a positive difference to the wellbeing and mental health of local people.

As Treasurer, you will join a dedicated Board of experienced and passionate people, shaping our vision in partnership with a talented Senior Leadership Team. We are looking for someone who is not only committed to volunteering their time and expertise to support our work, but that believes in our mission and shares our values.

• Support the Board in its oversight of finances and finance strategy.
• Collaborate closely with the CEO and senior leaders to ensure effective financial management.
• Chair the Finance Committee, ensuring effective reporting to the Board and that action points are monitored and taken forward.
• Monitor and report on the financial health of the organisation.
• Lead with inclusive values, ensuring a high-performing Trustee Board and Senior Leadership Team.

WorldShare is a global Christian mission and development charity that is over 80 years old and based in Doncaster. We are currently recruiting for two new trustees to join the board from ethnically diverse backgrounds, in order to represent more accurately those we serve. 
 
At this time we particularly need someone with an accountancy / financial background to join our Finance sub-committee.

What does a Trustee look like?

Look in the mirror!

Right now, less than 3% of charity Trustees are under 30, 8% are people of colour and 36% are women. We are looking for people from across the UK and are keen to recruit trustees from all nations in the UK.

We value the many skills and experiences that you can bring to the Marine Conservation Society. We are committed to a Board culture that enables everyone to be their authentic selves and to enjoy the Trustee experience.

We believe that becoming a Trustee with us will be a rewarding journey for you – we want you to share your experience, your fresh perspectives, and we will listen to your views.

It’s a critical time for our ocean. There is not a moment to waste. Our goal is to recover the health of our ocean so it can help with healing our climate; to make seas protected in law to be protected in practice; and to stop the tide of plastic that’s getting into our waters.

Our Board needs people with a range of backgrounds, life stages, experiences, and skills who come together as a team to offer challenge and energy to one another, and to boost our ability to deliver for our ocean.

By joining as a Trustee, you will help navigate us through the risks and opportunities that we meet.

We want our organisation and Board to be reflective of our society. We recognise that we should all have the opportunity to take responsibility to protect our ocean for the future, so we are particularly interested in applications from groups which are typically under-represented on Boards. You can read our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement here.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion are essential to achieving ocean recovery so everyone can expect to be treated with consideration and respect in an atmosphere without prejudice, discrimination, harassment or violence.

What we’re looking for 

We’re looking for people to join our Board with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Finance – you might be a qualified accountant and have a background in finance and audit so that you can provide vital skills to help the Board oversee our financial management. An understanding of charity accounts and regulations would absolutely be an advantage. 

• Marketing & Communications – we want to reach new audiences to ensure a diverse and inclusive approach, and we are aiming to do that at scale. You may have experience of providing strategic support for increasing our reach and visibility. 

• Marine Conservation - you might have environmental knowledge, ideally on the marine environment, with policy and/or practical experience of conservation. A network of contacts across the marine sector, particularly with business or government, would be an advantage.

What you can bring to our Board can be just as interesting as where you’ve been working. You do not need to have previous charity trustee experience, but you will need to be comfortable participating at a senior level with complex discussions and the need to be comfortable making pragmatic but key decisions. 

Why join our board? 

Being a Trustee can be a challenge, but it’s also a brilliant opportunity for you to develop your skills, work as part of a team that shapes the direction of our charity in making tangible changes for the future of our ocean and planet. If you’re passionate about what we do, then you’ll feel the same excitement we have in making those changes happen. 

You don’t need to understand everything that we do or know the Latin names of fish, or in most cases, even to have experience of the charity sector. As a Trustee, you’ll develop your personal and professional knowledge, work on strategy and develop an approach to managing risk and broaden your influencing and negotiation skills in a new context. 

You’ll also gain insight and knowledge from your fellow Trustees, with everyone’s skills being recognised and valued. 

Trustees are volunteers, so the role is not paid but we will cover your costs for travelling and any overnight stays to attend meetings or events. 

Application and selection process 

We value the knowledge and experiences that you will bring to Marine Conservation Society, and they may have been developed in a range of ways, and by many routes.

We understand that the application process can be difficult if you have a condition or disability that you live with. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to shine during your application process, so please let us know what we can do to accommodate you.

Key dates 

Closing date: 31 May 2024 

1st Interviews June 2024 

2nd Interviews End of June/Early July 

Wesport (West of England Sport Trust) are passionate about about empowering people and communities through physical activity. The Charity supports organisations to improve the delivery of sport and physical activity initiatives in the West of England. The ripple effect of staying active is undeniable. Beyond the well-documented physical and mental benefits, studies link exercise to stronger relationships, academic/workplace success, a more integrated social life, and even reduced crime rates.

The organisation is the Active Partnership for this region, working with authorities in Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire. The trust’s mission is to inspire active lives, creating conditions wherever possible to help everyone move more. They look to establish conditions for long-term change, creating inclusive structures and enabling everyone to be physically active.

Wesport are seeking Trustees to help shape the future of the Charity, diversify the Board’s decision-making and expand their network. The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the organisation. They ensure the trust has a clear purpose, and that policies are aligned with Wesport’s vision. Trustees hold the Chief Executive accountable for delivering strategic objectives and oversee the management of financial resources. Additionally, they are spokespeople and representatives for the Charity at public events and conferences.

Wesport are searching for positive and proactive individuals who thrive in team environments. Candidates must be able to think objectively and make sound, independent judgements.

A background in management roles, or strategic planning projects is required, alongside knowledge of the West of England. The most important factor is that candidates are committed to the organisational values and passionate about positively impacting people and communities in the West of England. If you have the skills and experience to help fulfil Wesport’s vision and inspire active lives, please get in touch.

Bring your professional skills and experiences to the LTE Group, one of the UK’s largest education providers, who seek to add further expertise to their UCEN Manchester Divisional Board and Audit & Risk Committee.

Salary: £3,000 p/a and 5-8 hours per month

Applications close at 9 a.m. Monday 10th June

Who we are.

LTE Group is a family of five education and training providers working together to help communities gain skills to improve their life chances and grow their earning potential. Across LTE Group, we transform lives through the power of education and training, delivering further education, higher education, apprenticeships, and professional development, and we work in prisons to help offenders turn their lives around.

We are one of the largest education providers in the UK, and our provision spans a wide and diverse portfolio of education and training. Given the scope and scale of our delivery, outstanding governance is vital if we are to continue delivering high-quality provision, which leads to excellent outcomes for our learners whilst remaining compliant.

About the role.

To ensure that our governance remains robust and that, as a group of non-executives, we are able to continue offering support, advice and scrutiny to our senior leaders, we are now seeking to appoint new members to one of our committees and one of our Divisional Boards.

Firstly, we seek to appoint a co-opted member to join the UCEN Manchester Board. This Divisional Board provides oversight of the operation of the higher education provision offered by UCEN Manchester on behalf of the LTE Group.

We also seek to add a new co-opted member to our Audit & Risk Committee, whose remit is organisation-wide and whose support and challenge are vital if we are to ensure that, as an organisation, we remain compliant and can manage and mitigate the risks that affect us.

Both the UCEN Manchester Divisional Board and the Audit & Risk Committee meet three times per year, and members of these committees are required to attend in person.

Who we are looking for.

Co-opted Members are expected to support the work of the LTE Group Board of Governors through their membership of a divisional board or a group committee. You will be expected to contribute your expertise, skills and knowledge to support the operation of the UCEN Manchester Divisional Board or the Audit & Risk Committee and ensure the work is done efficiently and effectively.

As such, we are seeking candidates who are experts in their chosen fields and can demonstrate a strong interest in all aspects of the LTE Group’s broad provision, including further and higher education. Commitments to lifelong learning, high-quality education and training, and equality and diversity are all essential.

For the UCEN Manchester Divisional Board we are seeking candidates with senior leadership experience in the English higher education system, who have knowledge of OfS and TEF frameworks.

For the Audit & Risk Committee, we are seeking candidates with professional expertise and experience in cyber security.

Candidates for both roles must be able to work positively with others and contribute as a team member, have the ability to make reasoned decisions and be willing to contribute to establishing and monitoring performance at a strategic level.

We are seeking candidates who are keen to commit their time and knowledge to further the strategic objectives of the LTE Group and are strongly aligned with the values, ethos and mission of the organisation.

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 10th June.

About Care for Veterans

Care for Veterans (CfV) was established in 1919 as the Queen Alexandra Hospital Home to care for soldiers returning from World War I with life-changing disabilities. For over 100 years, it has provided long term nursing, rehabilitation, respite and end of life care to Veterans and their families.  The 62-bed home has been at Gifford House in Worthing since 1933.

CfV are seeking a Trustee with a finance and/or accountancy background, preferably with an ACCA/ICAEW qualification (or equivalent).  The successful candidate will join and in time, chair the Finance Committee.

What will you be doing?

ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Contributing at four board meetings, a strategy offsite and four Finance sub-committee meetings a year. These are usually held during business hours in Worthing.
• Develop a good understanding of CfV’s operations and the environment in which it operates;
• Monitor the performance of CfV in a constructive and inquisitive way;
• Making their time, skills, and experience available to CfV and its executive (in and outside of regular board meetings) and supporting key fundraising events;
• Average time commitment is 12-15 days per year

What are we looking for?

• You will have a background and/or qualification in finance or accountancy (ACCA/ICAEW or equivalent preferred). You will have strong commitment to the improving the lives of veterans and the work of CfV.
• Previous trustee experience is not necessary as new trustees will be given support and training. 
• Due to the work of the charity a DBS check and references will be required.
• What difference will you make?

OUR TRUSTEES

• Bring a range of diverse professional and real-world experience to the Board;
• Have a strong empathy with the Armed Services community;
• Are articulate communicators with integrity and a strong commitment to CfV’s beneficiaries;
• Are committed to the highest standards of charity governance.

Before you apply

If you are interested in becoming a trustee, please send an up-to-date CV and supporting statement to us via Reach, via the URL provided.

The relief and rehabilitation of people with disabilities,in particular by encouraging them to lead fuller and more active lives, and, wherever possible, assisting them to cope with their disability through active participation in he visual arts.

What will you be doing?

Conquest Art (CA) is a long-established charity which runs groups offering art in a conducive atmosphere for people with various health problems and challenges.  At the regular sessions they can make friends and enjoy the benefits of creativity through art.

The charity has several groups in the Surrey area as well as throughout the UK.  Exhibitions and promotional events take place at various times during the year.

CA seeks an addition to its small team of hands-on Trustees to assist with the management of the charity and, also, with publicity and promotional activities.  Apart from good communication skills and an interest in charity governance, no special qualifications are needed.

Trustee meetings are currently held bi-monthly on Zoom.

What are we looking for?

Experience in: Communications, Finance.

What difference will you make?

Ensuring the charity continues to develop and expand its operations throughout the UK, as the need for its services increases.

Comittment

Estimate of time needed:
Zero to 5 hours per month

Before you apply

Reach Volunteering's TrusteeWorks team are assisting Conquest Art CIO with their recruiting for this tole. If you are interested in becoming a trustee, please send an up-to-date CV and supporting statement to the TrusteeWorks team via the URL provided.

Trustee opportunities with Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust

 

Are you passionate about your local wildlife?

Would you like to join us in shaping and driving our vision for a wilder Leicestershire and Rutland?

If you answered “yes” to the above, we would love to hear from you!

Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust is the leading conservation membership charity in our two counties, and as we work to implement our ambitious new strategy for nature recovery in Leicestershire and Rutland, our Council needs to reflect a wide range of skills and expertise.

We are therefore looking for enthusiastic and committed people who share our values and vision to join our Trustee Council. All relevant experience will be considered, but in this round of recruitment, we would be particularly interested in hearing from applicants who have skills, knowledge and experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Public relations and media

• Conservation management policy and/or practice

• Community outreach and youth engagement

• Large-scale grant funding

• Big Data management, visualisation and impact measurement.

Our Trustees (who are also company directors) work collectively on the Council with responsibility for governing and directing how the Trust is managed and run. The roles are voluntary and unpaid and, whilst prior experience of the trustee role is not required (and training is available), we are looking for people who are willing and able to commit time to both a programme of regular meetings and ongoing engagement in a range of Trustee Council activities. 

Diversity within our Trustees group is essential. As a progressive charitable organisation, we champion equal opportunities and welcome applications from all sections of the community, regardless of any protected characteristic.

For more information about the Trust and this exciting opportunity, please visit our website to view the application pack and job description.

The pack will also give more details about the application process.

The closing date for this round of Trustee recruitment is 30th June 2024.

We look forward to hearing from you.

GFB are seeking someone with experience of working in a financial role to join the Board as a Trustee, who will be able to advise on financial matters, ensure we meet our financial obligations and help us build a sound financial strategy as we move forward. As a Trustee you will share collective responsibility for the governance of GFB and all decisions made by the board, ensuring the organisation is well run, fulfils its mission, ensuring compliance with charity law and that the charity is open and accountable.

Responsibilities

All trustees are responsible for setting the strategic direction for GFB, ensuring alignment to our values, defining goals, setting organisational policies, agreeing financial plans, evaluating the charity’s performance and ensuring good relationships amongst the trustees and with the senior staff.

Key tasks

All Trustees:

• Embrace the organisation’s vision, mission and values.
• Ensure the charity complies with its governing document and charity law.
• Ensure focus on strategy, performance, risk and assurance rather than operational matters.
• Act with integrity, making objective decisions without undue influence by special or personal interests.
• Ensure openness and accountability, build public trust and confidence in GFB’s work and legitimacy in representing beneficiaries and stakeholders.
• Uphold collective responsibility of the board.
• Commit sufficient time and energy to the role of trustee and make reasonable use of own skills and experience to support the work of the board and GFB.
• Ensure the principles of equity, equality, diversity and inclusion are embedded in GFB and help deliver public benefit.

Specific to the Treasurer Trustee:

• Oversee the financial affairs of GFB ensuring that they are conducted with probity and transparency.
• Ensure the board receives sufficient information to carry out its financial responsibilities.
• Ensure that the charity has robust and effective financial controls.
• Ensure appropriate financial policies.
• Ensure an annual budget is provided for board approval.
• Review management and statutory accounts are produced on time.
• Ensure that organisation risks are reviewed by the board annually.

Trustees may also undertake additional work for the charity between meetings subject to their availability and skill set.

We are looking for people who want to help their local community and work towards the eradication of food poverty whilst support the food bank to continue to provide emergency food to people who find themselves in crisis. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:

• Experience of working in a financial role such as a qualified & experienced accountant or banker. However, previous experience as a charity treasurer is not essential.
• Lived experience in Greenwich Borough 
• Passion for our vision and goals.
• Independent judgement and ability to think strategically.
• Able to work effectively as part of a trustee team, contributing and considering others views.
• Demonstrate the 7 principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
• Able to commit the time and effort required.
• Bring relevant capabilities that help the board perform its role effectively and achieve GFB’s vision.
• Understanding and commitment to principles of equality, equity, diversity and inclusion.

Our foodbank is a project founded by local churches and community groups, working together towards stopping hunger in our local area. We are seeking to recruit new trustees to bring extra skills and experience to a current board.

As a Trustee you will share collective responsibility for the governance of GFB and all decisions made by the board.  The Trustees ensure the organisation is well run and works to fulfil its mission. They act in the best interests of the charity and its beneficiaries, ensure compliance with charity law and that the charity is open and accountable.

Responsibilities

All trustees are responsible for setting the strategic direction for GFB, ensuring alignment to our values, defining goals, setting organisational policies, agreeing financial plans, evaluating the charity’s performance and ensuring good relationships amongst the trustees and with the senior staff.

Key tasks:

• Embrace the organisation’s vision, mission and values.
• Ensure the charity complies with its governing document and charity law.
• Ensure focus on strategy, performance, risk and assurance rather than operational matters.
• Act with integrity, making objective decisions without undue influence by special or personal interests.
• Ensure openness and accountability, build public trust and confidence in GFB’s work and legitimacy in representing beneficiaries and stakeholders.
• Uphold collective responsibility of the board.
• Commit sufficient time and energy to the role of trustee and make reasonable use of own skills and experience to support the work of the board and GFB.
• Ensure the principles of equity, equality, diversity and inclusion are embedded in GFB and help deliver public benefit.

Trustees may also undertake additional work for the charity between meetings subject to their availability and skill set.

We are looking for people who want to help their local community and work towards the eradication of food poverty whilst support the food bank to continue to provide emergency food to people who find themselves in crisis. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:

• Passion for our vision and goals.
• Independent judgement and ability to think strategically.
• Able to work effectively as part of a trustee team, contributing and considering others views.
• Demonstrate the 7 principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
• Able to commit the time and effort required.
• Bring relevant capabilities that help the board perform its role effectively and achieve GFB’s vision.
• Understanding and commitment to principles of equality, equity, diversity and inclusion.

The food bank would particularly welcome applications from those with experience in one (or more) of the following areas: 

• Lived experience in Greenwich Borough
• IT
• Data Protection
• Finance

Benslow Music is looking for new Trustees to join the charity’s Board of Trustees.

Now is an exciting time to join the organisation as it continues to shape and develop its programme. Following the arrival of a new Chief Executive at the beginning of the year, the organisation is entering a period of strategic renewal and building towards its centenary in 2029. 

Benslow Music’s Trustees have legal and financial responsibility for the charity and are responsible for overseeing the strategic direction of the organisation in partnership with the Chief Executive. Day to day management of the organisation is delegated to a professional administrative team led by the Chief Executive. Trustees are also ambassadors for the charity, supporting the team in fundraising and developing networks that will enable Benslow Music to realise its ambitions.

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, lived experience and professional knowledge. Following a recent skills audit, we are keen to hear from individuals with experience in the following areas:

· Professional experience in the cultural/music education sectors

· Finance

· Marketing and communications

· Fundraising

· Strategic development

· Health & Safety and/or building/estate management

· HR

· Charity governance

Application timeline:

Opportunity launched 24 April

Deadline for applications 22 May

Conversations with potential Trustees 3-17 June

Appointment July

Please see the How to Apply section for further details.

About Benslow Music

Benslow Music creates music learning experiences for people of all ages. We support individual development, inspire curiosity, celebrate creativity, and share all the life-long benefits music brings. We do this through a programme of residential, day and online music courses, a concert series and an instrument loan scheme.

At our campus in Hitchin, we welcome and provide learning opportunities to adult musicians of all abilities. We support everyone from late-starters to early-career professionals in unlocking their potential. We offer around 150 short courses throughout the year, covering genres from classical to jazz to folk, and opportunities to explore solo, small and large ensemble playing. Through regular concerts we provide a platform for emerging and acclaimed artists.

Benslow Music is home to the Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme, which holds a collection of over 800 string and woodwind instruments that are lent to young musicians aged 7-25. Each year over 500 loans ensure that borrowers, regardless of background, are able to grow and develop as musicians.

 

Benslow Music began as the Rural Music Schools Association in 1929, offering musical education to people of all ages who were outside urban centres. In 1952, the four-acre Victorian estate in Hitchin was bequeathed to the RMSA and has since developed into a lively campus for music activity, with two recital halls, practice rooms and accommodation for around 50 people. Renamed Benslow Music Trust in 1986, the Trust subsequently took responsibility for the Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme.

Plans for the future include ongoing development of creative music activities for all ages, an expanded online offer, additional collaborative and partnership working, and further development of our site facilities and accommodation. In short, Benslow Music weathered the pandemic and is now poised for continued evolution and diversification to reach new audiences in each area of activity. This is an exciting time at which to be joining the organisation, as we look towards our centenary celebrations in 2029.

About the Trustee role

Trustees play a vital role in ensuring that Benslow Music is able to achieve its vision and charitable objectives, providing critical challenge and oversight. The Board is a collective body. All Trustees share responsibility for decision making, being expected to act in the best interests of the charity.

Trustees have several areas of responsibility, some of which are defined by the Charity Commission. Additionally, Trustees are expected to:

· Ensure that the organisation uses its resources to pursue its charitable objects

· Oversee the strategic direction of the organisation, supporting its development through good governance

· Ensure that the organisation complies with legal requirements, particularly in the areas of finance, health and safety, and safeguarding

· Use personal skills, expertise and time to support the organisation’s development

· Actively participate in board meetings, committees and working groups as required.

· Act as an ambassador for Benslow Music

· Undertake tasks required by the Board from time to time

Time Commitment

The expected commitment is roughly equivalent to one day per month, although more may be required from time to time.

The Board meets four times per year, plus an Annual General Meeting held in June. These meetings are hybrid, and can be attended virtually or in person at Benslow. Where possible we encourage Trustees to attend meetings in person. Time will also be needed to read meeting papers.

Alongside, further informal meetings are held online, designed to give Trustees more space and time to discuss additional strategic areas. Trustees will usually be allocated to committees and working groups with delegated responsibilities based on their expertise and interests. Trustees are also expected to attend events at Benslow as their time permits.

Terms

Trustees are subject to periodic re-election by members on a rotational basis, typically every three years. There is currently no limit to their total length of service but this is under consideration by the Board. All Trustees are required to sign a declaration that they understand the legal responsibilities of being a Trustee and meet the eligibility requirements. All Trustees are also required to complete an enhanced DBS check.

Being a Trustee is a voluntary role, however reasonable expenses are paid to Trustees to ensure they can effectively participate in Board meetings. This may include expenses such as travel or a contribution towards childcare.

About you

We are seeking individuals who are forward-thinking, fair-minded and committed to the continued development of the organisation. You will be enthusiastic about the work of Benslow Music, sharing our values and vision and excited to join an organisation going through a period of change.

We are keen to hear from individuals who can show:

· Commitment to Benslow Music and its values

· Curiosity

· Openness and integrity

· Ability to make sound and informed decisions

· Creative and strategic thinking

· Ability to collaborate and communicate with a team

· Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

· Strong advocacy skills to act as an ambassador

· Understanding of the legal responsibilities of being a Trustee

 

We would like the Board to represent a broad range of skills, knowledge and lived experiences to help with its critical and strategic oversight. We are open to hearing from all professional backgrounds, in response to a recent skills audit we are keen to appoint Trustees with experience in:

· Cultural, music or music education sectors

· Finance

· Marketing and communications

· Fundraising

· Strategic or business development

· Health & Safety and/or building/estate management

· HR

· Charity governance

There is no requirement to have previous Trustee experience and training will be given to first-time Trustees.

We welcome all applications from people of all backgrounds, in particular from those who will diversify the lived experience of the Board, for example in terms of gender, disability, age and ethnic background.

Organisation structure

Benslow Music is a group of three entities led by Benslow Music Trust, a registered charity (313663) and a company limited by guarantee (408404). Trustees are both Trustees of the charity and Directors of the company. Benslow Music Trust is the corporate Trustee of Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme (BMILS), a registered charity (313755). Benslow Music Enterprises (registered company 10967344) is a trading subsidiary of Benslow Music Trust through which we conduct non-charitable activity.

The Board of Trustees currently numbers 11, with a number of Trustees due to retire at our next AGM. The Board is a welcoming and collaborative group which enjoys discussion and debate. Trustees act as critical friends to the organisation while meeting their legal and governance obligations.

Management of the organisation is through the professional staff team. This is led by the Chief Executive with support from senior management team (Heads of Finance, Music, BMILS, Operations and Development) and the wider staff team in administration and hospitality, numbering around 40 people in total.

How to apply

To apply, please see our website for details, which details where to send the following:

· Your CV

· A supporting statement (max 2 pages of A4) explaining why you are interested in becoming a Trustee of Benslow Music and how your skills and experience will support the strategic oversight of the organisation. Please state in the letter that you are eligible to become a Trustee and your willingness to complete an enhanced DBS check

· A completed equal opportunities monitoring form (this is anonymous and will be stored separately from your application)

Deadline for applications: 10am on Wednesday 22 May

Applications will be reviewed by the Nominations Committee of current Trustees, who will shortlist candidates to invite for further conversations during 3-17 June to be held via videocall.

We anticipate that selected candidates will be invited to attend and observe a Board meeting before being formally appointed as Trustees.

If you would like to arrange an informal pre-application conversation to discuss the role further, please email Michael Duffy.       

We are keen to ensure that our recruitment process is accessible to everyone. If you have any access requirements or barriers to application, please contact Michael Duffy to discuss how we might make reasonable adjustments to the process.  

Remuneration: Unpaid but reasonable expenses can be reimbursed

Restore has been supporting individuals across Oxfordshire since 1977. Members can attend recovery groups weekly for up to two years and receive one-to-one coaching. People are supported towards their own mental health recovery goals, such as moving-on to employment, volunteering or training. Restore is also home to the Oxfordshire Recovery College for therapeutic peer learning, and Restore are expert providers of formal mental health training.

Restore benefits thousands of people each year, directly and indirectly. 5,600 attendances at recovery group sessions with 510 individuals benefitting. Hundreds of individuals receive coaching from specialists and around 1,000 are trained in Mental Health First Aid.

Our Values;

• Recovery: Enabling people to recover from illness and manage their own mental health and wellbeing
• Support: Providing the opportunities to help ourselves and each other
• Hope: Offering a positive future where everyone can fulfil their potential
• Empowerment: Helping people to believe in themselves and what they can achieve
• Respect: Accepting without judging as each person is unique

We are now looking for additional Trustees to join our board. Are you passionate about mental health and keen to dedicate your skills to improve the lives of others? Read on…

What will you be doing?

Our trustees work effectively together to hold Restore “In Trust” for those who it is intended to benefit. Trustees play a critical role at Restore as they are the people who make sure the charity does what it says it will.

There are five main things that trustees are responsible for:

• Ensuring that Restore has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focussed on achieving these
• Being responsible, with the other trustees, for the performance of Restore and its culture
• Ensuring that Restore complies with all legal and regulatory requirements
• Being guardians of Restore’s assets, taking due care over their security and proper application
• Ensuring that Restore’s governance is of the highest possible standard

You can read more about the nature of a Trustee’s role in the Charity Commission Guidance.

Time Commitment 

You’ll need to be able to:

• Attend board meetings once per quarter from 4:30pm, which rarely exceed two and a half hours.
• Attend the Annual General Meeting (AGM) once per year.
• Join one of our subcommittees, linked to your skill set, in order to get a proper feel for what is going on and contribute to discussion and decision-making.
• Get involved in other activities depending on your skills/interests/preferences.
• Make visits to our recovery groups and head office teams to ensure we all stay close to the services we are providing
• Correspond by email to discuss items and make decisions between meetings.

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

Trustees are appointed (at the November AGM) for a three-year term at a time which can be extended twice, meaning a maximum of nine years.

Specialist skills

We are particularly keen to talk to people with the following specialist skills:

• Property/architecture/planning/surveying/large building project experience
• Clinical expertise in mental health
• Public sector/health sector experience

Don’t see yourself above? No problem - we are currently looking to talk to potential trustees with a wide variety of skills so please do contact us irrespective of whether you hold any of these specialisms.

Diversity

We have been a fairly diverse board over the years and are still looking for ways to improve. We recognise the need to be entirely representative of the community we serve in Oxfordshire and with this in mind, we’re keen for our board to reflect it. We would like to hear from adult applicants of all ages, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, sexual orientation, socio-economic background, religion, neurodiversity and lived experience.

Interested in applying?

If you wish to apply, please send a CV and demonstrate how you meet the criteria by answering the questions attached to this application form.

It is important to note that pre-appointment declarations will be requested to ensure that candidates have not been disqualified by law from acting as a trustee.

We will consider all applications and respond to candidates promptly. 

Please download the full role specification.

Do you want to help stop needless deaths from sepsis and help improve recovery of those affected by Sepsis. UKST are looking to recruit additional Trustees to its established Board

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that affects 245,000 people in the UK every year. At least 48,000 of those people lose their lives to the condition. We believe that earlier diagnosis and treatment across the UK would save thousands more lives a year.

The UK Sepsis Trust (UKST) was founded in 2012. Founder and Executive Director, Dr Ron Daniels BEM, is an NHS Consultant in Intensive Care:

“We seek to save lives from sepsis, and improve outcomes for survivors, by educating healthcare professionals, raising public awareness, providing support for those affected by this devastating condition and political lobbying. We will protect people by enabling the prevention of severe infection and the treatment of sepsis, whist helping to ensure antibiotics are used responsibly.”

The UK Sepsis Trust has ambitious plans to increase awareness, educate wider networks beyond direct care health professionals and provide support to an ever-increasing population of survivors and bereaved. We are seeking to diversify the existing Trustee Board by gaining access to broader and deeper skills, backgrounds, and experiences. Our Trustees work in partnership with our Chairman and Chief Executives to ensure our resources are applied to maximum effect to achieve our purpose – through a clear vision and strategy, whilst exercising stewardship to operate an appropriate framework of governance.

We are particularly interested in candidates from various backgrounds including:

• Clinical/Sepsis
• Finance & Charity governance
• Corporate Fundraising engagement
• Digital, web and apps

Key Tasks and Responsibilities will include:

• Working with the Chairman, fellow Trustees and Management Team to ensure UKST’s cultural values and ethos are fully understood and adhered to throughout the organisation
• Encouraging team-working and collaboration across the charity’s activities including supporters and volunteers
• Along with fellow Trustees, making decisions that will best enable the charity to carry out its purposes. Contributing to balanced and informed decisions about the long term as well as the short-term requirements for UKST
• Ensuring the Charity’s assets and resources are only used to support it carrying out its purpose
• Providing ad hoc advice to the Management Team on specific topics relevant to their skills and knowledge
• Keeping up to date with Charity Commission legislation changes
• Continually monitoring the Trust’s progress to determine if strategic priorities need to be adjusted

Person Specification

• Significant leadership experience and commitment to our purpose
• Ability to drive organisational change and navigate growth
• Willingness and ability to understand responsibilities and liabilities as Trustees of a Charity
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement, and work effectively as a Board member
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion, and numeracy to the extent required to understand the financial records and accounts

Time Commitment

The time commitment of the Trustees is variable but as a minimum they are required to attend the following:

• The Trustees have four formal meetings each year with the management team (2 of which are in person in either Birmingham/London).
• In addition there are four informal meetings with the management team along with regular Trustee only meetings which are all held virtually
• The Finance and Governance Trustee would also be required to attend four finance and audit committee meetings per year.

If you are interested in joining the team please apply with a cover letter and CV.