Volunteer Roles
Come and Mentor for Us!
What is Mentor Mums?
Mentor Mums exists in recognition of the fact that there is very little support for parents stepping back into the workplace after time away and it’s not always easy.
Whether parents step back reluctantly, or with huge ambition and drive, there’s no doubt that the first few months are full of bumps in the road, as they navigate everything from organizational or management changes to emergency calls from nursery requesting the collection of a sick baby!
People often feel that although their job stays largely the same, everything else about them, such as their priorities, sense of identity or capacity to work, has changed.
We help support parents through this, by providing them with a mentor who works in the same profession, but is a few steps ahead in their parenting journey and can give them advice and support as they return.
Who are you for?
We welcome parents of all kinds, inclusive of gender, sexuality, adoptive parents and those from all models of family, who have taken a period time out of work to care for their children and would like support in returning to work.
Some of our mentees are seeking emotional and pastoral support, while others are focused on career progression and getting back up to date with their professional skills or knowledge.
What do you do?
Our mentoring programme is totally free to access, and matches newly returning parents with mentors who work in a similar professional role and can help them navigate their journey as a working parent.
Mentorships usually take place virtually, or occasionally in person, and mentors offer 6 hours of their time over 6 months to help someone initially survive, but eventually to thrive.
What is the onboarding process?
All mentors and mentees book in for an initial chat with one of our team, so we can check your fit for our programme, understand your professional role, and get a sense of your own experience of becoming a parent.
In mentors, we’re looking for people who remember the challenges, are ready to support someone in a non-judgmental or prescriptive way, and who are willing to be open about the struggles they encountered in their own journey.
What is the time commitment for volunteers?
The initial onboarding call with our team takes around 20 minutes, and further to this we ask mentors to watch a short (15 minute) video and read our handbook.
We then ask for a commitment to a mentee of 6 hours across 6 months (roughly 1 hour per month), plus admin time pre-post sessions. The 6-session model is tried and tested. It helps people move from ‘survival mode’ to thinking about the longer-term future, whether that includes growing their family further and/or progressing in their career, leaving them in a position of strength when the mentoring comes to an end.
Why would you recommend volunteering as a mentor?
People generally mentor for us because they understand the challenges others are facing as they return, and often wish this service had existed when they returned themselves! This is a chance to be the lifeline that another parent needs, helping them to return to their job successfully whilst also embracing family life.
Previous participants have told us the programme has made a huge difference to their return.
Mentees have said:
“There was an opportunity for a promotion shortly after I returned. My mentor helped me remember what I was capable of doing, and taught me that I can do so much more than I thought. Friends will support you, but sometimes you need to hear from someone who can offer an impartial ear.”
“My experience with Mentor Mums has been amazing - it was exactly the support that I didn’t even realise I needed at the right time. My mentor provided me with planning strategies, and so many work-day framing exercises. She instilled confidence into me; empowering me to make the right decisions, question stakeholders and even helped me pluck up the courage to ask for a promotion and pay rise. Mentoring has benefited my life in so many ways.”
Mentors have said:
“Mentoring someone else has been a growth experience for me – through the conversations I notice more about my own approaches to certain situations, and the things I still need to work on. Mentoring also gives me the chance to consider the way I support those in my own company grappling with similar challenges.”
“Mentoring has been a really rewarding experience. My mentee and I still keep in touch and it’s become a more mutually beneficial relationship over time.”
What types of professionals/experience are you looking for?
We would welcome mentors from all areas of the business at all levels of seniority and we currently have a long waiting list for mentors! We try to match people with their professional peers, except when we feel that particular lived experience (e.g. bereavement during parenthood, life as an adoptive parent, etc) might provide better synergy between a mentee and their mentor.
Who is eligible to be a mentor?
Anyone with lived experience as a working parent or carer of a young child is eligible to mentor for us. We expect all our mentors to adopt an inclusive attitude, mentoring people regardless of any protected characteristic, offering support without judgement.
How can we can get involved?
You can apply to mentor via our website. You’ll be asked to create a login and sign up for a call. Then we’ll match you with a mentee as soon as we find one and you can get started straight away!
Where can we find out more?
You can find FAQs on our website here. If you have further questions, please email us.
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
SATURDAY CHARITY SHOP VOLUNTEER
The RSPCA Suffolk Central Branch is an independent charity that helps animals in the local area. The charity would like to hear from anyone based in Stowmarket who can spare a few hours to help with the charity’s work.
Are you a people person? Do you have customer service, front-of-house, or retail experience? Or perhaps you are a friendly face with a willingness to help? If so – could you be a charity shop volunteer working on the shop floor?
Our charity shops raise vital funds to help rescue and rehome animals. We are seeking friendly, patient, and polite volunteers to assist on the shop floor in our stores. From putting sales through the till to accepting donations at the door, your time could help raise much-needed funds and give you the opportunity to socialise with like-minded people or refresh your retail skills.
If you’d like to join us, we’d love to hear from you!
Tasks and responsibilities include:
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Process sales through the till
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Accept donated goods at the door, taking donor details
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Provide an excellent customer experience for every shopper
We would love to hear from you if you’d like to use your skills, time, and passion for animals to make a difference in Suffolk.
Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Norfolk Citizens Advice provides free, confidential, accredited and impartial advice. We are looking for people who wish to contribute to the wellbeing of their local communities and develop their own skills and experience.
What will you be doing?
We provide free, confidential, accredited and impartial advice, campaigning on big issues affecting people's lives. Our goal is to help everyone find a way forward, whatever problem they face.
We are an independent charity and part of the Citizens Advice network across England and Wales. People come to us with all sorts of issues: money, benefit, housing or employment problems. We help people who may be facing a crisis, or just considering their options.
We value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination wherever we see it.
We are looking for people who wish to contribute to the wellbeing of their local communities and welcome the opportunity to develop their own skills and experience.
What are we looking for?
No formal qualifications are required and we welcome trustees from a wide range of backgrounds. We are particularly interested in strengthening our skills in finance, fundraising and/development, people and culture and property management.
Experience in the health and social care sector, local government and local corporate organisations would also be helpful.
What difference will you make?
Thank you for your interest in becoming a Trustee at Norfolk Citizens Advice – a local charity for the whole community. You will be joining us at a time when there is increased demand for our services, as the economic challenges impact on people’s financial circumstances and their general well-being.
Our immediate imperative is to continue to maintain excellence in service delivery. Citizens Advice is a service that prizes quality very highly, and earlier this year we secured the highest levels of accreditation for our advice service that can be attained. We have long been a bold organisation that has the confidence to forge new paths and new relationships in pursuit of our commitments and stated objectives.
It is vital that our trustees share our passion for supporting our communities, valuing diversity, promoting equality and challenging discrimination wherever we see it.
Before you apply
Your application should comprise a CV along with a supporting statement indicating how you meet the person specifications of the role and your motivations for applying. If you would like an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please request this in your email and we will arrange a conversation with the Chair of the Board of Trustees, David Browne.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Active Gloucestershire seeks two Trustees
5 x Board Meetings per year – 3 hours
4 to 6 Sub-Committee Meetings per year – 2 hours
They’re seeking two Trustees to help mould the organisation’s future and enable everyone in Gloucestershire to live healthy, happy lives.
Active Gloucestershire inspires and enables people to improve their lives through physical activity. Physical activity is a key factor to improving wellbeing, and social inequalities can create barriers to physical activity. Active Gloucestershire is committed to ensuring everyone can enjoy the transformative benefits of physical activity - regardless of their background.
The organisational vision is for everyone in Gloucestershire to live healthy and happy lives. This is delivered though we can move - a social movement committed to getting Gloucestershire physically active. As the coordinating body for we can move, Active Gloucestershire work with many partners to promote an active, healthy lifestyle; from community and voluntary groups to schools, local authorities and national organisations such as Sport England.
For this position, Active Gloucestershire hope to hear from strategic thinkers, who are able to remain objective and focus on the bigger picture during decision-making. They will be committed to personal development, and strongly advocate for equality, diversity and inclusion.
In addition to these characteristics, the successful candidates will have experience in one or more of the following areas:
The voluntary and community sector - including Charity leadership.
Health, wellbeing or physical activity in Gloucestershire
People who have been impacted by inequalities in sport and physical activity
They welcome applications from any and all backgrounds. Experience as a Trustee is not necessary - alignment with the organisational values is far more important. New Trustees will receive an induction and will be paired with a ‘Board Buddy’ to gain the knowledge, confidence and skill to hit the ground running.
Whether you are an experienced trustee or wanting to take your first step at Board level we would like to hear from you.
What will you be doing?
We are looking for people to join our board of trustees to help take Cheltenham Almshouses and Aid forward. We would particularly welcome those with experience of building maintenance and development of new properties, health and safety, finance and investment, risk control, social care and marketing.
Many of the properties we own are of older stock and there is a constant challenge to keep the buildings well maintained and up to standard, in line with health and safety requirements whilst providing comfortable and affordable living.
We have recently built four new wonderful apartments within a conservation area and may possibly in the future look at extending our current stock of properties with more new builds.
We have a healthy balance sheet and would look to new trustees to guide the charity with new investment opportunities.
At present we have little presence on social media and would welcome a trustee on board who could help us in this field and ultimately give us the presence we so need. By maintaining a wait list this reduces the risk of void apartments and subsequent decrease in income.
We provide housing to many people who are working but cannot afford the market rents, for those retired who want to live in well maintained, peaceful communities. Some of our beneficiaries may need help with more personal matters such as benefit applications, liaising with social services, the clerk will deal with these aspects directly but additional knowledge of areas such as benefits and pensions would be immensely valuable to our beneficiaries, some of whom may not have any family members nearby to support them.
Many thanks for your time reading this.
What are we looking for?
- Communications and Marketing
- Building and conservation, property and maintenance
- Health and Safety within housing
- Finance
- Leadership
- Legal
What difference will you make?
This is an amazing opportunity to give a small amount of time, whilst knowing you are making a real difference to the lives of our residents.
With you on board as a trustee we can ensure that the Almhouses continue for many, many more years, helping those less fortunate by providing safe well maintained homes in wonderful communities, while ensuring the long term financial stability, governance of the charity and to help formulate the vision for the future.
Before you apply
Please apply through Reach in the first instance. Interviews will be in person at a convenient location, representatives from the board of trustees will be present with the Clerk.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We're looking for a volunteer to join the Engagement Team to support them while they work to increase income and awareness for the charity. The specific tasks may include but are not limited to the following:
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Copywriting, for example creating content for social media posts and writing news updates.
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Designing materials using Canva.
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Producing regular reports to give insights for social media strategies.
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Writing press releases.
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Monitoring press coverage and updating a press tracker spreadsheet.
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Carrying out desk-based market research.
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Updating the website – including uploading news stories, updating the online shop and merchandise stock levels.
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Writing family and fundraiser case studies.
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Digital organisation of photos and case studies.
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Updating the CRM.
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General administration duties, such as printing and laminating marketing materials, sending out merchandise, and franking post.
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Any other duties as assigned by your Volunteer Supervisor.
We’re looking for a volunteer who has:
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Experience in marketing.
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An understanding of design tools, such as Canva.
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Ability to use Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
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Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Support and Benefits
It’s vital that our volunteers feel rewarded for their amazing efforts so we want to match your goals, aspirations, availability and everything else with the right opportunity for you. Here are a few examples of what you will receive as a volunteer:
- Opportunity to develop new and existing skills to help you beyond your involvement with Candlelighters
- Regular reviews with your Volunteer Supervisor to help you develop in your role
- Access to the mental health hotline
- Charity Worker Discount card
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Global impact volunteers seeks to give volunteers those who are taking a gap year those who want to try something differentto travel to Ghana anyone who wants to have a life changing experience who want to impact other lives the platform to make a difference in the lives of others with their skills and innovative ideas whilst they also learn from other cultures. You will work with children from a wide age range,
Global impact volunteer is searching for motivated and driven individuals who are passionate about making a global impact. We welcome all individuals regardless of their race, color, social status, or continent to join us in promoting active community integration through service learning.
By participating in our program, individuals can boost their confidence, self-esteem, and employability, becoming valuable members of their nation and the world. We offer placement opportunities for those who wish to experience life outside of their country and make a positive impact through service learning.
Our program takes care of all necessary arrangements, including safe and secure accommodation, to ensure a memorable experience for our volunteers and their hosts. Join us today to learn and live while making a difference in the world.
Volunteering abroad offers numerous benefits. Firstly, youth who volunteer are more employable due to the strong work ethic, interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills they develop through their voluntary work. Additionally, volunteering can have a positive impact on your mental, social, emotional, and physical well-being by providing life-changing experiences.
Volunteering also promotes independence and helps you make your own decisions, as you may find yourself far from home, friends, and luxuries. It encourages you to be more aware of life’s issues and committed to bringing change to your community and the world. Lastly, volunteering helps you identify yourself, increases your self-esteem and empathy for other humans, especially the vulnerable, and connects you with like-minded youth.
Give people the opportunity to offer their skills, time to build stronger, positive impact and more active communities.
Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? We are looking for a new trustee to join our board of trustees, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of volunteering and community projects in Kensington and Chelsea, one of London’s most diverse boroughs.
Established in 1969, we are the oldest Volunteer Centre in the country and are deeply rooted in the local community, empowering individuals to contribute positively through volunteering. Our programs support diverse groups, including those living with disabilities and mental health challenges, ex-offenders, as well as marginalised residents seeking employment opportunities.
As a trustee, you will play a pivotal role in guiding the Volunteer Centre towards its mission of fostering positive change in Kensington & Chelsea. Responsibilities include:
- Attend and actively participate in board meetings, promoting constructive dialogue and decision-making.
- Uphold the best interests of VCKC, maintaining positive public representation and adhering to confidentiality standards.
- Possess enthusiasm for volunteering, willingness to commit time and effort, and desirable knowledge of Kensington & Chelsea and the voluntary sector.
- Demonstrate strong communication, analytical, and collaborative skills.
Join us in shaping the future of volunteering in Kensington & Chelsea. Become a trustee and make a meaningful impact today. If you are ready to make a difference, apply now and be part of something meaningful.
Exeter Humanist are a local section of Humanists UK. All Humanists UK members and supporters in the local area are automatically part of the section.
Exeter Humanists aim to provide a range of activities for non-religious living in Exeter to meet, socialise, campaign, raise awareness of humanism, participate in local civic life and support each other. The local section represents Humanists UK and the local humanist community at public events and in public forums.
Exeter Humanists is led by a team of volunteers that organises events and activities throughout the year.
As Events Manager, you will lead and develop the Exeter Humanists team.
Your main responsibilities will be to:
● Work with the Coordinator to develop an annual programme of online and in-person events.
● Lead the delivery of all events, including speaker acquisition, venue relations, volunteer briefing, and promotion.
You may also be asked to:
● Collaborate with other groups on joint events.
● Ensure that a fundraising element is in place at events.
● Support other volunteers to organise individual events.
Please view the full application pack before applying.
To apply for the role, please email to let us know:
- Who you are, including a little bit about yourself
- Why you are interested in the role
- What you think you’d bring to the role (e,g. your skills and experiences that would be particularly relevant)
- What you’d like to get out of the role
- Any concerns, or extra support you’d need in the role
Once we receive your application for the role, we will promptly confirm receipt. If we believe you'll be a great fit for the position, we will arrange an informal conversation with the Branch Volunteer Coordinator, Wayne.
We hope the pack contains all the information you will need to decide whether the role is right for you, and to apply. However, if you have any questions before you apply, you are more than welcome to contact us for more information.
As mentioned, while this role operates remotely, we require volunteers to be situated in or near the local area. This ensures their accessibility for any necessary in-person meetings and events and helps to build connections in the local community.
You can read our Recruitment and Promotion and Equal Opportunities policies online.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Introduction
We appreciate your interest in joining Feedback’s Board of Trustees.
This application pack gives an overview of the organisation, the role and the application process.
Feedback was founded in 2009, and in 2013 was established as a charity. The Board of Trustees introduced then has overseen Feedback’s development as an organisation and a programme that has helped make food waste the massive issue it now is in society. Today we are known for tackling issues like food access, justice, and the environmental impact of food production and for piloting alternative models for a fair and sustainable food system for all.
Feedback is at an exciting time in its development. We are looking for someone who can bring passion, experience, knowledge and insight as we continue to help further our mission of a food system that regenerates the natural world while sustaining people on a fair basis.
We have taken positive steps to increase the diversity of trustees on the Feedback Board, but like a lot of environmental charities we don’t have the level of diverse backgrounds, particularly around race and disability, on our governing body we really should. We want to change that.
If you would like an informal discussion about any aspect of the role and / or the organisation, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Shirley who will arrange a telephone call with our Executive Director, Carina Millstone or Chair of Trustees, Ruth Chambers.
Here are the profiles for current staff and Trustees at Feedback.
Aims and Activities
Anti-oppressive statement: Feedback is actively seeking to move through an anti-racist and anti-oppressive journey in every aspect of its work. We acknowledge that the environmental sector is less open to people from under-represented backgrounds, and we are strongly committed to identifying and correcting where we may be perpetuating patriarchal, white supremacist values and other forms of oppression in our organisational culture, partnerships, and community work. We especially want to hear from you if you feel that you have lived experience of power structures preventing you from accessing opportunities like this.
Feedback is a UK and Netherlands-based campaign group working for food that is good for people and planet. We want a world where:
- All people have secure access to delicious, culturally appropriate food that is nutritious and does not cause environmental harm
- Global supply chains, farming and fishing contribute to food sovereignty, good livelihoods, mitigate climate change and enable nature to thrive
- Communities have agency to create food economies that are inclusive, equitable, resilient and celebratory
To meet these objectives, we carry out the following activities:
- We delegitimize corporations
- We ideate and advocate for policy change and regulation
- We nurture community agency
- We widen our circle of allies
- We change culture and public discourse
More information is set out in Feedback's Strategic Framework here
The Role of the Board
The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines. Specifically, the Board is responsible for:
- Ensuring that the charity and its representatives function within the legal and regulatory framework of charities and in line with the organisation’s governing document, continually striving for best practice in governance.
- Upholding the fiduciary duty invested in the position, undertaking such duties in a way that adds to public confidence and trust in the charity.
- Determining the overall direction and development of the charity through good governance and clear strategic planning.
Trustee - Role Description
- Ensuring the charity complies with legislative and regulatory requirements, and acts within the confines of its governing document and in furtherance to organisational activities contained therein.
- Acting in the best interest of the charity, beneficiaries and future beneficiaries at all times.
- Promoting and developing the charity in order for it to grow and maintain its relevance to society.
- Maintaining sound financial management of the charity’s resources, ensuring expenditure is in line with the organisations’ objects, and investment activities meet accepted standards and policies.
- Interviewing, appointing, and monitoring the work and activities of the senior paid staff if necessary.
- Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the charity and its resources, acting as a counter-signatory on charity cheques and any applications for funds if necessary
- Maintaining absolute confidentiality about all sensitive/confidential information received in the course of trustee’s responsibilities to the charity.
Accountable to
- Funders, beneficiaries, the Charity Commission, and Companies House.
Time commitment
- Attendance at quarterly meetings (held in central London on a weekday from 2–5pm)
- Ad hoc advice and support to senior staff and Board members, usually via email.
- Term for all Trustees is 3 years, with the option of re-election by mutual agreement for one further term.
Person Specification
- A commitment to the organisation and fixing our broken food system, including a commitment to Feedback's core values of collaboration, celebration, audacity, solidarity and impact
- Previous governance experience and an understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and effectively as a member of a team
- A commitment to Feedback’s anti-oppression work
- Experience in either marketing, community work and safeguarding, or law
Remuneration
This is an unsalaried position. Appropriate expenses associated with travel will be reimbursed by the charity.
The Recruitment Process
Please write a statement of no more than 500 words detailing why you’d like to be considered and how you meet the criteria in the person specification. Please submit this with your CV.
Deadline to apply: Wednesday 15th May, 9am
Interviews: Week commencing 3rd June 2024
Board meeting dates (successful candidates will be invited to join):
Thursday 25th July 2024
Thursday 24th October 2024
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.
Orchestras Live seeks a new Chair to lead the Board of Trustees and help steer the organisation through its next phase of development.
Orchestras Live believes orchestras are for everyone. Our mission is to ensure everyone has access to and can enjoy the benefits of live orchestral music, regardless of their background. We work throughout England in places which have experienced historical underinvestment, including rural and coastal areas. Our projects can take place in schools, care homes, prisons, arts venues, museums, outdoors and online.
If you believe in and want to advocate for the power of culture to create social impact and positive change, this role could be of interest to you. It is not essential to have knowledge of orchestral music or the orchestral sector. However, it’s important that you recognise the unique role that orchestras can play in supporting a culturally vibrant and resilient society, and love music – orchestral or otherwise.
About us
Orchestras Live believes orchestras are for everyone. We are a national producer and create projects where music and creativity can thrive. We work to ensure communities across England have access to world-class orchestral experiences.
We are seeking a new Chair from November 2024 when Tony Stoller steps down after 6 years in the role.
Through our innovative and developmental approach Orchestras Live has become a leader in the sector. We collaborate with local, regional and national organisations to energise and shape orchestral programmes, prioritising the needs and interests of audiences and participants. We are motivated by the knowledge that there is much still to be done to engage new audiences, break down social, economic and demographic barriers to access and support the development of an orchestral profession that reflects the diversity of today’s society.
Our new Chair will share our belief in and commitment to the power of culture to create social impact and positive change. It is not essential to have knowledge of orchestral music or the orchestral sector. However, we are looking for someone who recognises the unique role that orchestras can play in supporting a culturally vibrant and resilient society, informed by a love of music (orchestral or otherwise).
Our current trustees bring a wide range of expertise and diverse perspectives to Orchestras Live.
Vision, Mission and Values
VISION
Orchestras are for everyone.
MISSION
To engage people of all ages and backgrounds, particularly those in historically under-invested, non-metropolitan communities in England, in creating work that harnesses the transformative power of orchestral music to inspire, bring joy and support wellbeing.
VALUES
Our values set the standard by which we hold ourselves to account and ask partners to do the same.
We are
Creative
To ensure that the orchestral experiences we co-produce are ambitious, meaningful and relevant.
To devise innovative solutions that underpin efficient organisational systems.
Inclusive
To ensure equity of access and opportunity across our delivery programme and organisational structure.
Collaborative
We respect and understand the needs and aspirations of communities with whom we work, our partners’ challenges and ambitions, and the expertise and potential within our staff and trustees.
Environmentally responsible
We raise ambition for ourselves and the sector to improve environmental responsibility, take focused action and collaborate to mitigate and minimise the environmental impacts of our operations and co-productions.
Forward-looking
To explore new developments and their potential – artistic, technological, environmental, societal or organisational – so that we offer innovative and dynamic leadership to the sector.
Who we are looking for, and why
We are looking for an exceptional individual with the experience, integrity and skills necessary to act as a powerful ambassador for Orchestras Live, and to lead the Board in the governance of the organisation. Leadership experience in any sector and an understanding of the role of not-for-profit Boards are essential. A willingness and ability to devote the necessary time and effort to the role of Chair is also required.
We are interested in hearing from candidates who can demonstrate their suitability in the following essential areas:
Experience and skills
- Leadership role in any sector, paid or voluntary
- Strategic leadership: working with others to agree objectives, devise, communicate and support the delivery of an organisational plan
- Assessing and managing risk
- Networking, advocating and building relationships, on behalf of an organisation, a sector or a cause
Knowledge
- Best practice corporate and/or charity governance principles
- Financial literacy
In addition, please let us know if you are able to bring experience, skills or knowledge in one or more of the following beneficial areas.
- Board membership in the not-for-profit sector
- Working in or with organisations and with individuals in the cultural sector
- Working in or with public bodies, e.g. local authorities
- Working with national policy makers
- Developing organisational strategies to achieve more equality of opportunity, diversity and inclusion
- Identifying new sources of income, including income-generating models, for the not-for-profit cultural sector
- Using data to understand and articulate the value of cultural/creative activity and support decision making
- The operational and creative potential of digital technology
- The structure of publicly funded cultural provision in England and the role of Orchestras Live within it
- The role of central and local government in supporting artists and public access to the arts, and their current policy priorities relating to culture, education and social policy
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, age groups and cultures. The Board has made specific commitments to embed equity of access and opportunity across our delivery programme and organisational structure. To help us deliver these, we are keen to hear from Global Majority, D/deaf and disabled candidates to support better representation on our Board and in leadership positions in our sector.
Candidates who self-identify as belonging to one or more of these groups and can demonstrate experience in the essential areas listed above will be guaranteed an online interview at the first stage.
We offer access support for people who face barriers to inclusion, meeting in accessible venues, being flexible in scheduling meetings at different times of day and covering travel expenses as outlined in our Inclusion Statement, which can be found at the end of this document.
About you
You will believe in the power of culture to create social impact and positive change, supporting your commitment to Orchestras Live’s purpose and vision;
You will share our commitment to creating a more equitable orchestral sector and to cementing an inclusive approach across everything we do and how we do it;
You will demonstrate a strong affinity with our organisational values: Inclusive, Collaborative, Forward-looking, Creative and Environmentally Responsible;
You will demonstrate confidence and persuasiveness whilst adopting a collaborative leadership style;
Your leadership style will reflect Orchestras Live’s fair and transparent decision making culture;
You will be able to build resilient and supportive working relationships with trustees, the CEO and management team that facilitate positive discussion and challenge where appropriate;
You will share our enthusiasm for people who bring different work and life experiences, perspectives and ways of doing things to the organisation. We want to work with people who have open ears and an open mind to new approaches, prepared to challenge the status quo.
What you will be expected to do
Overall objectives of the role
- Provide leadership to the Board of Orchestras Live, ensuring it fulfils its responsibilities for governance of the organisation and supports realisation of its vision and mission.
- Work in partnership with the Chief Executive to develop and deliver the vision, mission and strategy of the organisation.
- Act as ambassador for Orchestras Live, helping to shape external relationships that will reinforce its national position and strengthen its ability to secure funding from a wide range of sources to fulfill its mission.
Trustees meet as a full Board at least four times a year and there are a small number of standing committees and working groups. Board meetings and an annual Away Day generally alternate between Leeds and London; as our trustees are based in different parts of the country, meetings are usually hybrid so that trustees may attend either in person, or online when distance and scheduling is an issue. Committees and working groups usually meet on Zoom. Papers are circulated by email in good time for trustees to read them thoroughly before the meeting.
The Chair can expect to commit to the equivalent of up to 30 days per year. This includes monthly meetings (in person or online) with the Chief Executive and regular communication with the Chief Executive and/or Company Secretary as required, as well as time spent in preparation and planning regarding governance and strategy. Full day commitments are rare; the expectation would be mostly for half days and 1-2 hour meetings (generally online).
In addition, all trustees are expected to attend at least two Orchestras Live activities a year and contribute feedback for our internal evaluation systems.
Whilst the role is voluntary and unpaid, travel and other appropriate expenses are reimbursed.
Term
We are looking for a Chair for an initial, minimum three-year term; ideally to be renewed for a second term to a total of six years.
Our Chair is appointed by the Orchestras Live Board of Trustees and is accountable to them.
The Role of Chair
The Chair of Trustees has the same legal responsibilities as other Trustees, but has additional responsibilities assigned by the Board.
Board leadership and meetings
- Chairing meetings of the Board and ensuring that, through the Board and its committees, the Board runs effectively, fulfils its duties and carries out resolutions. Calling special meetings if necessary. Drawing up agendas for meetings with the Chief Executive and Company Secretary.
- Chairing meetings effectively and sympathetically, creating an environment in which all Board members are encouraged to participate and challenge constructively and appropriately.
- Ensuring that high standards of corporate governance and ethical, professional behaviour are maintained and, as appropriate, introduced to meet changing circumstances and good practice.
- Fostering collaborative and effective relationships between the Board, the Chief Executive and the staff team.
Governance
- With the Board, ensuring that financial controls and systems of management and risk are in place and effectively operated, and that the Board is kept informed in a timely and relevant manner of key issues and opportunities and performance against the business plan.
- To support, challenge and appraise the Chief Executive in managing the organisation, maintaining a balance between artistic and business goals, and ensuring a clear separation between executive and non-executive roles following corporate governance principles.
- Conducting periodic Board effectiveness reviews, ensuring that new Board members are fully inducted and that existing Board members are contributing effectively.
- Keeping an eye open for conflicts of interest.
- Generally keeping in touch with Trustees to ensure that they feel valued and can make a full contribution to Orchestras Live.
Advocacy
- Representing the Board and organisation to external stakeholders including funders, national and local government politicians, policy makers and the media where appropriate.
- Being a champion for fundraising, helping to identify and develop relationships with potential and existing donors and supporters.
- Encouraging Trustees to play an active role as advocates in their networks, attend events and external meetings when the Chief Executive or senior staff would value this.
Your relationship with Orchestras Live
With a clear vision and goals, and efficient operations, Orchestras Live aims to create a supportive and open working environment, that enables individuals to perform at their highest level. We support new trustees with a full induction process.
We offer access support for people who face barriers to inclusion, meeting in accessible venues, being flexible in scheduling meetings at different times of day and covering travel expenses as outlined in our Inclusion Statement.
In return for your time and commitment, we offer you the opportunity to play a leading role in a highly respected, innovative and forward-thinking organisation, bringing the thrill of live orchestral music to people and places all over England and steering new thinking in the sector. You will have the opportunity to gain new insights into the cultural and charitable sectors, connecting with national and local government and expanding your knowledge and skills.
Exploratory conversation
If you would like to have a conversation with the Vice-Chair, Chief Executive or departing Chair regarding any aspect of the role, please contact us.
How to apply
Please email your CV together with a covering letter of up to 2 pages (or a 5-minute film or audio recording if you prefer).
We encourage you to explain why you are interested in joining the Board of Orchestras Live, and describe how you demonstrate your suitability in relation to the essential areas outlined in the section on ‘Who we are looking for’. In addition, please let us know if you are able to bring experience, skills or knowledge in one or more of the beneficial areas listed.
Please address your letter or recording to our Vice-Chair, Helen Harrison.
Applicants who wish to disclose protected characteristics are asked to make Orchestras Live aware of this in their cover email.
If you have any access needs or other practical questions you would like to discuss before applying, please email or phone us.
The closing date for applications is 9 am on Tuesday 7 May 2024. First round interviews will take place online in the week commencing 3 June 2024. Candidates who reach the second round will then be invited to an informal meeting in person in June/July 2024.
On receipt of their application, applicants will be sent a link to complete a survey requesting personally sensitive data, enabling Orchestras Live to track the demographics of those who apply. Completion of this survey is entirely voluntary and all data is anonymised. Provision of this information is not part of the recruitment process.
Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
We are committed to increasing diversity and inclusion within Orchestras Live and the wider orchestral sector. This means reflecting critically on issues of diversity and inclusion within all that we do, identifying and taking appropriate action to reduce inequality and improve equity of opportunity.
For all roles, whether voluntary or paid, we welcome applications from anyone regardless of disability, ethnicity, heritage, gender, sexuality, religion or socio-economic background. We are committed to inclusive working practices and during the application process we commit to:
- Paying for your travel costs for interviews if they are held in person
- Paying for childcare while you’re attending an interview
- Making and paying for any reasonable adjustments to meet your needs and ensure equity during the application and interview process
- Providing all relevant information online and in Word document format, readily available to download from our website
If there is anything you’re concerned about or think we could provide, please email or phone us and we will do our best to help.
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.
Join us as a Blood Pressure UK trustee and treasurer
Would you like to represent the Blood Pressure UK trustee board as our treasurer?
Who are Blood Pressure UK?
Blood Pressure UK is a national charity which was established in 1996. In the UK, 16 million people are estimated to have high blood pressure with one in three (5 million+ people) unaware their blood pressure is raised. Known as the Silent Killer as you can be unaware your blood pressure is raised until you experience heart attack or stroke, or it’s picked up in a random check.
For over 20 years we have been leading the light on people understanding their blood pressure numbers so if needed they can take the steps needed to reduce it. This culminates each year with Know Your Numbers Week! in September, a week-long campaign with a range of partners for people to understand their blood pressure numbers with advice and guidance of how to make vital changes to their lifestyles to change it.
Our Team
Blood Pressure UK currently have a staff team of three (two who are part-time). We contract an external accounting company to provide financial services to the charity including annual accounts, monthly management accounts, payroll, invoice creation and book keeping, making sure the charity complies with relevant governance for the charity commission and companies house.
What we are looking for…
We are looking for a qualified accountant, either working or recently retired with ideally experience of charity financial processes but not essential.
You may have a connection either personally or through family and friends with high blood pressure but it’s not a prerequisite for the role. Your experience and enthusiasm are the key factors we are looking for.
Blood Pressure UK are committed to equal opportunities and we want our board to benefit from the advantages that diversity brings, including different skills, life experiences and backgrounds. With that in mind, in this round of trustee recruitment we particularly welcome applications from people from underrepresented communities including those from South Asian, and Black African and Black Caribbean communities that reflect the communities we work with.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.
Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.
We’re looking for volunteers who are:
- Reliable and friendly
- Respectful of others and their diversity
- Passionate about customer service
- Interested in learning about and supporting the work of Sense
Volunteering in one of our Sense Shops will involve a variety of tasks that you can get involved with. These include:
- Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
- Receiving donated goods from members of the public
- Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated goods for sale
- Creating eye catching window and in-shop displays
- Keeping the shop floor well stocked, tidy, clean and organised
- Processing sales and serving on the till
- Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives
- Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community
- Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers
- Following new health, safety and social distancing measures to ensure the safety of everyone
We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world. This is why it is important to us that our volunteers feel supported and rewarded. Here is what we can offer you as a volunteer:
- A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
- Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
- A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
- The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
- The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
- The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.
For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.
Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.
Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.
We’re looking for volunteers who are:
- Reliable and friendly
- Respectful of others and their diversity
- Passionate about customer service
- Confident with cash handling with an eye for detail
- Interested in learning about and supporting the work of Sense
Volunteering in one of our Sense Shops will involve a variety of tasks that you can get involved with. These include:
- Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
- Receiving donated goods from members of the public
- Processing sales and serving on the till
- Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives
- Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community
- Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers
- Following new health, safety and social distancing measures to ensure the safety of everyone
We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world. This is why it is important to us that our volunteers feel supported and rewarded. Here is what we can offer you as a volunteer:
- A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
- Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
- A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
- The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
- The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
- The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.
For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.
FrameWorks UK - Board Director
FrameWorks UK collaborates with charities and other mission driven organisations to communicate about social issues in ways that will create social progress.
The Board wish to appoint a 5th Director to strengthen its ability to exercise financial oversight of FrameWorks UK. This means the new Director is likely to have a background in finance or similar.