Volunteer roles

We are working in partnership with Andover Mind, the charity has been working in the local area since 1984, and more recently in Romsey, Basingstoke and Aldershot, providing support, advice, and information for anyone affected by mental health distress.  They also deliver training and encourage local people to talk about mental health to help break down the stigma which surrounds the subject. 

A new three-year business plan was recently agreed, and its implementation is underway.

Andover Mind is now seeking to appoint Trustees to add diversity to their Board of Trustees.  The Board provide collective governance leadership of the organisation, and the Trustees will play a key role in setting the strategic direction of the organisation and overall policy, defining goals, establishing targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets, as set out in the business plan.

They are looking for new trustees with a range of skills and experience, different backgrounds and all walks of life. This might include those with lots of experience and those who may have less and keen to have their first Board appointment. 

Is this you:

• With or without trustee experience
• Mental health or lived experience
• Finance, HR, legal, fundraising or digital/marketing
• Health and social care
• Community leadership/partnership or youth engagement
• Commitment to attend approximately 6 – 10 board meetings a year
• Passion for mental health and the wellbeing of local communities

What’s in it for you:

• A chance to positively impact thousands of people across Hampshire.
• Involvement in shaping the future of local mental health services.
• Gain additional experience in governance, leadership, and nonprofit management—valuable skills for your career and personal growth.

If you are passionate about mental health and want to make a difference to the wellbeing of the local community as well as growing and developing your own personal skills, we would like to hear from you.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law. 

These unremunerated roles are open to all. To apply for these exceptional opportunities, please submit your CV and supporting statement via the Charisma website. For more information, please contact Sandra Smith, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment.

Closing date for applications: 31 August 2025
Interview date: TBC

We are currently looking for a Volunteer Trustee to join our Charity to further the aims of the organisation, in keeping within its charitable objectives.

Please see attahced Role Description with full details of the role.

About Life: 

Life is a national pregnancy support charity that helps over 60,000 people a year. Through our services, we help people – whoever they are – to meet pregnancy or pregnancy loss with courage and dignity so they can flourish.   

Our services include   

• Supported housing and community support   
• Counselling and skilled listening   
• Free pregnancy tests and baby supplies  

Our values 

All our work is underpinned by the following universal human values: 

• Humanity – All people are special and equal 
• Solidarity – We’re with you and for you 
• Community – We’re better together 
• Charity – Doing good for one another 
• Common good – Building a better world 

Finance Trustee - Join Us in Transforming Children’s Lives!

At School-Home Support, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to be in school and ready to learn – no matter the obstacles they face. Our mission is simple yet ambitious: to ensure that every child is in school, every day, by 2050. We are looking for a passionate and experienced Finance Trustee to help us make this vision a reality and have a lasting impact on children and families across the country. 

We’re seeking an individual who shares our passion for improving children’s lives. If you have experience as a trustee and are ready to take the next step in your governance journey, we would love to hear from you. 

Who We're Looking For: 

We are looking to recruit a Finance Trustee who is passionate about the work of School-Home Support and brings energy, commitment and leadership combined with a willingness to advocate for the work we do and the cause we serve.

As a Finance Trustee, You Will: 

• Contribute to setting goals, targets, and overall policy for the organisation

• Share your expertise and networks to support the development and growth of the charity. 

• Help ensure compliance with our legal obligations and the organisation’s core purpose. 

• Provide oversight of the budget to guarantee School-Home Support’s financial sustainability. 

• Ensure measures are in place for safeguarding for the children and families we support and the staff team

• Act as a champion and ambassador for School-Home Support, enhancing our reputation, representing us at key events, and supporting fundraising efforts. 

What We Offer: 

• Impactful Role: By joining our Board of Trustees, you will play a key role in shaping our national impact and supporting our mission to transform the lives of children in need. 

• Training & Development: You will receive tailored training specific to your role and access to additional learning opportunities through our staff-led EDI networks. 

• Networking Opportunities: You’ll have the chance to expand your professional network and make valuable connections within the education and charity sectors.

• Support Throughout Your Journey: We will buddy you with a more experienced trustee or corporate volunteer to ensure you feel supported and confident throughout your time with us

Expectations: 

• Commitment: A commitment of three years to this voluntary role

• Meetings: Attend four half-day board meetings and one AGM each year, which are typically held in Stratford, London, or remotely. 

• Sub-Committees: Participate in one of our sub-committees to help guide specific areas of our work. 

• External Events: Attend 2-3 fundraising events each year (usually evenings) and make at least one school visit annually.

• Inclusion & Diversity: A strong commitment to inclusion, equal opportunities, and the promotion of diversity in all aspects of your work. 

If you’re ready to make a difference and contribute to creating brighter futures for children and their families, we want to hear from you! 

To learn more about this exciting opportunity, please review the Trustee Pack and submit your application today!

Public Relation/Marketing Trustee- Join Us in Transforming Children’s Lives!

At School-Home Support, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to be in school and ready to learn – no matter the obstacles they face. Our mission is simple yet ambitious: to ensure that every child is in school, every day, by 2050. We are looking for a passionate individual with PR/Marketing knowledge to help us make this vision a reality and have a lasting impact on children and families across the country. 

We’re seeking an individual who shares our passion for improving children’s lives. If you have experience as a trustee and are ready to take the next step in your governance journey, we would love to hear from you. 

Who We're Looking For:

We are looking to recruit a PR/Marketing Trustee who is passionate about the work of School-Home Support and brings energy, commitment and leadership combined with a willingness to advocate for the work we do and the cause we serve. 

As a PR/Marketing Trustee, You Will: 

• Contribute to setting goals, targets, and overall policy for the organisation

• Share your expertise and networks to support the development and growth of the charity. 

• Help ensure compliance with our legal obligations and the organisation’s core purpose. 

• Provide oversight of the budget to guarantee School-Home Support’s financial sustainability. 

• Support the Safeguarding Lead to ensure measures are in place for safeguarding for the children and families we support and the staff team

• Act as a champion and ambassador for School-Home Support, enhancing our reputation, representing us at key events, and supporting fundraising efforts. 

What We Offer: 

• Impactful Role: By joining our Board of Trustees, you will play a key role in shaping our national impact and supporting our mission to transform the lives of children in need. 

• Training & Development: You will receive tailored training specific to your role and access to additional learning opportunities through our staff-led EDI networks. 

• Networking Opportunities: You’ll have the chance to expand your professional network and make valuable connections within the education and charity sectors.

• Support Throughout Your Journey: We will buddy you with a more experienced trustee or corporate volunteer to ensure you feel supported and confident throughout your time with us.

Expectations:

• Commitment: A commitment of three years to this voluntary role

• Meetings: Attend four half-day board meetings and one AGM each year, which are typically held in Stratford, London, or remotely. 

• Sub-Committees: Participate in one of our sub-committees to help guide specific areas of our work. 

• External Events: Attend 2-3 fundraising events each year (usually evenings) and make at least one school visit annually. 

• Inclusion & Diversity: A strong commitment to inclusion, equal opportunities, and the promotion of diversity in all aspects of your work.  

If you’re ready to make a difference and contribute to creating brighter futures for children and their families, we want to hear from you! 

To learn more about this exciting opportunity, please review the Trustee Pack and submit your application today!

HR Trustee - Join Us in Transforming Children’s Lives!

At School-Home Support, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to be in school and ready to learn – no matter the obstacles they face. Our mission is simple yet ambitious: to ensure that every child is in school, every day, by 2050. We are looking for a passionate and experienced HR Trustee to help us make this vision a reality and have a lasting impact on children and families across the country. 

We’re seeking an individual who shares our passion for improving children’s lives. If you have experience as a trustee and are ready to take the next step in your governance journey, we would love to hear from you. 

Who We're Looking For:

We are looking to recruit a HR Trustee who is passionate about the work of School-Home Support and brings energy, commitment and leadership combined with a willingness to advocate for the work we do and the cause we serve.

As a HR Trustee, You Will: 

• Contribute to setting goals, targets, and overall policy for the organisation

• Share your expertise and networks to support the development and growth of the charity. 

• Help ensure compliance with our legal obligations and the organisation’s core purpose. 

• Provide oversight of the budget to guarantee School-Home Support’s financial sustainability. 

• Ensure measures are in place for safeguarding for the children and families we support and the staff team

• Act as a champion and ambassador for School-Home Support, enhancing our reputation, representing us at key events, and supporting fundraising efforts.

What We Offer: 

• Impactful Role: By joining our Board of Trustees, you will play a key role in shaping our national impact and supporting our mission to transform the lives of children in need. 

• Training & Development: You will receive tailored training specific to your role and access to additional learning opportunities through our staff-led EDI networks. 

• Networking Opportunities: You’ll have the chance to expand your professional network and make valuable connections within the education and charity sectors.

• Support Throughout Your Journey: We will buddy you with a more experienced trustee or corporate volunteer to ensure you feel supported and confident throughout your time with us.

Expectations: 

• Commitment: A commitment of three years to this voluntary role

• Meetings: Attend four half-day board meetings and one AGM each year, which are typically held in Stratford, London, or remotely. 

• Sub-Committees: Participate in one of our sub-committees to help guide specific areas of our work. 

• External Events: Attend 2-3 fundraising events each year (usually evenings) and make at least one school visit annually. 

• Inclusion & Diversity: A strong commitment to inclusion, equal opportunities, and the promotion of diversity in all aspects of your work. 

If you’re ready to make a difference and contribute to creating brighter futures for children and their families, we want to hear from you! 

To learn more about this exciting opportunity, please review the Trustee Pack and submit your application today!

Trustee with Legal Expertise - Join Us in Transforming Children’s Lives! 

At School-Home Support, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to be in school and ready to learn – no matter the obstacles they face. Our mission is simple yet ambitious: to ensure that every child is in school, every day, by 2050. We are looking for a passionate and experienced Trustee with Legal Expertise to help us make this vision a reality and have a lasting impact on children and families across the country. 

We’re seeking an individual who shares our passion for improving children’s lives. If you have experience as a trustee and are ready to take the next step in your governance journey, we would love to hear from you. 

Who We're Looking For: 

We are looking to recruit a Trustee with Legal expertise who is passionate about the work of School-Home Support and brings energy, commitment and leadership combined with a willingness to advocate for the work we do and the cause we serve. 

As a Legal Expert Trustee, You Will: 

• Contribute to setting goals, targets, and overall policy for the organisation

• Share your expertise and networks to support the development and growth of the charity. 

• Help ensure compliance with our legal obligations and the organisation’s core purpose. 

• Provide oversight of the budget to guarantee School-Home Support’s financial sustainability. 

• Ensure measures are in place for safeguarding for the children and families we support and the staff team

• Act as a champion and ambassador for School-Home Support, enhancing our reputation, representing us at key events, and supporting fundraising efforts. 

What We Offer: 

• Impactful Role: By joining our Board of Trustees, you will play a key role in shaping our national impact and supporting our mission to transform the lives of children in need. 

• Training & Development: You will receive tailored training specific to your role and access to additional learning opportunities through our staff-led EDI networks. 

• Networking Opportunities: You’ll have the chance to expand your professional network and make valuable connections within the education and charity sectors.

• Support Throughout Your Journey: We will buddy you with a more experienced trustee or corporate volunteer to ensure you feel supported and confident throughout your time with us.

Expectations: 

• Commitment: A commitment of three years to this voluntary role

• Meetings: Attend four half-day board meetings and one AGM each year, which are typically held in Stratford, London, or remotely. 

• Sub-Committees: Participate in one of our sub-committees to help guide specific areas of our work. 

• External Events: Attend 2-3 fundraising events each year (usually evenings) and make at least one school visit annually. 

• Inclusion & Diversity: A strong commitment to inclusion, equal opportunities, and the promotion of diversity in all aspects of your work. 

If you’re ready to make a difference and contribute to creating brighter futures for children and their families, we want to hear from you! 

To learn more about this exciting opportunity, please review the Trustee Pack and submit your application today!

Trustees for Bristol Charities Bristol-based | Hybrid meetings (in person and remote)

Time Commitment: Approx. 1 day per month

Voluntary and Unpaid – Reasonable expenses reimbursed

Help shape a fairer, more resilient Bristol.

Bristol Charities has been supporting communities for over 600 years through high-quality almshouse accommodation, targeted grants, community infrastructure, and charitable workspace. With deep roots in the city and expertise in housing, property, grants, and investment, they are uniquely positioned to address some of Bristol’s most urgent challenges, from poverty and housing need to educational inequality and social isolation.

As part of their continued evolution, Bristol Charities is seeking to appoint two new Trustees:

• One to Chair the Investment Management Group
• One to contribute more broadly to governance and strategic oversight

Both roles will play a vital part in guiding the charity’s future direction, working closely with the Chair, Chief Executive, and fellow Trustees to ensure strong governance, bold leadership, and lasting impact.

We’re particularly interested in hearing from individuals with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Strategic leadership within a values-led organisation (public, private, or voluntary sector)
• Investment management, particularly in traditional and/or social investment
• Managing personal and corporate relationships at a senior level
• A strong connection to Bristol, its communities, culture, and challenges
• A personal commitment to social justice, equity, and community-led change

This is a rare opportunity to help shape a bold, place-based vision for Bristol, one that puts people, purpose, and place at the heart of everything.

To find out more or apply, please send your CV to Sandy Hinks and Leighann Beck

Become a Governor at Northampton College and use your audit expertise and shared passion and ambition for education to ensure every student receives an outstanding education.

Applications close: 9 a.m. Monday 8th September 2025

Location: Northampton

Time commitment: Up to 10 hours per month

About Northampton College

Northampton College is a general further education (GFE) college in the East Midlands with over 9,000 students across a range of academic levels studying full- and part-time programmes and apprenticeships.

It operates from a main campus on the outskirts of Northampton in a densely populated, predominantly working-class suburb, a town centre campus and a further campus in Daventry.

Northampton College is one of the highest-achieving colleges in England and the highest-achieving in the Southeast Midlands. National Apprenticeship data has also revealed an overall achievement rate that is substantially higher than the national average.

These ratings cement Northampton College’s position as the leading provider of further education in the Midlands, placing it amongst the very best in the whole country, thanks to a continuing and determined focus on ensuring each individual student reaches their full potential.

About the role

Our Board has a positive and collaborative culture, and our Governors share a passion for educational excellence and a commitment to continual improvement, ensuring the best outcomes for all our students.

Governors are critical to the success of the College, as the support and challenge they provide help shape the College’s mission, vision, values, and strategic objectives, all of which are vital to the College’s continued success.

With a key independent member with audit expertise coming to the end of their respective term of office by the end of this academic year, we seek to appoint a new member to support our succession planning.

Who we are looking for

We are looking to engage a new Governor and we are open to a variety of backgrounds with the expertise, experience, and commitment to play a vital role in the shaping of Northampton College’s future.

We are in particular looking for a financially qualified professional to join our Board and audit committee. We welcome all applications from those with financial experience, whether this be from practice or industry.

Whilst it is not necessary to have previous non-executive/board level executive experience, it is important that you work well within the Board environment and offer the appropriate challenge, security and support the Board and College require.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a group of like-minded individuals who share a passion for the support and improvement of education and the community within the region.

Peridot Partners and Northampton College are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ 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 8th September 2025.

Helping in our shops is a great way to help CHAS and, as well as helping us raise money to fund our vital services, you'll be part of a really great team of volunteers. You'll be meeting new people, using your skills or learning something new, and making sure our customers get a great welcome and all the assistance they need.

It's always great to see our volunteers chatting to customers and telling them about CHAS - and there's so much more to this role too: you could be sorting donations, getting stock ready for the shop floor, wielding a steamer or a duster, processing Gift Aid, operating the till (we will show you how), merchandising and displaying stock - you'll never have a dull moment.

It would be ideal if you could volunteer one shift each week, which is about four hours (but we're also happy to chat about more flexible times). No special skills are needed as we’ll show you what to do and we provide all the training you’ll need. But if you have any experience or particular interest please tell us, it may come in useful. It’s really easy to get your volunteering started.

Why we want you

As a Charity Shop Volunteer, you will play an important role in helping raise vital funds to support children with life-shortening conditions and their families. There's never a dull moment in our shops and in Kinross you'll be working in a busy team, both in the stock room - sorting and preparing stock - and on our shop floors, providing great customer service.

What you will be doing

• Welcoming and assisting customers and serving at them at the till
• Replenishing the stock on the shop floor
• Merchandising and displaying stock
• Accepting, sorting and preparing donations for sale
• Housekeeping on the shop floor and in the stock room

The skills you need

• A real aptitude for team working
• Good communication skills and attention to detail
• A good understanding of what makes excellent customer service
• The ability to represent CHAS enthusiastically and appropriately

What's in it for you

• Getting involved in your local community and making a difference to CHAS families
• Meeting new people
• Making the most of your existing skills or possibly learning some new ones too (maybe adding to your CV)
• Full training and on-going and support. Plus a range of accredited online courses if you're interested in personal development.

Be the difference on your doorstep.
Compassionate Neighbours are trained volunteers offering friendship, support and listening ear to people living in their local community, sometimes with serious, long-term or terminal illness who often struggle with loneliness.

By popping round for a cup of tea or a friendly chat once a week you can make a world of difference. You will be a good listener, kind and have a genuine interest in other people.

As a Compassionate Neighbour Volunteer you’ll not only gain new skills, confidence, and social networks; you’ll be making a difference in your local community.

Full training and support is provided. Training for our next intake will be held at the Hospice on the following dates:
Saturdays 21 & 28 June 2025, 9.30am – 3.30pm

If you are unable to attend those, we have scheduled training later on:
Tuesday 16 September & Friday 19 September 2025, 9.30am – 3.30pm

Derby Diocesan Academy Trust (DDAT) is a leading diocesan multi academy trust in Derby City and Derbyshire. We are seeking a new Chair of LAC Members for our flagship secondary school, Derby Cathedral School.

Applications close: 9 a.m. Monday 18th August 2025

Location: Hybrid/Derby

Time commitment: c.20 days per year

About Derby Diocesan Academy Trust (DDAT)

Established in 2014 and built upon Christian values and ethos, the Derby Diocesan Academy Trust (DDAT) has grown into a thriving and effective family of 28 Church and 5 non-Church schools, with two new free schools in the pipeline.

DDAT consists of infant schools, junior schools, primary schools, and one secondary school. Based in the East Midlands region of England, DDAT enjoys a strong and productive relationship with the whole of its family of schools but also benefits and supports schools and organisations across Derby and Derbyshire. Within the DDAT family, there are over 7,500 children and young people, and more than 1,000 members of staff. The Trust has an annual income of £53m.

The Derby Diocesan Board of Education developed DDAT to allow schools to take advantage of an academy model, but without being distracted from their core business of educating pupils. The Trust was designed to secure the schools’ church heritage, and to provide highly effective external support and challenge whilst delivering much of the business side of being an academy.

Our Trust’s vision is rooted in Christian teachings, aiming to nurture and empower everyone to reach their fullest potential.

Through the values of inclusivity, integrity, community, excellence and courage, we aim to support all of our students and staff to embrace the abundant possibilities of “Life in all its fullness.”

About the role

This is a unique opportunity to lead a board of committed Local Academy Committee Members in a growing, values-driven school. Working closely with the Headteacher and senior leaders, you’ll support the school in making decisions that directly impact the lives of our young people, particularly those from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds across Derby.

You’ll lead a committed group of LAC Members who bring community insight, educational challenge and deep care for the students that we serve. As Chair, you’ll ensure the LAC is strategic, effective and aligned with both the school’s mission and the wider vision of Derby Diocesan Academy Trust (DDAT).

We offer a full induction and training programme through DDAT, alongside termly development sessions for LAC Members and chairs. Support is always available from the Trust’s governance professionals and central team, and you will never be left to carry responsibility alone.

Who we are looking for

You will be an experienced professional who will be able to demonstrate:

• Spiritual and Ethical Leadership
• Strategic Oversight
• Governance and Team Building
• Communication and Relationship Management
• Performance and Accountability
• Commitment and Capacity

You will also bring integrity, interpersonal skills, and ideally, experience in leadership.

Whilst many training opportunities are delivered online the majority of LAC meetings are held onsite at the Derby Cathedral School.

Derby Diocesan Academy Trust welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability. As those from ethnic minority backgrounds are currently under-represented on the Board, applications from those individuals would be particularly encouraged. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. However, in line with the Equality Act 2010, the organisation may employ positive action where candidates from underrepresented groups can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.

Peridot Partners and Derby Diocesan Academy Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ 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 18th August 2025.

Oxfam isn't just another charity shop. We're a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we’d love you to be a part of it! 

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals who want to make a difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in! 

What you will be doing 

• Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock. 
• Chatting to customers, giving great service on the till. 
• Researching valuable and vintage stock. 
• Visual merchandising: creating eye-catching window and in-store displays. 
• Photographing and listing items for the online shop. 

This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training to all volunteers. 

The skills you need 

• We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering 
• Full training and support is given for this role - no prior experience is required 
• Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others 

What's in it for you 

• Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to understand what is covered)
• Access to training and development 
• Grow your confidence and meet new people 
• Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle 
• Free confidential support by the Retail Trust 

By volunteering with us in one of our amazing retail spaces you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst learning new skills and meeting some incredible people. 

Join the Board of Derby Diocesan Academy Trust and bring your secondary education expertise to the role of Trustee to support the development of a growing, values-led multi-academy trust. 

Applications close: 9 a.m. Monday 18th August 2025 

Location: Hybrid/Derby 

Time commitment: 6 – 8 days per year 

About Derby Diocesan Academy Trust (DDAT) 

Established in 2014 and built upon Christian values and ethos, the Derby Diocesan Academy Trust (DDAT) has grown into a thriving and effective family of 28 Church and 5 non-Church schools, with two new free schools in the pipeline. 

DDAT consists of infant schools, junior schools, primary schools, and one secondary school. Based in the East Midlands region of England, DDAT enjoys a strong and productive relationship with the whole of its family of schools but also benefits and supports schools and organisations across Derby and Derbyshire. Within the DDAT family, there are over 7,500 children and young people, and more than 1,000 members of staff. The Trust has an annual income of £53m. 

The Derby Diocesan Board of Education developed DDAT to allow schools to take advantage of an academy model, but without being distracted from their core business of educating pupils. The Trust was designed to secure the schools’ church heritage, and to provide highly effective external support and challenge whilst delivering much of the business side of being an academy. 

Our Trust’s vision is rooted in Christian teachings, aiming to nurture and empower everyone to reach their fullest potential. 

Through the values of inclusivity, integrity, community, excellence and courage, we aim to support all of our students and staff to embrace the abundant possibilities of “Life in all its fullness.” 

About the role 

As a Trustee at DDAT, you will hold a strategic and non-executive role, providing oversight, support, and challenge to our executive team, and ensuring that the Trust delivers on its core mission: to provide excellent education, rooted in our Christian values, for all children. Trustees have collective responsibility for setting the vision and strategic direction of the Trust, monitoring performance and standards, safeguarding public funds, and ensuring that we operate ethically and in line with our charitable objectives. 

This specific vacancy has been created to bring additional expertise in the secondary phase of education to our Board. As Derby Cathedral School continues to grow and expand its educational offerings, and as we explore future opportunities to extend our secondary provision, we want to ensure that our Board has the necessary insight to oversee and guide this work with confidence. 

This may include contributing to conversations around curriculum design, school improvement strategy, sixth form development, behaviour and attendance, or educational disadvantage. 

You will work closely with other Trustees, including those with expertise in finance, HR, safeguarding and primary education, as well as our CEO and executive team. This is not an operational role; Trustees are not involved in the day-to-day running of schools or the Trust but provide constructive challenge and high-level scrutiny. You will help ensure that our education strategy is well-informed, equitable, and ambitious for all learners. 

In return, you will gain significant non-executive board experience, contribute to the development of a trust that is growing in influence and support us in shaping the life chances of young people across our region. This is a public service role with real meaning. 

Who we are looking for 

You will be an experienced secondary leader, inspector, or education policy specialist with deep insight into curriculum, assessment, inspection or school improvement. 

As a Diocesan multi-academy trust, our vision and values are built upon a Christian ethos that celebrates individuality, fosters collaboration and promotes unity. We welcome students and staff of all faiths and none, supporting each person to learn, grow and live life in all its fullness. As a trustee, you will bring a deep understanding of this theologically rooted vision, living and championing our values of inclusivity, integrity, community, excellence and courage through your governance and strategic leadership. 

We value Trustees who are curious, humble and values-driven. You do not need to have been a Trustee before, our Governance team will support you with induction, training and development, but you must be able to contribute with clarity, independence and care.

An understanding of the difference between strategic and operational leadership is essential: we are not looking for someone to run the school, but to help steer the Trust at a strategic level. 

Derby Diocesan Academy Trust welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability. As those from ethnic minority backgrounds are currently under-represented on the Board, applications from those individuals would be particularly encouraged. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. However, in line with the Equality Act 2010, the organisation may employ positive action where candidates from underrepresented groups can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well. 

Peridot Partners and Derby Diocesan Academy Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made. 

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ 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 18th August 2025. 

Role Description

Join Off The Record, an independent charity that has been proudly serving the Havant Borough area since 1977. Our mission is to empower young people and their families in South East Hampshire by supporting their emotional health and well-being. We provide vital one-on-one and family counseling, support, a young carers project and group services for individuals aged 8-25 and their families.

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people, we invite you to volunteer with us at our main office, located at 138 Purbrook Way, Leigh Park. We are currently seeking dedicated volunteers to support our counseling service by answering phones, providing information, engaging in friendly conversations, and offering signposting advice to clients awaiting our services and also opportunities to assist with awareness events and our group activities and young carers services.

What We Offer and Our Commitment to You

• Comprehensive, Laser accredited “Be A Volunteer” online training conducted over two engaging three-hour sessions
• A certificate of attendance to recognize your commitment to personal and professional growth.
• A structured induction and shadowing program with our experienced staff and volunteers, ensuring you feel confident in your role.
• Training in our administrative and IT systems to equip you with the necessary skills for success.
• A rewarding opportunity to positively impact the lives of young people right from our offices in Leigh Park.
• Monthly support meetings and social events to foster a sense of community and connection among volunteers.
• Additional training opportunities as funding permits, allowing for your continuous development.

What We Expect, Your Commitment to Us

• Submission of your CV, including explanations for any employment gaps, to comply with our rigorous safer recruitment processes
• A compelling cover letter detailing your motivations for wanting to volunteer at Off The Record.
• Two recent references from employers or academic sources (DBS checks will be carried out as a requirement of the role).
• Full attendance in the "Be A Volunteer" training program to gain essential skills and knowledge.
• A dedication to committing to a weekly group or rota slot, along with attendance at monthly support meetings (a minimum commitment of 2.5 hours per week plus one hour per month for supervision).

We are eager to welcome passionate individuals to start in Summer 2025, which will include a two-half-day training session, followed by shadowing and training on our systems and procedures.

Job Type: Volunteer

Schedule: Monday to Friday, late afternoons and evenings

Skills and Attributes:

• A genuine enjoyment of working with young people.
• A positive, non-judgmental attitude towards others.
• Reliability and a strong commitment to the volunteer role.
• Trustworthiness and integrity in all interactions.
• Excellent timekeeping skills.
• A kind and empathetic nature, able to connect with those you serve.
• A commitment to representing Off The Record as friendly and professional ambassadors.
• A willingness to learn about local services to offer the best signposting options.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to help others feel at ease.
• Seize the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in your community.

We look forward to hearing from you!