Volunteer roles for the Arts, Culture and Heritage sector
As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, the National Youth Jazz Orchestra (NYJO) is seeking passionate new trustees to join our board and help shape the next chapter of our story. With a new CEO, bold artistic ambitions and a growing national footprint, this is an exciting moment to join an evolving organisation committed to nurturing young talent, expanding opportunities and strengthening our impact across the UK.
About NYJO:
Founded in 1965, NYJO has grown from a single jazz orchestra to a vibrant, varied organisation delivering engaging participation projects and impactful live performances for everyone. We exist to empower young jazz musicians and inspire audiences across the UK through our work.
We are committed to supporting and developing musicians of all styles and standards: whether you want to become the next emerging artist or simply play for fun -- we're here for it.
NYJO is dedicated to making jazz and creative music-making more accessible to early-career musicians, young people, and audiences across the country. Throughout our activity, we seek to create a meeting ground between the established and the experimental -- the past, present, and future -- to build bespoke programmes which cater to lifelong and new jazz fans.
Our work spans three core areas:
Emerging Professionals - We curate exciting performance projects for audiences and emerging professional musicians aged 18-25, underpinned by a programme of Professional Development.
NYJO Learning - We create accessible learning programmes for all, providing young people with impactful tools for personal growth through creative music-making.
Community Outreach - We are passionate about responding to and representing our communities, both locally and nationally, in physical and digital spaces.
We work in close collaboration with likeminded partners to deliver projects that respond to local community needs and create an inclusive learning environment which centres the voices of young people.
In 2021 we became a Resident Artistic Company at Woolwich Works, a creative arts centre in the Royal Borough of Greenwich. We are a registered charity with a turnover of c.£750,000 annually and are proud to be an Arts Council England (ACE) National Portfolio Organisation, working towards delivering ACE's 'Let's Create' strategy to make the arts sector more inclusive and reflective of modern Britain.
Our Board
NYJO's current Board consists of seven Trustees with expertise spanning digital communications, governance, HR, jazz industry knowledge, music education, finance, and fundraising. We are pleased to have diversified our board significantly in recent years, knowing that diverse boards make better decisions. Ensuring that our board is representative of the communities in which we work and the young people that we serve remains a priority.
Board Responsibilities
NYJO Trustees are expected to play a full role as a board director and trustee in accordance with charity and company regulations, and governance best practice. Responsibilities include:
- Providing strategic direction, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets, and evaluating performance against agreed targets
- Maintaining a collaborative and supportive relationship with senior staff and fellow trustees
- Proactively advocating for our work, championing the transformative power of jazz education and the many benefits that young people derive from creative music-making
- Safeguarding the financial stability, reputation and values of the charity
- Protecting the interest of donors and current and future beneficiaries, acting as guardians of NYJO's assets and taking due care over their security, deployment and proper application
- Ensuring that NYJO complies with its Articles and Objects, charity and company law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations
What We're Looking For
We are keen to recruit Trustees who:
- Are committed to NYJO's mission and will advocate for our work
- Bring strategic judgement, vision and creative thinking to the charity
- Can provide sound, independent reasoning and constructive challenge to our management team
- Are numerate, with the ability to understand budgets and charity finance
- Are willing to devote the necessary time and effort to be a Trustee, and to undertake relevant training and appraisal
- Demonstrate an understanding of good governance of charities
- Demonstrate the intellectual capacity to grasp issues outside personal experience and communicate opinions effectively
We are keen for our trustees to represent a broad mix of skills, experience and backgrounds, helping us to broaden our thinking and provide constructive challenge. At this time, our priority is to appoint an individual with professional experience as a UK based jazz musician, as this perspective will complement our current board's existing expertise and help ensure our leadership reflects the communities and artists we support.
We are committed to broadening the diversity of perspectives on our Board. We particularly encourage applications from women, younger people, and individuals from groups that are currently underrepresented at board level. All appointments will be made on merit.
You do not need to have prior trustee experience. Where needed, we will provide guidance and support to help first-time trustees thrive in the role.
In addition to professional jazz music experience, we would also be interested in candidates with demonstrable experience in music law or marketing, particularly digital marketing and social media. There is no expectation that applicants must meet more than one of these areas of expertise.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
We are committed to providing an environment where every trustee is able to contribute confidently. We will offer appropriate onboarding and ongoing support to ensure all trustees can engage fully with their responsibilities.
Time Commitment
Trustees are expected to attend all board meetings (four per year) and an annual strategic planning session. Additionally, you may be invited to join working groups according to your areas of expertise and interest and will always be welcome to attend our performances and education events.
We will always be respectful of your time and provide maximum possible notice of any meetings and events.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Sunderland Culture is entering a bold new chapter, and we are seeking to appoint two Independent Trustees who can bring expertise, constructive challenge, and important oversight to Board discussions and decisions. This is a rewarding opportunity to help shape the cultural landscape of Sunderland, working closely with our CEO, wider Board team and valued partners to support Sunderland Culture’s vibrant and ambitious vision.
The Role of the Board
The board governs the charity and ensures Sunderland Culture is well-run, legally compliant, and financially sound as a registered charity and company limited by guarantee. Trustees act as guardians of the organisation’s purpose, ensuring decisions are made in the best interests of those we serve. Core duties include;
- Work with the CEO and Partners to set strategic direction and shape the organisation’s long-term cultural vision, mission, and priorities.
- Safeguarding the mission and values of the charity, upholding our core purpose: “to improve life for everyone in Sunderland through culture.”
- Champion culture in Sunderland – acting as ambassadors for the city’s cultural sector, bringing networks and influence.
- Provide accountability – Reporting to regulators (Charity Commission, Companies House), funders (Arts Council England, trusts/ foundations), and the community.
- Financial Oversight - work with the senior management team and Finance Committee to review and approve budgets, key-funding decisions and long-term sustainability.
- Policy Oversight - Approve and oversee key policies, including safeguarding, equality and diversity, privacy policy, health and safety, and employment procedures. The board is supported in its work by a Finance Committee, with trustee representatives also working alongside staff leads on Arts Council England’s Investment Principles:
- Ambition & Quality
- Dynamism (organisational resilience and business systems)
- Inclusivity and Relevance
- Environmental Sustainability
Independent Trustees- Role Description
We are seeking to appoint two independent trustees who will bring expertise, insight, and constructive challenge to Board discussions.
Key Responsibilities:
Ensure compliance with legal and statutory responsibilities.
Contribute to strategic discussions and decisions. Provide oversight of financial, operational, and reputational risk.
Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of governance.
Act as an ambassador for the organisation, including attendance at key events and stakeholder activities.
Serve on sub-committees or working groups as required.
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
An ability to think strategically and independently.
Commitment to good governance and accountability.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
A collaborative and supportive approach.
Passion for the mission of Sunderland Culture.
Relevant lived experience and networks that reflect the make-up of the city.
Desirable Criteria
Relevant experience of organisational governance.
We are particularly seeking expertise in one or more of the following areas:
- Finance and audit
- Fundraising and income generation
- Community cohesion
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.
Thank you!
We are seeking a new Chair of Trustees to lead the charity as we enter a bold new chapter for Sunderland Culture. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the cultural landscape of Sunderland, working closely with our CEO, Board of Trustees, and valued partners to support Sunderland Culture’s vibrant and ambitious vision.
The Role of the Board
The board governs the charity and ensures Sunderland Culture is well-run, legally compliant, and financially sound as a registered charity and company limited by guarantee. Trustees act as guardians of the organisation’s purpose, ensuring decisions are made in the best interests of those we serve. Core duties include;
- Work with the CEO and Partners to set strategic direction and shape the organisation’s long-term cultural vision, mission, and priorities.
- Safeguarding the mission and values of the charity, upholding our core purpose: “to improve life for everyone in Sunderland through culture.”
- Champion culture in Sunderland – acting as ambassadors for the city’s cultural sector, bringing networks and influence.
- Provide accountability – Reporting to regulators (Charity Commission, Companies House), funders (Arts Council England, trusts/ foundations), and the community.
- Financial Oversight - work with the senior management team and Finance Committee to review and approve budgets, key-funding decisions and long-term sustainability.
- Policy Oversight - Approve and oversee key policies, including safeguarding, equality and diversity, privacy policy, health and safety, and employment procedures.
The board is supported in its work by a Finance Committee, with trustee representatives also working alongside staff leads on Arts Council England’s Investment Principles:
- Ambition & Quality
- Dynamism (organisational resilience and business systems)
- Inclusivity and Relevance
- Environmental Sustainability
The Role of Chair
The Chair will provide strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring that Trustees fulfil their duties effectively.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the Board: Shape agendas, chair effective meetings, enable constructive challenge and decisive governance.
Manage and support the Chief Executive: Provide counsel and stretch; agree priorities and success measures; ensure strong performance and learning.
Steward partnerships: Work closely with existing partners to renew relationships while openings doors to a wider range of strategic partnerships.
Steward change: Oversee complex transitions in assets, programmes and organisational design; ensure robust risk management and stakeholder engagement.
Promote inclusion: Develop and grow the board to reflect the city’s diversity and lived experience.
Ensure sustainability: Oversee financial strategy and reserves; support income generation across public, commercial and philanthropic streams.
Advocate and represent: Be a visible ambassador for Sunderland Culture locally, regionally and nationally.
Board effectiveness: Lead trustee recruitment, induction, appraisal and succession; uphold best practice in charity and company governance.
Person Specification:
Essential Criteria
Commitment to Sunderland Culture’s mission
Relevant values and networks Essential Proven leadership experience, ideally at Board or senior executive level.
Strong understanding of governance and charity/ company law.
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
Ability to inspire confidence and command respect.
Desirable Criteria
Demonstrable commitment to or interest in the cultural sector
Sunderland or North-East England based
Background in relevant sector (Culture or Creative Industries, Community Development, Education, Finance etc.)
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.
Thank you!
We are seeking a dynamic and committed leader to serve as Chair of our Board of Trustees. This is a pivotal role for someone with vision, integrity, and the ability to inspire collaboration across diverse stakeholders. The Chair leads the Board in setting the charity’s strategic direction, ensuring it maintains high standards of governance and risk management as well as operating effectively to fulfil its charitable purpose.
Areas of Responsibility:
- Leadership and Governance
- Board Development
- Meeting Management
- Stakeholder Relations
- Guidance and Support to the CEO
- Financial Oversight
- Advocacy and Fundraising
To support a smooth transition, the successful candidate will benefit from a structured handover period with the outgoing Chair. This will provide valuable continuity, enable knowledge transfer, and ensure you are well-prepared to lead with confidence from day one.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Graphic Designer & Marketing Volunteer
About us
The Museum of Brands, nestled in the vibrant Notting Hill area of West London, is a one-of-a-kind institution that brings to life the fascinating history of consumer culture through branding, packaging, and advertisements. Our collection showcases over 200 years of social and technological change, offering visitors a nostalgic and insightful journey through history. Established by Robert Opie, the museum is a treasure trove of everyday items that might have been thrown away by past generations, but now tell the story of how consumer trends shaped society.
The Role
We’re looking for talented Graphic Design & Marketing Volunteers to help create vibrant, on-brand visual content for both our social media and in-house marketing materials. You'll be working with Canva and Adobe tools to bring campaigns to life, from digital posters and Instagram carousels to screen graphics and printed flyers.
This offers an opportunity for hands-on experience in the GLAM (Galleries, Libraries, Archives, and Museums) Cultural Sector, ideal for students or individuals with a strong interest in marketing, graphic design and content creation.
What you’ll do:
· Design digital and print marketing assets using Canva, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop or InDesign including:
o Social media graphics (posts, stories, highlight covers)
o Posters, flyers, leaflets
o Screens and TV slides for internal displays
· Follow and apply our brand identity guidelines to all content
· Translate event listings, updates, and key messages into engaging visual content
· Support and expand ongoing campaign visuals - while also contributing your own creative ideas
· Help plan and schedule social media content using tools such as Meta Business Suite or Hootsuite
· Collaborate with the wider team on seasonal campaigns, exhibitions, and public programmes
· Stay aware of current design trends and help ensure our visual identity remains fresh and dynamic
· Analyse the performance of social media posts, using data insights to adjust and improve future content strategies.
Additional Duties
- Front of House Support: Train as a Museum Front of House assistant, covering Reception duties, welcoming visitors, handling calls, and assisting with other interdepartmental tasks as needed.
Who we’re looking for:
- Has experience using Canva and/or Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign)
- Has a strong eye for layout, typography, and colour, with a good understanding of visual branding
- Can confidently follow a style guide but also bring your own creative flair
- Has good written communication skills and can transform information into clear, engaging design
- Is well-organised, proactive, and able to work independently and as part of a team
- Bonus: an interest in museums, heritage, arts or cultural marketing
Availability
We're excited to offer this opportunity as either a volunteer role or a student placement, ideal for anyone looking to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic and creative environment.
Student Placement: This placement is perfect for someone who can contribute 2–3 days per week, with flexible options for full days (8 hours) or half days (4 hours) based on your schedule.
Volunteering: We are looking for individuals who can offer at least one half day per week for a minimum of three months. This helps create a consistent and valuable experience for both you and our marketing team.
Whether you're hoping to enhance your CV, gain industry insight, or support a cause you care about, we’d be delighted to welcome you aboard.
This placement requires in-person work at The Museum of Brands, London, W11 1QT during the week.
Expenses
Travel expenses up to £5 will be paid, with up to an additional £5 for lunch expenses if you are here for over 6 hours.
Training and support
We have an induction process that ensures you have the information needed to thrive during your time with us. Training is primarily ‘on-the-job’, guided by our Marketing Officer. You'll receive ongoing support, regular feedback, and opportunities for 1-to-1 discussions to enhance your skills and experience. We’re also happy to provide references and CV support to aid in your future employment opportunities.
Our Commitment
The Museum of Brands is committed to:
- Equality and fairness: We believe in providing equal opportunities for all volunteers, ensuring fairness in all aspects of the role.
- Safe working environment: Your safety is paramount, and we comply with all health and safety regulations.
- Confidentiality: We adhere to the principles of the Data Protection Act to ensure your privacy and data security.
Please note: Applicants from some overseas countries are required to have a relevant work permit or student visa in order to volunteer in the U.K. We’ll need to see this for our records before volunteering can commence.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
- A great opportunity to volunteer as Cafe Assistant at a unique heritage site, London Museum of Water and Steam
- Based at the historic Kew Bridge Waterworks the museum tells the story of London's water supply, the site, its people and the amazing pumping engines that helped to make London the city it is today
- Cafe Assistants provide a warm and friendly greeting for all our visitors
- They should work collaboratively with Visitor Welcome volunteers and Duty Managers
- Help to prepare hot drinks and snacks and to take responsibility for money handling
- There is an opportunity to gain a Level 1 Certificate in Food Hygiene
Registered Charity
6 - 10
To create a museum that surpasses expectations, captivating audiences with the ingenuity of steam & the significance of water for a sustainable future
Thank you!
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Experienced Garden Volunteer
The beautiful, award-winning Memorial Garden behind the Museum of Brands was established in 1990 as a peaceful oasis for those living with HIV/AIDS and using the hospice and other services provided in this building when it was the London Lighthouse. The sheltered garden is described by visitors as ‘a haven’,
‘an oasis’, and ‘a hidden gem’. The garden is looked after by a small group of volunteers and the Gardener who originally developed it, working within a very small budget.
This is a small but complex garden, thoughtfully designed and rich in variety. You’ll find opportunities to work on a wide range of tasks — from detailed pruning and planting to structural maintenance and seasonal care. It’s an excellent setting for anyone looking to gain broad hands-on experience, whether you're training in horticulture or simply want to deepen your skills in a purposeful environment.
We are looking for experienced garden volunteers to support the Gardener with the following:
· General garden maintenance including weeding, pruning, deadheading, and mulching
· Planting and replanting seasonal flowers, shrubs, and small trees
· Watering plants and maintaining irrigation as needed
· Lifting and moving heavy pots, tools, compost bags, and garden waste
· Ladder work for tasks such as trimming hedges, cleaning gutters, or maintaining climbing plants
· Sawing and light carpentry, including pruning larger branches and assisting with minor repairs
· Clearing leaves and debris to keep paths and seating areas safe and accessible
· Maintaining and cleaning garden tools and equipment
What we’re looking for:
· A passion for gardening and some hands-on experience (professional or personal)
· Either a trainee gardener, horticulture student, or someone already working in gardening or landscaping or an experienced gardener wanting to give back through volunteer work
· Willingness to carry out practical tasks, including some lifting and ladder work
· Comfortable working outdoors in different weather conditions
· A positive, team-focused attitude with good attention to safety
What you’ll gain:
· Valuable hands-on gardening experience in a unique, award-winning setting
· The chance to be part of a friendly, purpose-driven team
· The satisfaction of helping maintain a space that’s deeply meaningful to others
Training and support:
You will first be invited for a meeting with our gardener, Gary. Volunteers are given relevant training for any tasks carried out, opportunities for regular feedback and we remain open to suggestions on how we can improve the volunteer experience.
Availability:
Our garden volunteers currently come in together on a Thursday. However volunteering in the garden can occur on any day while the Museum is open (Monday-Saturday 10-5, Sunday 11-5). We are looking volunteers who can volunteer over a period of at least 3 months. Ideally you will be able to start immediately, although this is not essential.
Expenses:
Travel expenses up to £5 will be paid, with up to an additional £5 for lunch expenses if you are here for over 6 hours.
Please note: Applicants from some overseas countries are required to have a relevant work permit or student visa to volunteer in the U.K. We’ll need to see this for our records before volunteering can commence.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join DOCA as a Trustee (Secretary role)
We're looking for a passionate, organised individual to join our board as a voluntary trustee – someone who can help keep us on track and bring some HR knowledge too.
You'll take minutes, help with key documents, and guide fair practice across our small but mighty arts organisation.
At DOCA, we bring people together through magical, shared experiences that transform places, hearts and minds.
We especially welcome applicants from global majority groups and those under-represented in the arts.
Based in Devizes, Wiltshire (hybrid considered).
Interested? Let’s chat!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
We are looking for new Board members to support our work and bring new skills, expertise and ideas for the future of our organisation.
At Nottingham Contemporary, we believe in the power of contemporary art to inspire, challenge and bring people together. We are in an important moment in Nottingham Contemporary’s history as we deliver a transformative process of rearticulating our purpose and shaping our future. This includes securing our long-term financial standing by developing and working towards ambitious and entrepreneurial income generation strategies and building on new and existing partnerships, members and supporters.
In particular, we are looking for trustees with expertise in one or more of the below areas:
- Financial Director/Accountant – with strong financial understanding and experience, you will be confident supporting Board members and the Senior Leadership Team with financial decisions and will Chair our Finance and Audit Committee.
- Gallerist/Art Consultant – with substantial experience in the commercial art world. We are especially interested in candidates who have a deep understanding of the art market and its networks and the ability to help strengthen the organisation’s relationships with patrons, collectors, galleries and other stakeholders in the cultural and commercial ecosystem.
- Artist – with strong knowledge of the UK and international arts sector, and an interest and experience working with cultural institutions. Ideally, you will bring knowledge of partnership working within cultural institutions; for example, experience of partnerships between universities or local government bodies, community partners and cultural organisations.
- Commercial or entrepreneurial experience – you will understand how to develop new income streams or commercialise strands of activities, identify cross selling opportunities, strategic partnerships, and advise on how to leverage assets to generate income and create sustainable business models. This role will chair the trading company.
We actively encourage applications from people whose perspectives and experiences are currently under-represented on our Board:
- people from ethnically diverse cultural backgrounds,
- people from working class / lower socio-economic backgrounds,
- people who identify as disabled or have a long-term condition.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
This is an opportunity to use your expertise and skills in website development and social media presentation to make a difference to the arts in Ukraine. Our charity is focused on projects within Ukraine to support the future of dance there. This volunteer role will play a key role in fundraising and communications in support of this work.
Responsibilities:
Website:
- Developing and maintaining website (currently Wix)
- SEO and analytics
Social media:
- Technical support for development of presence on Instagram, Facebook
- Support for Fundraising and Communications Manager in development of presentation
Technical oversight:
- Ensure and advise on security
- Ensure data protection compliance
- Advise on development of technical support for administration of the charity
Key Skills / Attributes:
- Strong interest in volunteering within the arts in the third sector
- Strong experience of website development and maintenance
- Knowledge of JavaScript, SQL useful
- Experience in use of social media for corporate communications
Likely to have had 3 years plus relevant professional experience supporting corporate communications or marketing or similar disciplines.
Registered Charity
Our charity promotes dance and performance arts. Given the continuing conflict our current focus is exclusively on our projects in Ukraine.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
This is an opportunity to use your love of art, creativity and communications skills to make a difference to the future of dance in Ukraine. This volunteer role will help raise funds for our projects, manage communications, promote our events and showcase the impact of our work. We have produced two major gala fundraisers in London over the last three years and are planning a further fundraiser in Spring 2026.
Responsibilities:
Website, social media and materials:
- Developing communications materials
- Maintaining website content and developing design with website development coordinator
- Event promotion
- Management of social media content
Fundraising:
- Researching and preparing funding proposals to institutional donors including corporates and trusts
- Researching high net worth donors
- Maintaining and building donor relations
Key Skills / Attributes:
Well established professional experience in corporate communications or marketing or similar disciplines.
- Strong interest in volunteering within the arts in the third sector
- Excellent communications skills (written and verbal)
- Organised and creative.
- Familiar with use of social media for corporate communications
- Management experience
Interest in / knowledge of ballet useful.
Registered Charity
Our charity promotes dance and performance arts. Given the continuing conflict our current focus is exclusively on our projects in Ukraine.
Thank you!
Sunderland Culture is entering a bold new chapter, and we are seeking to appoint two Independent Trustees who can bring expertise, constructive challenge, and important oversight to Board discussions and decisions. This is a rewarding opportunity to help shape the cultural landscape of Sunderland, working closely with our CEO, wider Board team and valued partners to support Sunderland Culture’s vibrant and ambitious vision.
Role of The Board
The board governs the charity and ensures Sunderland Culture is well-run, legally compliant, and financially sound as a registered charity and company limited by guarantee. Trustees act as guardians of the organisation’s purpose, ensuring decisions are made in the best interests of those we serve. Core duties include;
• Work with the CEO and Partners to set strategic direction and shape the organisation’s long-term cultural vision, mission, and priorities.
• Safeguarding the mission and values of the charity, upholding our core purpose: “to improve life for everyone in Sunderland through culture.”
• Champion culture in Sunderland – acting as ambassadors for the city’s cultural sector, bringing networks and influence. • Provide accountability – Reporting to regulators (Charity Commission, Companies House), funders (Arts Council England, trusts/ foundations), and the community.
• Financial Oversight - work with the senior management team and Finance Committee to review and approve budgets, key-funding decisions and long-term sustainability.
• Policy Oversight - Approve and oversee key policies, including safeguarding, equality and diversity, privacy policy, health and safety, and employment procedures.
The board is supported in its work by a Finance Committee, with trustee representatives also working alongside staff leads on Arts Council England’s Investment Principles:
• Ambition & Quality
• Dynamism (organisational resilience and business systems)
• Inclusivity and Relevance
• Environmental Sustainability
Independent Trustees – Role Description
We are seeking to appoint two independent trustees who will bring expertise, insight, and constructive challenge to Board discussions.
We are particularly seeking expertise in one or more of the following areas:
• Finance and audit
• Fundraising and income generation
• Community cohesion
Time Commitment
• Approximately 1 day per month (variable to time of year).
• Board meetings: (4–6 times per year).
• Membership of sub-committees: (4 meetings per year).
• Preparation and engagement outside meetings.
• Term: 3 years, renewable twice.
Thank you!
We are seeking a new Chair of Trustees to lead the charity as we enter a bold new chapter for Sunderland Culture. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the cultural landscape of Sunderland, working closely with our CEO, Board of Trustees, and valued partners to support Sunderland Culture’s vibrant and ambitious vision.
The Role of The Board
The board governs the charity and ensures Sunderland Culture is well-run, legally compliant, and financially sound as a registered charity and company limited by guarantee. Trustees act as guardians of the organisation’s purpose, ensuring decisions are made in the best interests of those we serve. Core duties include;
• Work with the CEO and Partners to set strategic direction and shape the organisation’s long-term cultural vision, mission, and priorities. • Safeguarding the mission and values of the charity, upholding our core purpose: “to improve life for everyone in Sunderland through culture.”
• Champion culture in Sunderland – acting as ambassadors for the city’s cultural sector, bringing networks and influence. • Provide accountability – Reporting to regulators (Charity Commission, Companies House), funders (Arts Council England, trusts/ foundations), and the community.
• Financial Oversight - work with the senior management team and Finance Committee to review and approve budgets, key-funding decisions and long-term sustainability.
• Policy Oversight - Approve and oversee key policies, including safeguarding, equality and diversity, privacy policy, health and safety, and employment procedures.
The board is supported in its work by a Finance Committee, with trustee representatives also working alongside staff leads on Arts Council England’s Investment Principles:
• Ambition & Quality
• Dynamism (organisational resilience and business systems)
• Inclusivity and Relevance
• Environmental Sustainability
The Role of The Chair
The Chair will provide strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring that Trustees fulfil their duties effectively.
Time Commitment
• Approximately 2 days per month on average (variable through the year).
• 4–6 Board meetings annually, plus sub‑committee commitments and occasional extraordinary sessions.
• Attendance at key organisational moments (performances, openings, stakeholder meetings).
• Term: Three years, renewable by mutual agreement.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
As we shape the next stage of our programme and prepare to celebrate our centenary in 2029, this is a wonderful moment to become part of our story. We are in a period of thoughtful renewal, refining our strategy and exploring new ways to deepen our impact and enrich the musical lives of people of all ages.
Our Trustees play a vital role in the life of Benslow Music. They steward the governance of the charity, share responsibility for its financial and legal wellbeing, and help set its strategic direction in collaboration with the Chief Executive and staff team. Trustees also champion our work externally – supporting fundraising, building relationships, and helping the organisation thrive.
We are looking to appoint up to three new Trustees and warmly welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and professional perspectives.
We are intending one appointment will be a trustee with legal expertise.
Following a recent skills review, we are also keen to hear from candidates with experience in:
- Charity governance
- Finance or accountancy
- Corporate or charity experience in SMEs
- Fundraising.
For further information and to download our trustee recruitment pack, plese visit our website.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Art Explora is a non-profit arts organisation that aims to share arts and culture with everyone - locally, nationally and internationally - and inspire new encounters between arts and audiences.
Arts at Home supports older people to access arts and culture by encouraging conversation and connection through art. We are looking for volunteers to participate in our "Arts at Home" sessions in residential care homes. In these sessions, you will introduce works of art of your choice and facilitate conversations around the artworks with residents. No prior professional experience is needed; we will provide you with the necessary training.
You will need to be able to travel to Birmingham locations independently (pre agreed local travel expenses paid).
Why you'll love it:
- You will meet new people & alleviate feelings of loneliness through creativity and connection.
- You will be offered spaces on trips to galleries and theatres with our care setting residents as part of our ‘Art Explorers at...’ project.
- You will learn about art, heritage, and history, through your research and other volunteers.
- You will develop communication and public speaking skills
- You will gain experience working with vulnerable adults and build an understanding of how art can support a sense of community and wellbeing.
If you are a confident communicator and passionate about arts, we would love to hear from you!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.