Trustees volunteer roles

Mission 44 is a charitable foundation launched by Sir Lewis Hamilton in 2021 to create a fairer, more inclusive future for young people. We work to ensure every young person can thrive in school and access great careers, particularly in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths).

Lewis' own journey to Formula 1 required him to overcome barriers linked to race, class and opportunity. In 2020, he established the Hamilton Commission to understand why motorsport was not representative of wider society. Mission 44 builds on the evidence and recommendations of the Hamilton Commission. While informed by the Commission, its remit extends beyond motorsport, focusing on wider education and employment systems to expand opportunity at scale.

Working across the UK, the US and Brazil, we invest in the organisations closest to young people from underserved communities, and we use our platform to influence the systems that hold too many young people back.

Diversity is at the heart of Mission 44. It is fundamental to how we create change. We therefore see it as essential to bring different ways of thinking to our Board of Trustees, and are now seeking 3-4 new Trustees to join our Board and be part of realising our ambitions to scale opportunities for young people. 

One of these will be a Young Trustee, aged 18 – 30, and we are open to backgrounds.  We will provide you with additional guidance to help you navigate board responsibilities, contribute fully to discussions and develop your governance and leadership skills. For wider Trustee roles, backgrounds will ideally include one of the following areas:

· The education or youth sectors

· Communications and influencing

· Safeguarding experience

· Operational leadership experience (e.g. HR, IT, data management) 

· Organisational growth/ international expansion 

· Fundraising 

· AI 

· Creative industries

· Humanitarian sector

· Experience in intergenerational philanthropy 

Interested candidates must have the time available to commit to supporting Mission 44 as we enter our next phase of growth, making a thorough personal contribution and being willing to share your insights.   Above all, you must be committed to our mission that every young person can thrive in school and access great careers. 

To learn more and apply, please download the appointment brief below. For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Fiona Wansborough or Ami Jenick at People Beyond Profit, whose contract details are also listed in the appointment brief.

Closing date:    13 September 2026

PBP interviews:                       17 – 24 September 2026

Mission 44 interviews: 6 October and w/c19 October 2026

First Board meeting: 8 December 2026

We know that when people from different backgrounds work together, it generates more diversity of thought and better ideas. We want to attract the broadest range of talented people onto our Board of Trustees so that it comprises a rich mix of personal as well as professional perspectives, positions and experiences to enable us to grow and learn better together.

We are therefore particularly interested in candidates from underrepresented groups, including people of colour, people with disabilities or candidates from the LGBTQ+ community.

About Pecan

Pecan tackles poverty in Southwark by restoring dignity, belonging and hope through connected community services that address food insecurity, unemployment and isolation. From food banks and employment support to welcoming community spaces, we combine practical help with emotional and community care, helping people regain confidence, feel hopeful and believe in their potential.

About The Role

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.

We're looking for a Fundraising Trustee to join our Board and provide strategic fundraising expertise. This role combines governance responsibilities with practical support, helping us strengthen existing income streams, develop new opportunities and build relationships across Peckham and Southwark.

Main Responsibilities:

• Governance and Strategic Leadership: Fulfil the responsibilities of a charity trustee, ensuring effective governance and accountability. Attend and contribute to Board meetings and strategic discussions. 

• Fundraising: Provide strategic advice across key income streams, including trusts and foundations, statutory contracts, inividual giving and corporate partnerships. Share fundraising expertise and help identify new opportunitiies for sustainable income. 

• Community Engagement: Attend and support fundraising events, community activities and supporter engagement opportunities. Act as an enthusiastic ambassador for Pecan, promoting our mission and values within the local community. 

Essential Requirements 

• A practising Christian who is committed to Pecan's mission and values
• Experience of charity fundraising, such as community fundraising, events, church engagement, corporate partnerships or individual giving. 
• Strong relationship-building and networking skills. 
• Willingness to act as a local ambassador for Pecan. 
• Able to attend Board meetings held in the evenings. 

Desirable knowledge/expertise

• Knowledge of, or strong connections within, Peckham and/or Southwark.
• Ability to commit to 4-8 hours per month, with some months requiring more time to attend meetings, fundraising events, or networking opportunities. We recognise that trustees have varying availability, and additional involvement beyond core governance responsibilities is flexible. 
• Experience working with churches.
• Experience engaging local businesses, schools or community organisations. 
• Understanding of charity governance and trustee responsibilities. 
• Existing networks within Peckham and Southwark. 

Time Commitment 

The expected commitment is flexible and averages a few hours each month, including:

• 4-6 Board meetings per year (evenings, usually held virtually).
• Ad hoc Fundraising Committee meetings (typically during the daytime). 
• Occassional fundraising and networking events, including some evenings and weekends
• Additional support nd networking where your availability allows. 
   

Please read the Job Description for more information.

Closing Date: Wednesday 9th September 2026, 9am

Interview Date: 14th, 15th or 16th September 2026, Details TBC 

Start Date: ASAP

Opportunity: Chair of the Finance and Risk Sub-committee, Board of Trustees

Open School East is at a pivotal moment in its development and is seeking a Chair of the Finance and Risk Sub-committee to help shape its next chapter.

Deadline for applications: Wednesday 30th September 2026

We are interested in hearing from candidates with expertise in:

• Finance: A person with experience in finance management or accounting, with the capacity to provide a strategic overview of finances, ensuring viability, compliance with relevant legislative frameworks, effective use of resources and ensuring that proper financial records and procedures are maintained.

We are especially keen to hear from people with knowledge of, or an interest in, education and the arts. By committing your time and expertise to our two meetings a quarter (full Trustee meeting and Chairing the Finance and Risk Sub-committee meetings), you can become part of a leading arts education charity, making a real difference to emerging creatives of all ages and from all backgrounds.

We also warmly welcome people who bring lived experience of the barriers OSE seeks to dismantle including people of colour, disabled people, those from working class backgrounds, or people with experience of marginalisation in the arts or education sectors.

We are seeking a Finance Trustee to join our Board of Trustees*.  You will have:

• Strong senior-level knowledge of investment management (equities and fixed income)
• Experience setting investment strategy and overseeing financial risk
• An analytical and questioning mindset, with confidence to provide constructive challenge
• Experience supporting long-term financial sustainability and governance.

You will also have empathy and understanding of disability-related issues, or a strong commitment to learning. Bring integrity, sound judgement and strategic thinking.

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to use your financial expertise to make a meaningful, lasting impact. As a Trustee, you will contribute strategic insight, sound judgement and compassionate leadership to help ensure the Trust continues to meet the changing needs of its beneficiaries.

About Us

The Thalidomide Trust is a unique organisation supporting beneficiaries, now all in their 60s, born with disabilities as a result of their mother taking the drug, thalidomide, during pregnancy. 

They are a remarkable group of people, who have achieved a great deal despite often living with extreme levels of disability, including limb damage, hearing and visual impairment, brain and sensory impairment and damage to internal organs.

Our beneficiaries have very complex and varied needs which are increasing as they age. We have gained an in-depth understanding of their evolving needs through our high level of contact with beneficiaries and our structured programme of three-yearly Holistic Needs Assessments (HNAs).

Commitment

• This is a voluntary role, but reasonable expenses incurred will be reimbursed.
• London / St Neots / Hybrid
• You should be willing and able to devote approximately 15 – 20 days (plus travel time) per annum to the Trust. Specifically, be available to attend three full day board meetings and one morning virtual meeting as well as Finance Committee meetings. There may be various projects, webinars and/or events throughout the year, and availability to remotely authorise transactions and documents on an ad hoc basis (with reasonable notice) is required.

Interested?

If you have the skills, experience, and motivation to help shape the future of the Trust, we would love to hear from you.

More information:

• No contact from agencies or media sales.
• We particularly welcome applications from the BAME community and people living with disabilities.

Application deadline: Wednesday 30 September 2026 at 9am

Date for Interview: Tuesday 20 October 2026 (Central London)

* Following a restructuring exercise in January 2018, your formal title will be a Director of the Thalidomide Trust Company. However, you will operate as a charitable Trustee and will be governed by the Charity Commission.

We are seeking a qualified barrister or solicitor with at least 15 year’s post qualification legal experience to join our Board of Trustees* as a Legal Trustee, bringing sound legal judgement, empathy and a strong commitment to improving the lives of our beneficiaries.

You will bring:

• Understanding of Court of Protection issues and challenges.
• Experience of working with older people, disabled people or people with a cognitive impairment.
• Warmth, empathy and a non-judgmental approach. 
• Well-developed interpersonal skills and an ability to develop positive relationships with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. 
• Judicial Experience is desirable

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to use your legal expertise to make a meaningful, lasting impact.

As a Trustee, you will contribute strategic insight, sound judgement and compassionate leadership to help ensure the Trust continues to meet the changing needs of its beneficiaries.

About Us

The Thalidomide Trust is a unique organisation supporting beneficiaries, now all in their 60s, born with disabilities as a result of their mother taking the drug, thalidomide, during pregnancy. 

They are a remarkable group of people, who have achieved a great deal despite often living with extreme levels of disability, including limb damage, hearing and visual impairment, brain and sensory impairment and damage to internal organs.

Our beneficiaries have very complex and varied needs which are increasing as they age. We have gained an in-depth understanding of their evolving needs through our high level of contact with beneficiaries and our structured programme of three-yearly Holistic Needs Assessments (HNAs).

Commitment

• This is a voluntary role, but reasonable expenses incurred will be reimbursed.
• London / St Neots / Hybrid
• You should also be willing and able to devote approximately 15 – 20 days (plus travel time) per annum to the Trust –and specifically be available to attend three full day board meetings and one morning virtual meeting.

Interested?

If you have the skills, experience, and motivation to help shape the future of the Trust, we would love to hear from you.

More information:

• No contact from agencies or media sales.
• We particularly welcome applications from the BAME community and people living with disabilities.

Application deadline: Wednesday 30 September 2026 at 9am

Date for Interview: Wednesday 14 October 2026 (Central London)

* Following a restructuring exercise in January 2018, your formal title will be a Director of the Thalidomide Trust Company. However, you will operate as a charitable Trustee and will be governed by the Charity Commission.

Join Our Board - Help shape the future of Merton’s vibrant voluntary, community and social enterprise sector.

Merton Connected is seeking two to three new trustees to join us at an exciting time of growth.

Merton's voluntary, community, social enterprise and faith sector is full of energy, ideas and people determined to make a difference. As the borough's infrastructure charity, Merton Connected sits right at the heart of it: connecting, supporting and championing the organisations that support local people every day.

Now we want you to help shape what comes next.

Who we're looking for

We're seeking people who bring curiosity, strategic thinking, and a genuine commitment to inclusive community development. Whether this would be your first governance role or you've supported other boards before, what matters most is your perspective and your willingness to engage.

We're particularly keen to hear from people with insight or experience in:

• Charity management
• Public health, health and social care integration, or partnership working between statutory and VCS organisations
• Marketing and communications
• Digital and AI operations
• Income generation and fundraising
• Impact and performance measurement

We also warmly welcome applicants with diverse lived experience, fresh perspectives, and a strong connection to Merton. There's no single profile we're looking for, and different viewpoints make us stronger.

What you'll be doing

As a trustee, you'll help shape our strategy, strengthen good governance, and champion the voices of local organisations and residents. You'll join a collaborative, supportive board that works closely with our leadership team to ensure Merton's voluntary, community and faith sector continues to thrive.

What you'll gain

• The chance to influence local priorities and make a meaningful difference to people's lives
• Insight into how a well-connected, values-driven infrastructure charity works from the inside
• Opportunities to share your knowledge and develop your own strategic and leadership skills
• A place on a welcoming, inclusive board committed to learning and collective impact

The practical bit

Time commitment: 4–6 meetings per year (including strategy days), with occasional subgroups or events
Support offered: A full induction is provided, and reasonable out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed.

We are actively seeking to expand our board and hope to make at least two trustee appointments over the next two months.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and we may appoint additional trustees where their skills and experience complement the board.

Ready to find out more?

Please apply with your CV and a few screening questions

The Sociological Review Foundation, a registered charity that exists to advance public education on the subject of sociology and related disciplines, is looking to appoint an individual to join the Board of Trustees during an exciting time of organisational growth and development.

Our work is partly supported by Gift Aid donations from The Sociological Review journal. As publishing models change and royalty income declines, the Foundation is working to diversify its income through donations and other sources of support so that it can continue delivering its charitable work.

We have therefore developed a range of income-generating initiatives, including a ticketed annual public lecture, paid podcast production and hosting packages, and specialist training workshops. These initiatives are intended to supplement our Gift Aid income and help ensure that we can continue to offer most of our activities and resources free of charge.

What We’re Looking For

We are inviting expressions of interest from individuals with experience in marketing and communications who can help us reach and engage existing and new audiences across our work. This will include advising on the promotion of our income-generating events, training workshops and other initiatives.

As a very small charity, we are looking for a trustee who understands the practical realities of working with limited staff time and resources. The successful candidate will provide strategic guidance and, where appropriate, practical insight into areas such as market positioning, audience engagement and effective, proportionate communications.

Your responsibilities as a trustee will include the following:

• To work with other trustees to ensure that the Foundation complies with its articles of association, pursues and works within its mission and charitable objectives, functions within relevant legal and financial requirements, and applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives;
• To provide guidance on the Foundation’s marketing and communications activities;
• To offer insight into market positioning and audience engagement;
• To be aware of, and conform to, the responsibilities of a trustee and company director;
• To participate in at least three Board meetings each year, as well as the Annual General Meeting. Some of these meetings will take place on Zoom, others in person (in London or other cities in England);
• To commit up to one hour per week on average to the role, including Board meetings;
• To play an ambassadorial role and promote the Foundation;
• To act in the best interests of the charity and to comply at all times with its policies and procedures.

This is not a paid position; however, travel and any childcare expenses while on trustee business will be covered in line with our expenses claim policy.

Previous experience as a charity trustee is desirable but not essential. You will receive training on the duties and responsibilities of trustees at the beginning of your appointment.

To apply, please send your CV and a one-page covering letter to Operations Director Attila Szanto, outlining your interest in the role and what you would bring to it. The deadline for expressions of interest is the 24th of August 2026.

Trustees wanted – help shape the future of Musculoskeletal Education with SOMM

We’re looking for engaged, thoughtful and proactive Trustees to join the Council of the Society of Musculoskeletal Medicine (SOMM).

This is a working Board, and we are looking for people who will contribute, challenge and help move the organisation forward.

What we need - We are particularly keen to hear from individuals with expertise in:

· Digital / Data Strategy – digital transformation, data-driven decision making, cyber awareness

· Marketing & Communications – brand, engagement, audience or membership growth

· Commercial / Growth (desirable) – income diversification, business development

The Role -  As a Trustee, you will:

· Contribute to strategy, governance and long-term direction

· Provide constructive challenge and independent thinking

· Support key areas of organisational development

· Act as an ambassador for SOMM

Commitment: 3–6 meetings per year + occasional project work (approx. 2–4 hours/month)

We are looking for someone who will bring:

· Sound judgement and integrity

· A willingness to contribute and engage

· The confidence to challenge constructively

Why join us?

· Shape a respected national MSK education provider

· Work with a knowledgeable and supportive Council

· Make a genuine, tangible impact

Diversity & Inclusion

SOMM is committed to building a diverse and inclusive Council. We actively welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, including different ethnicities, genders, career stages, and sectors, to better reflect the communities we serve.

About International Lawyers Project

ILP is an alliance of talented and passionate lawyers drawn from diverse countries and cultures across the globe. We pull together teams of pro bono experts to support the policy and legal needs of individuals, communities and organisations that would otherwise not have access to expert advice.

A UK registered charity founded in 2005, we are staffed by a group of lawyers dedicated to using the law to achieve economic and environmental justice through strategic pro bono legal support. Our focus areas are environment and sustainable development, sustainable finance, governance and accountability (with a focus on anti-corruption measures), and protecting the civic space of those working on these themes. Over twenty years we have supported partners in more than 100 countries.

We are proud to have a diverse staff team from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe, reflective of the communities we support. Our staff have extensive experience in our focus areas, as well as international law and development. We work primarily in the Global South, with active projects across sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, Asia and Europe.

As a charity, our ultimate aim is to help our partners create long-lasting change, in line with our vision of a just and sustainable world in which law serves as a tool for those who need it the most.

You may find out more about ILP’s work at its website.

About the Role

ILP has a 13-member Board, with members based in the UK, Spain, Kenya and the USA. Successful candidates will be joining a collegial team with a wide range of expertise in the thematic areas of ILP’s work and experience in charity governance.

ILP is a growing and ambitious organisation, with its budget more than doubling in size over the course of the last few years. Currently with a budget of approximately £500,000 and an additional £6 million value mobilised in pro bono hours, we are looking for a trustee and ultimately a Chair who is able to support the team as the organisation continues to grow and move to the next level.

Successful candidates will be appointed initially as an ordinary Trustee. The term of the current Chair comes to an end in mid-2027. Shortly before then the Board will decide on the appointment of a new Chair, with the expectation that the successful candidate will be elected from the Board in accordance with the Articles of Association.

The key responsibilities of Board members are to ensure that the organisation has a clear strategy for the fulfilment of its charitable purposes, and to provide oversight of and support to the executive team, in accordance with the Articles of Association and the guidance on governance obligations established by the Charity Commission.

 In addition to these general obligations the Board Chair’s key responsibilities are to:

• Provide leadership to the Board of Trustees in oversight of the strategic direction and execution of the governance responsibilities of the Charity.

• Chair and facilitate meetings of the Board (hybrid meetings held from ILP’s London office), ensuring that they are conducted in an effective and inclusive manner and monitoring the implementation of decisions taken at such meetings.

• Support ILP’s Executive Director in leading the day-to-day management of the Charity and preparing for Board meetings.

• Take lead responsibility on behalf of the Board for the relationship with ILP’s Executive Director, appraising their performance and holding him or her to account.

• Give direction to Board policy making.

• Act as an ambassador for the Charity, representing its strategy and contribution to its partners and funders.

• Plan for the recruitment and development of Board members as needed in order to improve the performance of the Board.

Term of Office: Trustees are appointed for a 3 year term, serving a maximum of 3 consecutive terms.

Expected Time Commitment: Variable, but up to two days a month as Board Chair. Ordinary trustees attend four two-hour Board meetings annually, for which moderate background reading is required, and may be requested to assist with other contributions.

Compensation: This is a volunteer role, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Specification for Board Chair

• Experience serving on the Board of one or more other registered UK charities.

• Understanding of the Charity Commission’s governance requirements, and the balance of roles between governance and management.

• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to support the charity.

• Professional background related to ILP’s thematic areas of focus and familiarity with the non-profit sector working in an international context.

• Commitment to ILP’s strategic objectives.

• Good communication and people management skills and strong independent judgement.

York Archaeological Trust for Research and Excavation Limited, an educational and research charity, is currently looking for a new trustee specialising in finance to join its board during an exciting period of development.

Having celebrated our 50th anniversary in 2022, we are committed to building on the vision that began with the Coppergate excavation in York and the opening of the internationally renowned JORVIK Viking Centre, and to harnessing archaeology for educational and public benefit. Engaging with more than 1.2 million people annually, and with centres of archaeology and conservation in York and Nottingham we work throughout the UK and internationally providing leading-edge field investigation, analysis and connecting communities with their past.

We are keen to hear from those who can offer expertise and experience in strategic financial management. With succession planning in mind for the role of Chair of our Finance and Audit Committee, we are seeking a candidate with considerable professional financial expertise, ideally underpinned with a formal first-tier accounting qualification, proven commercial acumen and strong leadership skills to scrutinise, challenge and oversee the entirety of the Trust’s finances. Whilst a formal accountancy qualification is desirable, we will also consider candidates who have had substantial experience of corporate or charity governance, financial analysis and scrutiny at a strategic level.

Business experience of the charity sector from either an employed or voluntary capacity would also be an advantage.

Trustees are appointed for a three-year term, renewable to a maximum of nine years. The role includes a commitment to attend four board meetings per year and the Annual General Meeting. Trustees are also expected to contribute some additional time to sub-committees and/or Steering Groups in line with their interests and expertise. Trustees are not remunerated, but we can cover reasonable travel and accommodation expenses.

The closing date for applications is Friday 28th August 2026, and we expect interviews for short-listed candidates to be held in the second half of September 2026.

To apply, please send a letter to us explaining the reasons for your interest and outlining what you could contribute to this role, together with your CV.

Do you have a direct Latin American background and financial expertise you want to put to meaningful use?

This is a great opportunity to contribute to the financial management and sustainability of a registered charity that has supported Latin American and other migrant communities through information, advice and guidance for vulnerable individuals, children and young people's activities and projects, adult education opportunities, and community-led cultural projects since 1983.

About us

LAH is a community-led charity driven by and for Latin Americans in the UK. For decades, we have been supporting Latin American and other Spanish and Portuguese-speaking migrants, championing their rights, wellbeing, and inclusion. We are a small, close-knit team with big ambitions, and everything we do is rooted in the lived experiences of the communities we serve. Our work takes place across London and at our community centre in Kilburn, North West London.

About the role

This is a voluntary, non-executive governance role with a time commitment of just 2 to 3 hours per month. As Finance Trustee, you will Chair our Finance and Fundraising Sub-Committee, providing board-level oversight of LAH's financial health: reviewing management accounts, scrutinising budgets and forecasts, ensuring our financial controls are robust, and supporting the wider Board of Trustees at Latin American House to understand financial risk and sustainability.

You will work closely with LAH Director and finance team, contributing to the approval of annual accounts and budgets, and ensuring we meet our Charity Commission and Companies House obligations.

This is strategic oversight, not day-to-day operations - the hands-on finance work stays with our staff.

If you have ever wanted your professional skills to serve your community, this is how.

What we are looking for

You will have a direct Latin American background, this is a requirement of LAH's governing documents, alongside experience in finance, accounting, budgeting, or financial management. You will be able to translate financial concepts clearly for non-finance trustees, bring sound judgement and analytical thinking, and be comfortable in an organisation where systems are still growing and developing.

You do not need prior trustee or charity experience. What matters is integrity, a collaborative spirit, and a genuine commitment to the communities LAH serves. 

What we offer

• A meaningful governance role at the heart of a values-driven organisation
• The chance to contribute your financial expertise directly to your community
• Full trustee induction and ongoing governance support
• A collaborative, committed Board of Trustees working towards a shared mission
• Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed

Latin American House is a registered charity (1127253) and registered company (06720498). Trustees serve in a voluntary capacity.

Trustee of the Rose Road Association Charity – Voluntary Position

The Rose Road Association has been working with children, young people and their families from across Hampshire and the surrounding counties since 1952. The children who attend The Association have profound and multiple learning difficulties and physical disabilities. The charity currently employs around 200 staff and has a turnover of c£5m

The range of services provided includes activity schemes, residential short breaks, family information and advice services and community support to over 300 families in Hampshire and surrounding counties.

We are looking for people passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of young disabled people – could you become part of our dedicated Trustee Team?

Commitment

6 meetings annually in addition to occasional one-off events. All of our Trustees hold a lead role for a certain aspect of the organisation, this could include occasional additional meetings with Officers.

Purpose

Charity Trustees hold the responsibility for the strategic governance of the charity.  This includes, but is not restricted to:

· Safeguarding of service users and staff

· Oversight of financial planning and management

· Charity performance against the Business Plan key performance indicators

· Monitoring regulatory compliance

· Guardianship of reputation and ethos

Following a recent skills assessment of existing Trustees, we are now looking for new Trustees with strengths in the following areas to join our experienced, lively and committed Board:

· Health and/or social care quality standards

· ICT

·       Human Resources

·       Project Management

The position will be responsible to the Chair of the Board of Trustees

Chair of the Board of Trustees

The Ripple Pond Charity - Supporting Armed Forces and Veteran Families

A Voluntary Trustee Position
With reasonable expenses reimbursed

Please note that although the closing date for applications is 11 September 2026, we will be reviewing applications as they are received and may interview suitable candidates before the closing date. We therefore encourage interested candidates to apply early, as the recruitment process may close once a suitable appointment is made.

 Help Shape the Future of Support for Military Families

The Ripple Pond is seeking an exceptional individual to serve as Chair of our Board of Trustees.

This is an opportunity to lead a unique and growing charity that supports the families and carers of Armed Forces personnel and veterans who have sustained a service-related physical or psychological injury. Through peer support, advocacy, collaboration and innovation, we help military families feel seen, heard and supported throughout their journey.

We are looking for a values-driven leader with strategic vision, strong governance experience and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of military families and the wider Armed Forces community.

About the Role

As Chair, you will lead the Board of Trustees, ensuring that The Ripple Pond remains focused on its charitable purpose, strategic priorities and long-term sustainability.

Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer and fellow Trustees, you will help guide the charity through its next phase of development, strengthening our impact, partnerships and influence across the military, veterans, health and social care sectors.

You will function as an ambassador for the charity, helping to build relationships, influence decision-makers and create opportunities that support lasting positive change for those we support.

Who Are We Looking For?

The Chair of The Ripple Pond leads a small but complex charity that provides support to more than 1,200 Armed Forces and veteran family members across the UK. Around 20% of new Members joining our services live in environments that place them at high risk.

These challenges often arise from complex and overlapping circumstances, including addiction, suicidal ideation, domestic abuse, safeguarding concerns, risk of homelessness and wider welfare needs.

This places significant responsibility on the Chair to provide strong board leadership, support and develop trustees, maintain effective governance and strategic oversight, and work in close partnership with the CEO to ensure the charity remains focused on delivering meaningful impact for military families. The Chair also acts as one of the charity's principal ambassadors and public representatives.

We are seeking an individual with a broad range of experience and perspectives, ideally gained across multiple sectors. This might include commercial business, the public sector, healthcare, social care, the arts, the Armed Forces, emergency services or the voluntary sector.

You will have experience in developing and delivering regional or national strategies that have achieved sustainable and measurable positive outcomes, preferably through collaboration and partnership with a range of stakeholders.

You will have operated at executive or equivalent senior leadership level and be comfortable working across organisational boundaries, where success is achieved through influence, relationships and shared purpose rather than formal authority alone.

You will possess a strong understanding of risk, including strategic, organisational, and people-related risks, and be able to explain complex issues in a way that is clear, practical, and accessible to others.

Most importantly, you will demonstrate humility, integrity and compassion. You will care deeply about people, value the contribution of others and be motivated by a desire to serve the Armed Forces community and improve the lives of military families.

Role Profile

We are seeking an experienced senior leader who can provide effective governance, constructive challenge and confident stewardship to help guide The Ripple Pond through its next phase of development.

The successful candidate will bring:

Experience and Capability

Organisational Leadership and Change

• Significant executive, board-level or equivalent senior leadership experience.
• Experience of leading organisations through growth, transformation or periods of significant change.
• A proven ability to develop and deliver complex strategies, align stakeholders behind a shared purpose and achieve sustainable outcomes.
• The ability to balance organisational ambition, opportunity, risk and long-term sustainability.

 Governance, Finance and Risk

• A strong understanding of governance, accountability and effective board leadership gained through charity trusteeship, corporate governance, public service or other relevant senior leadership experience.
• Experience of supporting effective decision-making, constructive challenge and organisational assurance.
• Financial confidence and literacy, including the ability to understand budgets, financial performance, investment decisions and long-term sustainability.
• An understanding of risk management and the importance of robust oversight.

Influence, Partnerships and Representation

• Experience of building effective partnerships and relationships across sectors.
• The ability to represent an organisation with credibility, authenticity and professionalism.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to engage and influence a wide range of audiences.

Leadership Style and Values

We are particularly interested in individuals who demonstrate:

Integrity and Accountability
A commitment to ethical leadership, transparency and maintaining the highest standards of governance.

Collaborative Leadership
The ability to build trust, bring people together and create an environment where trustees, Members, workforce, partners and other stakeholders feel valued and able to contribute. You will listen, encourage open discussion and help create a shared sense of purpose both within The Ripple Pond and across the wider community.

Compassion and Respect
An understanding of the experiences of military families and carers, with genuine respect for different perspectives, backgrounds and lived experiences.

Courage and Constructive Challenge
You will be confident asking the difficult questions, challenging thinking and encouraging open and honest conversations. You will build trusted internal and strategic relationships, using your influence to ensure the experiences of military families and carers are understood and reflected in wider conversations and decision-making. This will help ensure that The Ripple Pond continues to play its part in shaping a stronger support landscape for military and veteran families.

Self-Awareness and Learning Mindset
A willingness to listen, reflect and continue developing, recognising that effective leadership requires curiosity, humility and openness to new ideas.

Commitment to Our Purpose
A genuine desire to improve the lives of military families, carers and veterans affected by service-related injury. You will understand the importance of lived experience in shaping services, strategy and practice, ensuring that those we support remain central to organisational decision-making.

Experience within the Armed Forces, veterans, healthcare, social care, public service or charity sectors would be beneficial but is not essential.

Safeguarding and Creating a Safe Culture

The Ripple Pond is committed to creating a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for all Members, volunteers, staff, trustees and partners. Safeguarding is fundamental to our work, and trustees share responsibility for ensuring that people feel respected, listened to and able to raise concerns.

The Chair will champion a strong safeguarding culture, ensuring the Board maintains appropriate oversight of safeguarding practice, risk management, policies and organisational culture.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Ripple Pond believes that diversity of experience and perspective strengthens our organisation and improves the support we provide. We welcome applications from people with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, including those with relevant lived experience.

The Chair will help ensure equality, diversity and inclusion are embedded throughout governance, decision-making, culture and service development, creating an organisation where everyone feels valued, respected and able to contribute.

Time Commitment

The role of Chair is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the lives of Armed Forces and veteran families. While voluntary, it carries significant responsibility and requires a consistent commitment throughout the year.

Key responsibilities include:

• Chairing at least four formal Board meetings annually.
• Participating in occasional committee, strategic planning and development meetings.
• Maintaining regular engagement with the Chief Executive, providing guidance, support and constructive challenge.
• Supporting trustee recruitment, development and succession planning.
• Attending selected events, conferences and stakeholder engagements.
• Acting as an ambassador for The Ripple Pond with partners, funders, supporters and the wider community.
• Providing occasional availability for matters requiring Chair input between scheduled meetings.

Many meetings are held virtually to maximise accessibility and efficiency, although some travel will be required for Board meetings, key events and stakeholder engagement.

Professional Practice

As a national charity supporting over 1,200 military family members across the UK, the Chair will maintain an informed understanding of The Ripple Pond’s work, operating environment, opportunities and risks to provide effective Board leadership and appropriate support and challenge to the Chief Executive.

Applicants should be able to commit sufficient time in line with Charity Commission guidance and recognised principles of good governance. The time requirement will vary throughout the year, with additional involvement likely during periods of strategic development, organisational change or significant emerging issues.

Above all, the Chair will view this not simply as a governance appointment, but as an opportunity to help shape and strengthen an organisation making a lasting difference to military families across the United Kingdom.

Digital Confidence and Ways of Working

The Ripple Pond is a digitally enabled charity, with services, meetings and engagement activity delivered predominantly through online platforms. The Chair should therefore be comfortable working in a digital environment and using technology to support effective governance and communication.

This includes participating in virtual Board meetings, reviewing digital reports and documents, communicating with the Chief Executive and engaging with stakeholders online. Confidence using video conferencing, shared document systems and online collaboration tools is essential to ensure effective participation, timely decision-making and organisational agility.

Term of Appointment

The appointment is for an initial term of three years.

Trustees may be reappointed for further three-year terms up to a maximum of nine years, subject to the charity's governing document and Board approval.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to lead the Board of a growing charity with a clear purpose and a strong commitment to military families across the United Kingdom.

The Ripple Pond exists because the experiences and challenges faced by families caring for injured serving personnel and veterans are often unseen and not fully recognised. As Chair, you will help shape our next chapter, working with an experienced team and community of Members to strengthen our impact, ensure the voices of military families and carers are heard, and help influence wider understanding, services and support.

Kidney Care UK, the UK’s leading kidney patient support charity is looking to recruit a number of exceptional individuals to join our committed Board as Trustees. To maintain a good skills balance within the Board, we would particularly welcome applications from a range of interested applicants with legal, IT, finance and fundraising expertise, as well as from senior clinicians including nurses and other allied health professionals. Lived experience of kidney disease would be advantageous but not essential.

Kidney Care UK, provides practical, financial and emotional support for kidney patients and their families, and works in partnership with health professionals and organisations to improve care and quality of life for patients. With over 200 patients supported every week and around £3m invested in our patient support work every year, we are passionately committed to improving the lives of everyone affected by the disease and actively campaign to improve care services.

Trustees are expected to attend four Board meetings a year, held in London and at our office headquarters in Alton, Hampshire, and most Trustees choose to sit on one of our four Committees.

The appointment is for an initial term of three years, with an option to serve up to nine years in total.

There is no remuneration although expenses may be claimed.

We are committed to diversity and strive to create an inclusive environment for all.

To apply, please submit a copy of your CV and a covering letter outlining why you wish to be a Trustee of Kidney Care UK.

Applications are open until 30 September 2026 with interviews scheduled to be held in November.