Trustees volunteer roles

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person, with a background in retail operations and income generation. An individual who could devote their time to volunteer as a trustee for our Branch, and support us in maximising the revenue generated from our charity shops as we want to increase our skill set across our trustee board.

Alongside passing on your expertise, this opportunity will give you the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental, alongside fellow trustees, in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long term aims.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties. This role will join the current trustee board (made up of 9 members) and you will be supported by other trustees.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – Retail and Income Generation

• Assist the Shop Managers in maximising the profitability of the Branch’s two charity shops, directly line manage the branches 2 shop managers.
• Work with the Trustee committee to explore any potential for expanding the retail operation by researching the potential for further charity shops.
• Support the Branch with the Branch’s e-commerce operation via online sales platforms such as eBay/Vinted.
• Work with other trustees, the Branch staff to ensure the charity shops meet health and safety standards.
• Explore other ways to generate income for the Branch and work closely with other committee members/branch staff members to put these ideas into action.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are committed to creating a Board which is representative of our society and in particular, our community and surrounding areas so encourage people from any background to apply for any of our opportunities.

Alongside retail operations and income generation experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee – Retail and Income Generation

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you with everything you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

We'd love applicants within or very close to the branch area - Finchley, Hendon, Golders Green, Edgware, Whetstone, Stanmore.

We are seeking to recruit two new trustees to our Board and are specifically looking for candidates with a strong fundraising background and a strong finance or accountancy background.

I encourage you to review the profiles of our current Board members to understand the current breadth of expertise and perspectives. We are proud to have a dynamic and highly engaged Board. Our discussions are strategic, forward-looking, and always centred on how we can best serve our patients, loved ones and communities.

Purpose

Our Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity. They oversee all aspects of the organisation, working closely with the Group Chief Executive Officer and Executive Leadership Team.

We expect our Board of Trustees to reach sound decisions - this may involve scrutinising Board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other subjects in which the Trustee has special expertise.

Legal context

Trustees are responsible for the legal stewardship of St Giles Hospice. This involves ensuring that the hospice is compliant with legislation and its own governing documents. They are also responsible for the corporate governance of the organisation and report annually to the Charity Commission and Companies House. We expect all Trustees to be aware of the Charity Governance Code.

Charity Commission guidance states that Trustees must:

•  Ensure that everything they do helps and supports to meet the charity's objectives
•  Comply with the charity's governing documents and law
•  Act in the charity's best interests
•  Manage the charity's resources responsibly
•  Act with reasonable care and skill and take advice where necessary
•  Ensure the charity is compliant with statutory accounting and reporting requirements

The person specification sets out the essential qualifications, experience, skills, knowledge, personal attributes and other requirements, which the post holder requires to perform the role to a satisfactory level. Without these qualities, the applicant cannot be appointed to the post.

Skills and experience

We are seeking to recruit two new trustees to our Board and are specifically looking for candidates with a strong fundraising background and a strong finance or accountancy background. We will not consider applications from individuals who do not have these specific skills.

In addition the skills and experience we expect candidates to have are as follows:

Essential

•  An understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
•  Successful track record of consistent achievement at Board or executive levelRobust governance experience
•  Knowledge and understanding of equal opportunities
•  Excellent verbal and written communication skills
•  Strong fundraising or finance/accountancy experience

Desirable

•  Previous experience at a Board level
•  Understanding of the hospice sector
•  Digital leadership skills
•  Marketing experience
• Knowledge of working within the charity and/or healthcare sector

Personal attributes

•  Empathetic
•  Team player
•  Able to work under pressure
•  Collaborative
•  Strategic thinker
•  Ambassador for St Giles Hospice

Key tasks and responsibilities

• The role entails but is not limited to:
•  Ensuring that St Giles complies with all its governing documents, charity law and other legislation or regulations
•  Attending and contributing to Board meetings/sub-committee meetingsRepresenting St Giles at events, conferences and media as and when requiredBringing impartiality to decision making
•  Always acting in the best interests of St Giles and with reasonable care and skill to provide clear strategic direction
•  Proving guiding principles and overall plans for St Giles to progress against the strategic objectives
•  Ensuring the financial stability, probity and sustainability of the organisation in relation to the financial aspects of the charity to safeguard the charity's reputation and valuesAdhering to and complying with the Trustees Code of Conduct (known as the Trustee Charter)
•  Supporting and advising the Executive Leadership Team in your area of expertiseBeing collectively responsible for the governance of the charity with other Board members
•  Overseeing organisational risk registers, ensuring adequate assurance is provided or risk mitigations in place
•  Exercising control over the financial affairs of the hospice and protecting its assets
•  Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the charity
•  Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity's funds
•  Ensuring and maintaining efficient administration of funding, insurance and premisesSitting on recruitment/disciplinary panels, as and when required by the Deputy Director of People and Organisational Development
•  Ensuring the Board's agreed position is represented when speaking publicly on behalf of the organisation
•  Ensuring information gained during the course of working as a Trustee is kept confidential and, in particular, the contents of emails and Board papers

Histiocytosis UK are seeking Expressions of Interest from Parents, Patients and Professionals for positions on the Advisory Panel to the Board of Trustees.

Advisory Panel Members are appointed for one year, attending a minimum of 2 meetings (one in person and one virtual). Their role is to help steer the charity to ensure that no one should die of histiocytosis and to represent patients and professionals in the histiocytosis field. Advisory Panel members can apply to join the Board of Trustees ( for two years). The current vacancies have arisen because some members have come to the end of their terms of service.

The APM appointments are to the General Portfolio Team, we would also be particularly interested to hear from those who would be happy to take up either Financial/Banking or Scientific Research Portfolios should they be offered the opportunity to join the Board of Trustees.

Trustee (Voluntary Position)

Location: Meetings in Crewe, Cheshire with some virtual involvement
Time Commitment: Four Board meetings and an annual conference with some virtual involvement

Term: Three years, with potential to extend
Expenses: Reasonable travel expenses reimbursed
Interview Date: 12th December

We are seeking new Trustees to help shape and grow our national charity that supports young people leaving care to live connected, interdependent and fulfilling lives. Our approach is co-designed with young people, built on psychological and relational groupwork practice, and delivered through local house projects (LHPs) across England and Scotland.

You’ll join a small, committed Board working alongside staff and young people to support good governance, strategic development and continued growth. This is an exciting time, with new LHPs launching each year and a strong movement of young people influencing the work at every level.

About the Role

Trustees work collectively to:

· Ensure financial stability and legal compliance

· Provide strategic guidance and oversight

· Support a positive, inclusive organisational culture

· Champion the voice and experience of young people in decision making

· Act as a constructive partner to the senior leadership team

There are four in-person Board meetings a year in Crewe, usually on Wednesdays between 11am and 3pm with young people attending as expert advisors.  Trustees also attend an annual conference hosted by young people plus occasional virtual working groups relevant to their skills.

Who We’re Looking For

Previous Trustee experience is not essential. Full induction and ongoing support are provided.

We are particularly interested in applicants with skills or experience in any of the following areas and would love to hear from people who are care experienced :

· Children’s Social Care  

· Safeguarding

· Law and legal services

· Finance and accountancy

· Ai , Cyber security and digital services

· PR, Communications and marketing

More importantly, you will:

· Be committed to improving outcomes for young people leaving care

· Value equity, diversity and inclusion

· Offer sound judgement and effective decision making

· Be willing to work collaboratively as part of a team

· Share knowledge, professional insight or networks that could strengthen our work

We actively welcome applications from people of different backgrounds, ages, abilities, identities, beliefs and those with lived experience of care.

What We Offer

· A meaningful opportunity to influence change for young people

· Full induction and mentoring for new Trustees

· A supportive and collaborative Board environment

· Reimbursement of reasonable travel expenses

How to Apply

Please send a CV and a short covering statement explaining why you are interested in becoming a Trustee and what skills or experience you would bring.

Company Description

Housing has been the core activity of Harrison Housing since 1869 when it was established as an almshouse to help older people in need. Today we are also a registered provider, delivering both sheltered accommodation services and general needs accommodation for older people. We also manage an additional portfolio of properties in the London area for other almshouses. Harrison Housing's head office is based in Holland Park, London, UK.

Role Description

We are looking to recruit two new Trustees to join Harrison Housing's Board of Trustees. These are volunteer roles but reasonable out of pocket expenses, associated with carrying out the role, can be claimed for. Our Trustees are responsible for overseeing the Charity's activities, maintaining compliance with regulations, participating in Board and Committee meetings, and ensuring the wellbeing of our residents remains our highest priority. There are a mixture of in-person and remote meetings and Trustees are expected to prepare for and attend them several times a year.

Essential Skills

• Knowledge of the charity or social housing sector and relevant regulations and governance responsibilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team.
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills.
• Time commitment to attend Board meetings and relevant training sessions.

We are particularly keen to hear from those who possess one or more of the following:

• Experience of property management, including the provision of resident-focused housing services.
• Experience of managing an efficient repairs and property maintenance service responsible for responsive, cyclical, and planned works.
• Experience of developing and overseeing effective, long-term charity fundraising strategies.
• Experience in marketing, public relations or communications within a housing provider or charitable organisation.

If you are interested in applying for these roles, please review the recruitment pack, which explains the application process. Harrison Housing is a Disability Confident employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and walks of life, including those who represent the communities we support.

Applications will close at 9am on Wednesday 26th November.

We are now seeking a Marketing, Communications and PR Trustee to join our Board, someone who can help us amplify our voice, strengthen our visibility, and share the powerful stories of transformation that emerge from our work.

This trustee will play a key role in shaping our external communications strategy, supporting our leadership team to build our brand, engage our supporters, and influence decision-makers. By helping us to tell our story more effectively, you will help ensure that more women can access the support they need, and that our impact is recognised across Leicester and beyond.

If you bring professional expertise in marketing, communications, media or public relations, and share our belief in the power of second chances and the potential of every woman to thrive, we would be delighted to hear from you. Together, we can continue to build a future where every woman is safe, valued, and supported to reach her full potential.

Help us to Change Lives Through Learning

Be a Coleg Gwent Governor.

Coleg Gwent is one of Wales's largest colleges with around 17,000 student and a turnover of c£90m. We are a friendly and inclusive organisation and we aim for everyone to feel welcomed and that they can be themselves in our college.

Governors are unpaid volunteers who use their skills and experience to provide strategic leadership and oversight. We act as a ‘critical friend’ to the college management team by providing challenge, support and a fresh viewpoint. The Board is responsible for setting the educational character and mission of the college and monitoring progress against strategic objectives. It is also responsible for ensuring financial sustainability, budget setting and the effective use of public money.

Governors attend on average, one meeting a month (approx. 10 meetings a year), each lasting 2-3 hours. You’ll also need to allow additional reading and preparation time. You’ll receive an induction and be encouraged to take an interest in the wider life of the college by attending events. We believe this is a great way to develop your understanding of what we do here at Coleg Gwent. Whilst the role is voluntary and unpaid, reasonable travel expenses can be reimbursed.

You’ll need the ability to think strategically and a focus on improvement. Governors must have strong communication skills, a willingness to challenge, ask difficult questions and to work as a team. It will help if you have an understanding of the regional economy and the needs of employers.  Equally important however are enthusiasm and commitment.

We have up to four upcoming vacancies and welcome all interest. We are particularly keen to ear from you if you have a background in finance, accounting, strateagic leadership, risk management or educational leadership.

As our prospective new Treasurer, your focus would be on overseeing our financial health, ensuring robust financial practices are in place and aligning our fiscal strategies with our long-term objectives.

About Sussex Pathways

Sussex Pathways is a criminal justice charity based in Lewes, East Sussex. We work within prisons and communities with the aim of reducing offending behaviours and empowering ex-offenders to make positive life choices. Our team is comprised of staff, trustees, and volunteers. We work with offenders and victims of crime primarily within Sussex, but are able to facilitate out of area work when capacity allows.

We received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in June 2021.

What will you be doing?

Sussex Pathways is recruiting for a new Treasurer to lead on finance as part of the charity’s voluntary Board of Trustees. We have an excellent board of trustees from various walks of life, committed to the governance of Sussex Pathways.

The Treasurer will oversee the financial and assurance matters of the charity in line with good practice and in accordance with the governing document and legal requirements. 

What are we looking for?

To enable the Board to deliver in their responsibilities and to support the work of the CEO and her team in ensuring the financial compliance and stability of the Charity, we are seeking a volunteer with a background in finance. 

We are seeking someone who brings energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to the role, and who will contribute fresh perspectives to our Board. Previous governance experience is not required - we will provide a comprehensive induction and ongoing training.

You should be a finance professional with knowledge and experience in bookkeeping standards, financial controls and systems, budgeting, cash flow forecasting, and the preparation of annual accounts.

You’ll be a clear and confident communicator, able to present financial information in
an accessible way to those without a finance background.

You’ll also be willing to take an active role in key financial areas such as budgeting, forecasting, and liaising with auditors.

What difference will you make?

In undertaking this role, the successful candidate will contribute to the work of the charity, supporting ex residents of prison as they work to a better future and where victims of crime have a voice within the criminal justice system.

This position is pivotal, providing strategic direction and ensuring that our financial and governance structures support our ambitious goals.

Time commitment

Trustees are expected to prepare for and attend five Board meetings annually. Occasional ad-hoc meetings occur approximately two to three times per year.

The expected time commitment for the role is no more than seven to fourteen hours per month, which would largely be for preparing for and attending board meetings.

Become a Trustee for the Collaborative Learning Trust and make a lasting difference to children in the local area. As a member of our Board you'll help shape the strategic direction and future success of our seven Leeds and Bradford schools (both community schools and Church of England schools).

We’re always on the lookout for people keen to both support and challenge the way we work, to enrich the learning experience of our pupils.

The role will give you the chance to make a positive impact on the lives of children and young people and an opportunity to give something back to your local community. You will also be joining the largest volunteer force in the country – there are over a quarter of a million volunteers in governing roles in state funded schools in England.

As a Trustee, you will develop valuable board-level and leadership experience, enhancing your ability to influence strategically, ask the right questions, and lead through collaboration. Working alongside senior professionals from diverse backgrounds, you’ll broaden your understanding of how effective governance and compassionate leadership creates lasting impact, use your experience to help children of every ability thrive, and grow your leadership in a supportive environment along the way.

Anyone aged over 18 can be a Trustee and you do not need to be a parent. There is no requirement for you to have a formal understanding of the education system, just an enquiring mind, the ability to work as part of a team and the time to contribute and attend the half-termly meetings. There is plenty of training available.

We are particularly keen to hear from applicants with professional experience in pupils with Special Education Needs (SEND) or expertise in audit, finance and estates management, however our schools will benefit from a range of professional knowledge on their Trust Board including education, human resources, legal, marketing, public relations and organisational change.

The role includes attendance in person at six meetings (one each half term) plus five committee meetings across the academic year, with background reading.

Trustees have a right to reasonable time off work for their public duties, although this may be unpaid. Your company’s HR department will be able to tell you about its policy.

The term of office for Trustees is four years. Many people choose to serve multiple terms. However, as a volunteer you can resign before your term is finished if your circumstances change. You will be offered an introductory meeting with the Chair of the Trust Board and CEO. A full induction programme and training will be shared and a mentor provided for all new Trustees.

Trustee roles are voluntary roles and therefore not paid, but travelling expenses are available.

What will you be doing?

This role involves leading on fundraising and grant applications at board level, ensuring that the Trustee Board is aware of and kept up to date with any fundraising/grant developments.

Fundraising & Grants Lead Responsibilities:

• To work alongside the Treasurer, Chief Executive Officer and the rest of the Board to plan what level of funds are required to be generated to ensure the effective running of the charity
• To work alongside the Trustee Board to ensure that all grants are sought and written with the purpose of meeting the charities vision and objectives
• To lead, in partnership with the Chief Executive Officer and Fundraiser, on the organisation of local fundraising opportunities to support the running of the charity, including incorporating national Trussell fundraising campaigns/events throughout the year
• To oversee, with operational management support, the writing of high-quality grant applications that are in line with the charity's vision and objectives
• To regularly communicate to the rest of the Trustee Board via meetings or any other communication of any relevant information and/or developments regarding fund raising or grant applications

Other responsibilities, along with the Board of Trustees, include:

• To ensure the Trustee Board develops a long-term strategy for the food bank with clear objectives which can be monitored and adapted
• To work alongside the Treasurer and the Trustee Board to ensure the organisation’s financial dealings are systematically accounted for and on time, independently examined (on income over £25k) and made publicly available when necessary
• Ensure your charity is accountable, actively complying with statutory accounting and reporting requirements and the law
• To ensure appropriate financial plans are in place for future budget allocations as well as looking after contractual agreements with external partners that award money for core costs and additional projects
• To help promote the organisation to a wider audience of potential funders and beneficiaries
• To ensure the food bank has appropriate procedures to: comply with current legislation and good practice; including employment, health and safety, equal opportunities, safeguarding & GDPR compliance/data protection etc.
• Act with reasonable care and skill, giving your time, thought and energy to your role
• To serve as an additional promoter of the food bank in the community

What are we looking for?

We are looking for people who want to help their local community. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate: 

• a knowledge of and commitment to the work of the Leeds North & West foodbank
• a knowledge, ability and passion for fundraising and grant application writing
• experience of working in a fundraising role, including knowledge of fundraising strategy and best practice
• an ability to lead on any fundraising and grants matters in a supportive and confident manner
• confidence to actively participate in discussions concerning the needs of the charity, always acting in its best interests
• experience of working effectively with others
• sound, independent judgement and the ability to think creatively

Whatever your background, we want to make sure you are supported and empowered and enjoy your time volunteering with us. We know that having volunteers from a diverse range of backgrounds, with varying experiences, can help to make what we do as effective as possible. As such, we welcome all applicants regardless of age, religion or beliefs, disability, ethnic background, gender reassignment, sex, or sexual orientation. 

Candidates would ideally live or work within the city of Leeds or its surrounding area. Candidates living and working more broadly within Yorkshire will also be considered.

What difference will you make?

Alongside wider trustee responsibilities for the overall governance of the food bank, you will actively support the board and the food bank team to focus on the strategic activity that will help reduce the need for our services locally. 

By leading on fundraising (including grants) for the food bank, you are part of providing a vital holistic support function in the community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who encounters Leeds North & West Foodbank.

What will you be doing?

We seek trustees with experience in adult social care, IT or clinical psychology to join our board. We are particularly interested in hearing from people who will bring enthusiasm and commitment to the role and broaden the diversity of thinking on our board. 

Much has changed since our founders started the charity over 50 years ago. We have grown enormously, and we know that there is still much to do.

We recognise the challenges for children, adults and their families and will work with them as partners to find solutions and create opportunities through tailored learning and support.

It is thanks to the continued hard work and dedication of everybody involved in our charity, that we can deliver new opportunities for the children and adults we support.

Today, we employ over 400 people across the South of England, and our future plans include a programme of engagement with organisations to share the benefits of employing autistic people as well as expansion of our autism and SEN college, Futures.

We want to show to the outside world that we are accessible and relevant to the autistic community, particularly those audiences or organisations which we may not have reached until now.

What are we looking for?

A background within education or further education.

• A strong personal commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion: interest and/ or lived experience.
• Willingness and ability to understand and deliver on their duties and responsibilities as trustees and act in the charity's best interests.
• Creative and strategic thinking, sound and independent judgement, and ability to work effectively as a team member.

What difference will you make?

As a trustee, you will help shape the future of our charity by bringing fresh perspectives and expertise in education or further education. You will play a important role in broadening our reach, driving initiatives that create tailored learning opportunities for autistic individuals, and ensuring we remain accessible and relevant to the communities we serve.

Release Counselling and Therapy for Women (Release) is a small charity in Sussex with a big impact and have been supporting the mental health of thousands of women, since 2013. We specialise in supporting the mental health of women at key moments in their lives from parenting to peri/menopause.

Founded in 2013, our charity is led by women, for women. Women are at the highest risk of suicide up to a year after giving birth and during perimenopause. And we provide mental health support for women at these key times in their lives.

We offer therapeutic groups for mums and birthing parents and women in midlife, along with wellbeing days and a women’s one-to-one online counselling service.

As a small evolving charity, we work closely as a team and there are opportunities to help shape our future.

To help our mission, we are looking to appoint a Trustee with experience in clinical work such as counselling or social work to oversee the safeguarding of our charity.

* This post is only open to female applicants as being female is deemed to be a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

The successful candidate will join a highly regarded women-led, women-centred, and trauma-informed charity.

Responsibilities 

The Board and CEO meet quarterly for Board meetings and once for an annual strategy day in Brighton.

The safeguarding trustee works closely with the CEO, the designated safeguarding lead, to ensure our organisation’s strategic plans reflect safeguarding legislation, regulations specific to our activities, statutory guidance, and the safeguarding expectations of the Charities Commission.

The role will help champion a safeguarding culture across the organisation, ensuring there are regular reviews, training, and that policies and the risk register are up to date, alongside advising on any safeguarding concerns that arise.

There are also other opportunities to get involved with fundraising events, speaking at conferences, and each Trustee takes on a committee lead role, in their area of expertise, taking an oversight of that area.

What difference will you make? 

Your support will help improve the mental health and wellbeing of women by reducing isolation and empowering women to bring about positive change in their lives.

Person Specification 

Essential

 · Qualified clinical practitioner such as counsellor, psychologist or social worker accredited by a recognised body such as BACP, UKCP, BABCP, BPS or HCPC

· Current DBS check or willing to have one carried out

· Experience in overseeing and leading safeguarding procedures within an organisation

· Experience working with female clients with a range of issues

· Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship

· Good communication and leadership skills

· A team-oriented approach to problem solving and to management.

Desirable 

· Dedicated to the organisation’s cause and objectives and willing to act as the charity’s ambassador to external bodies, charities and companies.

Branch Trustee (Lancashire)

This is an exciting opportunity to be a hands-on trustee at branch level, helping to promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty, reach out to more supporters, and influence how we do things. With your support and expertise, we will achieve so much!

Overview of the Branch Trustee opportunity

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person who could devote the time to volunteer with us as one of our Trustees. As a Trustee of the Branch, you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long terms aims.

As a minimum, trustees are expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment will vary as they will play an active role supporting branch activities.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

Through our numerous campaigns, we seek to raise standards of care, and awareness of issues, affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!

The RSPCA Preston and District Branch

The Preston and District Branch is one of the branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which is run by volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support local initiatives.
• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with experience and skills in any of the following areas:

• Marketing communication including social media, PR, website;
• Fundraising including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications;
• Local community and supporter relationships;
• Hands-on experience in growing charities; and/or
• Are or have been part of the groups and communities we would like to attract.
• You are 18 years of age

Alongside the relevant experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you with everything you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

Practical considerations

• Please also note that to become a Trustee, you will need to be aged 18 or over and a member of our branch for three months before you are eligible to be elected.
• Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year.
• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and read the Charity Commission’s guidance for individuals on who cannot be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.
• References will also be required.

Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need.

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

Treasurer (Trustee Board Member)

Location: Hybrid with flexible arrangements
Commitment: 4 Board Meetings and 4 Finance Sub-Committee Meetings per year plus ad-hoc support
Type: Voluntary role. Reasonable expenses incurred in relation to trustee duties can be reimbursed, subject to prior agreement with the Chair or Chief Executive
Closing Date: 5th December

Help shape better lives for older people in the community

This charity supports thousands of older people every year through life-enhancing services including advice, wellbeing activities, befriending, day support and more. The organisation combines strong local knowledge with trusted, community based service delivery. The aim is to ensure older people are valued, supported and able to lead fulfilled lives.

The Role – Treasurer

As Treasurer and Trustee you will:

· Oversee financial strategy and overall financial health, ensuring good governance and sustainability

· Chair the Finance Sub-Committee and lead Board discussions on finance, investments, reserves and risk

· Support and challenge the CEO and Finance Director, offering strategic guidance

· Help ensure robust financial planning aligns with service delivery and long term impact for older people

· Work closely with fellow Trustees and a skilled senior team to make a meaningful difference

What We Are Looking For

We welcome applicants who:

· Are qualified accountants (ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA) or experienced senior finance professionals

· Have strong financial acumen and the ability to clearly communicate financial information to non-finance colleagues

· Have some experience of charity finance, fundraising or pension schemes

· Have an interest in governance, strategy and positive Board teamwork

· Are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, and improving the lives of older people

Previous trustee experience is helpful but not required. Full induction and support will be provided.

Time Commitment

· Board meets 4 times per year, usually evenings and hybrid

· Finance Sub-Committee meets 4 times per year and is chaired by the Treasurer

· Additional availability to liaise with the Chair, CEO and Finance Director, usually monthly

· Attendance at the Annual General Meeting and Annual Away Day

Total yearly commitment: approximately 6 to 8 days with flexibility and remote options.

Why Join

· Make a tangible difference to older people in the community

· Gain or deepen non-executive leadership experience

· Work with a friendly, committed Board with a collaborative culture

· Join an organisation that values diversity, inclusion and personal development

How to Apply

Please send a CV and short covering note outlining your interest.

Applications are welcomed from all backgrounds and particularly from groups currently underrepresented in governance.