Finance management volunteer roles

We're a not for profit Community Energy organisation operating in Southwark and Lambeth and has been established by members of the South London community to relieve fuel poverty by providing renewable energy locally. We have been set up as a Community Benefit Society, which means we are a business managed for the benefit of the community. It’s is run by its shareholders, and shareholding is open to everyone.

We were established in 2023 and received grants from four funds (Government, Mayor of London, Southwark Council, Centrica Energy for Tomorrow) and a fuel poverty alleviation contract from Uk Power Networks (Leaving No One Behind) in 2024 to set up our pilot projects. We have two part time paid managers running the fuel poverty activity and the overall programme.

Our pilot projects include a fuel poverty service delivering energy advice and support for those in need and we currently have five trained energy champions who work with us part-time. We are also running feasibility studies for four solar arrays on housing estates and we’re exploring different possible business models. If we can make this work then we will be setting a precedent for a model for renewables on mixed tenure estates and long term financial sustainable fuel poverty alleviation.

At this exciting and pivotal time at the beginning of our journey we are looking for a Treasurer to support our organisation by overseeing the financial affairs.

The Role

The Treasurer will be overseeing the work of Martin, our dedicated Lead Finance Volunteer, who is an accountant working in Government and has been supporting our work for several months. We estimate that the treasurer role will require an average of less than one day a month, including attendance at six board meetings a year and weekly half hour meetings as necessary to be a mentor to Martin. We hold board meetings every other month on Tuesdays 1-2.30pm. The majority of these are held online with occasional in person meetings in Southwark. The Treasurer will also be responsible for holding a general oversight of financial activities and ensuring that we are keeping in line with our financial responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial matters to ensure that the organisation is compliant with regulations and good practice
• Support the finance team and other members of the board to ensure that effective financial procedures are in place
• Support the team in maintaining accurate financial records and oversee the year-end and funders financial reporting processes
• Advise on finance related initiatives that could benefit the society and input to strategy
• Support the creation of financial prospectuses for community share offers

Essential Qualities, Skills and Experience

• Chartered accountant with at least three years experience
• Understanding of financial management in organisations
• Ability to communicate financial information in a clear and effective manner
• Interest in renewables, sustainability and Community Energy
• Willingness and ability to work as part of a team and build good relationships
• Willingness to mentor our Lead Finance Volunteer

Desirable Qualities, Skills and Experience

• Experience of Community Energy and/or the renewable energy sector
• Knowledge of social enterprise structures
• Experience of being on the board of a not for profit organisation
• Being a resident of or having a connection to South London

Do you have a head for numbers? Could you use your financial skills to support your local Parkinson’s community? We’re looking for people who like being part of a team and want to make a difference. Would you like a flexible role, where much of it can be done from home at a time that suits you? In this role you’ll be working with staff and volunteers, fostering connections, meeting new people in your local area, all whilst making a difference to those living with Parkinson's.

Why we want you:

This vital role supports local groups across the UK which are run by volunteers, offering friendship and support to people living with Parkinson's, their families and friends. As a pivotal part of the local volunteer team, you will help plan group spending for the benefit of people affected by Parkinson's in your community.

What you will be doing

• Be an ambassador for Team Parkinson’s - engaging with local staff, volunteers, and your local community, to ensure the group has the greatest possible impact on those affected by Parkinson's in your area
• Accurately record financial activity, keeping the group and the Parkinson's UK local networks finance team informed of the group's financial position
• With support from your local staff, stay up to date with Parkinson's UK's financial policies actively sharing them with the group and supporting the group to operate within them
• Provide regular reports to the committee on the financial status of the group including final accounts. 
• Deal with financial administration for the group, from annual reports to legacy spending, and ensuring volunteer expenses are paid accurately in line with our volunteer expenses policy
• Be a signatory on the group's bank accounts

The skills you need

• Previous experience in finance, accountancy or bookkeeping can be valuable, but is not essential
• Confident with numbers and able to take the lead on the group’s finances
• Have confident computer and email skills - be open to using new systems and other digital tools
• Have a commitment to the wider charity’s aims and values
• Be able to contribute to balanced decisions that take into account multiple views, and to do so in a collaborative, open and inclusive way with committee and local staff

What's in it for you

• Develop valuable leadership, teamwork and people skills
• Play a crucial role in the local Parkinson's community, Team Parkinson’s, and wider local planning, making new friends and building connections
• Develop / maintain your accountancy or bookkeeping skills, along with administrative and communication skills - we are happy to provide references

Why we want you

As branch treasure you will be key part of your local branch creating a range of

activities to help spread the word about SSAFA within your community. To

ensure that that our Armed Forces community know that SSAFA are here to

help and that we need the public’s support to continue offering our services.

What you will be doing

· Maintaining and reconciling local bank accounts and recording transactions and authorised payments.

· Providing and present reports to the branch committee and to SSAFA’s central office.

· Maintaining accurate records using our on-line finance management system.

· Preparing year end accounts and financial statements including arranging an independent review.

The skills you need

· Some experience of financial administration

· Great written and verbal communication skills

What's in it for you

· Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community

· Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others

· Support in your role from the team at SSAFA

· Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those

involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.

Charity Trustee

Voluntary role
10-14 days per year

Change lives, shape your community

Role details:

• Collective responsibility for overall management, governance and strategic direction of the charity in accordance with governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines
• Voluntary trustee role, all reasonable expenses will be reimbursed
• We are particularly interested in people with experience in human resources, finance, technology and/or equity, diversity and inclusion

We are looking for new people to join our Board of Trustees, and help to govern our charity. This is an exciting opportunity to put your skills, knowledge and experience to use.

To ensure our board is reflective and representative of our local communities and workforce, we strongly encourage applications from under-represented communities. Currently we are particularly seeking to increase the involvement of people under the age of 35, people with a disability, people of colour and/or LGBT+ people on our Board.

We are an advice charity based in Derbyshire, our advice makes a real and lasting difference to thousands of people, and we want you to help us continue to make a difference.

Closing date: When a suitable candidate is found

Job Type: Volunteer

Work Location: In person

Reference ID: Trustee - CADD

Located on the beautiful South Coast of England, the University of Plymouth offers a vibrant city experience steeped in rich maritime history. Surrounded by natural beauty, it provides students with unique opportunities for research and outdoor activities. The University is recognised for its research excellence, commitment to sustainability, strong industry links, and innovative teaching.

The University is seeking senior strategic leaders to join its Board of Governors, bringing expertise and experience in audit, finance, higher education, and the healthcare sector.

About the role

Governance at the University of Plymouth exercises accountability and oversight, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. It also prioritises effective decision-making and the efficient implementation of those decisions. Through strong governance, we maximise institutional performance and success.

The Board of Governors is composed of accomplished, strategic professionals from a wide range of fields, backgrounds and expertise, all united by one goal: to ensure the University thrives. In thriving, we will achieve our strategic objectives and continue to deliver excellence in education and research.

The University of Plymouth is an independent higher education corporation established under the Education Reform Act 1988. We are also an exempt charity under the Charities Act 2011. The Office for Students (OfS) serves as the principal regulator for universities that are exempt charities.

Who we are looking for

The University of Plymouth is looking to appoint several experienced and committed senior leaders to join the Board of Governors and collaborate with the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Richard Davies, and his senior team in shaping the University’s strategic direction.

We seek talented, connected, inspired and passionate people who care about the University, our students, and the community, to join us in our aim of advancing knowledge and transforming lives.

As a member of the Board of Governors at the University of Plymouth, you will leverage your experience and expertise to provide challenge, scrutiny, and support, ensuring the success, growth, and achievement of the University’s strategic priorities.

We seek candidates with expertise in the following areas:

• Audit: Partners or senior executives from audit firms or industry.
• Finance: Partners or senior executives from finance firms or industry.
• Higher Education: Individuals who bring an entrepreneurial mindset and innovative approach to the sector.
• Health Care: Senior executives with experience across various healthcare settings and systems.

This is an excellent opportunity to bring your expertise to a vibrant university, helping to shape the future of education and create a lasting impact. If you are a senior leader with a passion for strategic governance and a commitment to fostering a thriving academic community, we invite you to apply.

We are looking for someone who shares our values to join us as a Trustee and Manager of our Bursary Programme, funding music lessons for children and young people in Surrey who would not otherwise be able to afford them.

Specific Tasks

• To ensure smooth running of the bursary applications process for recipients, delivery partners and the bursary administrator
• To oversee applications where required, approving invoices and tracking budgets
• To monitor and refine the bursaries criteria and process to ensure the Trust is targeting bursaries effectively
• To work with the Bursary Administrator to assist with individual applications, refer approvals to the board where required, check and approve invoices
• To work with the Treasurer to monitor and report spend against budget
• To work with the Music Education Trustee to ensure that the criteria and process for CKTs bursaries maximises CKT’s impact
• To work with the marketing and communications manager to provide details of bursary recipients for newsletters
• To work with the CKT board and delivery partners (Surrey Arts and other music lesson providers) to identify and implement any process changes
• To work with other partner organisations (Future Talent, AYM) to agree and monitor bursaries offered
• To attend and contribute to board meetings
• To perform such other tasks and activities for CKT as skills and time allow

Skills and experience required

• Good organisational skills,
• Attention to detail,
• Ability to methodically follow, apply and improve standard processes
• Good people skills
• Financial diligence

We are a small, friendly, place-based funder seeking up to 3 new volunteer Trustees to take us into the next decade.

Opportunity – Volunteer Trustee (we have 10 currently)

Location – London Bridge/Borough High Street SE1 (hybrid meetings, in-person encouraged)

Salary - Voluntary (Reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Hours – equivalent to 1 day per month

Trustees attend 4 required board meetings each year in March, June, September, December. We also encourage attendance at our quarterly Finance Committee and/or occasional grant assessment meetings. All are hybrid meetings run from our office near to London Bridge SE1.

About Us

Wakefield Tetley Trust is a long-established grant-maker working in Tower Hamlets, Southwark and the City of London since 2008 as a joint entity, originally created in the 1930’s as two separate charities. We support people in need by funding local charities and community groups who work with individuals and communities who are marginalised or disadvantaged, for example because they have difficulty in accessing resources, face discrimination or may experience poorer social, economic and health outcomes. In 2024 the Trust made grants of £213,152 towards work in support of our aims.

The opportunity

We are looking for up to 3 community-minded individuals who might live or work in our area of benefit. You will be keen to engage in high quality grant-making through informed understanding of the needs and challenges facing the charities and communities that we support.  We always need to add to our professional skill base so if you have experience relating to governance, finance, property, strategic and operational management, that is equally welcome. You’ll play a key part in developing our future plans and, as we are looking to incorporate in the next 12 months, you will play a part in achieving that and other changes.  

Time Commitment

Being available, engaged and a sounding board for staff and other Trustees is just as important as attending 4 mandatory meetings each year. We hope you’d take up the opportunity to visit and meet with grant holder charities, and to develop your knowledge and intelligence of issues that affect people in our area of benefit.

Who You Are

We’re looking for up to three individuals who bring enthusiasm, knowledge or interest in the local area we cover (or willing to learn), commitment to sound governance and the intention to make high quality grant-making. You might have a specific social interest or issue that you want to champion, and you’ll be a collaborative team member of the Board.

We particularly welcome applications from people currently living or working in the London Boroughs of Southwark, Tower Hamlets or City of London. 

Are you interested in becoming Rowan's next Chair of Trustees? Discover how you can join our vibrant team and support adults with learning disabilities through the arts 

Ideally we are seeking applications from people with a background in the following:
• Interest in supporting adults with learning disability,
• Experience as a trustee, and / or previous experience as a Chair,
• Experience in some of the following: finance, budgeting, health and safety, governance, safeguarding and/or strategy.
• Willingness to attend and represent the charity at social events, sometimes in the evenings and at weekends,
• Ability to represent the charity in the community with local dignitaries,
• Interest in the arts.

What are Serving Community Teams?

Volunteers are the lifeblood of SSAFA. SSAFA has developed Serving Community Teams for volunteers to support serving personnel their families in the UK and overseas.

A Serving Community Team is run by a small team of volunteers on or near a British Armed Forces base which provide emotional, practical and financial support to the serving community. Our volunteer Finance Coordinators are an integral part of the team. To enable volunteers to deliver their work in the community, the Finance Coordinator is the key to processing grants and volunteer expenses, as well as other tasks such as balancing the books.

Why we want you

There is a SSAFA presence throughout the serving community, both in the UK and overseas. In many areas SSAFA has Serving Community Teams (SCTs) which offer financial, practical, and emotional support to serving personnel and their families. Each team consists of a group of dedicated volunteers who make this possible. That’s where you come in; could you spare some time on a regular basis to ensure the SCT meets its financial obligations?

What you will be doing

• Reconciling the local SCT bank account and recording all transactions.
• Maintaining accurate records using SSAFA’s online financial management system.
• Working with the Chair around financial planning; advising on any financial implications of plans and overseeing the annual budget.
• Preparing year-end accounts, financial statements and contribute to the team’s Annual Return.
• Being an ambassador for SSAFA, building positive relationships with all stakeholders.

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable, with effective communication skills.
• Finance skills; experience of finance and accountancy.
• Empathy regarding the needs and challenges related to serving community.
• Good IT skills and ability to use online banking systems.
• Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries.
• A willingness to adhere to all relevant organisational policies and procedures.
• We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA is committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

What's in it for you

• As part of your induction, you would complete a range of eLearning courses and a trainer-led webinar to prepare you for the role.
• Any out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed, and all volunteers will be covered by SSAFA's Public Liability insurance while carrying out their role.
• Give back to the serving community.
• Support people in your local serving community using your skills, knowledge and life experience.
• Gain experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Receive support and friendship from your local SCT and the wider SSAFA community.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!
• This is a flexible role which can be done remotely. You will need to attend several volunteer team meetings throughout the year which may be a combination of in-person and virtual.

Requirements

Volunteers need to be a minimum of 18 years old.

Time commitment

Depending on the needs of the team, this role would suit someone who would like to volunteer a couple of hours a week. There will be times when attendance is required for a team meeting which may be in person or virtually.

Support

Full training is provided for this role, with some e-learning modules online and a live Teams webinar. You will also be supported by your SCT chair and the Serving Community Support Team.  

SSAFA Values

For SSAFA, our values of; commitment, compassion, integrity and understanding underpin everything we do, and we ask that all volunteers are equally committed to them.

After making an application

Once you’ve applied, you’ll receive updates to the email address you provided in your application. Sometimes the emails we send go into junk folders, so do keep an eye out in the days following your application.

Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.

Title: Trustee

Location: Our trustees are based across the world and the majority of Board meetings are held virtually. In-person Board meetings are held at key strategic times and to ensure effective governance, roughly every 12-18 months.

Time commitment: At least at 10 days a year, although Trustees often give more time – ideally 15-20 days. Four Board meetings take place a year (in March, July, October and December), mostly online, and lasting about 3 hours. In-person board meetings will be 2 days.  The next in-person board meeting will take place in Spring 2026.

The Finance Audit and Risk Committee and the Governance and People Committee also take place four times a year, and all of these are virtual meetings.

Term: Trustees are appointed for a term of three years which may be renewed once.

Remuneration: None. This is a volunteer role (in line with UK charity legislation). However, reasonable expenses to undertake the role will be covered.

Following a governance review, an audit of existing Trustees, and considering Trustee retirements due in 2026, we are looking to appoint a number of new trustees.

The Trustees of Practical Action share responsibility for governing the organisation and directing how it is managed and run by the Executive Team. Trustees make sure that the charity is carrying out the purposes for which it was set up and is in the best possible position to achieve its aims.

Trustees promote and safeguard the organisation's reputation. Each brings their own unique skills and experiences to support and shape our strategic direction and work. We have a particular interest in candidates with strong experience in the following areas:

• Supporting us to diversify and grow our funding base, especially through philanthropy and climate finance.
• Opening doors to potential donors and providing intelligence to inform our approaches to donors.
• A strong background in charity finance and UK charity governance (one Trustee may take on the role of chairing the Finance Audit and Risk Committee). Knowledge of the UK pension environment would be useful.
• Experience of senior organisational management and leadership.
• Understanding the local contexts and partners of our work in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

In addition, these are our key behaviours for all Board members:

• A commitment to the mission, values and work of Practical Action.
• Strategic vision.
• Analysis and critical thinking with good, independent judgement.
• Curiosity and constructive challenge with the ability to think creatively.
• Valuing diversity, welcoming diverse views.
• Learning, encouraging change and innovation.
• Team players, with humility and ability to get on well with others.
• Commitment to developing Practical Action, not just for attending meetings but also the important work in between – including opening doors to funders and partners and giving expert advice.
• Understanding - or willingness to learn swiftly - and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship of a UK charity.

For more information and to apply, please click on 'apply'.

Practical Action is looking for additional trustees

Practical Action exists to change the systems that keep people in poverty and vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, nature loss and pollution. We work alongside communities to build resilient livelihoods and inclusive, thriving societies.

Over 50 years ago, our founder – radical economist and philosopher E.F. Schumacher – published his influential book Small Is Beautiful: A Study of Economics as If People Mattered. He believed in the principles of local people leading their own development. That ethos has always been, and will continue to be, the driving force behind our organisation.

Since then, we’ve continued to build a strong reputation and a track record for people-centred, sustainable development. And now, we’ve launched a bold new organisational strategy to take us to 2030, shaped to respond to the scale of the climate emergency and the rapidly changing world around us.

This is an exciting time to join us.

Your skills, experience, and passion could play a vital role in our next chapter.

St Edmundsbury Cathedral became a registered charity on 2 May 2023 and has a Board of Trustees referred to as Chapter. Chapter is accountable for the governance, strategic direction and management of the Cathedral, and has ultimate responsibility for the care, maintenance and development of the Cathedral estate, all aspects of Cathedral activity, and for securing its long-term viability and financial sustainability.

The Risk, Audit and Review Committee will enable Chapter members to meet their responsibilities by providing independent oversight of the Cathedral’s systems of internal control, risk management and financial reporting, and through supervision of the quality, independence and effectiveness of both the internal and external auditors.

In this instance the Cathedral is looking at recruiting someone with relevant understandings and experience who would thrive as a Committee Chair.

The Committee must keep the activities and management of the Cathedral under review in relation to such matters as the Chapter has specified in these Terms of Reference.

The Chair is responsible for:

• Agreeing the agenda with the Chief Operating Officer for committee meetings
• Producing reports and ensuring they are submitted to Chapter in a timely manner.

The committee is responsible for:

• reviewing the annual report and financial statements, paying particular attention to accounting policies, areas involving significant judgement or estimation and compliance with financial reporting requirements and accounting standards, and recommending them to Chapter for approval;
• reviewing the scope and results of internal and external audit work, including the adequacy of management responses;
• reviewing the performance of internal and external auditors, including recommending the appointment and remuneration of internal and external auditors to Chapter when required;
• monitoring the processes for assessing, reporting, mitigating and owning business risks and their financial implications, including financial, governance and safeguarding risks;
• reviewing the risk register at least annually, and ensuring Chapter’s internal processes facilitate the prompt reporting of serious incidents, control failures and emerging risks;
• reviewing and recommending to Chapter the organisation’s policies for counter-fraud, anti-money laundering, whistle-blowing and cyber and information security; and
• reviewing arrangements by which staff may, in confidence, raise concerns about possible improprieties relating to finance or other aspects of the Cathedral’s operations to ensure that arrangements are in place for the investigation of such matters and for appropriate follow-up action.

Membership

• The Committee must have a minimum of six members and a maximum of ten members, provided that at least one member of the Committee must be a non-executive Chapter member.
• The Chapter shall appoint all members of the Committee, having consulted the Nominations Committee.
• Not all appointed members need to be Chapter members and should not be executive Chapter members.
• There must not be a majority of members in common with the Finance Committee.
• The members appointed should, collectively, possess appropriate knowledge and skills in accounting, risk management, audit, financial governance and any other technical issues relevant to the work of the Committee.
• The Dean must not be a member of the Committee but is entitled to attend any meeting of the Committee. If the Dean does attend, he or she may speak but may not vote.
• The chair of the Committee must be appointed by the Chapter. The person appointed to chair the Committee must: not be a member of the Chapter; and have recent and relevant financial experience.
• Each member is appointed for a term of office of up to three years.
• A member may be reappointed, provided that any member who has served more than two consecutive terms is not eligible for appointment as a member until at least two years has passed since the member last held the office.
• A Committee member may resign by notice in writing to the Chief Operating Officer and Dean. Any Committee member who ceases to be a Chapter member shall automatically cease to be a member of the Committee.
• The Chapter may remove a member of the Committee in accordance with the provisions of the Statutes.
• Members must declare conflicts of interest or loyalty in accordance with the Chapter’s conflicts of interest policy.

Successful candidates must possess the following competencies and personal attributes:

• Professional Experience
• Have a broad understanding of the leadership and management needs of complex organisations
• Have experience of strategic planning and implementation
• Have a good general knowledge of the basis of faith within the Anglican community
• Be well informed of the responsibilities and obligations of Charity Trustees
• Have a good general knowledge of good operational practices in managing organisations
• Have proven professional expertise in audit and risk management, especially for Charities.

Proven expertise in one or more of the following areas is essential:

• Finance Legislation (especially auditing), Management accounting practices, Internal and external auditing, Financial risk management, Business risk management, Project risk management, Safeguarding, Health and Safety, Property management, Strategic planning for finance and monitoring and evaluating culture / environment impact.

Desirable Personal Attributes and Behaviours:

• Ethically anchored – act with honesty and integrity; committed to act and behave ethically
• Intellectual ability – have the ability to obtain and analyse relevant data; use object reasoning
• Emotionally aware/resilient – are emotionally intelligent; remain calm under stress
• Team oriented/collaborative – actively seek the views and knowledge of others and adopt a collaborative approach
• Diligent/responsible – approach work in a conscientious way and take responsibility for their actions
• Faithful/discreet – honour the trust placed in them by others and be discreet in their conversations
• Humble/servant leader – place others’ needs before their own; not be self-seeking or status oriented
• Effective communicator – are able to express themselves clearly and concisely using relevant information

We are seeking new Trustees to help guide our next chapter. We are particularly keen to hear from people with experience in fundraising, finance, property, charity management, or with lived experience that reflects the voices of our members. We also warmly welcome applications from younger people, those from UKME/Global Majority Heritage backgrounds, and people with disabilities, who are currently under-represented on our Board. This is a rewarding opportunity to use your skills and insights to strengthen a much-loved community charity and shape its future.

1. About Katherine Low Settlement
Katherine Low Settlement is a much-loved, busy charity that has been at the heart of the
community in Battersea, South West London, since 1924. Our recent-released
documentary, The Heart of Battersea – 100 Years of Katherine Low Settlement, brings our
century of work to life through the voices of members, staff and volunteers.
We support local older people and children, young people and their families from
sanctuary-seeking backgrounds. With an annual turnover of around £1m, our small team
of 32 mostly part-time staff, along with over 120 volunteers run a range of our own
community services. We campaign for social change and we support other charities and
communities to thrive. Our building is used for community activities and events by
over 500 people a week, and our rooms are available for hire at affordable rates. KLS is
funded from supporters, trusts and foundations which enable us to achieve our goal to
reduce poverty and isolation and bring Battersea together.
The Settlement is situated on Orville Street and Battersea High Street and aims to serve
the communities of SW11 and SW8, which includes areas of significant deprivation
alongside some of the most prosperous neighbourhoods in the country. Its vision is to
bring people together, to discover a common humanity in the process and to work together
for some of the most vulnerable people in London.

2. The Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees is the legal guardian of Katherine Low Settlement to ensure that
KLS complies with its governing document (Memorandum and Articles of Association),
charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
The Board of Trustees is responsible for directing the Settlement’s strategy and vision, for
overseeing the work of its Chief Executive and Staff, and for settling policy, administering
its finance and offering advice and support in the delivery of services. The board is
currently made up of seven serving members, and has vacancies for up to three new
Trustees, to a maximum of ten. Trustees are appointed by the Annual General Meeting for
a period of three years, renewable by mutual agreement.
Gaps we’re looking to fill
The Trustees have identified gaps in its membership in terms of experience of fundraising,
finance, property, charity management and the voice of Settlement members. The board
also recognises that it lacks diversity and lived experience, particularly in representation by
UKME/Global Majority Heritage people, younger people and those with disabilities. Most of
all we are looking for willing and able trustees who are aligned with our vision, mission and
values and who are committed to this local community of Battersea.

3. Key Responsibilities of Trustees
Trustees are expected to:
▪ Formulate and review regularly the strategic aims of the Settlement in accordance with
its legal objects, and to ensure the policy and practices of the Settlement are in keeping
with its aims.
▪ Monitor the performance of the charity against the agreed strategic aims.
▪ Ensure that the Settlement functions within the legal and regulatory requirements of a
charitable organisation and strives to achieve best practice.
▪ Act as guardians of the charity’s assets, tangible and intangible, taking all due care
over their security, deployment and proper application.
Within that broad responsibility, shared among the Trustees, the main tasks and
accountabilities include:
a) Formulating and reviewing strategic aims
▪ Ensure the Settlement has a clear vision, mission and strategic plan, and that there is a
common understanding of these by Trustees and management.
▪ Work with management to formulate the business, operational and other plans
necessary to support the vision, mission and strategic objectives.
▪ Agree and review the Chief Executive’s annual and longer-term objectives, to ensure
that these support the vision, mission and strategic priorities.
▪ Agree policies which support the vision, mission and strategic priorities of the
Settlement, and monitor their implementation.
▪ Follow best practice as recommended by the Charity Commission.
b) Monitoring Performance
▪ Appoint the Chief Executive and ensure there is appropriate investment in their
professional development.
▪ Agree the method for measuring objectively the progress of the Settlement in relation
to its vision, mission and strategic priorities, business plans and annual targets, and to
receive regular reports from the Chief Executive and senior staff on the performance of
the Settlement.
▪ Ensure that the views of members on the Settlement’s performance are regularly
gathered and considered by the Board.
▪ Hold the Chief Executive to account for the management and administration of the
Settlement.
▪ Ensure that the Chief Executive receives regular, constructive feedback on their
performance in managing the Settlement and in meeting annual and longer term goals.
c) Legal and Regulatory Compliance
▪ Ensure that the Settlement complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.
▪ Has a sound grasp and awareness of its duty of care in safeguarding and that policy
and practice are aligned to make the Settlement a safe place for members, especially
children and vulnerable adults.
▪ Understand the rules and constitution that govern the Settlement, and to review the
effectiveness of such rules and constitution periodically.
▪ Agree the levels of delegated authority, whether to the Chief Executive, the Chair, ViceChair and Treasurer of the Board, or to other groups or individuals.
d) Guardians of the Settlement’s Assets
▪ Ensure that the Settlement has satisfactory control systems and procedures for holding
in trust for the beneficiaries all monies, property and other assets.
▪ Ensure that monies which are invested on behalf of the Settlement are well-managed,
within the constraints of the law and ethical and other policies laid down by the Board.
▪ Ensure that the major strategic and operational risks to which the Settlement is
exposed are reviewed annually and that systems have been established to mitigate
these risks.
▪ Ensure that the income and property of the Settlement are applied for the purposes set
out by law and for no other purpose, and with complete fairness between people who
are eligible to benefit.
▪ Ensure that intangible assets such as organisational knowledge and expertise,
intellectual property and the Settlement’s good name and reputation are properly
safeguarded.
e) Promotion of the Settlement and Engagement with Stakeholders
▪ Be prepared to act as an ambassador for the Settlement when asked to by the Chief
Executive or Chair of Trustees, and to work within an agreed brief.
▪ Attend events as an ambassador for the Settlement, to network and promote the work
of the Settlement.
▪ Seek at all times to raise awareness of the work of the Settlement to potential
beneficiaries.
▪ Assist with fundraising and awareness-raising through appropriate speaking and
networking events, with support and training as appropriate.
4. Recruiting Trustees with particular experiences
As part of a regular process of self-audit, the Trustees have identified a particular need to
recruit Trustees with experience of:
▪ Fundraising – from the perspective of either charitable trusts or high net worth
individuals or both, to help maximise our chances of success in fundraising activities
▪ Finance – to be a second finance Trustee, in addition to the Treasurer
▪ Property and general management – to help us to maintain, refurbish and develop
plans for our historic building
▪ Charity experience – to bring knowledge of financial and operational management in
that sector
▪ Lived experience - Ensuring the perspective of volunteers, members and alumni is
represented in decision making
Although the Board is very effective, it lacks significant diversity, which diminishes its
capacity to be even more effective. The Trustees would therefore particularly welcome
interest from those from UKME/Global Majority Heritage backgrounds, younger people and
people with disabilities, all of which are under-represented on the Board.

5. Person Specification
Expressions of interest are invited, in writing, with examples of experience in these areas :

Essential Experience & Skills

• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
• Ability to contribute to the strategic vision and direction of KLS
• Ability to work as an active and vocal part of the Trustee board
• Effective communicator – both verbal and written 
• Willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries 
• Committed to KLS’s mission, vision and values and its work 
• Knowledge of Battersea / Wandsworth

No prior experience is needed. Full training and support will be given.

6. Further Information

• Katherine Low Settlement is committed to equal opportunities.
•  All offers to volunteer at Katherine Low Settlement are subject to two satisfactory references, which is standard KLS policy applicable to all roles. KLS may ask for an enhanced DBS check.
• You will adhere to matters of confidentiality concerning this role and the KLS team.
•  An induction is given. This includes sharing KLS policies and procedures relevant to each post. 

Our partner is an acclaimed vocational ballet school providing exceptional full-time classical ballet and academic education, helping students achieve excellence in both the performing arts and wider life.

They are seeking a strategically minded individual with significant experience in financial management to serve as Treasurer. The ideal candidate will be a qualified finance professional with the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly, and with a keen interest in the arts.

As a Trustee and Chair of the Finance Sub-Committee, the post holder will oversee the school’s financial health and sustainability, review and present draft budgets and management accounts, advise on reserves and investment policies, and ensure compliance with charity accounting standards.

The Board and Finance Sub-Committee both meet four times a year, with meetings currently taking place remotely. The minimum time commitment required for the role is 5 hours per month.

___________________________

For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website.

What we're looking for

We need a finance-minded trustee who can keep us on the right track financially while we focus on creating real change. You don't need to be a charity expert (we'll teach you that), but you do need to care about what we're doing and have the skills to help us do it properly.

Your background might include:

• Professional experience in finance, accounting, or bookkeeping

• An ability to make sense of financial information and explain it to others

• Strong attention to detail (because the small stuff does matter)

• A genuine enthusiasm for our mission and charitable objects

What would be brilliant (but not essential):

• Previous charity sector experience

• Formal accounting qualifications

• Experience with charity accounting software

• Understanding of what it's like to run a small charity on a tight budget

What you'll be doing

This isn't about sitting in boardrooms making abstract decisions. You'll be:

• Keeping our finances healthy: Overseeing day-to-day financial operations and making sure our bookkeeping stays accurate

• Being our financial voice: Presenting clear, understandable financial reports at monthly trustee meetings

• Planning ahead: Leading our annual budget process and helping us make smart financial decisions

• Staying compliant: Ensuring we meet all charity financial regulations and coordinate our annual independent examination

• Managing risk: Helping us spot potential financial challenges before they become problems

• Helping with fundraising: Writing grant applications, helping come up with fundraising ideas

The need-to-know

Time commitment: Around 4-8 hours per month - this includes one monthly trustee meeting, your financial review work, and the occasional extra task that crops up

Term: We're looking for a minimum 2-year commitment initially, which then becomes a rolling 1-year term subject to the constitutional requirements. 

When we meet: We will be setting our meeting dates at the start of the organisation's year (October 2025) so everyone can plan ahead. 

Next steps timeline:

• Applications close: 5 September 2025 at 17:00

• Interview dates: TBC - dependent on application numbers

• Next board meeting: TBC

Why this role matters

Every month, we see the difference our work makes to neurodivergent legal professionals who've struggled to find their place in traditional firm culture. Your financial expertise won't just keep our books balanced - it'll help us scale our impact responsibly and ensure we're here for the long haul.

What we offer in return

• Real impact: See directly how your skills contribute to meaningful change

• Supportive team: Work with a committed and welcoming board that'll have your back

• Professional development: Gain valuable charity governance experience

• Flexibility: We’re a team of working professionals and always work around professional commitments

• Recognition: References and recommendations for future opportunities

• Reimbursed expenses: We cover reasonable costs related to your trustee duties

We're committed to inclusive recruitment and welcome applications from all backgrounds. If you need any adjustments to our application process, just let us know.

Application deadline: 5 September 2025 at 17:00