Finance Trustee Volunteer Roles

Oxfordshire Breastfeeding Support (OBS) is a small charity (a charitable incorporated organisation or CIO) providing free direct breastfeeding support to the families of Oxfordshire - via a mixture of virtual one to one appointments, in-person sessions, Zoom groups, a private Facebook group, antenatal workshops and work targeted at groups that are under-represented. Although founded as an independent charity in 2018, OBS’s work is a continuation of 12 years of breastfeeding support under the Baby Café umbrella. OBS is well known and respected in the community, with strong and valuable relationships with other service providers in the NHS, Local Authority and voluntary sectors. OBS is committed to being an actively anti-racist organisation, with a focus on social justice, equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome people of all backgrounds, gender identities and life experiences to become trustees.

OBS is seeking to recruit a trustee to act as treasurer of trustees for a period of 2-3 years. In addition to the responsibilities of a general trustee, treasurer of the trustees will:

• Provide financial leadership to the board of trustees, offering valuable insights and recommendations on financial planning, budgeting, and investment decisions.

• Oversee the development and implementation of the charity's financial policies, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and best practices.

• Prepare and present financial reports at board meetings, providing clear and concise updates on the charity's financial performance and projections. This would include preparing an annual budget and monthly management accounts.

• Monitor and assess the charity's financial health, identifying risks and opportunities and recommending appropriate actions. This would also include ensuring restricted funds are recorded and monitored appropriately to ensure than any grant terms are complied with

• Ensure transparency and accountability in financial matters, promoting ethical practices and adherence to financial policies.

• Prepare annual financial statements in accordance with Charity Commission regulations, and ensure timely completion of annual review

• Support the fundraising team in financial planning for campaigns and initiatives, aligning financial resources with strategic objectives. This would also include assisting in the preparation of the financial information for grant applications and assisting with preparing reports at the end of the grant period to show compliance with financial restrictions of any grants

• Keep abreast of financial trends, legal requirements, and best practices in the charity sector, sharing relevant insights with the board and staff

This work is likely to involve around 10 hours per month,

Trustee – Join our Board!  

Are you looking for a new challenge? Are you passionate about work that directly impacts families? If so, join this friendly and ambitious board and make a difference to those affected by chronic granulomatous disorder. 

About the Role 

Being a Trustee for the CGD Society means you will use your skills and experience to support our charity, ensure we are achieving our aims and we are working towards our goals and mission. All Trustees are jointly responsible for any decisions made as well as defining and overseeing our strategy.

You will work closely with our dedicated staff to ensure the organisation operates effectively, efficiently and economically, with a culture that is positive, and focused on the needs of those it serves. 

As well as attending Board meetings, Trustees are encouraged to join a subcommittee and use their skills to assist our staff and maximise effort in a specific area. Our current subcommittees cover Governance, Finance, Fundraising, Community and Medical. 

About You 

We are seeking individuals who are collaborative, self-motivated and passionate about work that makes a difference. Those seeking a new challenge and enjoy innovative problem-solving will flourish in this role.

Our Trustees bring a range of skills and expertise to the charity. Right now, we are ideally seeking individuals with the following backgrounds: 

• Lived experience with CGD. 

• Legal expertise, preferably within a charitable context, to provide essential guidance. 

• Fundraising proficiency, including successful grant application and grant writing abilities, to enhance income diversification. 

• Proficiency in Information Technology, digital platforms, and digital marketing 

• Representation from the healthcare sector to enrich our understanding of healthcare delivery in the UK. 

• Brand development skills to maximize the utilization of our assets. 

Whilst these skills are desirable, we would like to hear from anyone who is interested in this role. A successful Trustee will be able to draw on a diverse range of technical and soft skills as well as their knowledge and passion.

Benefits

As well as supporting the charity and members of the CGD community, we will provide you with opportunities to grow and develop. For example:

• Develop new professional and personal skills: Our current Board of Trustees have learnt skills such as strategic thinking, using data, problem solving and charity governance. Many of our Trustees remarked that it was valuable to be pushed out of their comfort zone and how this has built their confidence.

• A rare opportunity to work alongside, and learn from, a variety of individuals from a range of backgrounds: This includes those working in healthcare, finance, technology, as well as those from different walks of life and individuals who have been personally affected by CGD. 

• Take on a new challenge: There are a number of challenges facing small charities as well as the wider rare diseases community, for example fundraising during a cost-of-living crisis and connecting with our members after the pandemic. Considering new and innovative approaches to these issues is crucial. 

• A selfless and rewarding role: Given the under-represented nature of rare diseases, as well as the challenges surrounding research, diagnosis and treatment, the work of charities like the CGD Society is crucial. We can sometimes be a family’s only support network during these difficult times, giving a sense of purpose and value to all that we do. You will feel the warmth and gratitude from our community for your work with us.

About We Are Family 

We Are Family is an extraordinary peer support community for adopters and prospective adopters. We’re there for parents throughout their adoption journey. Online and in person, our parents’ groups, events, resources, podcasts and talks offer mutual support, information and inspiration to adopters and those considering adoption. We currently operate across Greater London and the Home Counties, with ambitions to scale nationally over the coming years. 

You can find out more about us here. 

The Role

We are looking for new trustees to strengthen and enhance our board. The key responsibilities of the role include, governance, overseeing policy and direction, financial oversight and assisting with the leadership and general promotion of We Are Family to support the organisation’s Vision, Mission, Values and needs.

This is a voluntary opportunity with associated Trustee expenses -  such as travel / childcare -  covered by We Are Family.  Trustees can be based anywhere in the UK. 

Commitment

Trustee capacity to devote the time needed for the following is essential:

• 4 Board meetings per year

• 2 Board away days per year (on a Saturday)

• Membership of at least one sub-committee (which also meet 4 times a year)

We estimate 8-10 hours for the charity per month. The duration of membership for a new Board member is for three years in the first instance, with the possibility of appointment for a further three year term.

Skills and Experience 

All applicants should be able to demonstrate the following:

• Be able to show high levels of professionalism and an ability to work collaboratively with others, including Trustees, our core team and the wider Volunteer network at We Are Family

• Be well-organised, with good written and verbal communication skills.

• Previous board/trustee experience is not necessary and we welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds. A thorough induction, and further trustee training as appropriate, can be provided. 

We are particularly interested candidates with the following experience:

• Working as a professional with or in the adoption sector,

• Advocacy and/or research work;

• Finance/charity finance

• Leadership within a charity

• Education 

• Legal.

Although many of our current trustees are adopters themselves, we are also keen to recruit suitably qualified people who are not, but who can demonstrate a commitment to the values and mission of We Are Family.

One of the great strengths of We Are Family is that we are volunteer and member driven, and we represent a diverse community of adoptive parents. We particularly welcome trustees from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds to ensure that the board can benefit from this diversity of experience. We would also welcome single adopters to the board. 

To Apply 

If the opportunity to join an exciting, rapidly growing charity appeals to you as someone able to make a valuable contribution, please get in touch!

Refer to our job ad for the Applications email address and email our team. If you would like an informal conversation about the opportunity, please let us know.

Please note that applications are received and reviewed on an ongoing basis, therefore an early application is advised.

Spark! are a growing youth employment charity and are seeking to strengthen our Board through the appointment of 5 new trustees with a passion for supporting young people in to pathways towards meaningful and sustained employment and rewarding careers.

We are particularly looking for trustees who can demonstrate skills or experience in one or more of the following areas to enhance our Governance.

• Finance and accounting
• Local authority
• Education sector
• HR and training
• Central Government and campaigning

We are also seeking Young Trustees (under 25 years old) to represent youth voice on our Board. Ideally this will be someone with relevant lived experience and/or someone who has participated in Spark! programmes.

We also welcome candidates with links to our priority areas of Barnet, Brent, Ealing, Hammersmith & Fulham, Harrow, Hillingdon and Hounslow, and from those with backgrounds that reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

Overview of the role:

Knottingley Foodbank are seeking someone with experience of working in a financial role to join the Board as a Trustee, who will be able to advise on financial matters, ensure we meet our financial obligations and help us build a sound financial strategy as we move forward. As a Trustee you will share collective responsibility for the governance of Knottingley Foodbank and all decisions made by the board, ensuring the organisation is well run, fulfils its mission, ensuring compliance with charity law and that the charity is open and accountable.

Responsibilities

All trustees are responsible for setting the strategic direction for Knottingley Foodbank, ensuring alignment to our values, defining goals, setting organisational policies, agreeing financial plans, evaluating the charity’s performance and ensuring good relationships amongst the trustees and with the senior staff.

Key tasks

All Trustees:

• Embrace the organisation’s vision, mission and values.
• Ensure the charity complies with its governing document and charity law.
• Ensure focus on strategy, performance, risk and assurance rather than operational matters.
• Act with integrity, making objective decisions without undue influence by special or personal interests.
• Ensure openness and accountability, build public trust and confidence in the foodbank’s work and legitimacy in representing beneficiaries and stakeholders.
• Uphold collective responsibility of the board.
• Commit sufficient time and energy to the role of trustee and make reasonable use of own skills and experience to support the work of the board and foodbank.
• Ensure the principles of equity, equality, diversity and inclusion are embedded in Knottingley Foodbank and help deliver public benefit.

Specific to the Treasurer Trustee:

• Oversee the financial affairs of the foodbank, ensuring that they are conducted with probity and transparency.
• Ensure the board receives sufficient information to carry out its financial responsibilities.
• Ensure that the charity has robust and effective financial controls.
• Ensure appropriate financial policies are in place.
• Ensure an annual budget is provided for board approval.
• Be responsible for the foodbank’s payroll.
• Review management and statutory accounts are produced on time.
• Ensure that organisation risks are reviewed by the board annually.

Trustees may also undertake additional work for the charity between meetings subject to their availability and skill set.

We are looking for a team player with experience of finance and fundraising best practice, preferably within the charity sector, to join our Board of Trustees As we continue to expand our services, our new Treasurer will help us to develop our procedures and strategies to ensure we maintain good governance. Applicants must also be prepared to take on the wider responsibilities of becoming a charity Trustee.

​This is a hands on role which requires close working with our CEO, Finance Manager, Chair of Trustees and Accountants. You will help us to review and implement new financial processes and budgeting procedures, develop new investment and fundraising policies and ensure that we operate in line with best practice. As a Trustee you will also contribute to the organisations wider mission and strategy and oversee the running of the Charity.

​If you are looking to use your skills to give back to your local community or to support a cause that you are passionate about and have experience in financial management or in establishing sound financial procedures, we want to hear from you. This is an opportunity to make an immediate impact within a growing charity.

​Please note that we have a full time Finance Manager who manages our day to day finances so our Treasurer will not be responsible for book keeping or other administrative functions.

An exciting opportunity to join the Board of Trustees at an ambitious charity looking to help students from disadvantaged backgrounds to gain gateway qualifications in further education and get back on track.

ABOUT GET FURTHER

Get Further is the first charity dedicated to providing high-quality tuition to students facing challenges in further education, adult education, and the apprenticeship sector. We aim to transform the experience of these students, helping them to build their skills and realise their aspirations for education and work.

Every year, 200,000 children – disproportionately from disadvantaged backgrounds – do not achieve the expected standard in crucial English and maths qualifications while at school, locking them out of many university courses, apprenticeships, and key professions.

Twice as many disadvantaged 16- to 18-year-olds go to further education colleges than school sixth forms, and yet for too long, the needs of students in further education have not taken centre stage in education policy or funding. We work in partnership with further education providers to prove that, when given the means, all young people can build the skills needed to progress in education and work.

TRUSTEE SPECIFICATIONS AND COMMITMENT

We are looking to recruit a trustee who has expertise and skills in one or more of the following key areas:

• Further Education (teaching/leadership/policy)
• Apprenticeship Sector
• Fundraising
• Legal, including charity law
•  Impact and Evaluation (including experience of large-scale evaluation and/or RCTs)

 

ESSENTIAL

• Commitment to Get Further’s mission and values, including passionate about tackling educational inequality.
• Financial qualifications and experience within a charity, not for profit or business in a senior financial role.
• Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information to members of the Board and other stakeholders.
• Analytical and evaluation skills, demonstrating good judgement.
• Understanding/willingness to learn and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Good communication and leadership skills.
• Creative thinking, especially in ensuring equality, diversity and inclusion considerations are part of the charity’s decision making and strategy.
• An openness to challenge and question others.
• Willing to act as an ambassador to external bodies, charities and companies.
• A team-oriented approach to problem solving and management

DESIRABLE

• Knowledge of charity SORP and aware of impending changes.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience of charity fundraising and finance practices.
• An understanding of the education landscape in the UK.

TRUSTEE COMMITMENT

• The term of a board member is an initial three years.
• Expectation to attend all quarterly board meetings, as well as sub-committee meetings and ad hoc Get Further events, which may involve speaking engagements for example, student alumni events or tutor training.
• Training and support are available, and each new trustee will receive a full induction.

For more details on what is expected of trustee and the main duties involved please see the attached recruitment pack.

HOW TO APPLY

For details on how to apply and the timeline for recruitment please see the attached pack. Applications close on Monday 27th May 2024.

Can you spare a few hours a month to support STAMP Revisited, a local mental health charity?

We are, a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), which has provided advocacy services for the people of Teesside for almost 30 years, and we are currently looking for new Trustees to join our Board.

Our advocates provide advocacy to adults who are experiencing mental health difficulties that impact on their ability to make their voice heard and are unable to independently navigate personal issues such as aspects of their health, finances, or housing needs.

Trustees are essential to the success of a charity, and the Board is the charity’s governing body. Trustees are responsible for ensuring the charity meets its objectives and are responsible for its general administration and control of the charity.

If you are interested in finding out more about being a Trustee and sitting on our Board, we would love to hear from you. Our Board welcomes people from diverse backgrounds, aged 18 or over with a wide range of skills. We are keen to welcome people who have personal experience of mental health challenges, including service users and carers.

At Mid Norfolk Mencap we are passionate about supporting people with learning disabilities and their families. Enabling people to live independently, person-centred care is at the heart of what we do.

Our mission is to support and enable the people who use our services to lead fulfilling lives, to be involved in their local wider community, and to have access to the same opportunities as all members of society.

Mid Norfolk Mencap was established since 1977, and every year we provide residential living, social opportunities, and specialised Community Outreach support for more than 100 people with a learning disability in Norfolk. However, with around 16,500 adults in Norfolk with a learning disability, we know we can do so much more.

This is an exciting time for us as we work to grow and strengthen our services. As a trustee you will play a vital role in helping us deliver a stronger and more sustainable organisation for the benefit of our service users, their families, and for the staff who work to deliver those services.

Position: Trustee

Location: Trustee Board meetings and many of our charity’s activities take place in Dereham. In addition, some work may be required remotely using Zoom/ Teams, or in other parts of Norfolk from time to time.

Salary: This position is unpaid but reasonable expenses may be paid.

Responsibilities

This role is suited to candidates who can demonstrate professional or skills-based knowledge of benefit to the charity. We would particularly welcome applications from people with experience in the third sector, PR, fundraising, governance, risk management, management and law, and accountancy.

This job is for you if:

• You have a proven track record of integrity and respect for confidential and proprietary information.
• You are a keen and respectful listener who can empathise and respectfully challenge.
• You have a commitment to the charity, are approachable for our service users, and are enthused for its vision, mission and aims.
• You understand and accept the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.
• You are willing to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a trustee (c. 2 – 3 hours per week depending on your role and any specific responsibilities within the Board).
• You are willing to participate in frank and open discussion and can work effectively as a member of a team.
• You can analyse proposals and their consequences, have a good level of competence with IT.
• You are willing to be available to provide guidance to the senior management team on an ad hoc basis.

Training

You will be given a basic induction to the charity and opportunities to meet with the senior management team. We also strongly encourage trustees to spend time participating in our services delivery, getting to know our staff and volunteers – and most importantly, our beneficiaries. We will customise a training and familiarisation package for the successful candidate based on prior knowledge and experience.

Our Recruitment Process

Excellence is important to us, and we know that being a trustee is a great commitment, so it has to be right for both the organisation and for you. Our recruitment process typically includes:

• Two interviews, providing the opportunity for you to meet with at least two existing trustees.
• An invitation to attend the Mid Norfolk Mencap head office and residential home, meeting some of our service users and staff
• An informal meeting with a member of our senior management team
• Dedicated email/phone support for any queries or concerns

Our recruitment process is designed to facilitate a two-way dialogue. We recognise that you need to be as comfortable with us and our operating model as we are with you. Our commitment throughout, is to be open, transparent and to give you as much information as we possibly can so that you can be sure you are making an informed choice to volunteer as a trustee with us.

We look forward to meeting you!

We are looking forward to welcoming up to three new trustees to our board. The Trustees are jointly responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health and developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals. This is an opportunity to be part of a regenerating charity with a key role in the town focused on alleviating poverty locally.

We have identified that our organisation will particularly benefit from skills in fundraising, marketing, finance and an understanding of the challenges around the running of a small charity that is growing.  We are also fully committed to increasing the diversity of our board.

The duties and responsibilities of our trustees are as follows:

· Ensuring that the organisation pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its governing document, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy

· Ensuring that the organisation complies with its governing document (i.e. the trust deed, constitution or memorandum and articles of association), charity law, company law, employment law and any other relevant legislation or regulations

· Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects (i.e. the charity must not spend money on activities that are not included in its own objects, however worthwhile or charitable those activities are) for the benefit of the public

· Ensuring that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets

· Safeguarding the good name and values of the organisation

· Ensuring the effective and efficient administration and governance of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place

· Understanding the responsibilities and liabilities of being a trustee

· Undertaking induction and relevant training as identified for the role

· Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation

· Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds

· Following proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of the Chief Executive

· In addition to the above statutory duties, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, supporting working groups, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Person Specification:

• A commitment to the organisation

• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort

• A willingness to listen to others and share your views and opinions

• Strategic vision

• Good, independent judgement

• An ability to think creatively

• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship

• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team

Join Hope for the Future's Board of Trustees and be at the forefront of combating the climate and nature emergency! 

Hope for the Future is looking for a Treasurer and at least two other Trustees to help lead our work tackling the climate and nature emergency. Hope for the Future is a climate communications charity with a vision of UK communities and politicians working together to secure a healthy planet for all. To achieve that, we train and support citizens across the UK to develop constructive relationships with politicians, countering the ‘us and them’ narrative that gets in the way of meaningful democratic engagement and political progress

We’re looking for candidates who will not only bring a commitment to climate action, but also a finesse for accountability, sustainability, and regulatory compliance. Incoming trustees will receive a full induction, so if you’ve never been on a board before, don’t let that put you off applying.

We’re seeking diverse expertise to enrich our board. We’re particularly looking for trustees with skills in finance, HR, fundraising and marketing, all of which will be invaluable in shaping our strategy and impact.

Our track record speaks volumes: from influencing Parliament to catalyzing local action, our engagement spans party lines and drives tangible change. Take the lead in our vital work and make a lasting difference. Apply now and help shape a future where hope prevails over crisis.

Apply

To apply, read the trustee information pack on our website and email a cover letter and CV

Include “Application for the Role of Trustee” in the subject line of the email by 20th May 2024.

Do you want to help stop needless deaths from sepsis and help improve recovery of those affected by Sepsis. UKST are looking to recruit additional Trustees to its established Board

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that affects 245,000 people in the UK every year. At least 48,000 of those people lose their lives to the condition. We believe that earlier diagnosis and treatment across the UK would save thousands more lives a year.

The UK Sepsis Trust (UKST) was founded in 2012. Founder and Executive Director, Dr Ron Daniels BEM, is an NHS Consultant in Intensive Care:

“We seek to save lives from sepsis, and improve outcomes for survivors, by educating healthcare professionals, raising public awareness, providing support for those affected by this devastating condition and political lobbying. We will protect people by enabling the prevention of severe infection and the treatment of sepsis, whist helping to ensure antibiotics are used responsibly.”

The UK Sepsis Trust has ambitious plans to increase awareness, educate wider networks beyond direct care health professionals and provide support to an ever-increasing population of survivors and bereaved. We are seeking to diversify the existing Trustee Board by gaining access to broader and deeper skills, backgrounds, and experiences. Our Trustees work in partnership with our Chairman and Chief Executives to ensure our resources are applied to maximum effect to achieve our purpose – through a clear vision and strategy, whilst exercising stewardship to operate an appropriate framework of governance.

We are particularly interested in candidates from various backgrounds including:

• Clinical/Sepsis
• Finance & Charity governance
• Corporate Fundraising engagement
• Digital, web and apps

Key Tasks and Responsibilities will include:

• Working with the Chairman, fellow Trustees and Management Team to ensure UKST’s cultural values and ethos are fully understood and adhered to throughout the organisation
• Encouraging team-working and collaboration across the charity’s activities including supporters and volunteers
• Along with fellow Trustees, making decisions that will best enable the charity to carry out its purposes. Contributing to balanced and informed decisions about the long term as well as the short-term requirements for UKST
• Ensuring the Charity’s assets and resources are only used to support it carrying out its purpose
• Providing ad hoc advice to the Management Team on specific topics relevant to their skills and knowledge
• Keeping up to date with Charity Commission legislation changes
• Continually monitoring the Trust’s progress to determine if strategic priorities need to be adjusted

Person Specification

• Significant leadership experience and commitment to our purpose
• Ability to drive organisational change and navigate growth
• Willingness and ability to understand responsibilities and liabilities as Trustees of a Charity
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement, and work effectively as a Board member
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion, and numeracy to the extent required to understand the financial records and accounts

Time Commitment

The time commitment of the Trustees is variable but as a minimum they are required to attend the following:

• The Trustees have four formal meetings each year with the management team (2 of which are in person in either Birmingham/London).
• In addition there are four informal meetings with the management team along with regular Trustee only meetings which are all held virtually
• The Finance and Governance Trustee would also be required to attend four finance and audit committee meetings per year.

If you are interested in joining the team please apply with a cover letter and CV. 

This is an opportunity to join the Board of a growing and innovative organisation as a Trustee, striving to support more older people across the borough of Kensington and Chelsea in different and new ways.

• Location: Kensington & Chelsea, London

Who we are.

Age UK Kensington & Chelsea (£3.1 million) is a community-based charity working in the heart of Kensington and Chelsea to ensure that older people’s voices are heard, their needs are met, and their independence is supported.

We are a team of 95 staff who provide a wide range of services including advice and information, and a variety of activities which improves well-being and addresses the issues of loneliness and isolation among older people. Our services range from informal social and leisure activities through to more practical assistance, social prescribing and in light of the pandemic, delivering large-scale humanitarian response from the first day of lockdown in 2020. We are part of the fabric of Kensington and Chelsea – a diverse and vibrant borough with a need and demand for more services and innovation for older people.

Prior to the pandemic, we introduced in partnership with the NHS, My Care, My Way, which has continued to grow from strength to strength with over 40 health and social care prescribing coordinators working with over 7,000 patients to provide support to reduce hospital admissions and promote independence. Every NHS-registered GP practice in Kensington and Chelsea is now signed up to My Care, My Way.

More people are living longer lives and as an organisation, we need to be fit for the years to come and ready to deliver the services our older people tell us they need. We are developing innovative new offers such as our recent pilot to deliver an evidence-based long-term supportive intervention for people living with dementia and exploring how exciting developments in technology can best support people as they age. We are also concerned about the impact of the cost of living crisis on our older people and how we can support them.

About the role.

It is an exciting time to join our Board as we are executing our current strategy and next year will be creating our next strategic plan. We appointed a number of new Trustees to the Board over the last number of years and we are now looking to grow our Board in terms of skill sets. We are looking for a mix of people, people who have been Trustees before and those who are new to the role.

In particular, we are looking to appoint:

• A finance professional, we have appointed a new Finance Director, and we are looking for a new Trustee with finance expertise who can join our Treasurer on the Finance Committee. This person could come from a variety of sectors with experience in accountancy, financial strategy, audit and risk.
• A professional with experience of working with older people and/or health or social care. It could be someone who has delivered services in the NHS, private or charitable sectors. We would welcome anyone with experience of dementia.
• In addition to this, we are looking for a professional with expertise and/or an understanding of fundraising; this could be in philanthropy, development, major donors, and/or events.

We are open to other skill sets and experiences as we look to grow and develop our Board. In particular, we are keen to attract those with a background in HR/people management for our HR Committee.

We are committed to ensuring our Board Members have a connection and understanding of the Borough.

We are keen that our Board represents the diversity of our borough and we encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds and experiences including LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities and people from global majority backgrounds.

We are a values-driven charity and older people are at the heart of everything we do in our community, so we are looking for someone who is committed and dedicated to supporting older people and is passionate about our Borough.

We would welcome our new Trustees throughout the year to attend our events and services for our older people, such as walking football or events such as our Valentine’s celebration which attracts over 400 older people.

Time commitment

The board meets 4 times a year in the evening for approximately three hours (twice online and twice in-person). We have 3 Board Sub-Committees, the Finance & Risk Committee, Quality, Performance & Development and HR, these meet 2 – 4 times each year for about 2 hours. Committee meetings are usually held online.

We hold an annual AGM and also meet annually for a board development/strategy review day and other ad hoc events throughout the year.

We expect the time commitment for our Trustees including reading board papers, attendance at events, ad hoc conversations with staff and Board Members to be up to a day a month on average.

Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close Monday 1st July 2024. 

Benslow Music is looking for new Trustees to join the charity’s Board of Trustees.

Now is an exciting time to join the organisation as it continues to shape and develop its programme. Following the arrival of a new Chief Executive at the beginning of the year, the organisation is entering a period of strategic renewal and building towards its centenary in 2029. 

Benslow Music’s Trustees have legal and financial responsibility for the charity and are responsible for overseeing the strategic direction of the organisation in partnership with the Chief Executive. Day to day management of the organisation is delegated to a professional administrative team led by the Chief Executive. Trustees are also ambassadors for the charity, supporting the team in fundraising and developing networks that will enable Benslow Music to realise its ambitions.

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, lived experience and professional knowledge. Following a recent skills audit, we are keen to hear from individuals with experience in the following areas:

· Professional experience in the cultural/music education sectors

· Finance

· Marketing and communications

· Fundraising

· Strategic development

· Health & Safety and/or building/estate management

· HR

· Charity governance

Application timeline:

Opportunity launched 24 April

Deadline for applications 22 May

Conversations with potential Trustees 3-17 June

Appointment July

Please see the How to Apply section for further details.

About Benslow Music

Benslow Music creates music learning experiences for people of all ages. We support individual development, inspire curiosity, celebrate creativity, and share all the life-long benefits music brings. We do this through a programme of residential, day and online music courses, a concert series and an instrument loan scheme.

At our campus in Hitchin, we welcome and provide learning opportunities to adult musicians of all abilities. We support everyone from late-starters to early-career professionals in unlocking their potential. We offer around 150 short courses throughout the year, covering genres from classical to jazz to folk, and opportunities to explore solo, small and large ensemble playing. Through regular concerts we provide a platform for emerging and acclaimed artists.

Benslow Music is home to the Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme, which holds a collection of over 800 string and woodwind instruments that are lent to young musicians aged 7-25. Each year over 500 loans ensure that borrowers, regardless of background, are able to grow and develop as musicians.

 

Benslow Music began as the Rural Music Schools Association in 1929, offering musical education to people of all ages who were outside urban centres. In 1952, the four-acre Victorian estate in Hitchin was bequeathed to the RMSA and has since developed into a lively campus for music activity, with two recital halls, practice rooms and accommodation for around 50 people. Renamed Benslow Music Trust in 1986, the Trust subsequently took responsibility for the Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme.

Plans for the future include ongoing development of creative music activities for all ages, an expanded online offer, additional collaborative and partnership working, and further development of our site facilities and accommodation. In short, Benslow Music weathered the pandemic and is now poised for continued evolution and diversification to reach new audiences in each area of activity. This is an exciting time at which to be joining the organisation, as we look towards our centenary celebrations in 2029.

About the Trustee role

Trustees play a vital role in ensuring that Benslow Music is able to achieve its vision and charitable objectives, providing critical challenge and oversight. The Board is a collective body. All Trustees share responsibility for decision making, being expected to act in the best interests of the charity.

Trustees have several areas of responsibility, some of which are defined by the Charity Commission. Additionally, Trustees are expected to:

· Ensure that the organisation uses its resources to pursue its charitable objects

· Oversee the strategic direction of the organisation, supporting its development through good governance

· Ensure that the organisation complies with legal requirements, particularly in the areas of finance, health and safety, and safeguarding

· Use personal skills, expertise and time to support the organisation’s development

· Actively participate in board meetings, committees and working groups as required.

· Act as an ambassador for Benslow Music

· Undertake tasks required by the Board from time to time

Time Commitment

The expected commitment is roughly equivalent to one day per month, although more may be required from time to time.

The Board meets four times per year, plus an Annual General Meeting held in June. These meetings are hybrid, and can be attended virtually or in person at Benslow. Where possible we encourage Trustees to attend meetings in person. Time will also be needed to read meeting papers.

Alongside, further informal meetings are held online, designed to give Trustees more space and time to discuss additional strategic areas. Trustees will usually be allocated to committees and working groups with delegated responsibilities based on their expertise and interests. Trustees are also expected to attend events at Benslow as their time permits.

Terms

Trustees are subject to periodic re-election by members on a rotational basis, typically every three years. There is currently no limit to their total length of service but this is under consideration by the Board. All Trustees are required to sign a declaration that they understand the legal responsibilities of being a Trustee and meet the eligibility requirements. All Trustees are also required to complete an enhanced DBS check.

Being a Trustee is a voluntary role, however reasonable expenses are paid to Trustees to ensure they can effectively participate in Board meetings. This may include expenses such as travel or a contribution towards childcare.

About you

We are seeking individuals who are forward-thinking, fair-minded and committed to the continued development of the organisation. You will be enthusiastic about the work of Benslow Music, sharing our values and vision and excited to join an organisation going through a period of change.

We are keen to hear from individuals who can show:

· Commitment to Benslow Music and its values

· Curiosity

· Openness and integrity

· Ability to make sound and informed decisions

· Creative and strategic thinking

· Ability to collaborate and communicate with a team

· Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

· Strong advocacy skills to act as an ambassador

· Understanding of the legal responsibilities of being a Trustee

 

We would like the Board to represent a broad range of skills, knowledge and lived experiences to help with its critical and strategic oversight. We are open to hearing from all professional backgrounds, in response to a recent skills audit we are keen to appoint Trustees with experience in:

· Cultural, music or music education sectors

· Finance

· Marketing and communications

· Fundraising

· Strategic or business development

· Health & Safety and/or building/estate management

· HR

· Charity governance

There is no requirement to have previous Trustee experience and training will be given to first-time Trustees.

We welcome all applications from people of all backgrounds, in particular from those who will diversify the lived experience of the Board, for example in terms of gender, disability, age and ethnic background.

Organisation structure

Benslow Music is a group of three entities led by Benslow Music Trust, a registered charity (313663) and a company limited by guarantee (408404). Trustees are both Trustees of the charity and Directors of the company. Benslow Music Trust is the corporate Trustee of Benslow Music Instrument Loan Scheme (BMILS), a registered charity (313755). Benslow Music Enterprises (registered company 10967344) is a trading subsidiary of Benslow Music Trust through which we conduct non-charitable activity.

The Board of Trustees currently numbers 11, with a number of Trustees due to retire at our next AGM. The Board is a welcoming and collaborative group which enjoys discussion and debate. Trustees act as critical friends to the organisation while meeting their legal and governance obligations.

Management of the organisation is through the professional staff team. This is led by the Chief Executive with support from senior management team (Heads of Finance, Music, BMILS, Operations and Development) and the wider staff team in administration and hospitality, numbering around 40 people in total.

How to apply

To apply, please see our website for details, which details where to send the following:

· Your CV

· A supporting statement (max 2 pages of A4) explaining why you are interested in becoming a Trustee of Benslow Music and how your skills and experience will support the strategic oversight of the organisation. Please state in the letter that you are eligible to become a Trustee and your willingness to complete an enhanced DBS check

· A completed equal opportunities monitoring form (this is anonymous and will be stored separately from your application)

Deadline for applications: 10am on Wednesday 22 May

Applications will be reviewed by the Nominations Committee of current Trustees, who will shortlist candidates to invite for further conversations during 3-17 June to be held via videocall.

We anticipate that selected candidates will be invited to attend and observe a Board meeting before being formally appointed as Trustees.

If you would like to arrange an informal pre-application conversation to discuss the role further, please email Michael Duffy.       

We are keen to ensure that our recruitment process is accessible to everyone. If you have any access requirements or barriers to application, please contact Michael Duffy to discuss how we might make reasonable adjustments to the process.