Trustee volunteer roles

Purpose of the Role

Trustees are the people who share ultimate responsibility for governing a charity and directing how it is managed and run. As a trustee of The Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre, you will help ensure the charity is well-run, financially sound, and working effectively to rescue, rehabilitate, and care for reptiles.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure the charity is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit

• Comply with the charity’s governing document and relevant laws

• Act in the charity’s best interests at all times

• Manage the charity’s resources responsibly and ensure financial stability

• Safeguard the charity’s reputation and values

• Contribute to setting the charity’s strategy and long-term plans

• Monitor the charity’s performance against objectives

• Attend trustee meetings, read papers in advance, and contribute constructively

• Represent the charity positively in the community and at events

Skills & Experience

We welcome applications from people with a variety of backgrounds. Skills that are particularly helpful for our board include:

• Finance, accounting, or business management

• Fundraising or marketing

• Animal welfare knowledge (especially reptiles)

• HR, governance, or legal expertise

• Networking and relationship building

• Strategic planning

Qualities Needed

• Commitment to the charity’s aims and values

• Willingness to dedicate time and effort to the role

• Ability to think strategically and make balanced decisions

• Good communication and teamwork skills

• Integrity and sound judgement

What You’ll Gain

• A chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare

• Opportunity to use your skills and experience for a good cause

• Experience in charity governance and strategy

• Being part of a supportive and passionate team

Board positions at Claremont Project (Islington)

Roles available: 1) Chair of the Board; 2) Trustee positions

Are you passionate about improving health and wellbeing outcomes, especially for older people? Do you value the “magic dust” of real human relationship? 

Claremont Project is a mental health, arts and wellbeing charity based in Angel, Islington. We are seeking Trustees and also a Chair of the Board, to strengthen our charity as we step into our next chapter.

About us 

Claremont has been around since 1907 and serves mostly older people through a powerful blend of social prescribing, low-cost psychotherapy and a programme of arts and wellbeing activities. 

Claremont is a place of innovation and creativity, underpinned by a Relational Approach which emphasises real listening, self-awareness and an awareness of how we are being in relation to other people. We were the UK’s first Wellbeing Centre long before the term was ubiquitous; and in 1920s and 30s we ran programmes that became models for the Welfare State. At our beautiful and well-loved building at 24-27 White Lion Street, we nurture a vibrant, inclusive community, underpinned by our conviction that everybody matters.

About the roles

The Board of Trustees has overall responsibility for Claremont and ensures the charity is doing what it was set up to do. As set out by the Charity Commission, Trustees at Claremont are responsible for:

·Advancing the charitable purposes of Claremont and ensuring we carry out its purposes for public benefit.

·Ensuring Claremont complies with its governing document and the law.

·Acting in Claremont’s best interests.

·Managing Claremont’s resources responsibly.

·Acting with reasonable care and skill.

·Ensuring that Claremont is accountable as a charity. 

We are seeking to appoint two or three trustees, and also a Chair of the Board. We are seeking board members are passionate about our mission, vision and values; who have governance experience within charities; and who can think strategically as part of a team.

Between them, our Board of Trustees has knowledge, expertise and skills that cover a range of areas. Alongside a broad competence in charity governance, it would be desirable if candidates had skills that could help us fill the following gaps:

·Fundraising

·Psychotherapy (with understanding of an existentialist approach if possible)

·Buildings maintenance and retrofit

·Maximising income from office lettings and halls/room hire

·Public donations and legacies

·Dementia risk reduction and brain health

·Environmental sustainability and climate readiness

Strong candidates will have experience and competence in one or several of these areas, as well as having a certain “Claremontiness” – aspirational and personal qualities which embody a genuine relational approach to life.

Time commitment (Trustee roles):Quarterly Board meetings (held in the evenings), plus emails and optional committee work.

Time commitment (Chair role): In addition to the Trustee duties above, a fortnightly meeting with the CEO during office hours, plus ad hoc phone calls and emails (including during office hours).

Claremont is a community where people from all backgrounds are loved and wanted, and which is diverse in terms of characteristics like race and ethnicity, gender, disability and socioeconomic status. We warmly welcome applications from people coming from all walks of life, particularly those from backgrounds that have been historically underrepresented on charity boards.

Please note:

·You must be 18 or over and must not be disqualified from acting or as a Trustee and declare any conflict of interest while carrying out the duties of a Trustee.

·This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed

Seeking a Trustee Director for The Retreat Clinics.  We have delivered mental health treatment and care for over 200 years, and we are still governed by Quaker Values. We offer psychological therapies and assessments for Autism and ADHD, both online and from our home base in York and our offices in Manchester.

Following major changes in our structure, we are now refreshing our strategy and business plan to better meet the needs of young people and adults through in-person and online assessment and talking therapy, supported by prescribing and shared care.  We hold an NHS contract and also offer privately funded care.

Do you have the experience and skills to shape the future of mental health care? 

Our Trustee team would like to expand, and seek one or more colleagues to support and enhance Board skills with your experience and knowledge base.  Board meetings are held every other month in person in York (approx half a day), with an informal meeting online between.  Trustees with specialist skills may be asked to serve on Committees (Quality & Safety / Finance  etc) and these meetings are all held online. Quakers and people who are happy to work with Quaker Values are warmly invited to apply via CV and accompanying letter

 About HIAS+JCORE

HIAS+JCORE is the UK Jewish response to refuge and asylum. Our vision is a UK where refugees can live in dignity, in a society free from racism. This work is driven by the belief that the Jewish community should play an active part in empowering refugees to thrive.

Our organisation came into this form through the joining of operations between two organisations: the UK-based JCORE (Jewish Council for Racial Equality) and HIAS, a global humanitarian aid and advocacy organisation. HIAS+JCORE is inspired by Jewish values and history to support those who are displaced, no matter their background.

Role purpose

The Fundraising Trustee will bring expertise, insight, and strategic guidance to help the charity strengthen and diversify its income. Working with the Board and staff/volunteers, they will ensure fundraising is ethical, sustainable, and aligned with the charity’s mission and values.

Key responsibilities

• Contribute to the overall governance of the charity as a member of the Board of Trustees.
• Provide advice and support on fundraising strategy, ensuring income generation is realistic and compliant with regulation.
• Act as a fundraising champion on HIAS+JCORE’s board, working with and supporting other trustees to explore fundraising possibilities.
• If networks for fundraising exist, use them to support the work of the charity.
• Support the development of diverse fundraising streams (e.g. individual giving, trusts and foundations, community fundraising, corporate support) and advise and support with appeals and major fundraising events/campaigns.
• Ensure compliance with fundraising regulation and best practice, including the Code of Fundraising Practice, and through HIAS+JCORE’s policies and procedures.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work and helping to raise its profile.

Person specification

Essential:

• Commitment to the charity’s mission and values.
• Understanding of the legal duties and responsibilities of charity trusteeship.
• Knowledge and experience of fundraising (e.g. trusts, corporates, major donors, community fundraising, or digital campaigns).
• Strategic thinker, able to balance long-term planning with practical advice.
• Strong communication and networking skills.

Desirable:

• Experience of fundraising in a small charity context.
• Existing networks that could support the charity’s fundraising efforts.
• Understanding of charity finance and/or marketing.

A fantastic opportunity has arisen to join the Smart Works Board of Trustees as Treasurer.

Our Trustees support all aspects of our work, with the aim of providing strategic support, governance and assurance that enables us to continue to deliver our core service and increase the number of women we can support into work by dressing and coaching women for interview and job success.

The time commitment for this voluntary, unpaid role is an average of two days a month, with more time given at busy periods of the year. There will be a requirement to attend board meetings, with some trustees also sitting on subcommittees that meet around 4 times a year. In addition there are events to attend and occasional additional duties to support our wider work.

If you feel you have valuable experience and skills to contribute to the Smart Works mission and would like to use your professional experience for good, we would love to hear from you.

Please see attached job pack for more information and details on how to apply. 

Chair of North Surrey Domestic Abuse Service

Our Charity

North Surrey Domestic Abuse Service (NSDAS) supports anyone affected by domestic abuse and their children living in the boroughs of Elmbridge, Spelthorne and Epsom and Ewell. We provide free, confidential and independent advice, skilled practical help and ongoing emotional support and information, regardless of sex, race, ability, gender, religion or income level.

Historically the service was provided as part of Citizens Advice Elmbridge (West). We have operated as an independent charity since April 2024 (charity number 1203855) and this is an exciting time to help shape the strategy and direction of the organisation.

The board currently comprises of nine Trustees.The current Chair is looking to step down by Christmas 2025 but will remain as a Trustee to provide continuity and support.

The Role

In addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee, duties of the chair include the following. 

·Providing leadership to the organisation and the board, ensuring that everyone remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes to provide greater public benefit. 

·Chairing and facilitating board meetings. 

·Checking that decisions taken at meetings are implemented. 

·Representing the organisation at functions and meetings. Acting as a spokesperson as appropriate. 

·Bringing impartiality and objectivity to decision-making. 

With the chief executive

·Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and other general meetings where required.

·Setting agendas for board meetings and other general meetings. 

·Developing the board of trustees. This includes induction, training, appraisal and succession planning. 

·Addressing conflict within the board and the organisation.

·Liaising with the chief executive to keep an overview of the organisation’s affairs and providing support where required. 

·Developing relationships with our partner organisations. 

·Sitting on appointment and disciplinary panels and conducting exit interviews when required. 

Connect: North Korea works with North Korean escapees to recover, rebuild, and succeed. We were established in 2018 to address the complex challenges North Koreans face in building new lives once they’ve escaped the oppressive North Korean regime and reached safety in a free country.

We are seeking an experienced and ambitious trustee with the fundraising insight and strategic vision to help Connect: North Korea continue our growth from a small community start-up into a high-impact, sustainable international organisation. As we scale our programmes and deepen our impact, we’re looking for a trustee with a strong understanding of fundraising strategy, who can help shape our approach, promote our mission through their networks, and help us drive change for North Korean escapees.

If you have a background in fundraising, this is an excellent opportunity to play a highly rewarding role in supporting our mission. As part of a tightly knit and ambitious Board, you will provide strategic oversight of our governance, act as a spokesperson and ambassador for our work, help drive income generation through your networks and relationship-building skills, offer strategic advice and support to the senior management team, and foster a collaborative and effective governance environment. Individuals are sought who have a strong empathy with our work and vision and share our values and commitment to social and racial justice. 

JOB DESCRIPTION

POSITION: Fundraising Trustee

LOCATION: Remote / 78 Coombe Road, New Malden, KT3 4QS

We usually hold board meetings online, but this is open to change.

COMMITMENT: 2 – 3 hours per month. We hold one annual away day we’d expect the board to attend.

Our Board meets every quarter for 2 hours. There is expected support between meetings. Our terms are capped at 3 years with potential for renewal for one additional term.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Contribute to good governance and strategic decision-making, ensuring the Board fulfils its responsibilities in line with our constitution, governance framework, and applicable legislation.

• Provide strategic leadership on fundraising and income generation, helping to shape Connect: North Korea’s strategy and approach to sustainable growth.

• Use your networks and influence to promote the charity’s mission, opening doors to potential donors, partners, and advocates.

• Act as an ambassador and spokesperson for Connect: North Korea in relevant sectors and philanthropic circles.

• Contribute to Board discussions on financial planning and sustainability, ensuring that fundraising targets and strategic objectives are aligned.

• Champion a culture of philanthropy and external engagement across the organisation.

• Work collaboratively with fellow trustees and the Chair to maintain a supportive, ambitious, and effective governance environment.

• Ensure that there are effective financial management processes in place and that the charity is financially sustainable.

• Work with the CEO to set and monitor organisational/risk KPIs.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS
 

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior strategic fundraising role in a professional setting.

•  Well-networked and exhibit strong interpersonal and relationship-building abilities and be comfortable in an ambassadorial role.

• Leverage a well-developed network to strengthen engagement, awareness, and support for our mission.

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills with proven ability to foster and promote a collaborative team environment

• Must align with our values and have proven understanding of the issues facing refugees and asylum-seekers.

Be able to make difficult decisions, negotiate challenging conversations, and be able to balance competing interests

• Experience of governance of a charity or public sector organisation with a good understanding of charity finance and governance issues.

• Have the ability to think strategically and be able to work effectively with the organisation's senior management team, staff and volunteers.

DESIRED EXPERIENCE

• Lived experience of migration or of a refugee background is highly desirable.

• Korean speaker

• Experience with major donor or fundraising events

• Be actively engaged in refugee and migrant rights, social change, and/or a related field

We welcome and encourage applicants from all backgrounds.

HOW TO APPLY

Please send a CV and cover letter for the attention of Emma Shore, Chair of the Board.

Applications will close when the role is filled. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis. 

Would you like to use your professional skills and personal values to contribute to the development and governance of Share and Repair?

We are looking for a new Treasurer for our collaborative and robust board which is driven by our values and mission, including our unrelenting focus on supporting our community to reach net zero.

Share and Repair is a dynamic Charity Incorporated Organisation (CIO) dedicated to reducing carbon emissions, fostering cohesive communities, and promoting sustainable lifestyles. Since our inception we have grown into a vibrant community hub with 12 monthly repair cafes .

Operating from our Share and Repair hub in Bath, we run repair sessions, workshops, and community events. Join us to help empower individuals, reduce waste, and make a positive environmental impact.

As a Share and Repair trustee, you would be joining a talented board and supporting an outstanding team and army of volunteers. We take great pride in our achievements to date and are very proud of our recent King’s Award for Voluntary Service. We are keen to hear from people who care about the environment and those who can help us engage with more people. Our strength lies with our volunteers and our passion and enthusiasm for what we do.

Key responsibilities would be:

• Oversee the presentation of budgets, internal management accounts and annual financial statements to the Board of Trustees.
• Ensure that proper accounting records are kept, and that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place.
• Ensure that robust and comprehensive financial policies are in place and being implemented, and supporting the development of policies covering financial reserves, and cost management.
• Monitor and advise on the financial viability of the charity.
• Oversee financial controls and adherence to systems, regularly liaising with the Chief Executive and Bookkeeper.
• Advise on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan, including overseeing the charity’s financial risk-management process.
• Ensure that the accounts are prepared and disclosed in the form required by relevant statutory bodies.
• Keep the board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities.

Are you passionate about supporting young people and giving back to your community?

Whether you have experience in fundraising, governance, building corporate partnerships, or simply a willingness to get involved and make a difference – we’d love to hear from you! 

About us 

We’re part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, a national youth organisation empowering 12- to 20-year-olds through flying, adventure training, sports, and leadership development. 

West Mercian Wing supports over 900 cadets across 27 Squadrons in Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, the Black Country, and overseas in Cyprus. 

Each squadron has a committee, a team of trustees who support the squadron by overseeing governance, fundraising, and building community partnerships. Trustees are vital in ensuring squadrons can continue providing incredible opportunities for cadets. 

Squadrons in this area

• 63 (Bridgnorth) Squadron, Cadet Centre, Oldbury Wells School, Oldbury Wells, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 5JE 
• 333 (Ludlow) Squadron, ATC Centre, Lower Galdeford, Ludlow, Shropshire, SY8 1RU 
• 2497 (Cosford) Squadron, RAF Cosford, Wolverhampton, Shropshire, WV7 3EX 

Why become a trustee? 

Volunteering as a trustee isn’t just about helping others - it’s about growing yourself too! 

• Gain valuable experience in leadership, governance, and fundraising. 

• Expand your network and become part of a supportive team. 

• Make a lasting difference to young people in your community. 

• Shape the future of an organisation with a rich legacy. 

What’s involved? 

Meetings are structured but friendly, typically every three months for around two hours. A typical agenda includes: 

• Updates from the Chairperson, Treasurer, and Squadron Commander 

• Funding requests and financial decisions 

• Future planning, upcoming events, and key priorities 

• Opportunities to contribute based on your skills and interests 

Beyond meetings, involvement is flexible depending on your availability and expertise. 

What we’re looking for 

We welcome all backgrounds and skill levels, but we’d particularly love to hear from those with experience in: 

• Fundraising 

• Governance & charity compliance 

• Corporate partnerships 

No military background or youth work experience is required - just enthusiasm, reliability, and a passion for making a difference! 

Opportunities for progression 

Trustees can take on leadership roles within their squadron, support squadrons at sector or wing level, or even contribute to regional and national RAF Air Cadets governance. Some trustees also transition into squadron volunteer roles, working directly with cadets. 

To join us, you’ll need to 

• Be 20 years or older 

• Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years 

• Attend an evening meeting every three months (varies by squadron) 

• Bring enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to support young people. 

Typical joining process: 

1. Submit an expression of interest. 

2. We’ll invite you to visit your chosen squadron to learn more. 

3. Complete a simple online application if invited. 

4. Undergo a DBS and background check. 

This process usually takes a few weeks, depending on availability and checks. 

Ready to make an impact? 

If you’re excited about supporting young people and helping your local squadron thrive, we’d love to hear from you! 

Key information about London PLAY and the Co-Chair role

About Play

Play is important. It is deemed so vital to children’s health, happiness, and development that the right to play is enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Yet play in London is under threat:

• Space for play is threatened by development and traffic.
• Freedom to play is stifled by perceptions of risk, and fear.
• Time for play is limited by more testing in school and sedentary activities.
• Funding for play workers and play spaces is increasingly scarce. About London PLAY London Play works to ensure children have the space, time and freedom to play.

We want every child in London to have high quality, free play opportunities, near to where they live. We’re working to achieve this through campaigning, organising events, supporting play providers and play workers and others whose work or lives include children, and creating opportunities for more and better play across the capital.

About the role

London PLAY is seeking a Co-Chair of Trustees to work alongside our current Chair, oversee the implementation of our strategy, and help us increase our impact and influence. The Co-Chairs will work closely with other trustees and staff to ensure effective governance, and to achieve London Play’s aims. After a period of transition, it is envisaged that the new Co-Chair will take on the full responsibilities of the role of Chair.

Key responsibilities (shared with the other Co-Chair)

In addition to the general duties and responsibilities of a trustee, the Co-Chair will: ▪ Plan the annual cycle of board meetings, in conjunction with the Director. ▪ Set agendas for board meetings, in conjunction with the Director. ▪ Chair and facilitate board meetings. ▪ Give direction to board policy-making. ▪ Bring impartiality and objectivity to decision-making. ▪ Represent the organisation at functions and meetings. ▪ Meet regularly with the Director to gain an overview of the organisation’s affairs and operation and for the purposes of providing support. ▪ Liaise with the Director to continually develop the board of trustees. ▪ Lead the annual performance appraisal process for the Director. ▪ Sit on selection, disciplinary, grievances and complaints panels, as necessary, and in particular where the appointment of new trustees is concerned. ▪ Support the organisation’s overall development. 

Person specification: Co-Chair of the board of trustees

▪ A commitment to the organisation, its vision and passion to make play accessible for all children. ▪ A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. ▪ An ability to think creatively and strategically. ▪ An ability to work effectively as a member of a team. ▪ Selflessness, integrity, and objectivity. ▪ A willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis.

Other key information

• The role of Co-Chair is not remunerated, but reasonable expenses will be paid.
• The board meets four times a year, twice in person and twice online.
• In person meetings are held in London.
• The Co-Chairs (and board members) serve a three-year term to be eligible for reappointment at the end of each term for a maximum of two additional terms.

Summary and how to apply

This is an exciting role and opportunity to co-lead a small but influential charity that has championed children's right to play for nearly 30 years. If you are interested in applying for this role, please email (email address listed below) a copy of your CV and a cover letter explaining why you are applying for the role and outlining your relevant experience. Your cover letter should be no more than two sides of A4.

We are committed to being an inclusive organisation and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We particularly encourage applications from groups currently underrepresented on our board including younger people, people from ethnically diverse groups, and people with disabilities.

Important dates to note

• Deadline for applications: Thursday 13 November, 5:00pm.
• Note that first-round interviews will be held online on Thursday 20 November.
• Second-round interviews will be held in-person (in Hackney) on Monday 24 November.

If you cannot attend an interview on either of these dates, please state this in your application and we will do our best to work around your availability.

Other information to note

Current Chair of Trustees (to become Co-Chair): Melian Mansfield

Current Co-Vice Chairs: Barry Walden and Hal Davidson

Trustee: Fundraising

Help guide a rare disease charity through its next chapter

As a small but passionate UK-based charity, we are seeking a Trustee with a background in fundraising to help us build sustainable income streams. With no current UK-based staff and limited resources, your expertise will be instrumental in helping us grow our fundraising capacity and secure vital funding for research, family support, and advocacy.

In this role, your responsibilities could include:

• Leading the development and implementation of a fundraising strategy
• Identifying and pursuing grant opportunities, corporate partnerships, and individual giving campaigns
• Supporting the creation of compelling fundraising materials and donor communications
• Ensuring compliance with relevant fundraising regulations and best practices

What We’re Looking For

We are particularly interested in individuals with experience in:

• Charity fundraising (individual giving, trusts and foundations, corporate sponsorships)
• Grant writing and bid development
• Strategic planning and income generation
• Building donor relationships and stewardship
• The UK charity sector, including knowledge of fundraising regulations

Soft skills we value include:

• The ability to evaluate diverse viewpoints
• The willingness and flexibility to support the Board with a range of tasks
• Adaptability to shifting priorities and deadlines

We particularly welcome applications from individuals with lived experience of rare diseases. However, this isn’t essential.

Why join Us?

• “The charity gives me hope and comfort that someone is working tirelessly to help find a cure for our children.” - Dan, parent of a six-year-old diagnosed with SLC6A1
• “The charity is the only resource available to myself and my family with knowledge of my son's rare genetic disease. It provides emotional support, in addition to offering relevant information and referrals to other professionals and families. By collaborating through this network, we are better positioned to pursue a cure or treatment.” - Helen, parent of an individual diagnosed with SLC6A1 at the age of 30
• “Volunteering with SLC6A1 Connect UK has given me a sense of purpose and belonging during a journey that can often feel isolating. Being part of this community means connecting with others who truly understand, sharing hope, supporting vital research, and working together to create a better future for our children.”

You’ll be joining a charity that is:

• Led by lived experience
• Focused on impact and innovation
• Ready to grow with your guidance

What We Offer

• The opportunity to shape the future of a rare disease charity 
• The chance to develop a fundraising strategy from scratch

· The platform to advocate nationally and build networks

The possibility to use your skills for good

FAQs

•  “I don’t think I have enough time.”

We estimate around 4-6 hours per month, including quarterly board meetings and one strategy day per year.

• “I’ve never been a trustee before.”

We welcome all backgrounds and provide support to help you succeed.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Home-Start Suffolk is seeking an experienced and committed individual to join our Board of Trustees as Treasurer. This is a rewarding opportunity to play a vital leadership role in a well-established and growing charity that supports families across Suffolk. As Treasurer, you will work closely with the Chair, CEO, Finance Sub Committee and wider Board to ensure strong financial oversight and governance.

You’ll help guide our financial strategy, support budget-setting and risk management, and ensure that financial information is clear and accessible to the Board. We are specifically looking for someone with experience in charity finance, ideally with a background in accountancy or financial management. You will bring a solid understanding of financial governance and charity reporting requirements and be confident in offering strategic insight as well as practical advice.

This Treasurer role is part of our wider trustee recruitment, and we welcome applicants who also bring any of the following:

• Experience or knowledge of the local charity or voluntary sector
• Understanding of family support or volunteer management
• Strong networks and connections within local businesses
• Previous involvement with Home-Start Suffolk as a volunteer or someone who has received support
• A passion for making a difference in your community

About Leicestershire LGBTQ+ Centre 

Leicestershire LGBTQ+ Centre is a community organisation and registered charity that exists to champion LGBTQ+ lives. We provide a safe, inclusive space for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Our work spans direct support, connection, advocacy and celebration. 

What we do 

• Counselling: We offer professional counselling, including a specialised domestic abuse service, to help people navigate challenges and build resilience. 

• Social and support groups: We run groups for young people, adults, trans and non-binary people, and for family members and allies. These groups create stable communities, reduce isolation and offer peer support. 

• Creative and social activities: Our community choir and other creative activities provide space for expression, confidence and belonging. 

• Training and advocacy: We work with schools, health providers, councils, businesses and community organisations to improve LGBTQ+ inclusion and awareness. 

Our vision and direction 

We envision a region where LGBTQ+ people are visible, safe and thriving. Over the next five years we will deepen our presence across Leicestershire and Rutland, improve access in areas with fewer services, and secure a permanent venue that reflects our ambitions. We will continue to co-create our offer with communities, keep services accessible, and champion equity and inclusion in everything we do. 

Governance and the role of the Board 

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the charity’s strategy, governance and financial health. Trustees safeguard the charity’s assets, ensure compliance with law and regulation, and work with the Chief Executive to ensure the charity is running effectively. Trustees support, challenge and advise the Senior Leadership Team in a spirit of partnership. The Chair leads the Board and ensures it functions well. 

Trustees are also directors of the charitable company. We provide trustee indemnity insurance. 

The role of Chair 

Purpose 

The Chair leads the Board of Trustees to ensure effective governance, a positive culture and a shared focus on impact. The Chair works closely with the Chief Executive to ensure the organisation delivers its strategy and remains well run. 

Strategic focus for the next 12 to 24 months 

• Oversight of our three-year National Lottery funding programme, including delivery assurance and risk management. 

• Support for regional expansion so that services reach communities across Leicestershire and Rutland in a measured and sustainable way. 

• Governance oversight of venue acquisition and the preparatory work that will enable a successful opening and long-term viability. 

Core responsibilities 

• Provide leadership to the Board and ensure trustees discharge their duties effectively and in line with the Charity Governance Code. 

• Set Board agendas with the Chief Executive, plan and chair effective meetings, and ensure clear decisions, minutes and action tracking. 

• Maintain a strong, constructive relationship with the Chief Executive, including monthly one-to-ones and an annual appraisal led by the Chair with Board input. 

• Ensure the Board receives timely, relevant information and is able to scrutinise performance, finance, risk and impact. 

• Oversee Board composition, skills and performance, including recruitment, induction, training and periodic reviews. 

• Champion an inclusive culture where all voices are heard and respected. 

• Model the Centre’s values in every setting. 

• Represent the Centre as an ambassador with key partners and stakeholders when appropriate. 

• Approve or co-approve extraordinary funding decisions with the Treasurer where required by policy and delegations. 

• Ensure statutory accounts are signed and submitted and that key reports to funders and regulators are timely and accurate. 

• Manage conflicts of interest and uphold high standards of conduct. 

• Hold the casting vote if a Board decision is tied. 

Relationship with the Chief Executive 

The Chief Executive is accountable to the Board. The Chair undertakes regular supportive one-to-ones with the Chief Executive and leads their annual appraisal. The Chair works with the Chief Executive to set clear priorities, manage risk and unlock barriers to delivery. 

Time commitment and meeting pattern 

• Estimated at a maximum of two to three days per month. This includes preparation, meetings and ambassadorial duties. 

• Maximum of six Board meetings per year. Meetings are held in person at The Centre. 

• Monthly Chair and Chief Executive one-to-one meetings. 

• Quarterly committee and working sessions may be convened as needed for finance, risk, governance or venue planning. The Chair provides oversight across these areas. 

• An annual strategy and reflection session with trustees and senior staff. 

• Attendance at key public events, including Pride and major Centre occasions. 

Person specification 

Essential 

• Commitment to the mission, values and future direction of Leicestershire LGBTQ+ Centre. 

• Inclusive leadership with the ability to chair purposeful meetings and to build consensus. 

• Experience as a vice-chair, committee chair or equivalent governance role. 

• Good understanding of charity governance, finance and risk. 

• Sound judgement, integrity and the confidence to hold senior leaders to account while providing support. 

• Strong communication skills and the ability to represent the Centre externally. 

• Lived experience of LGBTQ+ issues or strong allyship and understanding of the challenges our communities face. 

• Knowledge of equity, inclusion and social justice and how these principles are applied in governance and organisational development. 

• Direct knowledge of or links to Leicester and Leicestershire. 

• Availability for the stated time commitment and for key Centre events. 

Desirable 

• Prior experience as a charity chair. 

• Understanding of venue development or capital projects. 

• Local residency or the ability to attend meetings in person. Non-local candidates will be considered if they can meet in-person requirements and demonstrate strong regional commitment. 

Eligibility, safeguarding and conduct 

Trustees must be at least 16 and not disqualified under charity law. The role is subject to two satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check. A short code of conduct applies to all trustees. Conflicts of interest must be declared at appointment and kept up to date. A whistleblowing route is in place. 

What we offer 

• A purposeful leadership role with visible impact for LGBTQ+ people across the region. 

• A collaborative Board and staff team with a positive culture. 

• A tailored induction. Briefings will be arranged with the Chief Executive, Centre Manager and staff leads. A handover meeting with the outgoing Chair will be provided. 

• Access to training and development relevant to the role. 

• Opportunities to represent the Centre at events, build networks and celebrate our community, including Pride. 

• Out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed in line with policy. 

• Membership of the Association of Chairs 

Equality, diversity and inclusion 

We warmly encourage applications from trans and non-binary people, people of colour, disabled people and those from other underrepresented groups. We are committed to inclusive recruitment and to removing barriers. Interviews can be adapted to meet access needs. Meeting venues are step-free. Papers can be provided in accessible formats on request. Please tell us what you need and we will do our best to provide it. 

Privacy notice 

Your application will be used for recruitment purposes only and handled in line with our data protection policy. We will retain applicant data for a limited period and then delete it securely. If you would like your data deleted sooner, please let us know.

Are you passionate about making a tangible difference in the world? Do you have proven fundraising and leadership skills that you’d like to apply to a cause with real impact? We are seeking a new trustee to join our Board and play a vital role in shaping our future.

In this recruitment round, we are specifically seeking someone to Chair our Fundraising Sub-Committee, providing leadership and guidance to help us diversify and strengthen our income. We are especially keen to hear from individuals with experience in:

• Developing and delivering fundraising strategies
• Building individual giving programmes
• Creating and sustaining corporate partnerships

As a growing international development charity with a small but committed staff team (1.2 FTE in the UK, 10+ in East Africa), we are looking for trustees who are not only strategic thinkers but also prepared to roll up their sleeves and contribute actively within the boundaries of their role.  We do have staff who are responsible for fundraising and communications so your focus would be more on guiding and shaping our approaches particularly growing our individual giving, major donor and corporate programmes.