Trustee volunteer roles

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

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

About us

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

About the role

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

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

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

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

What we are looking for

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

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

What we offer

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

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

Trustee positions with the Civil Liberties Trust

The Civil Liberties Trust is excited to be seeking new Trustees to join the board.

The Civil Liberties Trust is a registered charity with income of around £2.5m per year, that works to promote human rights and civil liberties through research, policy work, litigation, education, and advice. It is independent of Liberty but works in parallel. The Trust does not employ staff but pursues its objectives by funding charitable human rights work.

We are particularly seeking applications from individuals with the following knowledge, skills and experience:

• Experience of grant making/and or the grant making sector
• Health and Safety as it relates to landlords/freeholders
• Experience of property management and law.
• Networks of relevant stakeholders in philanthropy.
• Governance experience within the not-for-profit sector

You can find out more about the role and the duties of Trustees, including how to apply,  in our recruitment pack.

The deadline for applications is Friday 10 July 2026.

About the Role

Baobab Foundation operates through two closely connected Community Benefit Societies: the By and For Community Fund, which is the registered charitable entity, and the By and For Foundation, which is the non-charitable entity. Together, these two legal entities provide the structural flexibility needed to advance Baobab’s mission for radical racial justice.

Baobab is governed by a Board of Trustees, who are responsible for ensuring that the organisation operates in a way that advances racial justice, centres Black and Global Majority communities, and remains rooted in Baobab’s values of Unity, Justice and Freedom.

Trustees work in partnership with the PT (Project Team) and Baobab’s members. The PT Team leads the day-to-day coordination and delivery of Baobab’s operational activities, while trustees focus on governance and collective accountability. Together, trustees, PT team  and members each play distinct but complementary roles in ensuring that Baobab remains values-led, member-centred and effective in advancing its mission for radical racial justice.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Baobab strives to model a different way of working that enables people to be accepted as  their full selves. For a horizontal structure to be effective, we ask all Baobab Trustees to commit fully to the principles of Justice, Freedom and Unity and work with integrity, openness and care. We encourage  those in the space to hold themselves and co-workers accountable in an equitable way, leading and making decisions within their remit, holding themselves accountable for their work and behaviour towards others and communicating transparently and openly. Maintaining a strong decolonial and horizontal organisational structure requires Trustees to commit to collective accountability within the team. 

All those working for Baobab must adhere to the code of conduct and all policies, procedures and processes. in order for us to equitably  realise our radical and decolonial aims of resourcing  Black and Global Majority communities with integrity, cohesion and care.
 

Collective Accountability 

• Contribute strategic insight and constructive challenge to strengthen the impact, quality and effectiveness of Baobab’s systems and ways of working.

• Review the organisation’s governance and operating structure periodically to ensure it remains aligned with our principles  and continues to serve the needs of Members and the organisation.

Values Alignment

• Ensure that Disability Justice, decolonial and anti-oppressive practices are embedded across the organisation.

• Ensure open lines of communication are in place to support the interdependence of the organisation’s working collective and strategic working practices.

• Offer support and reflections that are caringly rooted in Babab’s principles of Unity, Justice and Freedom.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We are seeking an individual who shares Baobab Foundation’s commitment to racial justice, collective liberation and shifting power to Black and Global Majority communities.

We are looking for someone who can offer strategic insight, constructive challenge and collaborative support, and who is committed to stewarding Baobab’s resources in service of long-term racial justice and collective freedom.

Required

• Strong governance experience, including legal, financial and regulatory oversight.

• Relevant professional and/or lived experience rooted in Black and Global Majority communities.

• Strategic thinking and sound judgment.

• Understanding of anti-oppressive, decolonial approaches.

• Commitment to Baobab’s values of Unity, Justice and Freedom.

Desirable

Experience in one or more of the following areas would be valuable:

• Grantmaking and philanthropy

• Fundraising and donor engagement

• Financial stewardship, treasury or endowment management

• Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL)

• Governance and constitutional matters

• Organisational strategy and development

Time Commitment 

We recognise that trustees contribute their time, expertise and networks alongside other commitments. We anticipate an average commitment of approximately 10 hours per month, with some flexibility depending on current priorities and areas of involvement.

This is expected to include:

• Attendance at  Board meetings;

• Preparation and review of Board papers and other key documents;

• Participation in occasional working groups; and

• Ad hoc strategic support where relevant.

WHAT WE OFFER

• The opportunity to help shape a bold, justice-rooted funding organisation that is transforming philanthropy in the UK working in a values-led, justice-rooted team committed to doing things differently.

• Space for collective learning, reflection and radical imagination.

• The opportunity to contribute your skills, experience and networks in service of Black and Global Majority communities organising for racial justice.

• A flexible, remote, working culture 

• Non-hierarchical collaboration, radical imagination, and collective learning.

• Paid, relevant governance and trustee training to support your ongoing development in the role and beyond.

Remuneration

In line with its status as a charitable BenCom, By and For Community Fund trustees serve in a voluntary, unpaid capacity. Reasonable expenses incurred in fulfilling the role will be reimbursed in line with Baobab’s expenses policy, and accessibility support and reasonable adjustments will be provided to enable full participation.

The Rio Cinema is looking to appoint up to four trustees, including a Treasurer, to complement its existing board.

The Rio Cinema is one of London’s most iconic independent cultural landmarks and the UK’s oldest cinema, operating continuously on the same site since 1909. As we mark our 50th anniversary of being named the Rio and operating as an independent charity (charity no. 277415) run by and for the community, we are looking to appoint up to four new trustees, including a Treasurer, to our board to help steward our legacy and ensure the future sustainability of the Rio for the next 50 years. 
We are looking to strengthen our board with individuals who can bring their professional skills, strategic mindset, creative problem-solving and diverse networks to help us thrive in an ever-changing cultural and economic landscape.

We are particularly interested in recruiting trustees with the following backgrounds:

• Finance & Accounting: We are specifically seeking a Treasurer who is a finance professional (ideally a qualified accountant or CFO) to provide high-level oversight of our financial health, statutory reporting, and long-term resilience (see here for a more detailed role description).
  
  
  
• Property & Capital Projects: We’re looking to undertake a number of capital projects on our Grade II-listed building over the next several years and we are seeking a trustee with experience in property development or managing large-scale renovation/restoration projects. Experience with heritage/listed buildings is a plus, but not a requirement.
  
  
  
• Fundraising: We are seeking a trustee with a proven track record in securing philanthropic income, corporate partnerships, and public grants within the cultural sector. Experience navigating major funding bodies (such as the BFI, Arts Council England or the National Lottery Heritage Fund), cultivating individual donors, trusts and foundations, or leading capital campaign strategies is very desirable.
  
  
  
• Legal: We are looking for a trustee with a legal background to act as a sounding board for the board and management. You do not need to be a practising expert in charity law, but your general legal knowledge and analytical mindset will help us evaluate risk, sense-check decisions, and ensure good corporate governance across our operations and upcoming projects (see here for a more detailed role description). 

• Term: 3 years (renewable once)

  We want our board to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve. We warmly welcome applicants from people of all backgrounds, and encourage applications from individuals who bring lived experiences and perspectives that reflect the vibrant, multi-cultural, and intersectional nature of our communities. We encourage applicants from Black & global majority backgrounds, and applications from younger people who can bring a generationally different lens to our Board.

  As a community-led organisation, we’re particularly interested in applications from Rio Cinema members and those with strong connections to the borough of Hackney. 

  We recognise that lived experience is as valuable as professional expertise and we are committed to removing barriers to participation. Previous board experience is not required; a comprehensive induction pack, mentorship from existing trustees, and ongoing governance learning will be provided. Whether you are an experienced trustee or want to take your first step at board level, we would love to hear from you.

  There will be an online info session held at 12:00 on 19 June for those who want to learn more about the roles and ask any questions.  Link in attachment.
  
  

Trustee Recruitment – Join Our Board and Help Shape Our Future

We are seeking new Trustees to join our Board and bring fresh expertise, insight, and strategic leadership as we continue to grow our impact. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute your professional skills to a mission‑driven organisation that makes a real difference in our community.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences, and we are particularly keen to strengthen our Board with expertise in the following areas:

Legal

Experience in charity, commercial, employment, safeguarding, or property law.

HR

Experience in HR leadership, people management, organisational development, employee relations, or workforce strategy

Marketing & Communications

Skills in digital comms, PR, brand development, or audience engagement.

Fundraising / Philanthropy

Knowledge of income generation, donor stewardship, corporate partnerships, or grant‑making.

Commercial Tourism

Experience in visitor attractions, hospitality, destination marketing, or customer experience.

Adult Social Care

Understanding of care provision, safeguarding, regulation, or community support services.

Property / Surveying

Expertise in estates, facilities, compliance, capital planning, or asset management.

You do not need previous trustee experience - we value your professional insight, strategic thinking, and commitment to our mission.

About the charity: 

COT has been at the forefront of learning disability support for over 40 years. Our innovative approach blends high-quality care, supported living, and life skills development with a thriving 100-acre farm that doubles as a popular family visitor attraction. This rare combination enables people with learning disabilities and autism to develop skills in areas such as animal care, horticulture, customer service, and the culinary arts, while fostering a strong sense of community and inclusion.

With a mission to empower individuality and achieve happiness, we support over 96 people in community settings, offering residential and supported living services, as well as an additional 70 external students in life skills. We are known for our holistic, person-centred approach and commitment to environmental stewardship and ethical farming. Our close-knit team of dedicated staff and volunteers is guided by values of courage, opportunity-seeking, collaboration, and doing the right thing.

About the Role

As a Trustee, you will play a key role in shaping our strategy, ensuring strong governance, and supporting the organisation's long‑term sustainability. You will work collaboratively with fellow Board members and the senior team to guide our direction and champion our values.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing strategic oversight and constructive challenge
• Bringing your professional expertise to Board discussions
• Ensuring good governance, financial sustainability, and risk management
• Acting as an ambassador for the organisation
• Supporting the senior team with insight, advice, and networks

 Time Commitment

• 4–6 Board meetings per year (in person)
• 4-6 Committee meetings (online)
• Occasional support between meetings, depending on your expertise
• A typical commitment is around 10–15 hours per month, flexible around your availability

What You’ll Gain

• A meaningful leadership role in a purpose‑driven organisation
• The opportunity to use your skills for social good
• Experience in governance and strategic decision‑making
• A supportive, collaborative Board environment
• The satisfaction of helping shape our long‑term impact

 We Welcome Diverse Perspectives

We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the community we serve. We particularly encourage applications from people who bring lived experience, come from underrepresented backgrounds, or have non‑traditional career paths.

Our workplace is built on acceptance, respect and inclusion where everyone feels they belong and can make meaningful contributions. We encourage applicants regardless of religion, ethnicity, nationality, disability status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, family or parental status. If you need any assistance during the recruitment process, please let us know.

Over the past two years, RDA has gone from strength to strength under the fantastic leadership of CEO Michael Bishop and Chair Helena Vega Lozano. We are now looking for 2 new trustees who will have a brilliant opportunity to help shape the long-term future of a truly impactful organisation.

Riding for the Disabled Association is the only major UK charity specifically dedicated to the therapeutic and life-changing benefits of bringing people and horses together. Each year, we enrich the lives of over 39,000 disabled children and adults through riding, carriage driving and a growing range of equine-assisted programmes.

If you’re passionate about inclusion, social impact and good governance – and want to use your skills at Board level – please take a look at the details and consider applying.

THE PERSON - ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

Job Title: Trustee (x2 roles)

Location: Lowlands Equestrian Centre, Old Warwick Road, Shrewley, Warwickshire CV35 7AX

Salary:  Trustee positions at RDA are voluntary. Agree expenses are reimbursed, 

Term of Office: 3 year term, renewable for up to three terms. 

Trustee - Finance 

The role is aimed at a qualified accountant with experience in charity accounting and finance, who brings financial acumen and strategic insight to long term financial planning. Working with our Treasurer and the wider Board, you will bring understanding of charity finance and help ensure RDA's financial resilience and sustainability as the Charity continues to evolve and grow. 

Trustee

This role will represent the grassroots of RDA. We are looking for someone who is experienced in running an RDA Group at committee or board level over a sustained period with a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing local groups and the regional networks. You will bring invaluable operational insight and help ensure the experiences and needs of member groups continue to inform strategic decision making at a national level. You will help the Board remain closely connected to the needs of the member groups while supporting the development of sustainable and effective national initiatives. 

Candidates should:

• Demonstrate a strong commitment to RDA, its mission and values
• Bring sound judgement, strategic insight, and the ability to contribute effectively to Board discussions and decision making.
• Demonstrate strong relationship building and ambassadorial skills
• Be able to listen, engage constructively and work collaboratively as part of a team
• Understand, or be willing to develop an understanding of, charity governance and the legal responsibilities of Trustees
• Be willing to devote the necessary time and effort to fulfil the role effectively

Skills and Experience

We are specifically seeking candidates with experience in one of the following areas:

• Finance, strategic financial planning and charity finance, or
• Significant experience within an RDA Group at committee or board level and the wider federation

In addition candidates may also bring expertise in areas such as:

• Disability and inclusion
• Governance, organisational development or strategic transformation

Time Commitment

• Four Board meetings a year
• Trustees will also serve on at least one Board Committee
• Trustees are expected to attend key RDA events and visit member groups to remain connected to the organisation's work and impact
• The role is expected to require approximately two days per month 

We believe diversity of views, background and lived experience strengthens our Board and our organisation

We actively encourage applications from disabled people, people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities, LGBTQIA+ communities, younger candidates, and those from less advantaged socio-economic backgrounds.

We are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued, respected and able to contribute. 

RDA is a Disability Confident Employer

We are looking for someone who shares our mission and our values. We’re here to help young people succeed and help overcome disadvantage, if that drives you and if you believe you have skills and experience that will make a difference then please consider an application.

The ideal candidate will have direct experience with brand and performance marketing, particularly in channels we use extensively at Brightside including email, social, brochure / leaflet (e.g. impact reports, funder info collateral) etc. We are particularly interested to hear from candidates with experience in youth marketing, social mobility and securing funding for charitable organisations. Having said that, if you do not have all this direct experience do not hesitate to apply if you have strong marketing and comms skills and a strong passion for our mission.

Could your leadership skills help shape the future of a Hopian?  Hopian is a registered charity that provides advice and support for adults and children who have experienced Domestic Violence and Abuse through the provision of refuge accommodation and community support services.  We also provide support and access to counselling for people affected by Child Sexual Exploitation.

The Role of Trustee and executive Trustee roles are voluntary positions. A Trustee for the Board is expected to meet the requirements of the board in line with the charities governing documents, governing good practice and legal requirements.  We also have a vacancy for a Treasurer should you be interested please visit our Hopian website - recruiter link below for further details.

Trustee Responsibilities :

The Board as a whole is collectively responsible for the success of the charity. A Trustee is a Board Member and has a number of responsibilities in order to ensure robust management of the charity including:

• Make decisions objectively in the interests of the charity.
• Implement Hopian’s Vision, Mission, and Values.
• Lead on the aims and objectives of Hopian by raising awareness of domestic and sexual abuse, and child sexual exploitation and abuse and its impact on individuals and their families.

Trustee Duties :

• 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. constitution or memorandum and articles of association), charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources in pursuance of its charitable objects (i.e., the charity must not spend money on activities that are not included in its own objects) .
• 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 of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place.
• 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.
• To work in the interests of the charity and not for personal gain.
• To ensure that the Board Members takes proper professional advice on matters in which it does not have competence.
• 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, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Tasks:

• To work with other Board Members to form an effective governing body for the charity.
• To attend meetings and to read papers in advance of meetings.
• Ensure that the charity’s focus places services users centrally.
• To understand and be committed to the mission of the charity.
• To maintain a long-term overview of the charity and its work.
• To make strategic and major decisions about the charity objectives, policies and procedures.
• To attend sub-group meetings as appropriate.
• To participate in other tasks that may arise from time to time such as interviewing for new staff, helping with appeals and fundraising.
• To keep informed about the activities of the charity and wider issues which affect its work.
• To monitor and evaluate the work of the charity on a regular basis. This includes receiving reports from staff, staff supervision, receiving feedback from service users and other agencies .
• To ensure that the charity is a good employer of its paid and voluntary staff .
• Provide opportunity for staff to meet with the board.

Person Specification

We are looking for a  Trustee who has an understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship. It is expected that a Trustee takes ownership to develop and maintain this understanding and application of duties. In addition to having:

• A commitment to the organisation.
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
• Good, independent judgement.
• An ability to think creatively.
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
• A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership

Experience & Knowledge

• Understanding and evidence of commitment to equal opportunities and diversity statement 
• Be objective and unbiased 
• Be supportive and approachable 

Time Requirements

To be able to attend scheduled committee meetings each year and read papers for each board meeting. To be available to for consultation, support and guidance on an ad hoc basis. Much of this contact will be via online, telephone or email.

TRUSTEE VACANCY | COVENTRY CITIZENS ADVICE
Volunteer | Board Role | Coventry | ~5–7 hours/month | Reviewed regularly

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Coventry Citizens Advice is recruiting new trustees to join its Board of Directors.

We are one of the largest local Citizens Advice charities in England, helping more than 14,000 people each year with issues including debt, housing, welfare benefits and fuel poverty. For over 80 years we have been a trusted source of free, independent advice for the people of Coventry — and demand for our services has never been higher.

This is a genuine governance role. You will help set our strategic direction, oversee our finances, ensure we meet our legal duties as a charity, and hold the organisation accountable to the communities it serves. We want trustees who engage with the detail and bring their professional judgement to decisions that matter.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

No previous trustee or board experience is required — just sound independent judgement, strong communication skills, and a commitment to public service.

We are particularly keen to hear from candidates with experience in:
→ Law
→ Fundraising
→ Research and Campaigns

These areas are of direct strategic importance to our work, and applicants with this background will be especially welcomed.

THE ROLE

- Time commitment: approximately 5–7 hours per month (meetings held in the evenings)
- Voluntary and unpaid; reasonable expenses reimbursed
- Full induction and ongoing training provided

WHAT YOU WILL GAIN

- Real experience of charity governance and strategic leadership
- Development of financial, legal and governance skills
- A meaningful leadership credential for your CV
- The opportunity to make a direct difference to thousands of lives in Coventry

WHO WE WANT TO HEAR FROM

We are committed to a board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We actively welcome applications from disabled people, people with physical or mental health conditions, LGBT+ and non-binary people, and people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities. All backgrounds and employment histories are welcome.

HOW TO APPLY

Download the application form and read our Trustee Recruitment Pack.

Please do not send a CV without an application form — it will not receive a response.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Closing date: 30 July 2026.

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Coventry Citizens Advice | 1–7 Station Street East, Foleshill, Coventry CV6 5FL
Registered charity. Trustee positions are voluntary and unpaid.

Being a trustee at IVAR is about more than governance oversight. We want a board of different voices and perspectives that will challenge our thinking and push us to be bolder

With the support of the staff team and professional associates, trustees at IVAR are expected to:

- Set and maintain the strategy and values.
- Ensure IVAR complies at all times with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
- Maintain proper financial control and ensure IVAR applies its resources exclusively in pursuit of its charitable objects, as defined in the governing documents.
- Support the operational management of the charity.

In addition to these, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board reach sound decisions. Trustees are also actively encouraged to become involved in specific projects outside of board meetings, drawing on their own networks and experience to help support staff in their work.

Dancers’ Career Development (DCD), the national charity that enables and empowers dancers to thrive professionally and personally leading up to and beyond their performance careers, seek two new Trustees to join our welcoming and experienced Board.

We are looking for people with lived professional dance experience or senior management experience in the performing arts, with a broad knowledge of the dance sector.

Trustees work closely with the Chair, fellow Trustees and the Executive Director to set and deliver DCD’s strategic priorities and realise the organisation’s charitable objectives. 

No former Governance experience is required. The role of a Trustee is voluntary (unpaid). The time commitment is approximately two days a year.

If you are excited by this opportunity, resonate with DCD’s values and are passionate about making a positive difference to dancers’ lives, please get in touch; we would love to hear from you. 

Please download the Recruitment Pack from our website for further information on becoming a DCD Trustee, and how to apply, please go to our website.

Applications must be submitted by 9am, Tuesday 23 June 

Interested in supporting victims/survivors of domestic abuse?

We are currently recruiting Trustees to help us take the charity forward into the future.

Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline is a registered charity led by a Board of Trustees.

The Trustees (all unpaid volunteers) act individually and collectively, to provide overall stewardship of the charity, in accordance with our governing document and relevant legislation. In essence we look after the staff, volunteers and the organisation, so they can support the community.

You don’t need specific qualifications or experience to be a trustee and we welcome people of all ages, backgrounds and experience.

Prospective candidates will need to:

• Have empathy with the work of the Helpline

• Be able to devote the necessary time and effort

• Have well-developed communication and interpersonal skills

• Have good judgement

• Be able to work as a team

• Have the ability, commitment and drive to take the organisation forward

Trustee Opportunities

For any charity succession planning is important and with that in mind we are currently looking for people to join our Board as Trustees.

1. Chair: Our Chair will be stepping down soon after 15 years and we are looking for someone to learn the ropes beside her before taking on the role. 

2. Treasurer: After 10 years, our Treasurer is looking to retire in the next year. The Treasurer’s role description is on our website.  

3. General Trustees: Please see the role description on our website

If you would like to apply please complete the application form on our website.  You are welcome also to email Chris Roach, Chair, at that address to arrange an informal chat.

Heartwood House is a unique organisation, working to support and empower young people to engage with education and achieve their potential, free from mainstream system constraints. We are a small, values-driven community, and our trustees play a vital role in guiding our mission and ensuring the long-term sustainability of what we do.

At Heartwood House, we deliver full-time education for students experiencing emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA). Our, methodology places wellbeing at the core of students' education, focusing on mental health, personal growth, and positive social interactions alongside academic instruction.

Students have an inherent right to respectful and caring treatment, independent of behaviour or academic performance. As a trustee, you will help uphold and champion our policy of unconditional positive regard, the principle that everyone (staff or student) should always be treated with respect and dignity, no matter the situation.

Education takes place in small groups, with lessons tailored to each student's individual needs and interests. As a trustee, you will gain insight into a genuinely distinctive educational model, and your governance will directly support the staff who build meaningful relationships with every young person in our care.

All staff are invested in and actively participate in student wellbeing, integrating mental health support and personal growth throughout the day, not just in designated sessions. Trustees share responsibility for ensuring this holistic approach is protected and resourced appropriately.

We offer academic instruction from Entry Level to GCSE in subjects aligned with students' interests and future plans. Almost all students study English, Maths, Science, and Art at a minimum, with most pursuing additional subjects at the centre or online. As a trustee, you will help ensure the organisation remains financially and strategically positioned to continue delivering this flexible, student-centred curriculum.

Trustee

We're looking for a Trustee to be part of a school trust helping to shape strategy, strengthen governance and support positive outcomes for children and young people.

Position: Trustee

Salary: This is a voluntary role however expenses can be paid in line with the allowances policy

Location: Derby - Meetings are in person, but with an online option.  Being local to Derby, or at least having an understanding of the community is important.

Closing date: 29th June

Time commitment: Around 8 meetings a year, mostly in the evening. Plus visit schools during the school day about twice a year.

About the role:

As a Trustee, you will be responsible for governing a charitable company and directing how it is managed and run. Trustees must also ensure that the trust complies with all legal and statutory requirements. Trustees should seek the advice of the board’s governance professional and other professional advice as appropriate.

The trust board works closely with the CEO and other executives. The CEO and colleagues are responsible for the day-to-day operational management of the trust and its schools, whereas the role of the board is strategic.

Key responsibilities will include:

· Determining the trust's mission, values, and long-term ambitious vision.

· Deciding the principles that guide trust policies and approving key policies.

· Appointing and appraising the senior executive leader and making pay recommendations.

· working with senior leaders to develop a strategy for achieving the vision.

· Ensuring that stakeholders are involved, consulted, and informed as appropriate.

· Ensuring that all schools in the trust deliver a broad and balanced curriculum such that pupils are well prepared for the next stage of their education and adult life.

· Taking ownership of the trust’s financial sustainability and ensuring effective resource management across the trust.

About you

We are looking for individuals who are passionate about making a difference and can contribute strategic thinking, professional expertise and sound judgement.

You may bring experience from areas such as:

• Leadership or senior management
• Finance, audit or accountancy
• Human resources and people management
• Legal, governance or compliance
• Education, public services or the charity sector
• Business development, operations or organisational strategy

You will also have:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• The ability to analyse information and ask constructive questions
• A commitment to good governance and accountability
• The ability to work collaboratively with a diverse board and leadership team
• A willingness to dedicate time to meetings, preparation and ongoing learning

Previous trustee, governor or non-executive experience is welcome but not essential.

Contributions to the trust board

Trustees should ensure that they are making a positive and meaningful contribution to the board by:

· Attending meetings (typically around 10 meetings each year), reading papers and preparing questions for the senior executive leader in advance.

· Establishing and maintaining professional relationships with senior executive leaders and colleagues on the board of trustees.

· Getting to know schools within the trust, including visiting occasionally during school hours.

· Undertaking induction training and developing knowledge and skills on an ongoing basis.

About the organisation

The organisation is committed to delivering high-quality education and ensuring every learner has the opportunity to succeed. Through strong leadership, effective governance and a clear strategic vision, it aims to create positive outcomes for pupils, staff and communities.

Trustees play a vital role in supporting this mission and helping the organisation achieve its long-term ambitions.

Areas of expertise you may have experience with could include: Finance, education, legal, estates management, compliance, charity work, health.