Trustee volunteer roles

Who We Are
Somerset Wildlife Trust is one of 46 Wildlife Trusts working across the UK. We are a science-led movement focused on restoring habitats to support a wide range of wildlife and to restore natural processes that are essential for healthy landscapes. This also provides vital services such as clean air and water, food production, carbon absorption, and flood alleviation.

We have had some fantastic successes over our 60 years, such as working in partnership on the Levels and Moors to return the iconic Bittern, securing the purchase of Honeygar Farm to restore degraded peatlands, working with Devon Wildlife Trust on the reintroduction of pine martens, and developing climate adaptation plans with communities already affected by climate change.

However, we know we need to do more. The scale and urgency of the nature and climate crisis has never felt more pressing than it does right now.

The Role
We are looking for new Trustees to join us in our mission to create a wilder Somerset by 2030.

We understand that to deliver real-world change, we need to think and act differently. We want to recruit people with a range of different backgrounds and experiences, and with a variety of areas of interest, who can bring new energy and expertise to achieve more for nature in Somerset.

We are seeking individuals who share our passion for nature and our ambition to see it recover across Somerset and beyond. We are looking for people who believe we can address nature loss and climate change by supporting and inspiring others to take action.

We welcome applications from all applicants who can dedicate the time needed and demonstrate their commitment to our goals and values. We are looking for people with:

• A passion for nature 
• A shared commitment to Somerset Wildlife Trust’s goals and values 
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to be a Trustee 
• The ability to think and operate at a strategic level 
• Good independent judgement and problem-solving skills 
• An ability to think creatively 
• An ability to speak honestly and act as the minority voice when needed 
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship 
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team 

Location: Much Hadham, Hertfordshire
Commitment: Approx. 8 - 10 meetings per year preparation
Type: Voluntary position (reasonable travel expenses reimbursed)
 
Make a lasting difference as a Trustee at St Elizabeth’s
Are you passionate about making a meaningful impact? Do you have strong financial expertise and a desire to use your skills to support a charity with a 120-year legacy of transforming lives?
 
St Elizabeth’s is looking for a committed and values-driven Trustee (Finance) to join our Board and play a vital role in shaping our future. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the strategic leadership of a specialist organisation supporting children, young people and adults with epilepsy and a wide range of complex needs.
 
Set within 60 acres of beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, St Elizabeth’s includes a non-maintained Special Education School, seven registered Children’s Homes, a Sixth Form, a specialist Further Education College, Supported Living services, adult learning and Day Opportunities, and 24-hour health provision delivered by expert nurses and therapists.
 
As we continue to grow and evolve, your insight and expertise will help us ensure our services remain safe, sustainable, and outstanding.
 
What will you be doing?
As a Trustee, you will:

• Provide strategic oversight and help drive our long-term vision.
• Use your financial skills to support our Finance, Audit & Risk Committee, and Investment Committee
• Offer constructive challenge and strong governance.
• Help monitor performance, risk, investment decisions, and financial sustainability.
• Champion our values of Joyful, Aspirational, Compassionate and Collaborative
• Act as an ambassador for our mission and Catholic ethos.

 
This is a rewarding role where you will work alongside talented Trustees and leaders who are deeply committed to improving outcomes for the people we support.
 
What we’re looking for
We welcome applications from individuals who can bring:

• Senior-level experience in finance, accounting, audit, banking, or investment
• Strong strategic thinking, independence of mind and sound judgement
• A commitment to good governance and ethical leadership
• The ability to collaborate, support, question, and influence at Board level.
• A willingness to embrace and support our Catholic ethos.
• Time and dedication to prepare for and attend meetings.

 
Professional finance qualifications (e.g., accountant or auditor) are highly desirable, particularly for the Finance, Audit & Risk Committee.
 
Your commitment

• Around 5 Board meetings per year (4 half-day, 1 full day)
• Membership of at least one Board committee (4–6 meetings annually)
• Occasional monitoring visits to site
• Preparation time for reading papers and training.
• Meetings are normally held in Much Hadham, with remote attendance available where necessary.

 
This is a voluntary role, and we reimburse reasonable travel expenses.
 
Why join us?
By becoming a Trustee at St Elizabeth’s, you’ll be part of an organisation with deep roots, strong values, and an unwavering commitment to enabling people with complex needs to thrive. Your contribution will directly support the sustainability, quality, and impact of our services — and help shape the next chapter of a remarkable charity.
 
Interested in joining us?
We would love to hear from you. Apply now!
 
#INDVOL
 
REF-228 849

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

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.

Volunteer and join our Board of Trustees and help strengthen support, awareness and long-term sustainability for people affected by Chronic Granulomatous Disorder (CGD) and their families. Please note this oppurunity to volunteer as a trustee is open to UK residents only. 

A range of backgrounds

It is great if you have skills or experience which you think would beuseful to support our board, but this is by no means a requirement.We’re looking for people who are enthusiastic about us doing good work for the community and committed to helping us see this mission through.

We provide a full induction and training to everyone who joins as a trustee, and we also encourage interested parties to attend a boardmeeting before joining so you can see how we work.

Commitment from you

Being a trustee is an official duty as they have joint legal control of the charity and are ultimately responsibly for making sure it’s doing what it was set up to do. The CGD Society is also a registered company in England & Wales, so our trustees are also directors for the purposes of company law.We expect the following of all of our trustees, committing around one hour of time per week:

1.To attend our board meetings, which occur via video conference every two months. 2.To keep in touch via email, through an official email address that we will provide for you, at a minimum of once per week.

Our board meetings occur 6 times a year, usually on a weekday evening, and we provide an agenda with reading material two weeks in advance. We ask all participants to read this material and come prepared with comments and questions. Every input is welcomed, debates are encouraged, and all views matter.

We try to host one meeting per year - our Annual General Meetingor AGM - in-person at a central location, to provide an opportunity for our team to meet face-to-face. We cover all travel expenses for trustees to attend these in-person if they are able to.

We also encourage our trustees to engage with one of our subcommittees, which are smaller groups overseeing specific areas of our work, such as our nursing service or financial governance.This is optional, as we recognise that not all of our trustees can spare the time to participate.

To express your interest please send an email to hello@cgdsociety with the subject line 'Trustee rescruitment' explaining why you are interested in becoming a trustee for CGD Society. Including a CV is useful but not required.

Change Agents UK is an established sustainability education and future skills charity. We use education and recruitment to empower people and organisations with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to create a better, more sustainable future for everyone. Helping people from all walks of life to become “change agents”.

We are seeking new trustees and directors of our charity and non-profit trading subsidiary boards. Trustees and directors play vital roles in making sure that Change Agents UK is well-governed and achieves sustained growth of impact and progress towards our goals. This is a fantastic opportunity to put your professional skills to use supporting a dynamic and ambitious charity.

What we are looking for

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, who can actively support our growth and who will broaden the diversity of thinking and skills on our Board.

Personal skills and qualities:

• A strong personal commitment to the principles of sustainability
• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities as a trustee or director and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, to exercise sound, independent judgment and to work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
• Charity trustees must be at least 18 years of age and must not be disqualified from serving as a trustee

We are particularly keen to hear from applicants who have experience in the following: working with or in schools, colleges or multi-academy trusts or in training/skills provision; fundraising, bid-writing or corporate partnerships or recruitment and general HR.

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive board, welcoming and valuing people from all backgrounds and a broad range of perspectives and experiences. You do not need previous board experience to apply and will be provided with induction and support in the role.

Duties of trustees & directors

• Support and direct Change Agents UK’s vision, goals, strategy and activities.
• Actively promote and champion the work of the Change Agents UK, amplifying messages, campaigns and supporting our growth
• Approve (as part of the Board and with input from the Executive Team) financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Review and approve Change Agents UK’s financial statements (with the advice of an Independent Examiner/Auditor).
• Provide support and challenge to the CEO/Executive Team
• Keep abreast of changes in Change Agents UK’s operating environment and charity regulation
• Contribute to regular reviews of Change Agents UK’s own governance and policies.
• Attend Board meetings adequately prepared to contribute to discussions and participate in decision-making.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Change Agents UK’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.
• Contribute to the broader success of Change Agents UK’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts. There will be times when the Trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve reading and commenting on board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.
• Utilise your own network to promote the work and activities of Change Agents UK.

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.

South East London (SEL) Mind is a highly regarded, innovative local charity working alongside people with mental health problems and dementia in their local communities to improve their quality of life. With an annual turnover of £8m, 250 staff and over 200 volunteers, we are one of the largest charities in the Mind network. SEL Mind was formed through the merger of Bromley, Lewisham & Greenwich Mind and Lambeth & Southwark Mind in January 2024.

We are seeking to add to the expertise of our experienced, professional Board of Trustees. All our Trustees need excellent communication skills, the ability to work effectively as part of a team, strategic vision and good, independent judgement. 

In this recruitment, whilst we will consider all strong candidates, we are particularly seeking people with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• HR
• Finance
• Digital: IT and Data
• Lived experience as a dementia carer

Inclusion is one of our core values and we see great benefits in having a diverse Board. 

Successful applicants will be expected to undergo an Enhanced Level Disclosure and Barring Service check.

Closing date: Sunday 21st June (11:59pm)

Likely interview date: Monday 6th July

We encourage early applications as we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high number of applications.

About Us

SEL Mind supports people with mental health problems and dementia in the boroughs of Bromley, Greenwich, Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark. We are proud of our diverse workforce and know that our organisation is made stronger by the variety of backgrounds, experience, and ideas within it. We promote a culture of inclusion and representation, and are working hard to build a workforce that even better reflects the communities we support.

SEL Mind is somewhere that you can be your authentic self without fear of discrimination on the grounds of ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, neurodivergence, gender, age, lived experience of mental health problems or anything else that’s part of who you are.

We keep local history alive by managing a community centre that houses an internationally important quilt collection. Through exhibitions, workshops, talks and outreach, we promote patchwork, quilting and care for our collection of antique and heritage quilts.

Each year we welcome thousands of visitors through our doors, to explore and learn about our collection and be inspired! Our Trustees steer and guide The Quilt Asssociation, keeping us growing and sustainable. Working collectively as a Board, Trustees ensure the organisation fulfils its charitable aims, complies with legal and regulatory requirements, and continues to develop as a nationally significant centre for quilting and textile heritage and arts.

Position: Trustee

Responsible to: Chair of Trustees

Location: We are based in Llanidloes, Mid Wales, but you don't have to be. We are open to remote and hybrid volunteering, however we do ask that you be within a reasonable distance to attend our key dates and exhibitions.

Hours: Approx 6 hours per month to include the Trustee Board meeting, any preparation work and subgroups.

Expenses: This role is voluntary, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed in accordance with our Expenses policy.

Key responsibilities

As a trustee, you will contribute to the overall development and oversight of organisational strategy. You will be responsible for ensuring the organisation operates in line with its charitable objectives and governing documents, including risk management and compliance with relevant regulations. You'll safeguard the long-term sustainability of the organisation, including financial stability and act as an ambassador for the organisation. As a trustee, you'll also have the opportunity to be involved in the care, conservation, and accessibility of the quilt collection.

We are looking to build on the skills of our current board and are seeking trustees who can take a lead role in one of the following areas:

• Human Resources - Advising on people management, policies, volunteer engagement, and organisational culture

• IT / Digital - Supporting digital infrastructure, data management, systems, and opportunities for digital engagement

• Textile Conservation - Providing expertise in the care, preservation, and documentation of heritage textiles

• Marketing and Communications - Supporting audience development, promotion of exhibitions and events, and strengthening the organisation’s profile

• Property / Facilities Management - Advising on the maintenance, development, and effective use of Minerva Arts Centre

• Arts, Culture and Heritage Sector Experience - Bringing insight, networks and strategic understanding of the wider cultural landscape

We are looking for people with a willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. 

• Ability to think strategically and make sound judgements

• Have good communication and interpersonal skills

• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a board

• IHave integrity and a clear understanding of (or willingness to learn) trustee responsibilities

Charity Trustee Opportunity – Protecting Animals, Changing Lives

Are you passionate about animal welfare and looking for a meaningful way to make an impact?

The Jean Sainsbury Animal Welfare Trust (JSAWT) is seeking new Trustees to join its dedicated and collaborative Board.

What we do:

JSAWT supports UK-registered charities that rescue, rehabilitate, release, and rehome animals by providing vital grant funding.

We focus on smaller organisations—where our support can make a real difference—helping transform the lives of animals and the people who care for them. From volunteer-led hedgehog rescues to international wildlife conservation initiatives, our work spans a diverse and inspiring range of causes.

Applications are reviewed three times a year by the Board of Trustees. Awards are given on a case-by-case basis to charities that meet our criteria and clearly demonstrate how the funding will benefit animals in their care.

Why join us?

By joining us, you will be able to:

• Gain valuable governance and leadership experience.
• Play a vital role in shaping the future of a leading animal welfare grant provider.
• Join a collaborative and supportive Board of Trustees with diverse expertise.
• Learn about a wide range of animal welfare initiatives in the UK and internationally.

What you will do:

• Contribute to the Board’s strategic oversight of the Jean Sainsbury Animal Welfare Trust, informing the charity’s governance and financial sustainability.
• Share your expertise to help JSAWT strengthen its resilience and ensure sustainability.
• Act as an ambassador for JSAWT. You may be invited to represent JSAWT at events hosted by charities we support. Trustees are also encouraged to visit applicants and previous grant recipients, helping to strengthen relationships and ensure our awards are used as intended.
• You will work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and Administrators to ensure JSAWT achieves its mission and long-term objectives.

What we are looking for:

You will be able to demonstrate a commitment to JSAWT’s values and a passion for improving the lives of animals and the people who care for them.

We welcome applications from individuals with knowledge and experience in any of the following areas:

• IT and cybersecurity, especially for a small non-profit organisation.
• Legal aspects of charity management and compliance.
• Communications and marketing, ideally for a small non-profit organisation.

Previous Trustee experience is not essential – we welcome applications from people new to charity governance. Full induction and support will be provided.

Potential Trustees must be able to commit to reviewing documents and applications in advance of meetings and be able to communicate their decisions.

The Board is friendly and inclusive and welcomes discussion and expression of opinions in a respectful and supportive environment.

Terms:

• Three Board meetings are held in March, July/August, and November. The meetings are held at the London office. They are usually in the afternoon and can last 4-5 hours.
• Attendance in person is encouraged; however, Trustees may attend virtually if this is preferable.
• The office has step free access and is all on one level.
• There may be occasional sub-committee meetings or events (virtual or in person).
• Reasonable expenses incurred by attending meetings (or other agreed work) may be reimbursed: for example, travel, subsistence, and childcare.
• The initial term is three years, with the option of renewal for a further three years.

JSAWT is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every individual is treated with dignity and respect.

Appropriate checks will be carried out on shortlisted candidates.

Further details are available on our website or can be obtained by contacting the Administrators.

The role of the board is to govern Breaking Barriers effectively, in service of our vision and mission, and as required by our constitution. Trustees provide support and challenge to the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team (SLT), and are ambassadors for the charity.

 Essential Duties of the Trustee Role

· Ensure Breaking Barriers is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit

· Comply with Breaking Barriers' governing document and other laws that apply

· Act in Breaking Barriers' best interests: prioritise Breaking Barriers' objectives, avoid conflicts of interest, and follow procedures to manage any conflicts. 

· Ensure Breaking Barriers is accountable: meeting legal, accounting and reporting requirements

· Manage Breaking Barriers' resources responsibly: managing risks, protecting assets and people, getting the resources we need, having appropriate controls and procedures

· Act with reasonable care and skill using your skills and experience, deciding when you need professional advice, ensure Breaking Barriers remains solvent. 

Other Responsibilities

· Understanding the vision, mission, goals and values of Breaking Barriers together with a good grasp of the operational context and the expectations of partners. 

· Strategic leadership and vision: help to guide the organisation with a strategic vision, aligning the board and staff's efforts with the mission. Ensure that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets.

· Leveraging opportunities: Support and participate in fundraising strategies, leveraging networks, and engaging with donors and stakeholders to secure necessary resources for the organisation's work. 

· CEO and SLT support: Maintain a constructive relationship with the CEO and SLT,

creating a positive and strong working relationship to jointly set and achieve appropriate targets, staying in regular contact and acting as a sounding board to discuss strategic or staffing related matters, issues - coaching, supporting and challenging as necessary. 

· Ambassadorship: Act as an ambassador, representing and promoting the organisation's mission, values, and interests to external stakeholders, enhancing its reputation, and fostering collaboration, fundraising and promotional opportunities

WANTED: Trustees to support over 3.5 million people living with genetic, rare and undiagnosed conditions.

Genetic Alliance UK is looking for three new trustees as well as a new chair due to existing board members having served the maximum time allowed.

About us

We are an alliance of over 220 charities and support groups with an ambitious strategy focused on working together to improve the lives of the 1 in 17 people in the UK affected by rare, genetic or undiagnosed conditions. We campaign for timely diagnosis, better coordinated care, and improvements in screening, testing, services and treatment.

What are we looking for?

We are seeking candidates with a personal or professional passion for driving these improvements, who can bring relevant skills and experience to help shape our work.  As part of the organisation’s work to foster diversity, equity and inclusion, we aim to have a broad and varied membership of the Board. We encourage applications from the devolved nations of the UK. We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of rare, genetic or undiagnosed conditions either directly, via family and friends, or through a connection with one of our member organisations.

We are keen to recruit people with skills and knowledge in one or more of the following areas:

● Business development and income generation

● Human resources and people management

● Fundraising and philanthropy

● Media, communications and public relations

● Reproductive choice techniques and ethics

● Research in genetics or rare conditions.

What will you be doing?

Trustees play a key role in leading and supporting the charity. We ask them to:

● Attend four Board meetings each year (at least two meetings are held online, with one or two in-person Board meetings each year usually in central London)

● Attend one in-person Board Strategy Away Day each year (usually following one of the in-person Board meetings)

● Attend the one-hour Annual General Meeting in autumn each year

● Consider joining one of our sub-committees, with up to four online meetings each year.

The roles are voluntary (unpaid). We reimburse reasonable expenses necessary for attending meetings and taking part in Genetic Alliance UK activities. 

Most of our trustees are sponsored by our member organisations. If you have a connection with one of the charities in our alliance or the conditions they support, please mention this on your application.

We will provide full induction for successful candidates.

All postholders will be appointed for a first term of up to three years, with a possible further three years and up to a maximum nine years in exceptional circumstances.

Looking to Make a Difference? Join Where Next as a Board Trustee!

Are you a passionate professional who wants to make an impact beyond the workplace?

About Where Next
Where Next is a charity based in Redditch, Worcestershire and Studley, Warwickshire providing support to adults with learning disabilities.  Founded over 40 years ago by caring parents it has grown from strengthen to strengthen and now provides day care for 150 clients.  The care and support is centred around horticultural and social activities but it also covers many other activities for the clients ensuring that is a varied and engaging programme of activities, nurturing the potential of everyone who attends Where Next

The charity is led by a Chief Executive and a passionate and experienced Board consisting of an excellent Senior Management team and Trustees.  There are 20 staff in total 

The charity has just commenced a developmental journey which will be looking at redesigning the facilities and services ensuring that the charity continues to be relevant going forward. 

Our webpage provides mor information and insight to the work of the charity

What we are looking for.

The Board are looking to strengthen existing skills and knowledge that currently exists and would like to appointment Trustees with any of the following skills and experiences.

Ø  Parent/ carer of an individual with Learning and Disabilities - living or professional experience – bringing day to day experiences to ensure that the Charities strategy is appropriate from a user’s perspective

Ø  Health and safety contract management – providing expertise in all aspects of safety aspect

Ø  Fund raising and PR/marketing including social media - Bringing innovative ideas to expand our reach and connect more people with our cause.

Ø  Project management – sharing skills to aid strategy of charities developments

Ø  Business planning and/or Business Case development -providing skills for the creation of business cases

Ø  Horticultural management – Bringing leadership to support the activities of the charity

Ø  Education /Training/ skills and personal development - offering insights to help improve and develop our Board and workforce

Why Become a Trustee While Working Full-Time?

• Enhance Your Professional Skills: Gain leadership, governance, and strategic experience that complements your career development.
• Broaden Your Network: Collaborate with like-minded professionals, build relationships across sectors, and expand your influence.
• Flexible Commitment: We understand your time is valuable. Our trustee roles are designed to fit alongside your job, with regular meetings and flexible involvement options.
• Make a Real Difference: Your expertise can shape the future of a charity that empowers individuals with learning disabilities to lead fulfilling lives.

What’s Involved?

• Board Meetings: Attend approximately 4 meetings per year (held in person and/or virtually).
• Strategic Guidance: Work with fellow trustees to set the long-term vision and strategy of "Where Next" and oversee its implementation.
• Support & Advice: Provide expertise in your specific area while supporting the leadership team on key decisions and projects.
• Advocacy: Use your professional network to champion our cause and help us grow.

The application process

Applications are welcomed and applicants should send CVs and a supporting statement detailing what has attracted the applicants to Where Next to the Chief Executive. 

The shortlisted applicants will be invited for initial discussion with the chairman and CEO.