Trustee volunteer roles

Charity Trustee

You and Me Counselling are currently recruiting volunteer trustees to complement the committee members already in their role.

This is a home working role and will be for immediate start.

Our charity

You and Me Counselling is a charitable organisation established in 2011. We are a counselling and psychotherapy service based in Hornchurch, Essex that works with children, young people, adults, and their families in the boroughs of Havering, Barking & Dagenham, Redbridge, and Waltham Forest. Our counsellors and therapists work both within schools and from our counselling rooms located in Hornchurch and Ilford.

You and Me Counselling are an organisational member of the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP). This means we are fully governed by the BACP’s Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions.

Job Description

As a trustee you will need to:

• Acknowledge emails at least once a day.
• Give a minimum of one hour per week to the role.
• Attend quarterly trustee meetings online.
• Ensure that You and Me Counselling pursues its stated objectives
• Ensure there is regular review of changes that might affect the organisation (political, financial, demographic, etc.)
• Ensure that the charity complies with charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Monitor finance to ensure that the charity applies its resources exclusively for its charitable objectives.
• Uphold the good name and values of You and Me Counselling.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place.
• Ensure the financial stability of the organisation.
• Supervise, support and appraise the chief executive officer.
• Hold the chief executive officer to account for the management and administration of the charity.
• Ensure that the organisation acts in accordance with employment law and exercises a duty of care to its employees.
• Identify major risks to the organisation and put systems in place to mitigate or minimise the risks.
• Ensure that the organisation has a governance structure that is appropriate to a charity of its size/complexity, stage of development, and its charitable objectives
• Regularly review your own training needs and create an expectation of continuous professional development throughout the organisation.
• Ensure that trustees have an agreed code of conduct and comply with it, and that there are mechanisms for the removal of trustees who do not abide by the principles stated therein.

Person Specifications

All trustees should demonstrate the following skills and values:

• A commitment to the organisation.
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
• Good, independent judgement.
• An ability to think creatively.
• A willingness to speak their mind.
• An understanding and acceptance of their legal duties and responsibilities as a trustee
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
• Ability to evaluate and interpret management information and other data.

Specific Skills

The ideal candidate would have one of more of the following:

• Experience in law and governance
• Experience in charity fundraising
• Knowledge of counselling or psychotherapy (as a therapist or client)
• Experience in accounting or financial management
• A parent of a young person who has experience of mental health issues

To guide Hackney CVS through a new chapter, we are looking to strengthen our Board with individuals who bring professional and lived experience.

Who we're looking for

We are looking for our next Treasurer, and trustees to join our Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-Committee, with experience in strategic financial management, liaising with external investment managers and an understanding of investment policies and practice. Expertise in charity finance including understanding of Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) is also preferable.

Additionally, we are looking for individuals with expertise in change management, people and culture, ideally with experience in purpose-driven organisations.

We're keen to hear from both experienced trustees, and those without previous trustee experience interested in the opportunity to learn and develop.

We strongly encourage applications from local residents, and individuals with lived experience of the specific challenges and opportunities in Hackney and the City of London, and those representing the diverse communities we serve.

Key accountabilities

All trustees are accountable to the Co-Chairs of the Board.

Their role is to:

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

• Ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations

• Ensure that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuit of its charitable objects

• Ensure that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets • Safeguard the good name and values of the organisation

• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place

• Ensure the financial stability of the organisation

• Protect and manage the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds

• Follow proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of the Chief Executive

In addition, trustees may take on specific responsibilities through our sub-committees or task and finish groups. Trustees may also lead for the board on significant projects or pieces of work to provide oversight and challenge.

#trustee #governance #boardoftrustees

Trustees play a vital role in ensuring Glasgow South West Foodbank meets its core purpose by overseeing the management and administration of the charity and ensuring that the foodbank has a clear strategy in line with our vision and goals.

What will you be doing?

We are seeking new trustees to become members of our board. Trustees ensure that the food bank acts in conformity with its purpose and with charity legislation, and that good governance, best practice policies and rigorous financial supervision are in place. They will be required to work collaboratively, with other trustees and with the staff and volunteers of the foodbank, and other external agencies.

What are we looking for?

Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:

• Clear commitment to supporting the delivery of the best possible compassionate and non-judgmental service to some of the most disadvantaged people in Glasgow.
• Some understanding of issues around poverty, even if not in depth, and willingness to extend that.
• Experience at a management, senior or professional level within the third, public or private sectors.

• (Ideally, but not essentially) experience of involvement in non-executive boards in the third, public or private sector.

By supporting the governance of the food bank, you are part of a team providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who comes into contact with Glasgow South West Foodbank.

City of Chelmsford Mencap is a small independent charity providing support and structured classes for adults with a learning disability across mid-Essex. We have recently converted the charity's structure and are now embarking on an exciting period of strategic growth. We are seeking energetic and passionate new trustees who can contribute to our plans and help us deliver the next phase of our operating model. 

We would welcome potential trustees from any professional background. However, the following attributes are very important:

• A proven track record of integrity and respect for confidential and proprietary information
• A keen and respectful listener who is able to empathise and respectfully challenge
• Commitment to the charity and enthusiasm for its vision, mission and aims
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a trustee.
• Strategic vision
• Sound, independent judgement
• Willingness to participate in frank and open discussion
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to coach staff where required
• The ability to read and understand management reports
• Skills to analyse proposals and their consequence
• Preparedness to make unpopular recommendations to the board
• General competence with IT
• Willingness to be available to provide guidance to the senior management team on an ad hoc basis
• Capacity to represent the charity to external parties and at local events

Much more information is available in our recruitment pack which is available on the apply page..

Please note that appointment to our Board is subject to the receipt of satisfactory references and a clean enhanced DBS certificate (which we will arrange). 

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

Whether you have experience in fundraising, governance, corporate partnerships, or simply a willingness to help, 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 Cyprus. Each squadron is supported by a committee of trustees who oversee governance, fundraising, and community engagement, helping ensure incredible opportunities for young people.

What’s involved

Being a trustee is a simple but highly impactful way to support your local squadron:

• Attend quarterly meetings (around two hours each)
• Discuss finances, fundraising, priorities, and squadron activities
• Take part in decisions, especially financial and strategic matters
• Support events, networking, or community initiatives

Typical commitment: 8-12 hours per year.

Who we’re looking for

Trustees come from all walks of life. No military, youth work, or charity experience is required. Trustees actively participate in meetings and decisions – there’s no obligation to take on an elected role.

Eligibility:

• Must be 20 years or older.
• Must have lived in the UK for 3 or more years.

Useful skills (optional but welcomed):

• Finance, budgeting, or business management
• Fundraising or grant writing
• Event planning or project management
• Governance, committee, or leadership experience
• Local networks or community connections

We particularly welcome:

• Applicants from under-represented communities.
• Younger adults. Only 1% of trustees in the UK are under 30 (Charity Commission and Pro Bono Economics 2025), and we particularly encourage applications from people wanting to grow their skills while making a real impact.
• People who are motivated to learn and contribute, not just bring experience.

What you’ll gain

• Experience in leadership, governance, and fundraising.
• Expanded professional and personal networks.
• Access to training and support.
• A chance to make a real difference in your community.

There are also opportunities to grow if you want to take on more responsibility:

• Take on leadership roles within your committee
• Support other squadrons
• Get involved in regional or even nationally
• Transition into civilian or uniformed volunteer roles working directly with cadets

Support you’ll receive

You will be fully supported, with guidance and resources at every level, so you can contribute confidently:

• Locally, you’ll work with your squadron Chair, Treasurer and Commander.
• At Wing level, the Wing Chair, Treasurer and Secretary provide guidance, templates and advice.
• Nationally, RAF Air Cadets trustees are part of a broader governance community with access to resources and information.

How to join

1. Submit an expression of interest via this CharityJob listing.
2. Attend an informal virtual meeting with the Wing Chair and Wing Treasurer.
3. Visit a local squadron and meet the team.
4. Apply to become a trustee if invited.
5. Complete required DBS and background checks.

Read to make a difference? Apply now

Please take a note of your preferred squadron in this area then apply via this listing:

• 124 (Hereford City) Squadron, Suvla Barracks Army Reserve Centre, Harold Street, Hereford, Herefordshire, HR1 2QX
• 1002 (Ross-on-Wye) Squadron, Alton Lane, Ross on Wye, Herefordshire, HR9 5NB 
• 151 (Leominster) Squadron, 115 Bridge Street, Leominster, Herefordshire, HR6 8DZ

Mavar is currently seeking a seasoned networker to join the Mavar Trustee Board as a Trustee with special responsibilities for strengthening our fundraising practice and broadening the charity’s donor base. Working with our Board and CEO, you’ll bring experience, insight and strategic guidance to help develop our fundraising capacity in support of the strategic development of the charity.

Mavar’s Mission

Founded on the belief that everyone has the right to choose their own path in life, Mavar’s central mission is to empower individuals who choose to explore opportunities beyond the strictly orthodox community to fulfil personal goals. Mavar supports our members’ efforts to achieve independence, live authentically and cope with the obstacles they may encounter as they explore options to live, work or study in the secular world – whether or not they choose to leave the Charedi community.

Trustee Role Details

The day-to-day operations of Mavar are conducted by staff and volunteers under the leadership of our CEO and with the overall oversight of the Trustee Board.

Main Duties of the Fundraising Trustee:

• 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 planned and executed in alignment with Mavar’s budget framework and objectives.
• Act as a fundraising champion on Mavar’s board, working with the CEO and supporting other trustees to explore fundraising possibilities.
• If you have personal networks with fundraising potential, utilise 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.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work and helping to raise its profile.
• Ensure compliance with fundraising regulation and best practice, as well as Mavar’s policies and procedures. You are expected to give at least one day per month to your role. Board meetings take place four times a year in London, with a mixture of online and in-person meetings and are complemented by occasional online or in-person feedback meetings with the CEO and the Treasurer.

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 charity fundraising
• Existing networks that could support the charity’s fundraising efforts
• Understanding of charity finance and/or marketing
• Familiarity with Jewish cultural context

Next Steps and Timeline

If you are interested in this role, please contact the Chair of the Trustee Board to arrange an informal chat.

If you would like to make a formal application, please send a CV and cover letter outlining your qualifications, relevant expertise and interest in Mavar’s mission to the above. Please put your name and the role you are applying for in the subject line.

Context: Mavar’s Service Users

Some men and women who have grown up in the closed world of the Charedi community hold personal and religious values that are not in line with the rest of the community. Attempts to follow their own path often bring them into direct confrontation with family, friends and neighbours who regard expressions of individualism or self-determination as heresy. These individuals fear that the community will ostracise them, leaving them feeling trapped, isolated and helpless.

Some may simply wish to explore options for obtaining a general education or improving their access to employment opportunities whilst wishing to remain within the ultra-orthodox community; others may look to divest themselves of the strictures of ultra-orthodoxy and to lead a more mainstream lifestyle. They all typically lack the everyday life skills to cope with the challenges of the secular world, which appears to them as a confusing, frightening and alien planet. Any effort to integrate with the outside, secular world is hampered by limited English language skills, cultural disorientation, lack of basic education or qualifications and negligible skills for employment.

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.

The Greenhouse Christian Centre is seeking to appoint a new Trustee to join our strong and committed Board. For over 70 years, the Greenhouse has offered Christ-centred hospitality, retreats, and teaching in a warm and prayerful residential environment. Our ministry continues to grow, serving more than 3,000 guests each year with a distinctive blend of welcome, worship, and spiritual refreshment.

We are looking for someone who shares our Christian faith and values, and who brings senior-level experience within a Christian residential or retreat-centre context. The role includes offering support and guidance to our Centre Director and contributing to the ongoing development of the ministry.

You will join a capable Board who care deeply about the mission and who work closely with the leadership team. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who understands the heartbeat of Christian residential ministry and wants to invest in a work that is bearing fruit.

The Board meets quarterly in person, with occasional additional meetings as required.

We’re looking for trustees

We’re looking to recruit dynamic, committed and motivated people with professional skills and experience who are as passionate as we are about empowering individuals to work through and beyond their experience of sexual abuse.

Specific qualifications are not necessarily required and we welcome applicants with lived experience. A genuine interest in learning about our charity and our services within the local community is essential.

These trustees will help to form a new board dedicated to supporting the charity and contributing to the effective and quality governance of Trust House. You will play an active role in developing the strategic direction of the charity and provide guidance to ensure the charity continues to support anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse in the Thames Valley area.

Job Description

We are seeking four new Trustees to join our Board. This application process is rolling, meaning there is no deadline - so please enquire and apply sooner rather than later! We anticipate the process will conclude in mid-2026.

Who are we?

We are a disability-led arts organisation which works to improve access to culture for disabled people by providing opportunities for disabled creatives, training cultural institutions to be more open to disabled people, and through running participatory arts and development programmes.

Our programmes have run for fifty years, supporting disabled creatives and those facing disabling barriers to creative careers or audience participation. Our current programme finds us opening new avenues for disabled creatives through commissioning, exhibitions, and learning-based support such as residencies, advice, and guidance.

We continue to break new ground in digital spheres and advocating for disabled people struggling to access the arts and creative industries through our consultancy services.

We work across three main areas:

1. A creative programme, working directly with disabled creatives
2. Heritage projects, documenting the social history of disabled people
3. Access consultancy, including training and auditing

We receive funding from Arts Council England and the Heritage Lottery Fund to support our creative programme and heritage projects.

We are recruiting disabled and non-disabled voluntary Board members. As a member of our Board, you will gain an insight to how the arts and cultural industries in the UK work. From lived experience to professional experience, we are looking for people from all backgrounds who are passionate about the arts and its potential to change disabled people's lives to join our Board.

Please read or listen to all guidance on our site before applying!

Job Requirements

The Board and Shape's Executive Team meet four times a year - once every three months. Each meeting takes up about half a day.

In addition, Trustees are expected to attend the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and the yearly Away Day, both of which happen once per year.

The main responsibilities of any Charity Trustee are outlined by the Charity Commission. You can browse their '5-minute guides' for Trustees on their website.

The Nolan Principles of Public Life set the standards for how our trustees are expected to conduct themselves. These are:

• Selflessness
• Integrity
• Objectivity
• Accountability
• Openness
• Honesty
• Leadership

You can read more about these principles on the UK Government's website.

Job Responsibilities

Our team of Trustees are responsible for ensuring that:

• Shape complies with its Memorandum and Articles of Association, and that it pursues only the objectives which are defined in it
• Shape complies with charity law, employment law and other relevant legislation or regulations
• Shape is financially viable
• the Board is defining goals and setting targets for the organisation, and that performance is evaluated against these targets
• Shape's ethos and reputation are safeguarded
• Administration is effective and efficient and we are accountable to our stakeholders and funders

The Board are also responsible for:

• Contributing to the Board's role in giving firm strategic direction
• Appointing the Chief Executive and monitoring their performance
• Sitting on appraisal, recruitment and disciplinary panels, as required
• Attending either the Finance, HR and Risk, or Programme and Development Sub Committees

Trustee Role

Carers Support is looking for new Trustees to join our Board. We are seeking people with previous board, committee or senior governance experience who want to use their skills to support unpaid carers and strengthen a respected local charity.

About Carers Support 

We are an independent charity supporting thousands of unpaid carers across Bristol and South Gloucestershire. We provide advice, information, emotional support, training, wellbeing services and young carers support. 

About the role 

As a Trustee, you will: 

• Help set the charity’s strategic direction 
• Ensure the organisation meets its legal duties 
• Monitor performance, risks and finances 
• Bring constructive challenge and independent judgement 
• Support a positive, inclusive and open board culture 
• Help ensure the voices and needs of carers guide our work 

You don’t need to be an expert in every topic. We welcome people who can read papers, ask thoughtful questions and contribute confidently as part of a team. 

What we’re looking for 

We are particularly interested in people with board or senior committee experience, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. 

We are looking for: 

• Strategic thinking and good judgement 
• Understanding of governance or senior decision-making 
• Confidence contributing to discussions 
• A commitment to improving the lives of unpaid carers 
• The time to prepare for and attend meetings 

Time commitment 

• 4 board meetings per year (2hours each) 
• Membership of at least one sub-committee (4 meetings per year) 
• Additional committee meetings, events or development sessions, as required 
• Most meetings take place early evening, online or in person. 

What you’ll gain 

• A rewarding role with real social impact 
• Opportunities to influence strategy and services 
• A full induction and support from experienced trustees 
• A friendly and engaged Board 

English Speaking Board (International) Ltd. is seeking nominations for three Trustee and Director roles to refresh our Trustee team of 12.

English Speaking Board (International) Ltd is specialist awarding organisation exclusively creating, assessing and awarding qualifications for English Language and Oracy. Our qualifications have a duality of esteem with academic qualifications and we rank in the Top 50 of Vocational Awarding organisations in the UK by annual number of certificates awarded.

Central to the activities of English Speaking Board (International) Ltd.:

Our purpose: 

English Speaking Board wants all learners to possess the oracy and English language skills they need to achieve their aspirations. We want to stretch the most able and support the least confident and realise the potential of all by closing the disadvantage gap. 

To do this we:

Listen to our clients, understand their motivations and needs, employ talented people who want to achieve for our clients, support and validate the impact of our teachers and  financially support assessment at centres that are part of closing the disadvantage gap. 

In November 2023 we were awarded the prestigious title of Awarding Organisation of the Year by the Federation of Awarding Bodies. Please visit our website for more detail about our activities. 

Trustee team: 

The Trustee team aims to have a mix of skills sets and experience from within education (state, academies, FE and Adult Education) and from Awarding Organisations. The current vacancies are for two types of Trustees: those with educational experience (preferably FE and Adult Education) and those with AO experience. 

Generic Selection criteria: 

• Personal alignment with the purpose and willingness to act in the interests of the charity only 
• Support the charitable purpose which is the advancement of education, ensuring our activities provide public benefit 
• A commitment to give advice and guidance to review and shape the ongoing strategy of the organisation, its risk, financial and audit activities 
• Remain up to date on advice and guidance from the Charity Commission by reading advice out of meeting time 
• Attend 4 Trustee meetings per year (held on Saturdays  as two remote meetings and two in London and or Liverpool) plus the preparation time and ad-hoc email dialogue throughout the year 
• Occasionally attend major meetings, such as high-profile conference 

Technical Information: 

Eligibility 

Trustees will need to complete an automatic disqualification declaration. Should any reasons for disqualification apply they will need to seek a waiver from the Charity Commission prior to taking up a position as a Trustee.

ESB is a Company limited by guarantee and not having a share capital. The Company has charitable status. For more information, please read our Memorandum and Articles of Association.

The number of members with which the Company proposes to be registered is 50 but the Board of Trustees may from time to time register an increase of members. The subscribers to the Memorandum of Association and such other persons qualified as hereinafter provided as the Board of Trustees shall admit to membership shall be members of the Company.

There are four categories of members namely: –

•     Ordinary Members
•     Life Members (Closed)
•     Friend Members
•     Honorary Members

Trustee/Directors duties

•     To act in accordance with law, the governing documents and the objects
•     To act in the interests of the charity only
•     To act with integrity
•     To manage the charity’s resources properly
•     To use reasonable skills and care working as a trustee, applying what knowledge and experience s/he has
•     To declare and avoid conflicts of interest
•     To act within powers
•     To promote the success of the company in achieving its objects
•     To exercise independent judgement
•     To exercise reasonable care, skill and diligence
•     Not to accept benefits from third parties
•     To declare interests in proposed transactions or arrangements.

Our Trustees/Directors are not remunerated.

The term of the Trusteeship is for four years with an extension of a further four-year term to enable continuity.

The operational functions of English Speaking Board (International) Ltd are delegated to the CEO who manages the activities of 16 Head Office staff and 80 contracted markers and assessors.

We highly encourage all applicants to contact our Chair of Trustees (visit our website for details) in the first instance, if you would like to hear more about being a Trustee and Director.

Join us as a Trustee / Director and make a difference!

Are you passionate about making a positive impact in the community? Do you have a strong desire to contribute your skills to a cause that matters? We invite you to become a Trustee / Director and be a driving force for change!

Who we are: A purpose-driven charity, dedicated to making a difference to the lives of young, homeless people. We believe in the power of community, collaboration, and transparency to create lasting change.

Our organisation comprises a registered Charity and Community Interest Company, each with its own Board. The Charity provides supported accommodation, advice, support & guidance to vulnerable, homeless young people. The Community Interest Company provides 24 / 7 concierge services to CAYSH young people & externally to vulnerable adults with complex needs.

As we continue to grow, we are seeking dedicated individuals to join our board of Trustees / Directors.

What we're looking for: Passionate individuals from a variety of backgrounds, with a range of expertise to contribute to our board. We are particularly looking for people with skills and experience in:

· Enterprise – running and growing a small business

· Fundraising

· Cyber security.

As a Trustee / Director, you will play a pivotal role in guiding our organisation towards success and helping us develop our business growth strategy. We are particularly seeking a trustee with safeguarding experiences.

Why you should join us as a trustee / director: Impact: Be part of an organisation making a real difference in the lives of homeless young people. Leadership: Contribute to strategic decision-making and shape the future direction of the organisation. Fulfilment: Experience the satisfaction of knowing that your efforts contribute to positive change.

Commitment to safeguarding young people and vulnerable adults is essential as well as commitment to equal opportunities and eliminating discriminatory practice.

Time commitment: Our Trustees and Directors provide a valuable and positive contribution, building on our strengths and ensuring our results are sustained. There are currently 9 Trustees / Directors within the Group who bring a wide range of skills, knowledge and experience to the organisation.

To support the decision making at CAYSH, you will attend an average of 4 Board meetings and up to 4 Committee meetings a year, plus Trustee / Director away-days & other events, such as AGM. Meetings are held outside regular business hours and are mostly online. Events (including strategy days, AGM and service user get-togethers) usually take place at our offices in Croydon.

How to Apply: If you are ready to embark on a rewarding journey and become a Trustee with CAYSH, we would love to hear from you!

Apply now and become a catalyst for positive change! Together, let's build a better future.

Do you want to help improve healthcare for older people? 

The British Geriatrics Society is seeking to appoint a new lay Trustee 

The British Geriatrics Society is the professional membership organisation for doctors, nurses and other healthcare specialists working to provide healthcare for older people across the UK. We have more than 5,600 multidisciplinary members working in acute, primary and community care, united by a mission to improve the healthcare of older people.  We are a registered charity and limited company based in Farringdon in Central London, with members in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and England.

The population is ageing. More people are living for longer, often with long-term conditions such as frailty or dementia. Older people are the population group who use the health service the most. Although there is a strong evidence base for what good care of older people should be, this is not being delivered everywhere, and too many older people find themselves at the mercy of a NHS system that does not work well for their needs. The BGS has a proud 80-year history of supporting the specialist workforce in older people’s healthcare. We are needed more than ever now, to ensure that services for older people across the UK are integrated, joined-up and effective. Why not see for yourself by joining our Board as a lay trustee? Help us to deliver our goal of improving the availability and quality of care for all older people across the UK.

The role

We are seeking to appoint a new lay trustee to succeed one of our two lay trustees who completes his term of office in July 2026. The BGS Trustee Board has twelve charity trustees, ten of whom are healthcare professionals, who lead different aspects of the BGS’s work. The Board is chaired by the BGS President, Professor Jugdeep Dhesi. In addition to the trustees, other senior officers, such as the Vice-Presidents, contribute to Board meetings. The BGS has a staff team of 16 who are paid, but all other roles are undertaken on a voluntary basis.  

Trustees perform the following functions:

• Contributing to the strategic direction of the British Geriatrics Society (BGS), setting overall policy, defining goals, and setting targets and evaluating performance
• Providing governance to ensure compliance with charity law and good practice
• Scrutinising board papers, contributing to discussions, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives
• Supporting, constructively challenging, and motivating the Chief Executive and other senior staff
• Acting as a BGS ambassador, to promote the Society, the specialty and older people’s healthcare.
• Safeguarding the charity’s assets, including its financial sustainability
• Working in a collegiate way with fellow Board members to support the Chair and to provide timely, robust decision-making and leadership.

The person 

The incoming lay trustee will:

• Be committed to the BGS mission of improving the healthcare of older people
• Have a good understanding of charities and charity governance, most likely through prior experience of being a trustee
• Have the ability to be strategic and collegiate
• Have some commercial experience to help the BGS in its goal of earning more income
• Have professional experience from one or more of the following areas: health or social care commissioning; charity senior management or trusteeship; policy influencing; digital strategy; business.

The BGS supports equality, diversity and inclusion. We value the independent perspective that lay trustees bring to this voluntary role.

The new lay member of the Trustee Board will join the BGS in time for the Board awayday in London on 30 July 2026. Their term of office will be two years, with the potential for a second term of two years.

Our trustees are unpaid, but we pay travel and other out of pocket expenses. We provide an induction to the BGS’s work. There are four Board meetings a year, with at least one held online. The in-person meeting in July includes a Board workshop.

Interviews for shortlisted candidates will be held online on 8/9 April                                                         

Are you interested in joining Acorn’s board of trustees?

We’re looking for someone who wants to make a real difference. If you’re passionate about social impact and excited by the idea of helping to shape the future of a vibrant, friendly charitable social enterprise, we’d love to hear from you.

Who are Acorn Early Years?

Acorn Early Years is a charitable social enterprise providing high‑quality childcare and early education across day nurseries, forest schools, out‑of‑school clubs, and specialist early years catering and training services. We are continuing to grow, despite the challenges facing the early years sector, and now operate 18 nurseries with just over 500 employees.

What are we looking for?

We’re seeking an enthusiastic individual to join our welcoming team of voluntary trustees. We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve, and we warmly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences.

We are particularly keen to hear from candidates with finance, property, charity law and compliance, or local government expertise. You’ll bring:

• Strong communication and leadership skills
• A commitment to our values and mission
• Experience from any professional or personal context — previous trustee experience is desirable but not essential. We will support you to grow confidently into the role.

Our commitment to inclusion and support:

We want volunteering with us to be accessible to everyone. To support this, we:

• Reimburse all reasonable volunteer expenses, including travel to meetings
• Offer flexibility around meeting times where possible
• Provide accessibility support or adjustments as needed
• Foster a culture where every trustee’s voice is valued and respected

What does the role involve?

Being a trustee is an unpaid voluntary role, usually lasting at least three years. You will attend five Board meetings each year in Milton Keynes, and you may also choose to join one of our specialist trustee committees.

To find out more about the duties of a charity trustee, please see ‘The essential trustee (CC3)’ on the Gov. website. 

What difference will you make?

Our trustees play a very important role in our organisation, shaping and supporting our current work and the future direction and development of the organisation. As a trustee you will be joining the Trustee Board which has been making an impact since our charity was established in 2012.

How to apply:

To find out more, please see our Trustee Application Pack via our website - 'Work With Us/Become a Trustee' page.

If you would like an informal conversation about the role, please contact Santa Svike, Governance Lead, by visiting our website ('Work With Us/Become a Trustee' page)

To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter to the same email address.