Trustees Volunteer Roles

Our Trustees are a team of volunteers who use their diverse skills, experience, and perspectives to set the strategic direction of the charity and make sure it’s doing what it was set up to do in the best possible way. 

For families facing tough times, a holiday is a much-needed break from the day to day, as well as giving space and time to breathe, think differently. A holiday is essential for building wellbeing and hope for the future, especially when the present is challenging.

About you

You'll have the energy, integrity, passion, and skills to work with the Board of Trustees, our CEO and staff team, and our community, to drive forward a successful and dynamic future for our charity and the families we support.

We’re particularly looking to add the following professional skills and experiences to our team.

• Developing digital products, tools and/or services.
• Directly supporting children and/or families on an ongoing professional basis.
• Fundraising in a charity through voluntary donations or commercial income.

You don’t need to have been a Trustee before, but you do need to be willing to do some training to help you understand the role and the responsibilities that come with it.

We actively encourage applications from under-represented, marginalised and racialised groups, and those with lived experience of any of the barriers families face to having time away together. That’s things like mental or physical ill health, disability, domestic abuse, being a young carer or living on a low income.

We will make adjustments to our schedule and processes to ensure new trustees can be included and supported in the role.

More diverse perspectives on our Board help us make better decisions for families.

What we offer you

The biggest thing we have to offer is the chance to put your skills and experience to good use making the lives of families who are having a tough time better.

You’ll join a team who really care about making a difference and approach it with real openness and drive. Right off the bat we’ll connect you with the other Trustees and staff so you can get to know everyone, and we’ll buddy you up with another Trustee, so you’ve got someone to help you navigate it all as you settle in.

Expenses

You won’t get paid for your time, but we’ll make sure you aren’t out of pocket by covering the cost of your travel to meetings, childcare or other care if you need it, and a range of other expenses you might have while doing the role. We’ll book and/or pay for these in advance if you prefer.

How to apply

When you click 'Quick Apply' you'll find a link to upload your CV and answer a couple of screening questions.

We will make adjustments to the recruitment process wherever possible to ensure that no applicant is disadvantaged for any reason. 

• Monday 20th May - Applications close at 9am
• w/c 3rd June and w/c 10th June  -  First interviews with a panel of current trustees 
• w/c 17th June - Second interviews with Jackie our Vice Chair of Trustees

After the interviews we’ll contact anyone we’d like to join the Board with an offer subject to references and checks.

If you accept, we’ll take up your references, do a DBS check and confirm your eligibility to act as a Trustee. If that’s all ok, you’re in! We’ll introduce you to the rest of the Trustees and get started with your induction.

Formal appointment happens at the next Board meeting which is on Thursday 5th August.

Prospect Hospice is looking for talented, passionate Finance, Fundraising and Digital professionals to join our Board of Trustees. If you have the time and enthusiasm to be a part of our outstanding organisation and really add value to the community, we want to hear from you!

The Background

Over four decades, Prospect Hospice has become the organisation that people in Swindon,
Marlborough and north Wiltshire turn to when they, or the people they love, are diagnosed with a
life-limiting illness. We have cared for and supported thousands of local people, which is why so many
people contribute in their own way to a charity that makes a positive difference in our community.

Our vision is ‘A community where death is no longer a taboo, and everyone has the right to live and
die well’. At Prospect Hospice, our patients and their loved one, our staff and our volunteers are at
the centre of all that we do. Working with local health and social care partners, and stakeholders from
across the community, we have a vital role in improving end-of-life care for everyone.

We are looking for new Trustees who can support our mission to work with and through
others using our skills and expertise, so that people have a choice and support at the end of their life.

Our Board usually meets four times each year, in addition to which Trustees are asked to also join
one of our quarterly sub committees. While it would be beneficial for Trustees to be willing/able to
contribute to Prospect related activity outside meetings, for example to participate in specific project focused tasks or attending and representing the Charity at external events, this is not essential.

Who are we looking for?

Our Board of Trustee team has responsibility for overseeing our strategy and performance and we
are looking for people who will bring the enthusiasm, experience and commitment we need to help
guide the Hospice through the next phase of its development. You will have the ability to be an
effective role model and influencer and be committed to the aims, objectives and values of Prospect
Hospice, maintaining a genuine interest in our work. You will be a strategic and creative thinker and
be able to work effectively as part of a team.

We are particularly interested to hear from candidates with relevant experience and professionally
qualified in Finance/Accountancy as well as individuals with experience in
Fundraising/Income Generation with emphasis on successfully using digital marketing.

For an informal discussion with a current trustee and more information contact Siobhain Acott (details on website)

Equality and diversity

Prospect hospice is committed to encouraging a diverse and inclusive working environment. We
recognise that promoting diversity and eliminating discrimination in our workplace will bring benefits
for our people, our business and the communities we serve.

We are committed to ensuring that all employees and job applicants are provided with equality of opportunity in employment. Applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, offending background, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

Safeguarding

Prospect Hospice is committed to promoting the wellbeing of all adults and children who use our
services, ensuring that they live a life that is free from harm, abuse and neglect. We work in an open
and transparent way and encourage staff, volunteers, patients and families to raise any safeguarding
concerns.

Thank you for wanting to find out more about becoming a member of Age UK Lambeth’s Board. 

Our Board members are unpaid volunteers called trustees. They fill an essential role in ensuring our charity improves the lives of older and vulnerable people around the borough of Lambeth. We hope that this pack lets you know more about the charity, the role of a trustee and how to apply to become one. 

We currently have seven Board members with space for up to five more. We want to find people who have a desire to direct services that enable lives to be changed for the better.   We want to increase the diversity of the Board bringing different life experiences which match the Lambeth community, broad and diverse as it is. Ideally we want people that bring new skills and experience or enhance those already in place, but this is not essential. It’s not necessary to have previous Board experience.

Please check the Recruitment Pack attached.

We look forward to hearing from you!

About the Role

The Bridge Project is a well-established Bradford based charity with over 35 years’ experience delivering services and projects addressing a range of issues such as substance misuse, risk taking behaviours, relationships, housing, physical/mental health, and employment. We work with individuals, families, partners, and communities to improve people’s lives in a sustainable way, empowering people experiencing multiple barriers to achieve positive change.

We currently employ over 120 staff, 40% of whom are ‘experts by experience’ and have joined us through our volunteering programme.  We are recognised as being innovative and recovery focused, and our services have been highlighted nationally  as examples of best practice in the sector. Our portfolio of services and projects are constantly evolving in response to the changing needs of our service users and our local communities. Currently this includes recovery focussed drug treatment services, housing and resettlement support, access to education, training, and employment (ETE), volunteering programmes, support for people engaged with criminal justice services and befriending/mentoring services for people with significant barriers to recovery and community reengagement.

What will you be doing?

Our Trustees play a pivotal role in governing the Bridge Project.  They are responsible for setting our strategic vision and priorities, ensuring our financial sustainability, and providing guidance and oversight to our operations. Our Board is committed to excellence, and we are looking for new individuals to bring fresh knowledge and experience to join us in this important work.  We’re committed to creating a Board which is representative of the communities we support, bringing together those with a variety of skills and experiences, to help shape what we do and how we work.  We’re particularly keen to hear from candidates from ethnically diverse backgrounds and from woman, however, we would be pleased to hear from you if you feel you can add value to our Board and would like to help us to make a positive contribution.  This is a rewarding role and you do not need to have experience of been a Trustee before, as there will be a comprehensive induction.

As a Trustee, you will have the opportunity to bring commitment, energy and enthusiasm to the role with a passion for doing your best.  You will work alongside other talented Trustees, engage with our staff and stakeholders, and contribute to our collective mission of empowering people experiencing multiple barriers to achieve positive change.

Our Trustees play a vital role in making sure that the Bridge Project achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that the charity has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the senior leadership team to enable The Bridge Project to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Time Commitment

We ask that you are able to devote time to attend 4 Trustee Board meetings per year, 4 Sub-Committee meetings per year and 1 Planning meeting.  These are a mixture of in-person meetings in Bradford and zoom meetings.  Meetings are currently held in the evening.  Trustees are also encouraged to visit our premises to meet with the staff team and meet the people we support.

What Difference will you make?

You will be joining a friendly, highly engaged, and passionate group of likeminded Trustees who are keen to deepen the impact of the Bridge Project in local communities.  As a Trustee, you will have a real opportunity to offer your unique skill set to help the strategic direction of the charity and directly contribute to these objectives.

You will collectively be responsible for ensuring that the Chief Officer and his team not only grow our services to meet everyone that needs them, but that the service we provide is of the highest quality.  Last year we provided treatment and support to 4,900 individuals.

You will also have an opportunity to expand your knowledge of the voluntary and community sector and give something back to the local community as well as developing new skills.

Role: Chair of the Board of Trustees, West Smethwick Enterprise.

Salary: N/A - Voluntary Position.

Location: Birmingham/Sandwell.

Time commitment: Five x 3.5 hour Board meetings per year, plus the Mentorship of the Director of Childrens Services and occasionally representing the Charity at various events and meetings with key stakeholders.

The Chair is also expected to have regular meetings with the Director of Childrens Services to ensure that upcoming Board Meetings are well planned, efficient and the relevant information is available to enable Trustees to make timely and well-informed decisions. This would constitute approx. 8-16 hours per month in time commitment.

Closing date: 30th April 2024.

About West Smethwick Enterprise

West Smethwick Enterprise CIC is a community-based charity with an aim to improve outcomes for children and families in some of the most socially and economically challenged areas within the UK. We currently provide high quality Pre-Schools for children aged between 2-5, from 5 locations across Smethwick and Ladywood in Birmingham, as well as offering family support services for children and their families within the local community.

We are also building local professional capability for the Early Years sector itself through pioneering partnerships with Higher Education providers. This initiative is primarily driven through our Pre-School centre based in Ladywood, Birmingham.

As WSE’s Chair of the Board of Trustees (BoT), you will be responsible for engaging the Trustees to support our talented, committed employees to continue growing a sustainable, resilient and agile organisation, capable of delivering an ambitious strategy; developing talent and capability; building successful partnerships and attracting suitable investment/funding.

West Smethwick Enterprise in a nutshell

Pre-school settings – 5

Turnover - £800k

Staff numbers – 37

Our values: Kindness, Fairness, Determination, Collaboration and Imagination. These values are deeply ingrained in our culture and the way we work with our colleagues and with the children and families we serve

 

About the role

The operation and success of West Smethwick Enterprise is overseen by a capable, dedicated and experienced Board of Trustees and this is led by the Chair.

Working closely with their Board of Trustees, the Chair is responsible for ensuring that our WSE leadership team continue to deliver financial stability, strong operational grip, high quality children’s services and apply strong governance to the organisation. The Chair also plays a crucial role overseeing the development and successful delivery of the strategy.

The successful Chair will provide mentorship to the Director of Children’s services, who leads the organisation on a day-to-day basis, helping her to continue to create a climate where the wider team can thrive and achieve new heights.

The role is perfect for a leader who is an experienced people manager, passionate about supporting young children from economically disadvantaged areas to thrive, and wants to use their skills, professional network and experience for good.

It is a voluntary position, with reasonable travel costs and expenses being covered.

The Chair position is a central leadership role within WSE, with the successful candidate drawing on their skills and experience to ensure the organisation can develop to meet the growing requirement for high quality, low cost and/or grant funded pre-school education in the Birmingham Ladywood and Smethwick footprint. We are keen to hear from anyone who is passionate about our aims, has time to give and feels able to lead West Smethwick Enterprise through the next chapter of growth.

Please refer to the attached job description fro the full job specification.

About Smart Works 

Smart Works is a dynamic, high profile and fast-growing UK charity that dresses and coaches unemployed women for success at their job interview. We empower each woman by giving her the clothes and the confidence she needs to succeed. After visiting Smart Works, 69% of clients secure a job within a month, gaining financial independence and transforming their lives.

Smart Works Leeds, operating as a licensee of Smart Works Charity, is led by a Board of passionate and dedicated trustees, who are responsible for the governance and strategic direction of the Smart Works service across Yorkshire.

More information about who we are can be found on our website.

About the opportunity  

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

The Smart Works Leeds Board of Trustees consists of: Chair, Treasurer, People, Wardrobe & Property, Corporate Fundraising & Partnerships, Events, and Communications & Media Trustees. 

The Grants Trustee will lead on fundraising and charitable grants that are key to the ongoing operation and financial health of the Charity. The successful applicant will identify suitable foundations and will own the end-to-end grant application process.

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

General Duties of a Smart Works Trustee 

• Work with the Chair of the Board of Trustees to ensure the centre is well-run and governed effectively. 
• Provide support to determine the strategic direction of the Centre. 
• Advocate for the Centre, raising its profile and the awareness of the Smart Works service in the geographic area. 
• Build strong working relationships with the Chair, fellow trustees, staff, volunteers and supporters. 
• Work in a small team and tailor strong interpersonal and communication skills to all levels of seniority.

Personal Specification 

The successful applicant will have an understanding of grants, opportunities, application processes and be able to lead all aspects of this process and will possess previous experience in this field. 

As this is a voluntary, unpaid position it requires a self-starting and proactive approach with the capacity and time to challenge, engage and contribute to the work of the Board in a positive manner. 

It is essential that all applicants believe in the mission of Smart Works and align with our core values, share a commitment to fairness and promote equity, diversity, and inclusion, acting at all times with honesty and integrity. 

If you possess the relevant experience and are seeking to give something back to the community in Yorkshire, then we would love to hear from you. Please note, you do not need to have previous experience of sitting on a board to join us although it would be an advantage.

We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, disabled candidates, and candidates with lived experience of unemployment, because we would like to increase the representation of these groups at Smart Works.

How to Apply  

Please visit our website or click "Apply Now" to find out more information - we can't wait to hear from you.

The Royal Society for Asian Affairs (RSAA) is seeking to recruit three new trustees to support it at an important point in its development, approaching its 125th anniversary in 2026.

The Society has made big changes in recent years, including expanding its international audience, improving its accessibility to members and non-members, modernising its constitution and governance structures, and developing an ambitious new strategy that gives the Society’s original objectives fresh energy in a 21st century context.

To help us drive this forward, we are looking for an individual with a professional background in fundraising and income generation, ideally in the education sector, and an interest in Asia. Experience of working with charities is important. Familiarity with the RSAA would be useful but is not essential. We are keen to increase the diversity of the board and will particularly welcome interest from individuals from under-represented groups.

Trustees are accountable for the proper and effective operation of the Society, giving strategic direction to the Chief Executive, ensuring the financial health and good financial management of the Society, ensuring that the Society has sufficient funds to support its activities, and protecting the Society’s reputation and independence.

Breck Foundation is at the forefront of efforts to safeguard children and young people online. Our organisation was founded in 2014 in response to the tragic loss of Breck Bednar, a 14-year-old boy who was groomed and murdered by someone he met online. Our work aims to prevent this from ever happening again. Our work saves lives.

We reach thousands of children and young people in schools and other community settings across the UK with Breck's story. Our talks and educational materials fill a gap in the current UK curriculum that otherwise leaves children vulnerable to online grooming and exploitation.

With the online world becoming ever more ubiquitous and thus a more and more dangerous place for children and young people, and several national and global factors combining to create a more challenging environment for charities, sustaining our work has never been more important than now. This role is crucial to our ability to rise to the challenges of keeping children and young people safe online.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Breck Foundation achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that Breck Foundation has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable Breck Foundation to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Our Board meetings are held virtually and so you can be based in any part of the United Kingdom.

Duties

• Support and provide advice on Breck Foundation’s purpose, vision, goals, and activities.
• Approve operational strategies, policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee Breck Foundation’s financial plans, budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored, and controlled effectively.
• Review and approve the foundation’s financial statements.
• Provide support and challenge to the CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.
• Keep abreast of changes in Breck Foundation’s operating environment.
• Contribute to regular reviews of the foundation’s own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Breck Foundation’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.
• Contribute to the broader promotion of the foundation’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge, and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when the trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising 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.

What we are looking for

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

We are looking for people with particular skills in the following areas:

• Comms & Marketing
• Fundraising
• Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) 

You do not need previous governance experience – we will provide a full induction and training.

Personal skills and qualities

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
•  Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.
• Willingness to lead according to our values.
• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.

Salary:

This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed

Time commitment:           

Attending 4 Board meetings annually (held remotely)

Attending training (where required) and annual events

Committee membership:

Ad hoc and occasional support through working groups and/or support to the executive team

Closing date:                   

9am Wednesday 3rd April 2024

Interviews:                       

w/c 15th April 2024 (remotely via Microsoft Teams)

About Smart Works 

Smart Works is a dynamic, high profile and fast-growing UK charity that dresses and coaches unemployed women for success at their job interview. We empower each woman by giving her the clothes and the confidence she needs to succeed. After visiting Smart Works, 69% of clients secure a job within a month, gaining financial independence and transforming their lives.

Smart Works Leeds, operating as a licensee of Smart Works Charity, is led by a Board of passionate and dedicated trustees, who are responsible for the governance and strategic direction of the Smart Works service across Yorkshire.

More information about who we are can be found on our website.

About the opportunity  

The Smart Works Leeds Board of Trustees consists of: Chair, Treasurer, People, Wardrobe & Property, Corporate Fundraising & Partnerships, Events, and Communications & Media Trustees. 

A fantastic opportunity has arisen to join the Smart Works Leeds Board of Trustees. The newly created Ambassador & Volunteer Trustee will lead on two fundamental activities at the Centre: 

• Ambassadors: Smart Works Leeds currently has one Ambassador. The Board is looking to grow our ambassador community. The position will help identify, onboard and work with the team of Smart Works Leeds Ambassadors to raise the profile of the Charity across the Yorkshire region.
• Volunteers: Smart Works is powered by a community of skilled volunteers who use their time, talents and kindness to help our clients. The position will oversee volunteer management and engagement for Smart Works Leeds and will work closely with the staff team to keep the volunteer community motivated and engaged in the charity’s mission. 

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

General Duties of a Smart Works Trustee 

• Work with the Chair of the Board of Trustees to ensure the centre is well-run and governed effectively. 
• Provide support to determine the strategic direction of the Centre. 
• Advocate for the Centre, raising its profile and the awareness of the Smart Works service in the geographic area. 
• Build strong working relationships with the Chair, fellow trustees, staff, volunteers and supporters. 
• Work in a small team and tailor strong interpersonal and communication skills to all levels of seniority.

Personal Specification 

The successful Ambassador and Volunteer Lead Trustee will have excellent interpersonal skills and stakeholder management experience. 

They will use their skills and experience to attract, utilise and maximise the Ambassadors for Smart Works Leeds and they will nurture, coordinate and motivate the Smart Works Leeds volunteer community. 

As this is a voluntary, unpaid role it requires a self-starting and proactive approach with the capacity and time to challenge, engage and contribute to the work of the Board in a positive manner. 

It is essential that all applicants believe in the mission of Smart Works and align with our core values, share a commitment to fairness and to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion, acting at all times with honesty and integrity. 

If you possess the relevant experience and are seeking to give something back to the community in Yorkshire, then we would love to hear from you. Please note, you do not need to have previous experience of sitting on a board to join us although it would be an advantage.

We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, disabled candidates, and candidates with lived experience of unemployment, because we would like to increase the representation of these groups at Smart Works.

How to Apply  

Please visit our website or click "Apply Now" to find out more information - we can't wait to hear from you.

Are you passionate about making a difference in your local community? Do you possess the skills, knowledge, and commitment to help shape the future of community initiatives? If so, Broxbourne Big Local (BBL) is seeking enthusiastic individuals like you to join our team of Trustees.

About Broxbourne Big Local: Broxbourne Big Local is dedicated to proactively meeting the needs of the people in the borough. Our primary objective is to provide valuable opportunities and services centred around the Wormley Community Centre, to expand our reach across the borough in the future. Our current Trustees, who are local residents deeply invested in community welfare, have successfully prevented the demolition of the Wormley Community Centre and secured a 999-year lease, marking a significant milestone in our journey.

The Role: As a Trustee of Broxbourne Big Local, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of our organisation. Working alongside like-minded individuals, you will contribute to the ongoing development and sustainability of the Wormley Community Centre and our broader community initiatives. Your responsibilities will include strategic planning, financial oversight, and ensuring that our activities align with our charitable objectives.

How to Apply: If you are excited about the opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of Broxbourne Big Local, you can find more information in the Trustee recruitment pack.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Join Us: Be a part of a dynamic team dedicated to building a cohesive and sustainable community in the Borough of Broxbourne. Your knowledge, skills, and talent can make a meaningful difference. Join Broxbourne Big Local today and help shape a brighter future for all.

3x Trustees - Breakout Youth

Breakout Youth is a registered charity that provides services and facilities for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Questioning (LGBTQ+) young people.  Breakout Youth supports and advocates for LGBTQ+ young people by providing safe spaces, education, and promoting awareness as a visible, current, inclusive, and trusted LGBTQ+ charity.

Specifically, it is seeking Trustees with either fundraising or human resources experience to drive activity in these crucial areas. Although, it is also seeking general Trustees to join its growing team.

Trustee

We’re looking for trustees​

I’m Nick, Chair of the Board of Trustees for We The Curious. We are looking for individuals to join us on the board who are passionate about creating a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future through science and creative experiences.​

Since the temporary closure of our venue due to fire and water damage, we have been working hard to continue our mission with our 'out and about' activity as well as focussing on reimagining our strategic plan (Plan 2030) and governance.

We are now on the cusp of reopening our iconic Bristol venue, and as we do, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to our strategy and help us create a place where everyone is included, curious and inspired by science.

We have newfound opportunities and challenges ahead and we need people with fresh perspectives and skills . As a trustee, you’ll share our values, be motivated, and have a positively questioning mind to help us realise our vision.  You can find more about our history and who we are here.

If you feel energised by our charity and this opportunity, then we’d love to hear from you!

Nick Jones, Chair of Board of Trustees, We The Curious​

What is a trustee?​

Trustees have overall control of a charity and are responsible for making sure it’s doing what it was set up to do. They may be known by other titles, such as:

Directors, board members, governors, committee members

Whatever they are called, trustees are the people who work with our experienced leadership team to provide support, encouragement, challenge when needed and help to decide how the charity is run. Being a trustee means making decisions that will impact on people’s lives. Depending on what the charity does, you will be making a difference to your local community or to society as a whole.

Trustees use their skills and experience to support their charities, helping them achieve their aims. Trustees also often learn new skills during their time on the board.

About We The Curious​

We The Curious is an educational charity and one of the UK’s leading science centres. 

We produce experiences that bring people together to play, get creative with science and explore different ideas around science, technology, natural history and the environment.

We work with partners, locally and nationally, supporting people to be inquisitive, develop new skills and improve their wellbeing.

We are progressive, inquisitive, collaborative, playful and creative.

Vision

​What if everyone is included, curious, inspired by science to build a better world together?

Mission​

Our aim is to connect and empower people through sharing creative experiences which celebrate unknowns in science.

Our work as a charity is driven by five key pledges:

_Cultivate Curiosity

_Include Everyone

_Open Up Science

_Sustainable Futures

_Build Resilience

You can find out more about these in our Manifesto.

What will you do in this role?​

As a trustee you will provide advice, knowledge and support to the leadership team at We The Curious.

With the steer of the Chair, the board of trustees ensures we pursue our purpose responsibly, are compliant with our governing documents, charity law and other relevant legislation. The board will review and advise on best practice and appropriate policies and procedures and uphold excellent governance.

As a trustee you will:​

_Contribute individual skills and knowledge in support of the vision and strategic delivery

_Uphold the values of We The Curious

_Safeguard and advocate for the work and vision of We The Curious

_Act as ambassadors locally, nationally and internationally

_Assist with the evaluation and review of the policies, goals and targets of the organisation

_Encourage investment and growth

_Drive innovation and change

_Oversee the effective and efficient administration of the organisation and long-term financial stability

_Contribute to working groups for specific focus on projects

All Trustees should use their specific skills, knowledge or experience to help the Board of Trustees reach informed decisions in the best interest of We The Curious.

This will involve scrutinising Board papers, leading discussion and providing guidance as requested by the Board on new initiatives or other issues relevant to the area of our work in which the trustee has expertise.

Time commitment

​_We hold quarterly board meetings, typically from 4pm to 7pm and one strategy away day per year. Trustees are expected to attend and contribute to all meetings either in person or by joining virtually.

_ Board Meetings are located at the We The Curious offices within the science centre in central Bristol, and once a year at another location around the City.

_ You will also be asked to take part in one of our subcommittee meetings which take place online, at least once per quarter. There are currently sub-committees for Finance & Risk Assurance and Purpose Strategy.

_ You may also be called upon for advice or assistance by the leadership team or to attend occasional events.

Remuneration

​This is a voluntary role. Reasonable travel expenses will be covered. Food is provided at the quarterly Board meetings and strategy away days.

You will have:​​​​​​​

_Free entry to our venue during opening hours

_12 tickets per calendar year to give away

_20% off in the We The Curious shop at our venue and online

_Free parking at Millennium Square car park for meetings

_Secure cycle storage

Terms of appointment​

_Trustees are appointed to an initial three-year term of service (including a 12-month probationary period).

_Trustees can serve a maximum of six years with a reappointment after the first term of three years unless the trustee holds an office, such as Chair or Deputy Chair, in which case they would be eligible for a further three-year term. The maximum term of office is nine years. 

Probationary period

​This post is subject to a 12-month probationary period.

What we're looking for from you​

We have created a bold new Plan 2030 strategy, and we are looking for people that embody our values and have some of these skills/knowledge to help achieve it.

You will:​

_Embody our values. Collaborative, Creative, Inquisitive, Playful and Progressive

_Be committed to our vision and key manifesto pledges of Cultivating Curiosity, Including Everyone, Open Up Science, Strive for Sustainable Futures and Build Resilience

_Have a positively questioning mind to help We The Curious fulfil its  vision

_Act with integrity and in the best interests of We The Curious at all times

_Work effectively as a member of a team and take decisions for the good of We The Curious

Skills/Knowledge

​We want to ensure that our board bring a variety of skills and knowledge to We The Curious. We are particularly looking for people to join us who have skills/knowledge in any of the following areas:

_Disability awareness

_Finance and accountancy

_IT (Information Technology)

_Legal Media/PR (Public Relations) 

_People management

_Property management

_Science communication Science industry research 

_Sustainability and climate action

_Surveying / Architecture 

_Venue operations

_Education and learning

Including everyone

​We want our people to reflect our city and build a place where everyone feels like they can belong. But we know that our organisation doesn’t yet represent the rich experiences and cultures of Bristol. We think when our board reflects our city it will lead to innovative , well informed and better decision making. We’ll be more resilient, inclusive, and better equipped to fulfil our vision and mission.

We especially want to hear from you if​

_You identify as and/or have lived experiences with either:  African and African Caribbean heritage, Carers, d/Deaf, Disabled, East Asian heritage, Global majority, LGBTQIA+ and/or non-binary, Neurodivergent, South Asian heritage, under 40, Visually impaired, Woman, Working Class

We are also working with Rising Arts to recruit two young people (18-25) to our board this year. 

I’ve never been a trustee before, should I apply? 

​Yes! If you feel you connect with these values or have some the skills/knowledge we are looking for, then we’d love to hear from you.

You just need to be at least 18 years old. You don’t need formal qualifications, or previous trustee experience or a science background or have reached any stage in your career. We’ll give you training on good governance and opportunities for mentorship. This opportunity would suit someone who is new to governance or hasn’t been a trustee before. 

If you are an aspiring trustee or want to know more about trustees, you may find these resources from Getting on Board useful.

Supporting you​

Training​

If you join the board, you will have an induction and onboarding experience to support you with your role and get you connected with the rest of the organisation.

If you are a first-time trustee or want a refresher, we will provide you with training on good governance and other topics related to your role. We will also provide you with mentorship from other members of the board.

Application process​

Deadline for applications: Wednesday 18 March

Interview date(s) and location:  Week commencing 15 April

Start date:  6 May 2024. Induction will take place over 2 weeks with first board meeting to attend on Thursday 23 May 2024.

To Apply:​

If you would like to apply, please click on 'Apply via Webiste' and follow instructions on the job description. It contains questions designed to assess your experience and suitability for the role. You have the option to answer these questions in a written format or by submitting your responses by video or audio. 

Please do not send in CVs or covering letters as we don’t review them.

If you are invited for an informal interview with members of the board of trustees and staff of We The Curious, we’ll send you the questions that you’ll be asked beforehand so that you have time to prepare.

We appreciate interviews can be stressful so we try to make them more of a conversation and a chance for you to tell us about how your qualifications, skills and experience make you the right person for the role.​

If you have any particular needs or requirements, please do let us know so we are able to make the required adjustments.

If you would like to talk about the role or application process, please email people(at)wethecurious(dot)org.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Trustee Vacancies

Showroom Work Station

(Sheffield Media and Exhibition Centre)

Showroom Work Station is a registered charity and a cultural hub for South Yorkshire and the North of England. 

Located in a converted 1930’s art deco building, the venue is home to a four-screen cinema, creative industries business centre, event space, and café bar, in the heart of Sheffield city centre. 

We are looking to recruit new Trustees to join our board.  We are particularly keen to hear from anyone with knowledge and understanding of major capital projects, fundraising or the hospitality sector.  However, if you don’t have expertise in any of these areas, but still feel that you have something to offer, please still get in touch.  This is a unique opportunity to join a creative and passionate team and help shape the future of the organisation.

As a trustee you will oversee the operation of a major cultural cinema exhibiting a diverse film programme with first run and retrospectives of curated work, including archive, documentaries, and many unique one-off programmes with regular visiting filmmakers.  We are home to some very successful film festivals and host many unique events each month.

Through our trading subsidiary, we also manage the Work Station creative industries business centre, operate a successful bar/café, and conferencing facilities.

Our Trustees work closely with the Chair, Chief Executive and Senior Management Team to provide clear strategic direction to the organisation, helping to agree policy, define goals, set targets, and evaluate performance.

As with all our Trustees, we are looking for candidates who can demonstrate excellent communication skills and have a good understanding of local, regional, and cultural agendas.

Trustees are required to attend approximately 5 Board meetings per year (usually held on the last Monday of the month, 6 pm – 8 pm) and to offer relevant support and specialist knowledge to enable us to meet the objectives of our business. 

The post is not paid but all Trustees receive invitations to special events and have a weekly allocation of free cinema tickets (subject to availability).

Application process:

Please download our full application pack and equal opportunities form from the vacancies page of the Showroom Workstation, Sheffield website.

To apply please provide the following:

• A comprehensive CV or biography (a statement outlining your roles, responsibilities, and achievements in the organisations in which you currently and previously worked). Please include details of any service as a Board Trustee or any other voluntary/community work.
• Our completed equal opportunities monitoring form.  This information will be treated as confidential and used for statistical purposes only.
• Daytime and evening contact telephone numbers that will be used with discretion.

Closing date: Please submit your application by midday on Wednesday 8th May 2024 to Julie Simpson

For an informal conversation about the role prior to submitting your application please contact Ian Wild, Chief Executive.

Showroom Work Station, 15 Paternoster Row, Sheffield, S1 2BX

Sheffield Media and Exhibition Centre Limited is a registered charity, number 100 2020

Type: Voluntary Position

Location: Board meetings are a mixture of online or in person (Edinburgh)

Closing Date: Midday, Tuesday 21st May

withYOU are a social care charity giving over a thousand people in Edinburgh and the Lothians the support they need to live as independently as possible, providing care that makes a positive impact to the lives of vulnerable people.

The Charity are dedicated to delivering exceptional care through high quality, personalised services, that enable the people they support to live their best lives. withYOU work with people experiencing different levels of vulnerability, from those with lifelong support needs to those experiencing homelessness for the first time.

They do this across three core service areas – homelessness, prevention and housing support, learning disability and neurodiversity, and older age care.

With a strong senior leadership team and 250 multi-skilled staff, withYOU are an ambitious organisation undertaking a substantial transformation and improvement programme to expand their services and work towards a bigger and brighter future. We are looking for several trustees to join their board of trustees who can play an integral role in governing the charity.

The Role of Trustee

 

The withYOU Board plays a vital role in providing leadership and direction to the organisation. As a trustee, you will contribute to determining strategy, ensuring the availability of resources, and promoting high standards of governance to comply with legal and regulatory requirements. You will work collectively with other board members to monitor performance, assess risks, and oversee the implementation of innovative approaches to service provision and business development.

The role of Board Member is non-executive and unpaid; the Senior Leadership Team, led by the Chief Executive Officer, is responsible for operational management within a framework of controls established by the Board. In practice, the Board and CEO work in partnership to develop innovative approaches to business development and delivery and to safeguard the organisation’s future.

We are particularly interested in those who come from a background in: health and social care, finance, HR/organisational development, business development and risk/assessment.

Additionally, if you come from a different background but are enthusiastic about withYOU's work and believe you can contribute energy and value to their mission, we encourage you to get in touch.

Previous Trustee experience or senior managerial experience is not essential, what we value are individuals who have a keen interest in supporting the growth of withYOU through their unique skill sets, a strong commitment to deliver high-quality care and alignment to their values.

Board meetings are a mixture of online and in person in Edinburgh, there are a minimum of 6 meetings per year with additional time required for various events e.g., recruitment to senior roles, site/service visits, training and development. The estimated time commitment per month is 2.5-5 hours. The term is four years, with an option to extend for another term.

How to Apply:

Please contact us to request an information pack, full job description and person specification.

Closing Date: Midday, Friday 24th May

This search is being conducted exclusively for withYOU by BTA (Bruce Tait Associates). Our leadership team have all worked in the voluntary sector and we use this experience to match organisations and individuals to create great appointments.

Willow, a charity that provides special days and experiences for seriously ill young people, seeks to appoint two new board members to help scrutinise and enhance its fundraising strategy.

Willow was founded in 1999 by former Arsenal goalkeeper and TV presenter, Bob Wilson and his wife, Megs, as a lasting memorial to their daughter, Anna, who died of cancer aged 31. Anna's 'special days', memorable times she spent with family and friends during this time, was the inspiration for this special charity.

We are keen to hear from candidates who have skills or expertise in the following or similar areas:

Worked as a senior fundraiser in a charity with a range of public fundraising methods, and are used to setting targets and reviewing the effectiveness of different streams of income.

Served on, or supported a range of charity boards and are familiar with charity regulation, including the Charity Commission, HMRC and the Fundraising Regulator. We anticipate that you will join Willow’s governance committee and perhaps serve as a future Chair or Deputy Chair

A Senior Leader (CEO, Executive Director, Fundraising Director) from the charity sector, with particular expertise in fundraising and the use of technology to engage supporters

Trustees will be able to:

Identify with, and be motivated by, the values and objectives of Willow

Think innovatively, critically, independently and strategically, with the ability and a proven track record of translating strategy into operational plans

Demonstrate a consultative, strategic and supportive style

Demonstrate Nolan’s seven principles of public life, namely: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership