Trustee Volunteer Roles

South West Advocacy Network (SWAN) want to strengthen their Board of Trustees with up to 4 new Trustee appointments, including a Treasurer. These are voluntary positions and provide opportunity to help SWAN to develop its strategic direction and sustain innovative services to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, primarily, but not solely, in counties across the South of England.

SWAN began life in Wiltshire and over the past 25 years has expanded into Somerset, Bristol, Dorset, Isle of Wight, West Berkshire and Portsmouth. We deliver high quality, independent advocacy services supporting a diverse range of vulnerable people. We have developed a model of advocacy which ensures everyone, including the most marginalised, have the same rights and opportunities as their fellow citizens. Our services are free at the point of delivery, confidential and non-judgemental.

We work with people from all walks of life and have already supported thousands of the most disadvantaged people to have their voice heard and their choices respected by those that are making decisions about their future.

We are looking for dynamic and empathetic people to become trustees within our organisation, people who have the passion and drive to support SWAN and help us to ensure that the voices around our Board table reflect and understand the communities we work in. We would encourage people from all sections of our communities to apply , but particularly Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic, disabled, and LGBTQ+ applicants because these groups are currently under-represented on our Board. We are happy to accept applications from people without prior Board experience but who can evidence their commitment to our purpose, values and ambitions and show a willingness to learn in the role.

The organisation is led and managed by the Chief Executive and the Executive Team who oversee the delivery of our services and the infrastructure that underpins them, and we believe that this, coupled with sound governance, will help us to achieve our vision and maximise our reach and impact.

We are looking for individuals who can demonstrate some of the following:

• Experiences that will bring different perspectives to our organisation i.e. being a member of , or working in, diverse or minority communities.

• Having direct experience of using advocacy or support services

• An understanding of, or interest in, the lives of vulnerable adults including those who have been  victims of hate crime

• An understanding of, or interest in, the wider voluntary sector

• A commitment and willingness to improving the lives of vulnerable people

• Integrity, strategic vision and relationship building skills

• Governance, finance, and/or entrepreneurial experience

• Good communication skills and knowing how to work as part of a team

· For the treasurer role some experience of managing and understanding budgets and financial reports would also be required.

Time commitment averages 1 day a month, meeting locations are flexible and either face to face or virtual. Trustee expenses, including travel are paid.

Please note that for safeguarding purposes, all our roles require a current DBS check.

If you believe you would add value to our Board we would love to hear from you. Please contact Sarah Gibson for further information on how to apply.

South West Advocacy Network (SWAN) want to strengthen their Board of Trustees with up to 4 new Trustee appointments, including a Treasurer. These are voluntary positions and provide opportunity to help SWAN to develop its strategic direction and sustain innovative services to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, primarily, but not solely, in counties across the South of England.

SWAN began life in Wiltshire and over the past 25 years has expanded into Somerset, Bristol, Dorset, Isle of Wight, West Berkshire and Portsmouth. We deliver high quality, independent advocacy services supporting a diverse range of vulnerable people. We have developed a model of advocacy which ensures everyone, including the most marginalised, have the same rights and opportunities as their fellow citizens. Our services are free at the point of delivery, confidential and non-judgemental.

We work with people from all walks of life and have already supported thousands of the most disadvantaged people to have their voice heard and their choices respected by those that are making decisions about their future.

We are looking for dynamic and empathetic people to become trustees within our organisation, people who have the passion and drive to support SWAN and help us to ensure that the voices around our Board table reflect and understand the communities we work in. We would encourage people from all sections of our communities to apply , but particularly Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic, disabled, and LGBTQ+ applicants because these groups are currently under-represented on our Board. We are happy to accept applications from people without prior Board experience but who can evidence their commitment to our purpose, values and ambitions and show a willingness to learn in the role.

The organisation is led and managed by the Chief Executive and the Executive Team who oversee the delivery of our services and the infrastructure that underpins them, and we believe that this, coupled with sound governance, will help us to achieve our vision and maximise our reach and impact.

We are looking for individuals who can demonstrate some of the following:

• Experiences that will bring different perspectives to our organisation i.e. being a member of , or working in, diverse or minority communities.

• Having direct experience of using advocacy or support services

• An understanding of, or interest in, the lives of vulnerable adults including those who have been  victims of hate crime

• An understanding of, or interest in, the wider voluntary sector

• A commitment and willingness to improving the lives of vulnerable people

• Integrity, strategic vision and relationship building skills

• Governance, finance, and/or entrepreneurial experience

• Good communication skills and knowing how to work as part of a team

· For the treasurer role some experience of managing and understanding budgets and financial reports would also be required.

Time commitment averages 1 day a month, meeting locations are flexible and either face to face or virtual. Trustee expenses, including travel are paid.                                                            

Please note that for safeguarding purposes, all our roles require a current DBS check.

If you believe you would add value to our Board we would love to hear from you. Please contact Sarah Gibson for further information on how to apply.

We are looking for people from all walks of life, ages and experience To represent, fundraise, promote and elevate the boroughs of Newham, Hackney, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest, East Bank and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

The Foundation for Future London is recruiting 3 unpaid roles: Finance Trustee and 2 Trustees to join the Board Ambassadors, a new voluntary role made up of East London’s most dedicated, passionate advocates

The Survivors Trust is keen to find someone with a finance background to join our active and highly motivated Trustee Board.We really welcome the insight and drive that survivors can bring to our work and are keen to promote diversity on the Board.

The Survivors Trust is a national membership organisation for specialist voluntary sector rape and sexual abuse support services in the UK and Ireland.  We have 120+ member agencies who are all independent charities providing a range of counselling, support and advocacy services for women, men, children and young people, partners and family members who have been affected by sexual violence of any kind at any time in their lives.

The impact of sexual violence of any form, whether experienced as an adult or as a child, can be devastating and can last a lifetime. Survivors may experience a wide range of physical and mental health problems as a result of being sexually violated, affecting every aspect of their health, lives, relationships, education and work.  We aim to raise awareness of the support survivors need and the work of our Member Agencies in providing this crucial help.

TST is in the unique position of having member agencies that are working with all victims and survivors of sexual violence and sexual abuse.  We are well aware of the issues facing organisations that are delivering trauma informed services and can support them and policy makers and commissioners to understand how services need to be developed and provided.  TST is an independent inspection body for our UKAS accredited service standards for specialist sexual violence organisations.

We provide an accredited Diploma for Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) and CPD accredited workshops.  We have also established a quality mark for educational establishments and corporate organisations, our Trauma Informed Educator and Trauma Informed Employer Quality Marks (TIE).

The right candidate will need to make a pesonal commitment to our work and to support our vision and values with compassion and empathy.  They will need to be willing to work with the other Trustees, the Chief Executive and staff team, acting as an ambassador for TST and helping to support our collaboration with partners and secure funds to deliver our objectives.

Demelza Charity is seeking high calibre individuals to join our team of Trustees.
 
Demelza is an inclusive organisation, and we are committed to building a representative workplace, ensuring that we reflect the diversity of the children, families, and communities we support.
 
We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply for positions at Demelza and we celebrate the value of difference.
 
You do not need previous Trustee experience.  We offer comprehensive training and we pay all out of pocket expenses. Time commitment is up to 2 days every 3 months, broken down into meetings of around 2 hours and reading papers beforehand.  All dates are given one year in advance.
 
This year we have added targeting to our general trustee recruitment by looking for talented individuals with expertise in the following specific areas, to support our vital work in providing expert palliative and end of life care to babies, children and young people and support to their families. 
 
•        Do you have senior nursing expertise at board level or equivalent, with oversight for 
        clinical governance/quality.  You will support delivery of the clinical strategy with the 
        highest quality and user experience.  You will have excellent safeguarding expertise.
 
•        Medical expertise to strengthen the clinical strategy delivery and support a multi 
        disciplinary approach.  Your expertise might come from any relevant medical discipline – 
        eg paediatrician, critical care, any area of acute medicine.
 
•        Are you a senior experienced retailer, familiar with all aspects of maximising profitability 
        and positive customer experience.  You will help us to maximise the financial, 
        reputational and PR opportunities of our suite of retail outlets and optimise the model to 
        support growth.
 
•        We seek professional fundraising expertise for an income stream in excess of several 
        £million.  You will support the broad portfolio to strengthen and sustain the Charity for 
        the future.
 
•        Communications expertise to help us deliver a concise message to all our stakeholders.
        You will have previous senior level experience of delivering key messages and developing 
        a tone of voice that is inclusive and compelling to all involved with Demelza.
 
You may have other valuable skills.
 
Closing date 26th May 2024, interviews to follow.

Are you passionate about making a meaningful difference in your community? Do you have expertise in finance and a desire to contribute to a cause that positively impacts lives? If so, we invite you to join our team as a Finance Trustee for our esteemed charity which is going through a period of renewal! We are developing a series of social enmterprise hubs across the country.

At Toc H, we are dedicated to serving local people through our social enterprise hubs across the country. Our organisation has been serving the community for over 100 years, providing essential services and support to those in need.

Role Description: As a Finance Trustee, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the financial integrity and sustainability of our charity. Your responsibilities will include:

• Overseeing the financial management and reporting processes.
• Reviewing and approving budgets, financial statements, and financial policies.
• Providing strategic guidance on financial planning, and risk assessment.
• Collaborating with the finance team and fellow trustees to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Representing the charity at finance-related meetings and events.

Qualifications:

• Strong background in finance, accounting, or related field.
• Previous experience serving on a board of trustees or similar governance role preferred.
• Knowledge of nonprofit financial management practices and regulations.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to the mission and values of the charity.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Why Join Us:

• Make a meaningful impact: Your expertise will directly contribute to advancing our mission and helping those in need.
• Professional development: Gain valuable experience and expand your skill set in nonprofit governance and finance.
• Networking opportunities: Connect with fellow trustees, staff members, and community partners who share your passion for making a difference.
• Fulfillment: Experience the satisfaction of knowing that your contributions are making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Join us in our commitment to creating positive change and building a brighter future for our community.

Established in 1988, Nene Park Trust serves as the proud provider of Nene Park and an exciting and growing portfolio of other spaces, places, and ground-breaking regional initiatives. As a Trust, we believe that Nene Park is the Crown Jewel of the region. Our mission is to safeguard and nurture the park indefinitely. We’re proud to offer inspiring programmes within our environmentally rich spaces to connect people meaningfully with nature, culture, and heritage.

The Park is also a haven for wildlife, providing the community of the City of Peterborough with high quality green spaces and recreational venues.  

We are now looking for our next Chair to provide leadership to a substantial and committed Board, oversee the development of the organisation, and support our collaboration with partners and our vibrant Peterborough communities. Your commercial acumen and commitment to our vision will ensure we remain aligned to the big picture, whilst delivering results.

The Trust has crafted an ambitious and progressive Nene Park ‘Master Plan’, a visionary blueprint which takes us well beyond our historic boundaries. As our new Chair, you will foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability, enabling us to tackle a spectrum of challenges, identify new opportunities, and journey towards a bright and sustainable future.

You will be a credible and influential leader with well-honed strategic skills. With a deep commitment to the Trust’s mission, you will have the skills to act as critical friend, guiding and supporting us in the execution of our Master Plan and to achieve our broader priorities. A background in conservation or heritage is not strictly necessary – you may have worked in business, in public service or in the voluntary sector. Wherever you are now, you will be someone who inspires confidence quickly with funders, partners, and supporters, and who has a down to earth personal style.

Closing date: Friday 24th May 2024

About The Outrunners

The Outrunners support young people to get outdoors, get moving, and build the futures they want - all through the power of running, movement and the community. Our vision is a London where everyone is included and no one is left behind. 

The young people we work with have incredible talent, creativity and energy but don’t get the opportunities they need because of deep structural disadvantages - racism, sexism and financial inequality.

We harness the collective energy of the running world to change that: helping young people access fun, accessible movement and running, access opportunities that help them build the futures they want, and work to change how their local area supports them. 

Driven by young people themselves, we are building a community that moves together: removing barriers to participation in running and movement; building connections in London’s diverse neighbourhoods; creating pathways to help young people achieve their ambitions; and driving change to tackle disadvantage and make running truly inclusive. Last year, we supported over 350 young people across our programmes. 

In the 5 years that The Outrunners has existed, we have rapidly caught the attention of the running world and have grown quickly, thanks to the impactful support of major brands, races, the wider running world and the philanthropic and community sectors. We now have significant partnerships with Nike and The London Marathon that are taking us to the next level.

We have an experienced team, a growing basis of dedicated supporters, connections in the running and sports world and a strong income pipeline for 2024/25.

Why do we need new Trustees?

We are at the next stage of our development and want to bring on board the expertise and skills that can support and guide our growth. With our strong partnership, increasing influence, and growing network of supporters, we have a major opportunity to grow our impact in the coming years. 

We want to ensure that The Outrunners are equipped to maximise this opportunity to support more young people and drive real structural change in the running world and beyond. 

What we need from our Trustees?

Trustees must be people with independent judgement, an ability to speak their mind and a willingness to use their knowledge, experience, and networks to support The Outrunners.

Although not essential, we are particularly interested in trustees with either of the following skills and experience: 

1. Experience navigating periods of rapid growth and scaling, including continuing to secure the resources that are required to do this sustainably and managing the risks this entails. We envisage candidates with this experience might have experience in finance, tech, or running or investing in start-ups; or

2. Experience influencing and driving positive change in sports, (particularly change that supports under-represented groups) to access better support and greater opportunities. We envisage candidates who have experience within the running world (or similar sports) with the brands, races, events or media.

Beyond this, the things we need from our Trustees are:

• A passion for shaping a different future for young people and having a positive impact in local communities

• An understanding of the challenges facing young people in Hackney, and an insight into how The Outrunners Charity can best add value to supporting the future generations around us. 

• The ability to support and guide our organisation’s learning and impact upon the community around us and to think strategically and creatively about the challenges and opportunities ahead

• An appreciation of charity finance that would contribute to our Finance Committee’s robust scrutiny and strengths in navigating our finances, operating environment and fundraising targets

• An understanding of safeguarding policies and procedures that will ensure the organisation is rigorous in its processes, ensuring the safety of the communities it engages with.

• You will have good listening skills and be able to respect the opinions of others

• You will understand the responsibilities required of a Trustee 

• You will be willing to undertake any necessary training which we require of you

We are not expecting applicants to have all of these qualities; and expect that the best candidates will come with some others. But we hope that our trustees between them will be able to cover all of these key attributes and more.

Above all you need to have genuine enthusiasm and a commitment to achieving the best outcomes for the young people we work with by supporting and guiding our Chief Executive and The Outrunners’ passionate and committed staff and volunteers in their mission to better the lives of marginalised young people in Hackney.

Role Description/Responsibilities:

• Desirable - Someone with experience overseeing raising funds in either the charitable or corporate sectors. 

• Desirable - someone who has previous Trustee experience.

• Work with the existing board of Trustees and comply with the 6 main duties of being a Trustee which are:

1. Ensure your charity is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit

2. Comply with your charity’s governing document and the law

3. Act in your charity’s best interests

4. Manage your charity’s resources responsibly 

5. Act with reasonable care and skill

6. Ensure your charity is accountable

What will you get from us?

The Board is committed to tackling the varied challenges of The Outrunners Charity. 

In return, you will be rewarded by:

• Contributing to making a real difference to the lives of young people in Hackney and beyond;

• Being part of a team of staff and volunteers made up of interesting, skilled experts and working closely with The Outrunners Charity's visionary Chief Executive;

• Receiving an in-depth induction and opportunities to attend a wide selection of events, with a focus on networking, sharing learning and celebrating community and organisational successes;

• Obtaining high-quality safeguarding training as well as a bespoke training programme aimed at understanding the needs of the young people that The Outrunners support; and

• Becoming part of the founding vision of a young and ambitious charity, which has multiple and well-respected local community links, and a chance to influence the direction in which this charity will be heading to.

Time Commitment Expectations:

Board members are expected to attend the four quarterly meetings and AGM, whilst also being flexible and responsive to unexpected changes. Our Board members are active ambassadors for The Outrunners Charity. This means attending and supporting events and taking opportunities to promote and develop the work of The Outrunners Charity through networks and contacts. We therefore ask that Board members commit about 2 days per year to The Outrunners Charity, on top of the four evening Board Meetings a year and an AGM.

The four essential board meetings are 3 hours long. Meetings are held at a date and time which is convenient for all, which is usually a weekday evening, and are held online until it is safe to do so face to face.

Minimum tenure for a Trustee is 2 years.

Valuing Inclusion:

We currently have a very diverse leadership team and we welcome applications from people who are LGBTQ+ and non-binary, people with disabilities, people with mental and physical health conditions and people from Black Asian and Minority Ethnic communities.

Next steps and what to expect:

If you would like to put yourself forward as a potential Trustee please apply with your CV.

Or, if you prefer, you could send us your expression of interest in any other creative way that gets across your background, interest and what you would bring. 

We don’t expect you to cover all the points about The Outrunners, or respond line by line to this job pack – but we do want to hear how you will make a difference to our organisation and to the people we work with, if you become a Trustee.

We will be accepting applications until Sunday 7th April 2024.

Trustee Job Description

Organisation: Walk to Independence (WTI)

About Walk to Independence (WTI):

Walk to Independence (WTI) is an emerging charity committed to bridging the gap in support services for adults with special educational needs (SEN) transitioning out of formal education settings. Our mission is to establish a nurturing environment where SEN individuals can foster independence, empowerment, and community integration. At WTI, we prioritise upholding the rights of individuals with SEN, ensuring their autonomy, dignity, and inclusion in society.

Position Overview:

WTI is in the process of establishment and is actively seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to serve as founding trustees. Trustees play a pivotal role in steering the strategic direction, governance, and oversight of the organisation, particularly in the crucial phase of charity registration.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership: Provide strategic direction and leadership to guide WTI in achieving its mission and objectives.

Governance: Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, as well as governing documents and policies, especially during the charity registration process.

Financial Oversight: Monitor and review financial performance, including budgets, financial statements, and controls, to ensure fiscal responsibility.

Fundraising and Development: Support fundraising efforts and contribute to the development of sustainable funding streams crucial for WTI's activities and growth.

Risk Management: Identify and mitigate risks that may affect operations, reputation, or financial stability, particularly during the organisation's infancy.

Advocacy and Networking: Represent WTI externally, advocating for the rights and needs of individuals with SEN, and establish partnerships with stakeholders, funders, and community organisations.

Support and Evaluation: Guide the executive team, staff, and volunteers, and participate in evaluating WTI's programs and services.

Qualifications:

Passion for the mission and values of WTI, including a commitment to the rights and inclusion of individuals with SEN.

Previous experience in governance, leadership, or management roles, preferably within the charity sector or relevant field.

Excellent communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills.

Ability to think strategically, analyse complex issues, and make informed decisions.

Willingness to dedicate time and effort to fulfil trustee responsibilities effectively, especially during the charity registration process.

Knowledge of fundraising, financial management, or legal matters is desirable but not essential.

Time Commitment: Trustees are expected to attend regular board meetings (approximately 4-6 times per year), participate in committee work or working groups as needed, and engage in occasional ad hoc tasks or events. The time commitment may vary but is estimated to be approximately 5-10 hours per month on average.

Location: The role of trustee is primarily remote, with occasional in-person meetings or events in London as required.

Chair of the Board of Trustees, Alternatives to Violence Project Britain

The Alternatives to Violence Project is a network of skilled volunteers who run workshops for anyone who wants to find ways of resolving conflict without resorting to violence. We work in the community and in prisons.

What difference will you make?

 

The Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) serves people who want to handle conflict well without using or suffering violence, whether physical or psychological. Our trained volunteer facilitators deliver intensive, low-cost, conflict-resolution skills workshops in the community, in prisons and in other settings. We reach diverse communities, attracting people from across a wide spectrum of ages, ethnic backgrounds, and socio-economic backgrounds.

What will you be doing?

The overall role of the chair is to lead the Board as it sets strategic direction and oversees the good governance of the charity. You will be responsible for ensuring that the organisation is following correct governance and meeting its charitable obligations.

This is an active role, where time will need to be invested regularly outside of meetings to support this small charity.

In addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee, duties of the Chair include the following:

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

• Chairing and facilitating board meetings

• Giving direction to board policy-making

• Checking that decisions taken at meetings are implemented

• Representing the organisation at functions and meetings, and acting as a spokesperson as appropriate

• Bringing impartiality and objectivity to decision-making

• Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and other general meetings where required, for example annual general meeting

• Organise & run board and other general meetings

• Developing the board of trustees including induction, training, appraisal and succession planning

• Addressing conflict within the board and within the organisation, and liaising with the chief executive to achieve this

• Working closely with paid stuff to ensure charity stays on track vs it's objectives

What are we looking for?

We are looking for an individual who will be committed to AVPB cause and has the following skills:

• Leadership skills

• Experience of committee work

• Tact and diplomacy

• Good communication and interpersonal skills

• Impartiality, fairness and ability to resolve differences

It would be a significant advantage if you have experience of chairing a trustee board or comparable body. (e.g Chair of School Governors, Parish or Town Council Chair etc). Also advantageous would be a background in health or social care.

Where you will be working

London, N1 6HT

Mainly at home, or remote opportunity.

All our board meetings are currently held online. We can occasionally gather for an annual event.

Time

Mostly outside office hours

Estimate of time needed:

1-3 hours / week

Term

 Our trustees’ roles have initial term of three years, with the possibility of renewal for further 3 years.

Remuneration

The role of the Chair is not accompanied by any financial remuneration.

Before you apply

Please submit your CV along with a short covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills would add value to the board.

Harrow Food Bank is part of the Trussell Trust - a network of over 1300 food bank centres in the UK. Between April 2022 and March 2023, food banks provided almost 3 million food supplies to people in crisis. 

Harrow Food Bank requires two Trustees to support the Chair and current members who can support the existing Trustees:

Administrator / Secretary: to lead on all the administrative duties of the food bank and Trustee Board, ensure all meetings are conducted within the legal requirements and a record of all meetings maintained. Key roles & responsibilities:

1. Arrange and communicate dates for all Trustee Meetings, circulating papers in advance

2. Follow up on the agreed actions from meetings and keep an accurate ‘action log’

3. Ensure all stakeholders are informed of the AGM and that the AGM report is submitted to all relevant bodies

Treasurer: to lead on the financial affairs of the foodbank and to ensure that they are conducted within the required legal accounting and good practice conventions. Key roles & responsibilities:

1. Ensure that the Food Bank has proper systems for budgeting, financial controls, insurance and reporting

2. Produce and present regular finance reports for the Trustees Board Meetings

3. Maintain accurate financial records as report in a timely manner to all relevant bodies

Chair of Trustees - Sansara

SANSARA is a vocal collective making choral music that matters, giving voice to powerful human stories.

It is recruiting for a new Chair of Trustees to chair its board that has strong governance, public health, finance, and creative arts experience, from the 1st of August 2024 or earlier, as the current Chair resigns on the 31st July 2024.

Choirs are living, breathing instruments with unmatched expressive potential. SANSARA channels this creative force to present compelling choral experiences at the highest level, from intimate a cappella performances to immersive electronic soundscapes and critically acclaimed recordings. Its core projects fuse artistic excellence with social engagement.

Every 6 minutes someone learns that they are losing their sight. Every five hours, a baby is born with sight problems. In these moments, two profound questions emerge:

• Can this be stopped?

• How do I (or my child) live this life?

The merger of Fight for Sight and Vision Foundation, which took place on 1st April 2023, will enable us to address both questions. By combining our strengths and expertise we are now the only significant national funder with the efficiency,

capability, and capacity to increase investment in medical research and social improvement. Together we can mitigate both the prevalence and impact of sight loss. We have a clear ambition – to save sight and to change lives.

We are now seeking up to four new trustees as we establish ourselves in our new form and under our new name (soon to be announced). This is an exciting inflection point for us, and our new trustees will be central in enabling us to achieve our ambition.

We have worked through our merger and have a clear focus and vision, as well as a strong Board and senior leadership team, all of whom are ambitious for the potential impact we can make. Our re-brand will also enable us to amplify our position as a leader within the sight loss sector. Our merger was a critical step in accelerating research which will create a positive impact on the lives of millions of people. We do not want this opportunity to pass us by and that’s what makes these such an important and exciting roles for the right people.

As a trustee, you will have the opportunity to steer the course of our charity and our sector, shaping our strategies, and advocating for meaningful change. You will be help us be a driving force behind world leading research into sight loss prevention, and transformative initiatives that enhance the quality of life for countless individuals.

We are particularly seeking individuals who have a medical or scientific research background, ideally in ophthalmology, and those who have experience in retail and fundraising. If you want to be part of something that will really make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.

“I extend a heartfelt invitation to those who share our commitment to making a profound difference in the lives of individuals affected by sight loss. Our journey towards a future where eye diseases are prevented and the challenges faced by the visually impaired are overcome requires the collective effort of dedicated individuals. We are seeking trustees who are not only passionate advocates for our cause but also possess the vision, expertise, and dedication to guide and govern our organisation. Your unique perspectives and skills will play a pivotal role in shaping and defining our impact for years to come.”

Dr Heather Giles, Chair

“Our two organisations came together to form a new dynamic, ambitious, entrepreneurial, impact-driven organisation to save sight and change lives. We are searching for trustees that can join us, and be at the forefront of creating the culture, the outlook and the methods of working and the operations to truly make a difference in society.”

Keith Valentine, CEO

 

ABOUT US 

We are a new organisation forged from two ambitious charities: Fight for Sight and Vision Foundation. Our single, unifying mission is to save sight and change lives.

It is a mission that reflects two urgent questions everyone faces when they receive a diagnosis of sight loss: ‘How do I stop this?’ and ‘How do I live my life?’

Answering these questions guides our strategy as we progress a five-year plan with solid and lofty aspirations.

THE MERGER

Fight for Sight funds breakthrough research and life-changing services to build a more equitable future for blind and partially sighted people by accelerating breakthroughs in multiple sight loss conditions.

Vision Foundation works to inform, include and empower the visually impaired community. Empowerment is at the heart of what we do; our work focuses on what people can do, rather than what they can’t.

The merger will help us to realise a joint ambition to tackle sight loss from both a clinical and social perspective. Our combined organisation is now grounded in data and insight into the science, as well as the lived experience of, sight loss. With this wealth of evidence we’re determined to:

- generate further investment into the sector,

- accelerate clinical progress,

- improve quality of life for people facing or living with sight loss

Crucially, coming together is about growing our influence and impact, not reducing or diluting what we do. So, as we evolve as a merged organisation, we are combining our teams, announcing our new name and fine-tuning our unified

mission and strategy – as well as continuing with the important work we’re already committed to – you can expect big things from us and it is an exciting time to join us as a trustee.

OUR FUTURE

Our principal role is as a grant-maker. We award grants to the scientific community that could lead to scientific breakthroughs and treatments to stop eye diseases from progressing. In the future, we believe research can prevent people from losing sight and reverse sight loss. We invest to advance treatments that will cure eye disease and protect and grow the community of world-class scientists, technologists, and data scientists who can deliver tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Historically, Vision Foundation has funded innovations that directly impact people who are blind or partially sighted, from music classes for children to projects that take eye tests into at-risk communities. We invest in programmes, organisations and activities that deliver equity for and with blind and visually impaired people.

As a grant-maker, we are change-makers, accelerators and drivers of impact. We are bold, energetic, challenging, disruptive, tenacious, and determined.

We aren’t afraid to tackle the challenges facing the sight loss community, either. Recent campaigns include The Unseen, which unearthed the shocking scale and nature of domestic abuse among blind and partially sighted people, and See My Skills, which addressed high unemployment rates. The charity excels at working in partnership with others towards creating a more equitable society for the sight loss community.

As we progress, we’ll scale the impact of projects like these, look beyond the nation’s capital, and drive systemic change. We’ll need to secure the funds to invest in our trusted partners to achieve our ambitions. We’ll continue to fundraise by engaging with supporters and companies through legacies, events such as the London Marathon, and our network of charity shops.

The evidence we commission influences policy and decision-making to demand equality for all.

We’ll shortly have a new name that reflects our united ambitions, so it’s an exciting time for us and the people we serve.

 

OUR FINANCES

The charity is in a strong position financially, with a high level of reserves that we intend to draw down over the coming years as we focus on investing in sustainable growth and increasing our impact. Compared to many charities, we

have well diversified income streams, predictable costs, and are in the fortunate position to hold a sizable portfolio of investments. Our plans for the short and medium term are to invest in our income generation infrastructure, and to significantly increase the amounts of funding we can put to our charitable purpose.

OUR BOARD AND LEADERSHIP TEAM

Fight for Sight / Vision Foundation is the only organisation in the sight loss sector with an Executive Leadership Team that has over half of its members with lived experience of sight loss.

The Board currently numbers ten trustees, including our newly appointed Chair.

The Board meets four times a year, or more often as required.

Follow this link to find out more about our Board.

 

ROLE DESCRIPTION

As the most senior leaders in our charity, trustees play a pivotal role in guiding our strategic direction, amplifying our impact, and ensuring the fulfilment of our mission to save sight and change lives. You will serve on the main board and will be invited also to get involved in one of our sub-committees. These are currently:

- Social Impact & Scientific Research Committee (SISR)

- Finance, Audit, Risk & Resources Committee (FARR)

- People Committee

- Retail Committee

 

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Planning

- Provide leadership and strategic guidance to the charity, aligning efforts with the mission and values of the organisation.

- Collaborate with the board, executive team, and stakeholders to develop and implement long-term strategies that advance the charity’s impact and sustainability.

Governance

- Ensure effective governance, decision-making, and compliance with legal and ethical standards.

- Work closely with board members, fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, collaboration and open communication, harnessing different views and opinions.

Engagement

- Represent the charity at public events and networking opportunities to promote our mission and raise awareness about our cause.

- Develop and nurture relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, partners, corporations, government agencies, and the visually impaired community.

Evaluation and Accountability

- Collaborate with the board to evaluate performance, ensuring alignment with the charity’s goals and objectives.

- Ensure the charity is accountable to donors and beneficiaries, that is financially robust and sustainable, and that is effective risk management in place.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

We are seeking dynamic and dedicated individuals to serve as trustees of our ambitious merged organisation. The ideal candidates will have a strong commitment to our cause, along with the following:

Specialist experience

At this time, we are particularly interested in candidates who have leadership experience in:

- Scientific and/or medical research

- Ophthalmic research and/or clinical practice

- Strategic oversight of substantial fundraising and/or retail operations

Despite these areas of interest, we welcome a diversity of skills and experience at our charity and on our Board, and want to find the right candidates regardless of their specific areas of expertise or experience. So if you are interested in this role and think you can contribute to our mission, we’d love to hear from you.

General attributes

Knowledge & experience

- An understanding of governance, and experience on a committee or board.

- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain partnerships with stakeholders, including donors, corporations and government agencies.

Skills & abilities

- Strategic thinking and the ability to contribute to long-term planning and vision to deliver impact.

- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.

- Entrepreneurial instincts and a healthy understanding of risk balanced with ambition using sound judgement.

Styles & behaviours

- High ethical standards and commitment to upholding the charity’s values, as well as a passion for advocating on behalf of individuals with, or at risk of, sight loss.

- Collaborative, highly inclusive, fostering trust and valuing difference perspectives.

- Solution-focused, with an ability to see the big picture and be pragmatic.

 

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

Remuneration

This role is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable expenses may be claimed.

Time commitment

While the exact time commitment may vary based on the charity’s needs and priorities, we anticipate the following general expectations:

- A minimum of four Board meetings per year

- Up to four subcommittee meetings per year (the specific committee depending on skills and experience)

- Preparation for meetings, review of materials, and other trustee engagement as appropriate.

- Annual Strategy Day with full Board and executive team.

- Meetings with members of the executive leadership team as appropriate.

- Representing the charity at high profile events, functions and public engagements to enhance its reputation and partnerships.

Location

At present Board meetings are held in central London. Subcommittee meetings are held remotely.

Trustees

Type: Voluntary Position

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

Closing Date: Wednesday 5th June

Upmo are an Edinburgh-based charity that provides support and opportunity for adults with learning disabilities and autism across Edinburgh, East Lothian and Midlothian. Upmo was founded in 2006 by Josh Barton and inspired by the belief that services for adults could truly be exciting, dynamic and meaningful.

In 2006, adults with learning disabilities lacked opportunities in higher education and there was a lack of understanding around individual needs. Those who understood the needs of service users operated with limited scope to encourage, inspire and motivate. As a result, many service users were isolated and desperately in need of opportunities to become more socially engaged, active and valued.

The response from Upmo was combining progressive learning within an educational curriculum and the development of support service provision – placing the needs of students at the heart of services. Distinguishing themselves by adopting an unconventional approach, Upmo provides custom-tailored support services alongside a well-regarded curriculum featuring creative workshops, educational activities, and vocational programs. The charity has also expanded its impact through a growing number of social enterprises aimed at creating job opportunities and preparing students for employment.

Upmo are looking for a number of committed and motivated individuals, from any background, to join their Board of Trustees and to help steer Upmo through a time of exciting opportunity and development.

As members of the Board, Trustees have the overall responsibility of running the charity. The current Trustees come from a diverse range of backgrounds, and through their wide-ranging and complimentary skills and life experience, contribute to the strategy and oversight of the charity’s operations. Being a trustee is a rewarding experience, which can also offer opportunities for personal development and growth outside of the workplace.

To be considered for this role, you should have strong communication, interpersonal and writing skills, coupled with a proactive attitude towards learning and a collaborative spirit. Additionally, strong analytical and problem-solving skills are key. Regardless of your background, if you embody qualities such as a genuine concern for others, honesty, integrity, and an alignment to Upmo’s mission, we encourage you to reach out for more information.

The Board of Trustees meet four times per year, with every second meeting being held in person in Edinburgh. It is important that trustees allocate sufficient time to read Board papers and prepare for Board meetings. However, this is not onerous, and the time commitment should be no more than 2-4 hours per month on average.

How to Apply:

Closing Date: Wednesday 5th June

This search is being conducted exclusively for Upmo 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.

At Mid Norfolk Mencap we are passionate about supporting people with learning disabilities and their families. Enabling people to live independently, person-centred care is at the heart of what we do.

Our mission is to support and enable the people who use our services to lead fulfilling lives, to be involved in their local wider community, and to have access to the same opportunities as all members of society.

Mid Norfolk Mencap was established since 1977, and every year we provide residential living, social opportunities, and specialised Community Outreach support for more than 100 people with a learning disability in Norfolk. However, with around 16,500 adults in Norfolk with a learning disability, we know we can do so much more.

This is an exciting time for us as we work to grow and strengthen our services. As a trustee you will play a vital role in helping us deliver a stronger and more sustainable organisation for the benefit of our service users, their families, and for the staff who work to deliver those services.

Position: Trustee

Location: Trustee Board meetings and many of our charity’s activities take place in Dereham. In addition, some work may be required remotely using Zoom/ Teams, or in other parts of Norfolk from time to time.

Salary: This position is unpaid but reasonable expenses may be paid.

Responsibilities

This role is suited to candidates who can demonstrate professional or skills-based knowledge of benefit to the charity. We would particularly welcome applications from people with experience in the third sector, PR, fundraising, governance, risk management, management and law, and accountancy.

This job is for you if:

• You have a proven track record of integrity and respect for confidential and proprietary information.
• You are a keen and respectful listener who can empathise and respectfully challenge.
• You have a commitment to the charity, are approachable for our service users, and are enthused for its vision, mission and aims.
• You understand and accept the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.
• You are willing to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a trustee (c. 2 – 3 hours per week depending on your role and any specific responsibilities within the Board).
• You are willing to participate in frank and open discussion and can work effectively as a member of a team.
• You can analyse proposals and their consequences, have a good level of competence with IT.
• You are willing to be available to provide guidance to the senior management team on an ad hoc basis.

Training

You will be given a basic induction to the charity and opportunities to meet with the senior management team. We also strongly encourage trustees to spend time participating in our services delivery, getting to know our staff and volunteers – and most importantly, our beneficiaries. We will customise a training and familiarisation package for the successful candidate based on prior knowledge and experience.

Our Recruitment Process

Excellence is important to us, and we know that being a trustee is a great commitment, so it has to be right for both the organisation and for you. Our recruitment process typically includes:

• Two interviews, providing the opportunity for you to meet with at least two existing trustees.
• An invitation to attend the Mid Norfolk Mencap head office and residential home, meeting some of our service users and staff
• An informal meeting with a member of our senior management team
• Dedicated email/phone support for any queries or concerns

Our recruitment process is designed to facilitate a two-way dialogue. We recognise that you need to be as comfortable with us and our operating model as we are with you. Our commitment throughout, is to be open, transparent and to give you as much information as we possibly can so that you can be sure you are making an informed choice to volunteer as a trustee with us.

We look forward to meeting you!