Trustee Volunteer Roles

Duties

The Chair is pivotal in creating the conditions for overall board and individual trustee effectiveness.

The statutory duties of a trustee board member are to:

· ensure Citizens Advice Westminster complies within its governing document (Articles of Association), charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

· ensure Citizens Advice Westminster pursues its objects as defined within its governing document.

· ensure Citizens Advice Westminster applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects.  For example, it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects. 

· contribute actively to the board of trustees by giving form strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.

· safeguard the good name and values of Citizens Advice Westminster, and the national Citizens Advice service.

· ensure the financial stability of the organisation.

In addition to the statutory responsibilities for trustees, it is the responsibility of the Chair to:

· lead the Trustees' induction;

· enable effective Board decisions, through transparent communication and information sharing, well-run Board meetings that concentrate on strategic matters and include viewpoints of all Trustees, and dedicating appropriate time to discussion of complex issues and risks;

· encourage active engagement by all the members of the board, ensuring that individual Trustee and Board performance is reviewed regularly, that Trustees are supported to learn and develop;

· develop a supportive relationship with the Chief Executive to maintain an overview of the organisation's affairs;

· conduct an annual appraisal and remuneration review for the Chief Executive in consultation with other Trustees, identify and support Chief Executive's development needs; and

· act as an ambassador for Citizens Advice Westminster and good independent advice more broadly.

Each trustee should use any specific skills and knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. 

This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, and evaluating or offering advice on other areas in which the trustee has particular expertise or lived experience. 

All trustees are required to complete an induction programme for their role.

What’s in it for you?

A trusteeship will enable you to:

· make a positive impact for people in your local area by ensuring Citizens Advice Westminster is sustainable and meeting the needs of the community

· meet people and build relationships with trustees, staff and other volunteers

· build on your governance, leadership and strategy skills

· increase your employability

This is a voluntary role and trustees receive no renumeration.  Trustees are entitled to claim expenses for attendance at board and committee meetings, as well as other events necessary for the fulfilment of the trustee’s duties. 

What you need to have?

The candidate must have:

 · a commitment to the aims and vision of Citizens Advice Westminster, including a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

· a willingness to meeting the minimum time requirement

· integrity

· strategic vision

· good, independent judgement

· an ability to think creatively

· a willingness to speak their mind

· an understanding and acceptance of their legal duties and responsibilities of trusteeship

· an ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to take decisions for the good of the organisation

· a strong ability to form open and supportive relationships with members of the Executive team and the Board.

Previous experience in the voluntary or advice sector is desirable. 

How much time do you need to give?

We would expect trustees to commit to at least five days each year for Board meetings, with additional time is also required for reading papers and other communication, as well as completion of mandatory Trustees training modules annually and triennially.  The Chair meets regularly with the Chief Executive between Board meetings (currently twice a month).

We hold Board meetings at least four times a year (plus the Annual General Meeting) to discuss and make decisions concerning the business of the organisation.  The meetings alternate between virtual and in-person meetings in central London, and are usually held between 6-8pm. 

All Trustees will receive a thorough in-depth induction upon appointment, followed by regular skills audits and appraisals. 

Valuing inclusion

Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and we particularly welcome applications from disabled people, people with physical or mental health conditions, LGBT+ and non-binary people, and people from Black Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities.

If you are interested in becoming a trustee and would like to discuss flexibility around location, time, ‘what you will do’ and how we can support you please contact us.

Vision Action is a unique organisation, that works in low- and middle-income countries, supporting national governments to deliver and strengthen their eye health strategies. We work in partnership with local governments, civil society organisations, international and national NGOs, and the private sector. Our ambition is to increase equitable access to eye care services and glasses, and accelerate achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goal.

The role of the Board is to oversee the overall direction and activities of the charity, including its policies and procedures, to ensure that they are consistently in accordance with the charitable purposes defined in the objects clause in its Constitution. The Board sets and monitors the strategic direction of the charity, although the implementation of strategy is achieved through the executive team. The Board must always act in the best interests of Vision Action, taking decisions as a group and not as individuals.

1. Terms of service

For Vision Action the Trustees are Members who have been elected to serve on the Board. Vision Action’s constitution allows for up to 12 Trustees, who can serve a maximum of three consecutive terms of three years. Vision Action is a company limited by guarantee and the Trustees are its legal directors. The Trustee role is voluntary but out of pocket expenses are paid.

Trustees are appointed by the Vision Action Board of Trustees annually at the Board meeting following the Annual General Meeting. The time commitment in being a trustee involves attendance at four Board meetings per year, one of which will be an all-day strategy session. Otherwise, Board meetings are usually half a day in the afternoon of a weekday with at least half the meetings online. Papers are circulated for reading in advance.

In addition to this, it is expected that trustees attend the AGM held on a weekend and occasional Members’ Forums or other Vision Action events, which are usually arranged on the same day as a Board meeting in the evening. There may be other ad hoc meetings or online events to discuss specific topics. Trustees will be expected to commit time to receive a proper induction.

2. Main tasks

Charity Trustees have and must accept ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of the charity and ensuring it is solvent, well-run and delivering the charitable outcomes for the benefit of the public for which it has been set up. Each Trustee will be expected to join one of the three sub-committees (Fundraising and Investment; Programmes; Finance, Administration and Remuneration). The Committees meet (in person or remotely) at least four times per year, usually timed with or in advance of the board meetings.

3. General Responsibilities

• Ensure that Vision Action complies with its governing document (i.e. its Constitution and Byelaws), charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensure that Vision Action pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
• Ensure Vision Action applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects, i.e. it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be.
• Contribute actively to the Board’s role in the formulation and review of strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Safeguard the good name and values of Vision Action and maintain good relations with its members.
• Ensure that all policies are implemented, monitored and reports are acted upon, (including the policies on Harassment and Misconduct, Safeguarding, Recruitment of ex-offenders, Child Protection and Anti- Bribery).
• Strive for Vision Action to reflect the full diversity of society in all its activities.
• Ensure the financial stability of Vision Action.
• Protect and manage the property of Vision Action and ensure the proper investment of its funds.
• Appoint and support the Chief Executive Officer and monitor his/her performance.

In addition to the above statutory responsibilities, each Trustee should attend Board meetings and use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, evaluation or other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise; and then always upholding the decisions taken by Board. Trustees are also expected to support Vision Action’s fundraising initiatives.

4. Additional Specific Responsibilities

In addition to the above, we are looking for a Trustee who can be the Chair designate and assume the role of Chair in November 2024.

Vision Action is looking for a Trustee who will be able to support us in 3 key areas:

1) Provide advice and experience at the level of Chair so that they can provide leadership to the Board of Trustees as well as the CEO

2) Act as the Chair designate until they assume the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees in November 2024.

3) Provide insight, knowledge and connections to help us build our reputation and position as a worthy international charity in the eye health sector in the UK and Internationally so that Vision Action can grow its relationship with individuals, bodies and corporates in the sector.

Person Specification

Each Trustee must have:

• A commitment to the mission and value base of Vision Action.
• A commitment to the key policies of Vision Action – on Harassment and Misconduct, Safeguarding, Whistle-blowing, Recruitment of ex-offenders, Child Protection and Anti-Bribery.
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
• Integrity.
• Strategic vision.
• Good, independent judgement.
• An ability to think creatively.
• A willingness to speak his/her mind.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship (training/information will be offered in this area).
• An ability to contribute effectively to the workings of the Vision Action Board and any sub-committees or working groups.

In addition to the above, this specific appointment is looking ideally for Trustees who have:

• Previous experience of leading and Chairing at the senior level in an organisation;
• Previous experience of governing and managing at the Board level;
• Previous Board level experience in the charity sector;
• Willingness to undertake obligatory tasks with the Charity Commission on behalf of the organisation;
• Willingness to stay updated on changes to governance issues and policies that might impact Vision Action;
• A willingness to engage in activities in the vision sector as it relates to the work of Vision Action, including fundraising.

We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds as well as those who may have a connection to the vision sector either through personal or professional experience and those who might come from one of the countries that Vision Action is currently active in – Zambia, Ghana, Sierre Leone, and Ethiopia.

We are currently seeking a Chair to join our dynamic charity board as our current chair is coming towards the end of their term.

We are a highly engaged board who is passionate about ensuring our charity makes a big difference to Lewisham residents, especially to the most vulnerable people. We work in a collegiate way, respecting the diverse viewpoints board members bring to the table and hold ourselves to high professional standards.

The Chair will work closely with the CEO, staff, volunteers and other Trustees to support Citizens Advice Lewisham in making a difference in the lives of people who live and work in the Borough.

General Trustee duties and responsibilities

Each individual member of the Trustee Board has a responsibility to contribute to the discharging of the board’s duties. They do this by:
● Governing the charity in the best interest of the clients and in line with the governing documents.
● Actively contributing to setting policy and strategic direction, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance and ensuring effective oversight of the charity’s activities. This includes visiting Citizens Advice Lewisham to get to know the team and being aware of the service in action.
● Taking responsibility for their own learning and development.
● Monitoring whether the service complies with its governing document and how well the advice needs of the local community are being met.
● Supporting the development of Citizens Advice Lewisham through agreed projects and managing risk.
● Maintaining confidentiality about any sensitive or confidential information received.

Chair specific responsibilities

Plan the board meetings including the dates and the agenda, supported by the CEO.
● Facilitate the trustee board meetings by leading the meeting, ensuring that agenda items are discussed, enabling all members to contribute their views and take part and seeking clarification where necessary.
● Ensure that decisions and actions taken at board meetings are carried out.
● Ensure that the board decisions are made within the remit of the Citizens Advice membership agreement, governing documents and policies.
● Monitor attendance and commitment of all trustees.
● Provide or arrange for training or support for trustees if needed.
● With other trustees and the CEO, recruit a trustee board with a diverse range of skills, experience and knowledge with an aim to promote trusteeship to underrepresented groups that represent the local community.
● Ensure that all trustees receive an induction and the training needed for them to fulfil their role.
● Be proactive in recruiting successors to key positions such as Chair, Treasurer etc.
● Arrange or provide support and supervision for the CEO including an annual appraisal.
● Together with the Treasurer, ensure proper management and control of local Citizens Advice finances.
● Together with the CEO, represent the local Citizens Advice in relationships with funders or potential funders, local events and in the community.
● Work together with all trustees and ensure that the board is able to:
● Set policy and strategy direction, set targets and evaluate the performance of the local Citizens Advice.
● Monitor the financial position of the local Citizens Advice ensuring that it operates within its means and objectives, ensuring that there are clear lines of accountability for day to day financial management.
● Monitor whether the Citizens Advice service complies with its governing document and meets the required standards.
● Seek the views of all sections of the community and monitor how well the service meets the needs of the local community.
● Ensure that the service plans for the recruitment and turnover of staff and volunteers.
● Review its own work and how effectively it operates including action for improvement.
● Work on specific projects to further the strategic objectives of the local Citizens Advice.

General Trustee skills and qualities

● Ability to meet time commitment.
● Commitment to clients and ensuring the impact of Citizens Advice Lewisham in the local community.
● Ability to fulfil governance role, specifically to manage risks, ensure oversight and strategic development of the charity.
● Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
● Willingness to gain knowledge of local needs and resources.

● Commitment to the aims, principles and policies of the Lewisham CAB service, including those relating to equal opportunities, independence, and research and campaigns.
● Ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as Trustees and employers.
● Willingness and ability to learn and to develop.
● Ability to think creatively and strategically, and exercise good, independent judgement.
● Ability to build productive respectful relationships with other Trustees, staff and volunteers.
● Willingness to actively participate in discussions concerning needs of the charity’s beneficiaries, staff and the Trustee board.
● Willingness to act in the best interest of the charity.
● Sound, independent judgement and ability to think creatively.
● Working effectively as a team member and demonstrating a willingness to learn and develop.

Chair specific skills and qualities

● Preferable experience in trustee board governance.
● Excellent interpersonal skills.
● Good leadership skills.
● Ability to facilitate and lead meetings.
● An understanding of the responsibilities and liabilities as trustees.
● Ability to be non-judgmental and respecting views, values and cultures that are different to your own.
● Good numeracy skills to understand financial accounts with the support of the treasurer.
● An understanding of the type of work undertaken by a local Citizens Advice.

Time Commitment and availability to attend required meetings

a) As Chair
● Quarterly governance committee meetings (each 11⁄2 hours plus prep).
● On average half a day per week working with the organisation on chair matters.
b) As Trustee
● Quarterly evening Trustee Board meetings (each 21⁄2 hours plus prep).
● One annual Trustee Board awayday (weekend – 5 hours plus prep).
● Liaison with CEO and colleague Trustees by phone, e-mail or Skype (occasional).
● Day-time visits to our offices to understand our work and engage with staff/volunteers (occasional).
● Two annual stakeholder events (one evening event, one mid-week all-day event).
● Liaising with other trustees and CEO via email and phone in between meetings.
● Where required, leading independently on key projects.
● Any further day time visits and meetings that may arise during the year.

What’s in it for you?

● You will contribute to making a positive impact for people in Lewisham.
● You will meet people and build relationships with trustees, staff and other volunteers.
● You will build on your governance, leadership and strategy skills.

Remuneration

This is an unpaid voluntary role and reasonable expenses will be covered by advance agreement.

Diversity

We seek candidate Trustees from all backgrounds so that our board represents the diversity of our community. We welcome applications from all candidates regardless of ethnicity, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religion.

As services are delivered in a small geographic area applicants should ideally live, work or study in, or near, Lewisham or have some local knowledge of the area.

How to apply

Application: Please send us a CV highlighting relevant skills and experience you will bring to the role along with a completed Application Form

Closing date: 31 May 2024

Interviews: 17 June 2024

Contact: If you would like to have a conversation with someone about this role, please get in touch with the Head of Business & Development who can set up a chat with the Chair or CEO.

Disclosure: Applicants must complete the Disclosure and EDI Form as part of their application.

Chair of Trustees

We are looking for a Chair of Trustees who is passionate about the cause but also keen to get involved and help drive the charity’s strategic direction.

Working for a small Muscular Dystrophy family charity, you will work closely with trustees and the charity’s founder and CEO to drive the organisations strategic direction.

Position: Chair of Trustees

Location: Hybrid / South East

Closing Date: 20th May 2024

The Role

You will work closely with the charity’s founder and CEO but also you will lead the trustees in strategy, good governance, and policy development. As part of this engagement, the Chair will provide support to the CEO, including supporting his wellbeing and ongoing professional development.

Other duties will include:

· When necessary, ensure the Chair and Trustees challenge the CEO constructively and only in the best interests of the charity as ‘critical friends’.

· Liaising with the Charity Secretary, and the CEO with drafting agendas and supporting papers for Trustee meetings, ensuring provision of timely information and sharing with all.

· Ensure charity business is covered efficiently and effectively in meetings.

· Undertake a leadership role to ensure that board members fulfil their governance responsibilities and that trustee decisions are acted upon.

· Maintain trustees’ commitment to board renewal, succession planning and trustee performance reviews, in line with the governing document.

· Ensure board and trustee performance is reviewed annually.

· Ensure the performance of the CEO is reviewed annually.

The Chair will also ensure that Trustees make an effective contribution and are engaged, fully involved and invested in the charity in discharging their responsibilities.

Time Commitments

· The time commitment required to fulfil the Chair role will be somewhere between 2-3 days per month

· MHF’s Trustee Board meets virtually once every 2 months, for 2 hours, within the financial year (1st Mar – 29th Feb)

· The Chair & trustees are encouraged to attend and engage with at least one Muscle Dream programme per year

· The Chair will conduct an annual review meeting with each trustee, outside of any other trustee meetings

· The Association of Chairs (AoC) are an independent association of Chairs of social purpose and not-for-profits – formed to help Chairs with their unique task to lead the board in delivering the organisation’s aims – the AoC offer some excellent resources including Chair Training (if required)

If you would like to progress your interest forwards, in the first instance, please upload your CV together with a covering letter outlining your skills, experience and motivations.

About You

We have an exciting opportunity for someone to bring their leadership and communication skills to the fore. Previous trustee experience and charity governance are essential.

You will not only have experience of being a charity trustee or someone who has held a senior management role, but also an individual who has a keen sense of strategic purpose, underpinned by an inclusive and compassionate style of leadership.

We are open to applications from those with relevant senior level charity experience and would love to hear from people with experience of income generation, small charity or small business leadership experience as well as experience of governance in a small charity.

The recruitment process is open and inclusive. Applicants will be communicated with in advance, so they know what to expect as the process unfolds.

About the Organisation

Small multi award-winning family-centred charity uniquely tackling the isolating and debilitating muscle wasting disease Muscular Dystrophy (MD) for children and young people. Their vision is a world of hope, purpose, inspiration and empowerment for all children with MD. The organisation delivers highly personalised interventions (in-person & virtual) in the UK called Muscle Dreams that provide powerful physiological and psychological benefits from improving emotional and mental wellness to boosting confidence, uplifting self-esteem and increasing social connection.

One of the strengths as a board is its diversity. And as a charity, the community’s diversity. We are interested in hearing from applicants with diverse skills and experiences that reflect the diversity of the beneficiaries.

You may have experience in areas such as Chair, Chair of the Board, Chair of Trustees, Board, CEO, COO, CFO, Chief Executive, Charity, Senior Executive, Head of, Director.

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

Volunteer Opportunity: Treasurer on the Board of Trustees at REMIX

About Us: 

REMIX is a newly established startup dynamic youth charity based in London. We are committed to empowering young people by providing essential life skills, employability skills, personal development, mentoring, and other youth work activities. Our mission is to equip young people with the tools they need to navigate life successfully and contribute positively to their communities.

Role: Treasurer on the Board of Trustees

Responsibilities:

• Set up the financial management and controls of REMIX, including budget forecasting, policies and procedures and financial management and control systems and processes.
• Oversee the financial management and reporting of REMIX.
• Develop and implement financial strategies in line with our mission and objectives.
• Ensure that our financial resources are used responsibly and effectively.
• Collaborate with other trustees and stakeholders to ensure the effectiveness of our programmes.
• Provide financial advice and guidance to the board of trustees.
• Lead on the set up and management of the REMIX's bank account, HMRC PAYE and Gift Aid and the Charity Commission Reporting.

Requirements:

• Passionate about youth development and empowerment.
• Previous experience in financial management, preferably in a non-profit setting.
• Strong leadership and management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work flexibly, including evenings and weekends.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of young people.
• Gain valuable experience in financial management and charity governance.
• Be part of a passionate and dedicated team.
• Training and development opportunities.

How to Apply: 

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people and have the skills and experience for this role, we would love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a cover letter explaining why you are interested in this role.

REMIX is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

REMIX

EMPOWER | INSPIRE | TRANSFORM

As the Chair you should take control of meetings, ensuring that everyone who wishes to has a reasonable chance to speak and take part. The Chair should ensure any reasonable adjustments are made for Trustees with learning disabilities or other disabilities. You should be able to listen to and understand a wide range of views, present information clearly and concisely and get clarification of relevant points, thus enabling the board to make effective decisions. The board must demonstrate its leadership of the organisation. It is the chair's role to enable the board to do that.

Personal skills and qualities

● leadership skills

● experience in chairing meetings and committee work

● facilitation skills

● tact and diplomacy

● excellent communication and interpersonal skills

● impartiality, fairness, and the ability to respect confidences

● Knowledge or experience of learning disability, including the issues that impact on the lives of people with learning disabilities

● Good knowledge of the third sector

 It is desirable for the chair to have knowledge of the type of work undertaken by Speak Out and a commitment to keeping ahead of the changes in the organisation that take place.

The Alice Ruggles Trust was established in 2017 after the death of Alice following a tragic stalking case perpetrated by her ex-boyfriend.  The Alice Ruggles Trust is a charity that educates young people under 25 about stalking; it is our mission to foster generations of young people who understand stalking, the potential risks of stalking, and what they can do about it. 

We’re looking for a skilled volunteer who can contribute to the Board, as well as provide strategic and operational fundraising advice and guidance. 

As a Trustee with fundraising expertise, you will work with fellow Trustees and staff to advise on the financial stability of the organisation. 

The role holder will be responsible for: 

• Working with the Board of Trustees and the Strategy and Development Manager to develop the overall governance of the charity’s fundraising operations. 

• Contributing to a fundraising strategy that will develop the breadth of fundraising activity, including assessing the risk of new fundraising directions. 

• Supporting the Engagement Officer to develop and deliver robust systems, policy, and procedures for managing donations and supporter information. 

• Providing expertise in fundraising law and best practice, thus ensuring the Board understands and fulfils its responsibilities in relation to generating income. 

What we are looking for: 

• Commitment to the Alice Ruggles Trust’s aims and objectives 

• Experience in fundraising 

• A strategic thinker who can contribute to the fundraising goals of the Trust 

• A good communicator who can act as an ambassador for the Alice Ruggles Trust 

• An active and engaged member of the Board of Trustees who can fulfil the role with integrity

General requirements for Trustees 

• Trustees have responsibility for the governance and strategic performance of the charity

• Our Trustees must have a real interest in and commitment to young people at risk of stalking 

• We expect all our Trustees to be active and engaged and to be prepared to put forward their views, always carefully considering those of others. We recognise that different people provide their input and come to decisions in different ways, and we try to bring out the best in everyone with this in mind.

• Our Trustees must fulfil their role with the utmost integrity. Enthusiasm and a strong work ethic are also essential.

• Previous experience of being a Trustee is not necessary. Training and support can be provided. 

Our partner protects in perpetuity a collection of ceramics, archives and manufacturing artefacts, covering nearly 250 years of world-renowned Spode pottery production and a global manufacturing site with world class assets.

They run a small visitor centre, shop and café on the former Spode Works site. Given its size, comprehensiveness and location on the original site, this collection is unique in the UK as the sole surviving enterprise in industrial ceramics and very likely in the world.

They are looking to bring on board someone, either as a Trustee or Advisor, with the experience and ability to inform business planning, strategic development and financial management.

The post holder will also oversee monthly cash flow and forecasts based on bank statements, sales and expenditure as well as supervising the preparation of annual charity commission return accounts and tax return.

The organisation are very flexible in terms of what the role may look like, dependent on who they appoint, with a minimum time commitment of 6 meetings annually.

______________________________

For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website.

We are looking for a Chair with knowledge of UK midwifery care and maternity provision with charity governance, leadership skills and experience to help us grow and keep increasing our impact.

Help midwives and student midwives make a difference to the care of babies, mothers and birthing people. 

The main responsibilities of the Chair of Trustees are to:

• Coordinate the activities of the Iolanthe Midwifery Trust and its trustees
• Take the lead on ensuring that the trustees comply with their duties
• Ensure the charity is well governed, according to the requirements of the Charity Commission
• Oversee the awards process and host the Awards Ceremony
• Oversee the financial affairs of the Trust, working with the Financial Trustee, the Executive Director and the auditors

You will be supported by an Executive Director (part-time), Administrator (part-time).

As a UK-wide organisation the work of the Chair will be largely home-based (including video conferencing), but face-to-face meetings and liaison with other organisations may be required at times.

The Iolanthe Midwifery Trust welcomes candidates from a diverse background and from historically excluded communities. We recognise that candidates may have disabilities and health challenges, both visible and invisible.  We are happy to make any reasonable adjustments at any stage in the process

We have a comprehensive trustee induction process in place to support you in your new role.

Knowledge and experience of UK midwifery care and maternity provision will be of great advantage to the role.

The School Library Association is a charity dedicated to supporting all who work within school libraries – primary, secondary and sixth form.

Our mission is to build a community to share best practice and to work towards all schools in the UK having their own (or shared) staffed library to help all children and young people build their literacy skills and fulfil their potential. 

We are looking to appoint an experienced Chair for our Board of Trustees. We particularly want to hear from candidates with charity, business or membership development experience as we look to strengthen our brand, our membership reach, and financial growth. 

Our Board currently has a mix of Trustees from business and the school library and educational sectors which helps to strengthen the range of skills and perspectives the SLA and its CEO can tap into. We have recently invested in a new Association Management system, members portal, website and back office system which will substantially improve our ability to personalise our offering to members and our potential reach to new members. 

Our Board meetings are mostly online, either in an evening or on a Saturday morning. There are two in person board meetings planned for this year, for which all expenses will be reimbursed

In advocacy terms, our involvement in the Great School Library campaign (our CEO is the joint chair) and Awards, has raised the profile of school libraries considerably in recent years and we wish to continue this journey in the coming years. 

The SLA has, over the last 5 years, made huge changes to its organisational and governance structure, Board strength, and employee skills base. Trustees joining us now will help to take us on the next stage of our exciting journey to reach more members and schools and help children achieve their full potential. 

Applications will be taken through our website, where you can also access the role description and person specification for each role. 

Off the Record is a well-established and respected support agency for children and young people’s mental health and emotional wellbeing. Founded in 1994, OTR supports young people aged 11-25 in Croydon, Sutton and Merton.

What will you be doing?

We are currently looking for new Trustees with a fund-raising ability, legal expertise, financial expertise and with experience of working within the mental health field. 

Treasurer: 

Key Skills: financial acumen, analytical skills, communication, attention to detail, integrity and trustworthiness, strategic thinking, team collaborations, problem-solving, adaptability and time management.

Fundraising and Bid Writing: 

Key Skills: communication, research, strategic thinking, creativity, relationship building, Results-oriented, financial acumen 

Clinical: 

Key Skills: clinical, safeguarding knowledge, leadership, communication, collaboration, advocacy, problem-solving, cultural competence, empathy, continuous learning. 

Legal:

Key skills: legal expertise, analytical thinking, contract review, compliance management, risk management, communication, ethical decision-making, problem-solving, attention to detail.

Note: this role is not suitable for a short-term work placement or apprenticeship

What are we looking for?

Person specification:

• Finance, clinical, legal and fundraising expertise with a minimum of three years of experience in the relevant field.
• Interest in mental health issues affecting children and young people and the communities where we operate.
• Commitment to the charity’s objectives, aims and values and willingness to devote time to carry out responsibilities.
• Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objectives and aims.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Passion for mental health advocacy and community well-being.

We invite applications from young individuals, and we strongly encourage representation from minority groups to enhance diversity on our Trustee Board.

We are actively working to broaden the Board's composition to better reflect the Croydon, Merton, and Sutton communities.

Your unique perspectives are crucial to our commitment to inclusivity and community representation.

What difference will you make?

Your role as a Trustee is a key element for our strategic plans to come to fruition. Your skills and expertise will help Off the Record to continue providing its invaluable mental health services to the children and young people in our community and expand our services to reach those who need our support. 

What is in it for the volunteer? 

You will join a friendly and dynamic organisation, where the mental health of young people from our local area is at the heart of our mission. We are a well-established local organisation with a powerful reputation in this area. Your involvement as a Trustee will allow you to highlight your skills and experience for the benefit of vulnerable young adults and children. We will organise for you to attend a training workshop in Governance at the beginning of your time with us. 

Time commitment: 

The Board meets five times a year, collaborating with the Directors to oversee the strategic direction of the organisation as well as taking care of the Charity’s financial, legal and employment responsibilities. These in-person meetings are held in Croydon on Saturdays from 10:00 to 12:30. Additionally, trustees are encouraged to participate in two Charity days annually, held on Saturdays, where all staff get together (10:00 to 16:00 in April and October). 

Some ad-hoc communications via email/telephone/Teams as required i.e., working on specific projects related to the trustees’ area of expertise. We estimate that this could be 3 – 6 hours a month.

Before you apply

Please provide a cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience along with your CV.

We are looking for a team player with experience of finance and fundraising best practice, preferably within the charity sector, to join our Board of Trustees As we continue to expand our services, our new Treasurer will help us to develop our procedures and strategies to ensure we maintain good governance. Applicants must also be prepared to take on the wider responsibilities of becoming a charity Trustee.

​This is a hands on role which requires close working with our CEO, Finance Manager, Chair of Trustees and Accountants. You will help us to review and implement new financial processes and budgeting procedures, develop new investment and fundraising policies and ensure that we operate in line with best practice. As a Trustee you will also contribute to the organisations wider mission and strategy and oversee the running of the Charity.

​If you are looking to use your skills to give back to your local community or to support a cause that you are passionate about and have experience in financial management or in establishing sound financial procedures, we want to hear from you. This is an opportunity to make an immediate impact within a growing charity.

​Please note that we have a full time Finance Manager who manages our day to day finances so our Treasurer will not be responsible for book keeping or other administrative functions.

HF Mencap supports people with learning disabilities, autism and developmental conditions. You will ensure high standards of governance and legal compliance but need not have previous experience as Company Secretary.

What will you be doing?

HF Mencap is the only disabilities charity in Hammersmith and Fulham that focuses solely on people with learning disabilities, autism, and other developmental conditions.

The Charity provides a wide range of service-user led activity, summarised in four projects: advocacy for families of young people with learning disabilities, a parent led forum for those with children and young people up to 25 with additional needs and learning disabilities, a youth development project for young adults, and a day service where the focus is on peer support and skills development through a range of inclusive activities.

As Company Secretary you will lead on maintaining high standards of governance and ensuring legal compliance.

As a Trustee you will help HF Mencap continue to provide the highest standards of professional, specialist support and care for the people who use our services and set a clear, ambitious direction for the charity’s future. The Trustees have overall responsibility for ensuring the charity is well-run and meets legal requirements, charitable objectives, and those of good governance. You will use your personal skills and experience to help the Board reach structured and sound decisions.

What are we looking for?

Somebody based in London with a corporate governance, legal or business background. It is desirable but not essential to have previous Trustee and/or Company Secretary experience as appropriate training and mentorship can be provided. You do need to be organised, methodical, and able to ensure that HF Mencap fulfils its obligations both as a charity and limited company.

We are also very keen to hear from you if you have lived experience of a learning disability and/or autism or are a parent or carer of someone who does. Alternatively, you may have direct experience of working with people who do.

Whatever your circumstances you feel strongly about HF Mencap's cause and want to combine your expertise and passion to create a better world for those it supports. You are willing to bring your skills and experience to the table to help shape HF Mencap’s future. You are enthusiastic, able to commit time and effort, and enjoy being part of a team.

The role is voluntary, with any necessary out of pocket expenses reimbursed. Appointment is for a three-year term with the opportunity to be re-appointed for a period of up to three years.

Essential

• Based in London
• Expertise in one of the following areas: legal, compliance, corporate governance, accountancy or office and administration management

Desirable

• Previous experience of acting as a Trustee and/or Company Secretary
• Lived experience of having a learning disability and/or autism, being a parent or carer of somebody who does, or experience of working directly with people who do.

The following personal skills and attributes are needed:

• Commitment to HF Mencap’s support of people with a learning disability, their families, and carers.
• Excellent communication and co-ordination skills.
• Dependability in meeting deadlines.
• A keen eye for the accuracy of detail.
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team that makes collective decisions.
• Willingness to speak your mind while collaborating with others.
• Energy to devote the necessary time and effort to the role.
• Ability to undertake analysis, discussion and decision making at a strategic level.
• Sound, independent judgement.
• Ability to think creatively.
• Willingness to work in uncertain circumstances and be receptive to change.
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.

What difference will you make?

The current social and economic pressures have put the needs of those living with learning disability further down the national agenda. You will be helping to keep their voice heard and enabling a local charity to take an even more active role in helping to address the inequality faced by so many of them. As Company Secretary you will help to underpin the charity’s credibility by maintaining high standards of governance and reporting.

Before you apply

Please provide a comprehensive cv with your full name and contact details by March 25th (at the latest), together with a supporting statement setting out why you are for applying for this role and how you meet the person specification. Details of the role and person specification are in the attached document.

Any appointment will be subject to the receipt of two satisfactory references and a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.

Trustees will be expected to declare that they are eligible and willing to act as a Charity Trustee and Company Director and that they comply with the fit and proper persons test in relation to HF Mencap’s registration with HMRC as a charity for tax purposes.

Support U is a Reading based charity set up in 2010 to provide support to LGBTQ people in the Thames Valley.  Our small team runs social, emotional and wellbeing support and social groups and provides some counselling services.  We are looking to revitalise our Trustee Board and require a new Chair of Trustees.

This role description includes:

1. Your general statutory responsibilities as a Trustee

2. Specific Responsibilities for your role as a Chair of Trustees

1. Your general statutory responsibilities as a trustee:

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

· Ensuring that the organisation complies with its governing document (ie its constitution), charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations

· Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects (ie the charity must not spend money on activities that are not included in its own objects, however worthwhile or charitable those activities are) for the benefit of the public

· Ensuring that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets

· Safeguarding the good name and values of the organisation

· Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place

· Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation

· Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds

In addition to the above statutory duties, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions.

This may involve:-

· scrutinising board papers,

· leading discussions,

· focusing on key issues,

· providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

2. Your specific responsibilities as Chair of Trustees, including person specification

Your responsibilities as Chair of Trustees include:

· Providing leadership to the organisation and the board by ensuring that everyone remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes in order 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

· Setting agendas for 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 (if staff are employed) to achieve this.

Person specification for the Chair

· Leadership skills

· Experience of committee work

· Tact and diplomacy

· Good communication and interpersonal skills

· Impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidences.

In most circumstances, it would also be desirable for the chair/vice-chair to have knowledge of the type of work undertaken by the organisation and a wider involvement with the voluntary sector and other networks.

Your role also includes the following person specifications, which are universal for all trustees:

· A commitment to the organisation

· A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort

· Strategic vision

· Good, independent judgement

· An ability to think creatively

· A willingness to speak their mind

· An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship

· An ability to work effectively as a member of a team

· A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.