Trustees Volunteer Roles

Responsible to: Chair of Trustees 

Start date: November/December

Who We Are

M4RD is a UK charity that is advancing rare disease training for medical professionals. The aim of our work is to help reduce diagnostic delay and improve patient experience for those impacted by rare conditions.

We work with an extensive network of patients, carers, advocates and advocacy groups to deliver training to medical schools, foundation schools, royal colleges, hospitals and trusts.

The charity is small and consists of a friendly group of staff and Trustees. The work can be intense but is very rewarding, as the charity responds to the needs of the rare disease political landscape.  

Please take a look at the M4RD website for more information on our team, and our work. You can also find more details on this position here.  

Why Join Us

At M4RD we are not just talking about change; we are making it happen - as evidenced by the attitude change towards rare disease training in healthcare driven by M4RD for the last five years. By becoming a Trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare for people with rare conditions. Working with a dedicated team committed to systemic change in medical education, you will bring skills, experience, and knowledge that will support M4RD in achieving their objectives. 

Open Trustee Positions

We are expanding our board and seeking individuals with specific expertise to help us achieve our mission. Our new Trustees will be passionate about supporting the charity to deliver its objectives, and have skills and/or experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Income generation 

• Lived experience of a rare condition 

• Healthcare education 

• Clinical practice 

• Lived experience of health and/or social inequality

• Lived experience of societal marginalisation

Key Responsibilities

• Ensuring the organisation pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its governing document, by supporting the development of - and agreeing - a long-term strategy

• Ensuring that the organisation complies with its CIO constitution, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations

• Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects for the benefit of the public

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

• Safeguarding the reputation 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

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

Why this Role is for You

• You are passionate about the landscape of rare disease.

• You have the skills and experience M4RD is looking for.

• You are prepared to challenge systemic inequities within healthcare and medical education.

• You are ready to make a long-term commitment to improving the lives of people impacted by rare disease. 

Time Commitment: The expected time commitment is:

• 4 online Trustees meeting per year;

• 1 face to face strategy meeting or event; and 

• Some ad hoc committee work. 

However, we are also keen to invite those who are passionate about the charity's work and able to support in other areas.

Please take a look at the Job Description for more details on this role. 

We look forward to hearing from you!

Responsible to: Board of Trustees

Start date: November/December

Who We Are

M4RD is a UK charity that is advancing rare disease training for medical professionals. The aim of our work is to help reduce diagnostic delay and improve patient experience for those impacted by rare conditions.

We work with an extensive network of patients, carers, advocates and advocacy groups to deliver training to medical schools, foundation schools, royal colleges, hospitals and trusts.

The charity is small and consists of a friendly group of staff and Trustees. The work can be intense but is very rewarding, as the charity responds to the needs of the rare disease political landscape.  

Please take a look at the M4RD website for more information on our team, and our work.

Why Join Us

At M4RD we are not just talking about change; we are making it happen - as evidenced by the attitude change towards rare disease training in healthcare driven by M4RD for the last five years. By becoming a Trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare for people with rare conditions. Working with a dedicated team committed to systemic change in medical education, you will bring skills, experience, and knowledge that will support M4RD in achieving their objectives. 

Open Trustee Positions (multiple Trustees & Chair)

We are expanding our board and seeking individuals with specific expertise to help us achieve our mission. Our new Trustees will be passionate about supporting the charity to deliver its objectives, and have skills and/or experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Income generation 

• Lived experience of a rare condition 

• Healthcare education 

• Clinical practice 

• Lived experience of health and/or social inequality

• Lived experience of societal marginalisation

Key Responsibilities - Chair of the Board of Trustees

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

• Providing leadership to the organisation, and the Board, by ensuring everyone remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes in order to benefit the public

• Chairing and facilitating board meetings 

• Giving direction to board policy-making 

• Ensuring decisions taken at meetings are implemented 

• Representing M4RD at functions and meetings, and acting as a spokesperson as appropriate 

• Bringing impartiality and objectivity to decision-making 

With the Chief Executive: 

• Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and other general meetings where required

• Setting agendas for board and other general meetings 

• Continuous development of the Board of Trustees

• Addressing conflict within the board and within the organisation

• Liaising with the Chief Executive to maintain an overview of the organisation’s affairs, and to provide support as appropriate

• Leading the process of supporting and appraising the performance of the Chief Executive

• Sitting on appointment and disciplinary panels

Why this Role is for You

• You are passionate about the landscape of rare disease.

• You have the skills and experience M4RD is looking for.

• You are prepared to challenge systemic inequities within healthcare and medical education.

• You are ready to make a long-term commitment to improving the lives of people impacted by rare disease. 

Time Commitment: The expected time commitment is:

• 2 online meetings per month with the CEO;

• 4 online Trustees meeting per year;

• 1 face to face strategy meeting or event; and 

• Some ad hoc committee work. 

However, we are also keen to invite those who are passionate about the charity's work and able to support in other areas.

Please take a look at the Job Description for more details on this role. 

We look forward to hearing from you!

We are looking for a new Honorary Treasurer to join our diverse Board of Trustees. This is a key role within the organisation, offering a wonderful opportunity to make a difference to the lives of separated children arriving in the UK.

In addition to the general responsibilities of a Trustee, the Honorary Treasurer maintains an overview of The Separated Child Foundation’s financial affairs, monitors the financial administration of the charity and provides financial management advice and information to the Board of Trustees and to the Chief Executive.

Main responsibilities

• Making sure the charity keeps proper accounts

• Reviewing the charity’s financial performance

• Drawing up or reviewing policies for finance and investment

• Ensuring that the charity has robust and effective financial controls in place

• Liaising with external bookkeeping providers and with the charity’s Independent Examiner

• Reporting on financial matters where relevant

• Acting as a counter signatory on bank payments

• Liaising with external payroll provider regarding payroll preparation for new employees

• Ensuring our banking services are fit for purpose

Financial overview

• Act as the main interface between the Board of Trustees and the Chief Executive on financial matters

• Advise the Board as necessary on its financial duties and responsibilities

• Maintain an overview of the organisation’s financial status and viability and provide overall financial management advice to the Board and to the Chief Executive

• Advise and monitor financial risks to which the organisation is exposed

• Oversight of and input into financial controls

• Involvement in the preparation of the Trustees’ Annual Report and Accounts (TARA) and Annual Review

Strategic input and budget monitoring

• Work with the Chief Executive to draft 1-3 year budgets to deliver the strategic plan

• Advise on the financial implications of the strategic plan

• Support the Chief Executive’s review of monthly management accounts as needed

Additionally, the Honorary Treasurer is a key member of the Management Committee, which – amongst other duties – reviews and makes recommendations to the Board on staff pay in line with the charity’s policy

We are seeking up to three individuals to join our Trustee Board and help shape the future of Longfield Community Hospice as we develop our next five-year strategy.

What will you be doing?

Longfield provides a range of services to people living with life limiting conditions, terminal diagnoses or with a need for end of life care, alongside supporting their families, carers and loved ones.  As a trustee you will play a crucial role in shaping our strategic direction, ensuring that our services remain responsive and effective. This includes, 

• Ensuring we have a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and are focused on achieving them.
• Having clear oversight of organisational performance.
• Supporting the development of a healthy organisational culture. 
• Ensuring all legal and regulatory compliance.
• Ensuring organisational governance is maintained to the highest possible standard. 

Time commitment

The board meets every quarter, as do each of our committees. Meetings take place both online and face to face and last approx. 2 hours.

Time commitment is meeting attendance, time before meetings to read papers and occasional ad hoc discussions, strategy and planning sessions or events.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for people with experience of one or more of the following,

• Enterprise & business development: Entrepreneurial and innovative with business expertise and income generation experience. Insights into commercial activities such as repurposing facilities or partnering with other providers, to maximize the use of resources for long-term sustainability.
• Fundraising & Income Generation: Broad understanding of income generation, particularly in engaging major donors and corporate partners, with a strong focus on diversifying income streams for financial sustainability. 
• Retail: Commercial or charity retail experience, with a genuine interest in sustainable practices.
• IT: Strategic guidance on maximizing  effective use of IT, driving IT innovation and ensuring strong cybersecurity measures across the charity.
• Finance: Finance background with experience in managing or being part of a finance team. 

What difference will you make?

Our services are needed now more than ever -  are you eager to make a real impact? It’s an exciting time to join the board at Longfield as our new five-year strategy will formally launch in April next year. We're focused on evolving, developing, and growing to reach more patients, with the goal of becoming a recognized centre of excellence in our field. Innovation will be at the heart of our approach, and we invite you to be part of this transformative journey.

Before you apply

The Reach TrusteeWorks team are supporting Longfield with their trustee recruitment. Please indicate that you would like to apply and the TrusteeWorks team will be in touch with further information. We’re also happy to answer any questions about the role. 

Interviews will be held w/c 23rd October and w/c 30th October. It is envisaged that the new trustees will begin their induction in November.

Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO)

Trustees

Non renumerated

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) is the national membership body for charities, voluntary organisations, and social enterprises in Scotland. With a mission to champion and support the voluntary sector, SCVO works to build a fair and inclusive society. Its community of over 4,000 members is dedicated to driving positive social impact. SCVO also offers advocacy, resources, and networking opportunities to strengthen the voluntary sector and ensure it thrives at the heart of Scotland’s development.

The role

SCVO are looking for two passionate and strategic individuals to join SCVO's Board of Trustees. This is a highly rewarding role, offering the chance to shape SCVO’s strategic direction and help shape the future of Scotland’s voluntary sector. You will contribute to  high-level decision making, and support the leadership team, and safeguard SCVO’s long-term sustainability. Trustees will contribute to governance, compliance, and key organisational events, while ensuring adherence to legislation and robust financial controls. You will give strong strategic insight, an understanding of Scotland's voluntary sector, and a commitment to SCVO’s mission. This role requires a time commitment across quarterly meetings and key internal and external events such as The Scottish Charity Awards and The Gathering.

The person

The ideal candidates will have a strong belief in the value of the voluntary sector in Scotland and SCVO’s contribution to it. While previous experience as a trustee is beneficial, it’s not essential. Key qualities include strategic planning, performance monitoring, and effective team collaboration. Trustees should demonstrate good governance knowledge, sound judgement, and a values-driven approach. An understanding of the voluntary sector’s context in Scotland, coupled with the ability to challenge constructively and work collectively, is crucial to support SCVO’s mission and long-term vision.

If you have a query or would like an informal discussion, please contact Pringle or Debbie Shields at Aspen People.

Closing date for applications: Monday 14th October 2024

For more information, including how to apply, please visit the Aspen People website.

We are currently seeking two new trustees to join our board. The Board of Trustees is responsible for the governance of the charity, setting and overseeing its strategy. They ensure the organisation is run effectively and that its activities and outcomes are properly accounted for. We welcome applications from both members and non-members of the organisation.

Main responsibilities 

1. Developing and reviewing strategic aims consider the Region as a whole, including its trading operations, and its members:

• reflect our vision, strategy, major policies and values always.

• contribute specific skills, experience and contacts in support of our activities.

2. Ensuring policies and practices are in keeping with aims:

• abide by the principles laid down in the person specification (and code of conduct).

• attend meetings of the Trustee Board (there are normally 4 per year as well as the AGM) and the reporting committees if required (frequency varies).

• reflect the Trustees’ policies and concerns in all interactions with the Movement.

• assist in the implementation of our strategic goals.

• monitor and evaluate performance against strategic aims.

 3. Exercise effective control and ensure best practice:

• attend training and development opportunities as appropriate.

• work effectively as a team member of the Trustee Board in exercising its responsibilities and functions.

• take an active role in a reporting committee and/or subcommittee or working groups, contributing specialist skills, experience and knowledge as required.

• protect the assets and integrity of the charity, regarding best practice.

• maintain good relations with our staff.

• fulfil such other duties and assignments as may be required from time to time by the Trustee Board.

• engage with members of the Region at other levels in the organisation.

Citizens Advice LeicesterShire is an independent and local non-profit organisation. Our purpose is “Sharing knowledge to transform lives”. By listening to the needs of our communities and clients, we act to provide accessible, high-quality information, advice and education to anyone who needs it. We empower individuals with the tools and support they need to build resilience and thrive. By working in partnership with national and local organisations, we’re able to advocate for a fairer society, amplifying the voices of those often unheard. We demonstrate and uphold our values: we care, we help, we excel and we challenge to achieve positive outcomes for the people we help. Last year we supported over 31,000 people across Leicester and Leicestershire, securing them £14 million in additional income. 

We are looking for trustees to join our board. As a trustee, you'll help us:

• Set our strategy and direction

• Ensure we’re financially sustainable

• Monitor our performance and impact

• Make sure we’re meeting the needs of our community

You don’t need specific qualifications but we’re looking for someone who is:

• Passionate about social justice, our purpose and our values

• A strategic thinker able to see the big picture and develop long-term plans

• A good listener and communicator

• Collaborative and willing to contribute their unique skills and experience 

• Experience in one or more of the following areas: governance, finance, fundraising, legal, HR or marketing would be particularly welcome.

This is a voluntary role, but the rewards are invaluable:

• Make a different in your community 

• Develop your skills, experience and gain valuable insight in the non-profit sector

• Work in a supportive and friendly environment with a dedicated team of staff and volunteers

• Be part of something bigger than yourself and help build a more resilient community in LeicesterShire

We'll cover your expenses: we value your time and commitment and want to ensure serving as a trustee is accessible to everyone.

Visit our website to read the complete trustee pack and apply. We'd love to hear from you! Our CEO is also happy to have an informal chat if you have any questions.

Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust

Chair and Trustees

Unremunerated

Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust (GWT) want everyone in Gloucestershire to value, enjoy and share wildlife in the county and believe strongly that nature matters, not only in its own right, but for the huge benefits it brings to the people of Gloucestershire.

With a new Chief Executive in post and the launch of a refreshed ambitious strategy in place, this is an exciting time to join a highly driven Board as they look to recruit a new Chair (preferably with previous trustee experience) and trustees passionate about wildlife and the people of Gloucestershire.

Along with a demonstrable passion for wildlife and the people of Gloucestershire, we are particularly interested in candidates who bring experience and skills in one or more of the below areas:

Ecology

Strategic Finance

Enterprise and Business Development

Green Finance

Climate Change

We are especially keen to hear from people from Black, Asian and other Minority Ethnic groups who are currently under-represented on our board. Persons with lived experience and knowledge of Gloucestershire is highly desirable.

For further information please review our dedicated microsite by clicking 'apply via website'.

Closing date: Friday 6th October

Music Theatre Wales is looking for new Trustees including our first Young Trustee
We are inviting applications for Trustees and Young Trustees (aged 18 to 25).

What are we looking for in our Trustees?
We want Trustees to bring commitment and enthusiasm for the work MTW is doing to re-imagine opera. We want Trustees who care about the things we care about - ensuring that equality, diversity and inclusion lie at the heart of all our work, driving the creative development we believe opera needs, working with artists new to opera, creating opera in different and innovative shapes and forms and learning from the people we work with. We want Trustees who are pro-active and happy to stand up for our vision, and who will also be our critical friend.

Board Leads
We have recently established a number of Board Leads, where a Trustee takes responsibility for a specific area of the company’s work, supporting and consulting with the MTW team and project leads to ensure best possible practice. We will be looking to recruit a Board Lead for our work in Butetown (we are committed to working in Butetown from January 2024 – Summer 2026), alongside the Leads for Welsh, Diversity, Safeguarding and Environment.

Why do we want Young Trustees?
It’s crucial to our work to have young people’s ideas and expertise in the organisation. We need the broadest range of perspective on our Board, and we want to be guided by a range of people who can contribute to the continued development of our work across all communities, and that includes young people. We are looking to recruit at least one person aged 18 to 25 to bring their voice to the table, to help us find the best ways forward for the future of opera, for the future of the company and most importantly, for future audiences and artists from all backgrounds.

We also want to support young people in their professional and personal development, and we will work with Young Trustees to ensure this is an opportunity for them to build their knowledge and experience. Young Trustees will receive mentoring from existing Trustees and training will be provided for any areas they feel less confident in.

In addition to the recruitment of a young trustee and Board Lead for Butetown, we are also looking to recruit Trustees in a general capacity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, ages, skills and experience. 

More information
Interested in reading more? For the full information pack, including more information on what a Trustee does, how often they meet and the application process, visit our website here: www.musictheatre.wales/vacancies.html

If you’re interested but not sure whether you want to apply, please also access the information pack for details on how to get in touch with Michael McCarthy (MTW Director) or Kerry Skidmore (Chair) for an informal chat.

We are actively seeking to expand the range of lived experiences, cultural perspectives and personal and professional interests in our Board and welcome applications from anyone who believes they have something to offer and who could be a passionate advocate for our work. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and will consider all applications on merit. We are particularly keen to receive applications from Welsh-speakers, young people (under 30), from Black, Asian and ethnically diverse people, disabled people, people who are LGBTQIA+ and people from lower socio-economic backgrounds. As part of our commitment to increasing the diversity of our workforce we provide a guaranteed interview scheme to applicants who meet the minimum requirements for the job who are disabled, neurodivergent or people of the global majority.

Could you be a Home-Start Elmbridge Trustee?

We are seeking people to join our Board of Trustees to offer strategic support to Home-Start Elmbridge - a charity committed to promoting the welfare of families.

With our Head Office based in Walton on Thames, Surrey, our charity offers practical and emotional support to families across the Borough of Elmbridge who are struggling to cope for a variety of reasons. We’re there for parents when they need us the most, because childhood can’t wait.

The role of Trustee is an important one – bringing the requiredgovernance and strategic guidance that every charity needs to run successfully and ethically. Home-Start Elmbridge Trustees typically attend a two-hour Board meeting every six weeks and provide strategic and governance support as and when required. We currently have six Trustees plus a Chairperson and would like to increase this to a minimum of eight Trustees.  

We'd welcome applications from people whose professional and lived experiences have the potential to provide insight, oversight and governance to our charity. Areas of experience which would be particularly useful to the Board include Fundraising, Event Management and Human Resources. However, we are also open to applications from people with different skills sets and professional backgrounds.

The most important attribute that a Trustee can bring to our Board is a passion for improving the lives of children. The role of Trustee is a voluntary one and as such is rewarded by knowing that the time and commitment you bring to the Board directly results in more families getting the vital support they need, so they stand the best chance of providing a nurturing and safe home for their children.  

If you feel that that you could offer your time and expertise to the Home-Start Elmbridge Board and would like to find out more about the Trustee role, please get in touch with our Chair, Kathy Clark, to arrange a short telephone conversation.  

We’re looking for trustees

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

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

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

Could you be a Trustee at Wycombe Women’s Aid?

Wycombe Women’s Aid is an anti-racist and intersectional feminist charity which exists to provide independent, high-quality specialist services to women and children experiencing the effects of domestic violence.  Our vision is of a world where women and children live their lives free from domestic and sexual violence.  We are a women-only organisation, working from a trauma informed perspective, and committed to empowerment and self-help.  We listen to women and children and believe in women’s power to take back control of their lives.

We are seeking to appoint new, general Trustees and a Treasurer.  An induction programme and governance training will be provided for all new Trustees. 

Trustees are encouraged to share advice and experience in support of the CEO’s role in managing Wycombe Women’s Aid.  Trustees will have passion and interest in women’s and children's issues and experience and skills in any of the following areas:

· Financial management

· Social Care / Education / Health

· Charity work / Community work

· Housing

Experience of managing teams, monitoring and evaluation of services, strategic planning, fundraising and an understanding of, or lived experience of, domestic violence would also be beneficial. 

In return, we offer the opportunity to:

· support a local charity

· make a difference in your local community

· support a professional and committed staff team

· work with a small, friendly and passionate group of like-minded women

· support the cause of ending Violence Against Women and Girls

We are only seeking women for this role as the Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010 applies.  We specifically encourage Black and minoritised women to apply for these roles as these are currently under-represented within our Trustee Board.                                      

Registered Charity Number - 299946

The London Canal Museum is an independent and self-financing museum in London’s vibrant Kings Cross area, and we are currently looking for two additional Trustees to join our Council of Management.

In particular, we are seeking Trustees with experience in General Management, Education and PR/Publicity.

What will you be doing

· Be part of the Museum’s management team, running the museum as a business, and formulating and implementing plans for the future as a member of the Council of Management

· Hands-on participation in your specific area of expertise, delivering results that matter

· Working with the other Trustees, our team of volunteers, the Training & Recruitment Manager, and the Learning Manager to better improve the museum’s operation and delivery of visitor experience

· The museum has experienced a highly successful bounce-back from Covid, with higher than prior visitor numbers, and thus has a continual growth and improved financial sustainability agenda – in particular, the success of our new co-owned canal boat’s Regent’s Canal guided trips means the museum is busier than ever

What are we looking for

· A self-starter, hands-on in your specific area of expertise, and able to turn your hand to other tasks

· Enthusiasm to contribute and work as part of the team, and as a valuable member of the Committee of Management

· Commitment of sufficient time dedicated to the role

We would welcome particular skills, including but not limited to the following, and applicants with knowledge or experience in one or more these areas are desirable :

• General Management in a commercial organisation

• Visitor attraction management

• Facilities Management experience

• PR / Publicity background

• Education (in schools or museums)

• Museum collection & curation, exhibition management

An interest in canals/waterways and London industrial history is very welcome but by no means essential

What difference will you make

· As a member of the committee of management, contribute directly to effectively and efficiently improve the running of the museum, bringing new skills to the table

· Enable the museum to meet the challenges of continues growth and the long-term future

· Help ensure the future of the museum’s development and sustainability

What benefit does the new Trustee get

· Learn about the history of London’s canals, the people who lived and worked on them, and their place in the industrial revolution, as well as the ice trade and the unique history of our building

· Be part of the operation and future planning for an important self-funded independent museum

· Meeting new people – you will be a part of a community of volunteers of all ages and backgrounds

· Build your experience of working in museums, heritage and visitor engagement

· Regular opportunities to participate in social events including our summer boat trip, museum events, reciprocal visits to other museums, and volunteer discounts, etc.

We are currently seeking to recruit two to three more volunteer Trustees.

Citizens Advice Cornwall is an independent charity and a member of the national Citizens Advice service. We offer free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to individuals across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly on issues such as debt, welfare benefits, employment, housing, and consumer problems. We also research and campaign on a range of social and consumer issues. Our services are delivered by a team of highly-skilled and motivated volunteers and paid staff. As an organisation, we value diversity, promote equality and challenge discrimination wherever we find it.

The successful candidates will join our Trustee Board, which provides strategic direction and oversight to the charity. We’re looking for ambitious and forward-thinking people to help us deliver on our dual mission of advice and advocacy.

This position would suit someone taking their first steps to develop wider board level experience, and for those who might be new to governance. We welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds, so no matter what experience you have, we will provide full induction, onboarding and regular training for your Trustee role.

At Citizens Advice Cornwall, we embrace and value diversity and we feel passionately that our Board should be representative of the diverse communities we serve. We’re looking for people who understand the reasons why people turn to us for help and support, helping us to continually evolve our work with this in mind. We therefore particularly welcome applications from those who may have lived experience of the issues our clients face, and we encourage people from all ages, communities and backgrounds to join us.

We’re also looking for people who have strategic-level experience in one or more areas where we’re building our capability:

· Fundraising and Marketing,

· Using data and insight to campaign for policy and practice change,

· Digital and Cyber Security Expertise

This is an exciting time for our organisation, providing opportunity to bring in fresh perspectives and skills to our Board. We’ll also be looking to recruit a new Chair of the Board later in 2025, and so this could be an opportunity to build up knowledge and experience of our service, if you are interested in this role.

Interviews will be held in late October (provisionally 24th/25th October 2024).

Sussex MS Centre is seeking a new Chairperson to join our Board of Trustees. We are looking for a committed and enthusiastic leader who shares our values and vision to guide our charity through an exciting period of growth and development. 

Sussex MS Centre - Summary and Purpose of charity  

We are a small, inclusive, self-help and independently funded Centre supporting people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). We offer drug free therapies such as Oxygen, Acupuncture, Massage, Shiatsu and group exercise classes including Keep Fit, Pilates and Yoga. The Centre provides support groups and an excellent space for socialising which helps to prevent feelings of isolation. Our aims are to maintain flexibility, mobility and provide pain relief promoting well-being and a positive attitude for those with MS. 

Why Join Us? 

As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, this role provides a unique opportunity to oversee and lead a vibrant, growing charity that has been supporting people living with MS since 1984. You will have the chance to make a lasting impact on our community, influencing strategy, finance, operations, and future plans. This is a pivotal moment to collaborate with a dedicated team of trustees, staff, and volunteers who are passionate about improving the lives of those with MS and other neurological conditions. 

We are particularly eager to meet individuals who are committed to driving Sussex MS Centre forward in achieving our vision: to enhance the mental and physical health, well-being, and life opportunities of people in Sussex living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). 

Get Involved 

If you are a visionary leader with a passion for improving lives, we encourage you to consider this exceptional opportunity to help shape the future of our charity.

Job description

Introduction to the role: 

The Chair of Trustees will provide leadership and direction to the Board of Trustees and centre staff ensuring that the governance and strategic direction of the charity is being fulfilled. The Chair will support and sometimes challenge the team and ensure the Board functions as a unit and works closely with the wider team to achieve our aim to continue to be an exceptionally well run and sustainable organisation so that we can make the greatest practical impact for people managing their lives with MS.

Key Responsibilities: 

1. Leadership and Governance 

• Provide leadership to the charity and team ensuring the charity has the maximum impact for members and users and follows the vision/missions stated in the Strategic Plan. 

• Ensure the Board and Staff fulfil their obligations, duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity. 

• Ensue the Board operates within the charities objectives as stipulated within the Articles of Association. 

• Lead the Board and ensure it operates as a team, engaging all Trustees and fostering a culture of open discussion and debate. 

• Ensure the operation of the centre is realised and systems are in place to manage and mitigate risks 

• Chair bi-monthly Board Meetings and other meetings such as Finance and Health and Safety where appropriate. 

• Act as the support mechanism and critical friend for the Centre Manager and team for operational and strategic queries. 

• Work with Trustees and the Centre Manager to recruit and appoint new Trustees and staff and ensure they receive induction, training and support. 

• Undertake an annual appraisal for the Centre Manager. 

• Perform annual remuneration reviews in consultation with the Board. 

1. External Duties 

• Act as an ambassador for and represent the charity at external meetings, events and functions. 

• Build strong relationships with other MS charities, local charitable organisations, funding partners and key stakeholders. 

1. Strategy and Planning 

• Lead the Trustees in developing, agreeing and implementing the Strategic Plan. 

• Ensue the plan is robust and regularly reviewed and/or amended. 

• Work with the Centre Manager to agree priorities aligned with the Strategic Plan. 

• Support the team in the absence of the Centre Manager and offer advice and guidance where applicable. 

1. Person Specification 

• Essential: 

• Experience of working at a leadership level within a charity or organisation. 

• Experience of charity governance and working as a Trustee. 

• Commitment to the charity, its missions and values and drive and energy to implement positive change. 

• Strong leadership, motivational, interpersonal and conflict resolution skills. 

• Great communicator and able to effectively write reports and chair meetings. 

• Understanding of legal requirements for the charity and liabilities of being a Trustee. 

• Ability to work within a multidisciplinary team. 

• Ability to think strategically and know how to convert strategy into action. 

• Desirable: 

• Financial background or understanding of financial management. 

• Located within Sussex or commuting distance from the centre. 

• Background in managing projects or working within a project delivery environment. 

• Experience or understanding of MS, the effects of the condition and treatments on offer. 

• Knowledge of challenges faced by charities and specifically health related organisations. 

• Previous experience as a Chair or Senior Leadership role. 

1. Additional Information: 

• The position requires between 10 - 15 hours per calendar month with regular duties including chairing board and sub-committee meetings, ad hoc visits to the Centre, supporting the Centre Manager and training. 

• Board meetings are preferably in person but can be via zoom if required. 

• The position is voluntary and as such not remunerated however reasonable expenses incurred in the course of duties will be reimbursed.