Volunteer outreach volunteer volunteer roles
New Trustee – Thames Rivers Trust
Thames Rivers Trust (TRT) is seeking a new Trustee to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment, along with a scientific background to put forward new perspectives, increase our Trustee Board’s diversity and skillsets, strengthening TRT for a resilient future. This voluntary role is open to all qualifying individuals, including those with no previous Board or Trustee experience.
We are looking for potential not perfection, we are happy to consider someone at the beginning of their career as well as seasoned professionals. If you will add value, we want your expertise to help achieve our vision!
Our Mission
To bring together organisations across the Thames River Basin, and foster collaborative working to benefit the environment, wildlife and communities.
Our Vision
Our vision is for a vibrant and healthy Thames River Basin.
Our Values
Independence Evidence-based Sustainability Trustworthy.
Who are we?
TRT is a registered charity founded in 1986 and is part of The Rivers Trust movement. We are a Hub Trust for the Thames catchment, with our Key Partners we are dedicated to improving the Thames and its tributaries for the benefit of wildlife, communities and the environment.
Rivers are vital, we all need cold, clean and plentiful water to thrive; for communities, for business, for farming and for a wealth of wildlife species; yet our rivers are facing a multitude of serious threats and challenges. Together we and our partners are striving at many levels to preserve and improve rivers now and for the future in the Thames catchment.
TRT is committed to developing a collaborative, partnership approach that maximises the benefits of public, private and third sector organisations working together with communities to deliver integrated outcomes. Our most recent flagship project was the successful Thames Catchment Community Eels Project, led by TRT this pilot project worked closely with 3 fellow rivers trusts, Zoological Society of London and Thames Estuary Partnership to strategically identify priority barriers for works to make migration upstream possible for the critically endangered European eel, trial a new citizen science ObstacEELS, monitor elver migration and run extensive hands on community and school eel education outreach. The project has led on to an exciting upscaled National Lottery Heritage Fund funded phase 2 project Development Phase, that is about to start!
TRT is the convening body for the Thames Catchment Forum. This interactive regional forum brings together 27 catchment partnership hosts within the Thames for shared learning and development, themed panel discussions, expert guest speakers and Water Frame Directive updates from Thames Water and the Environment Agency, looking at issues and proposing solutions.
TRT works in partnership, leading our Key Partners group of 11 organisations that through the group are more informed to do more and better from mutual trust and openness, sharing their specialist knowledge and expertise. This leads to development of strong, evidence-based projects at scale to improve Thames rivers and educate and involve local communities. Together we achieve more, increasing our positive impact sooner.
What is a Trustee?
Charity Trustees are the people who share ultimate responsibility for governing a charity and directing how it is managed and run. This involves the Board of Trustees making decisions together, acting in the interests of the charity.
Some charity trustees see their role as turning up to 4 meetings a year, but engaged trustees do a lot more than that. A Trustee might support a specific project’s development, attend events to network and represent TRT, have oversight of an area of TRT work that aligns with a trustee’s particular specialism and interest.
Our Trustees use their skills, knowledge and experience to support TRT, helping the charity achieve its aims. Trustees also often learn new skills during their time on the Board.
What are we looking for?
An applicant with a scientific background, ideally in Freshwater Ecology, Environmental Biology, Environmental Science, Aquatic Conservation or Zoology.
A strong interest in the environment is essential and an interest in or knowledge of the Thames Catchment would be beneficial; in addition, do you possess any of the following skills or qualities?
- Fundraising
- Legal
- A willingness to participate in discussions and decision making
If yes and you have time to commit to a growing and ambitious charity that is looking to develop and deliver more, we want to hear from you!
Our board of Trustees meets up quarterly in person, during the day in London and Reading. In between these meetings Trustees are in touch regularly with our small, but dedicated team. Time commitment is flexible, in addition to meetings, an average of 2 hours per month to read papers and participate in TRT business.
Our Key Partners – Action for the River Kennet, Thames21, South East Rivers Trust, River Thame Conservation Trust, Cotswolds Rivers Trust, Crane Valley Community Interest Company, Zoological Society of London, Thames Estuary Partnership, Freshwater Habitats Trust, Thames Landscape Strategy and UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology.
TRT values its Trustees and their contributions and will offer support and guidance to all new Trustees. The role of a Trustee is a voluntary one, however the Trust provides indemnity insurance for Trustees and reasonable expenses incurred on authorised Trust business will be reimbursed.
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.
Wildscreen is a UK-based charity. We connect people with nature through storytelling and democratise the creation of and access to nature’s stories.
We are seeking a purpose-driven, experienced and visionary Chair of the Board of Trustees to lead Wildscreen into its next exciting chapter. The Chair will provide strategic leadership, governance, and support our small but mighty team to ensure the organisation continues to thrive and expand its influence within the international natural history media and environmental not for profit sectors. This role is crucial in guiding Wildscreen’s mission and vision, fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, and ensuring robust financial and operational health.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Leadership and Governance: Lead the Board of Trustees in ensuring Wildscreen has a clear strategic direction and uses its resources to effectively deliver its charitable objectives. Ensuring the organisation complies with legal and regulatory requirements the Board operates effectively and with high governance standards. Providing leadership and support and appraising the performance of the Chief Executive Officer and where appropriate, other members of the Executive Team. Participating in and ensuring Board induction, training and effectiveness is undertaken and reviewed annually.
- Strategic Planning: Collaborate with the Board, Executive Team, and key stakeholders to develop and implement Wildscreen’ s strategic plan. Drive the organisation’s vision and objectives forward, ensuring alignment with its mission and values.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Act as an ambassador for Wildscreen, fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders, including funders, partners, education and community groups, and sector bodies.
- Financial Oversight: Work with the Board and Executive Team to ensure the financial stability and sustainability of the organisation. Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and risk management processes.
- Fundraising and Development: Support and guide fundraising initiatives, including identifying new opportunities and cultivating relationships with donors, sponsors, and funding bodies.
- Community and Inclusivity: Promote Wildscreen’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Encourage programmes and initiatives that engage with diverse audiences and reflect the community’s needs.
- Performance and Evaluation: Monitor and evaluate the performance of the organisation against strategic goals and objectives. Ensure continuous improvement and responsiveness to changing needs in the international media landscape.
ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
- Strategic Leadership: Demonstrable experience in a senior leadership or governance role within a complex organisation, preferably within the creative industries, environmental, purposedriven or not-for-profit sectors.
- Governance Expertise: Strong understanding of governance, with a track record of effectively chairing boards or committees and ensuring accountability and transparency.
- Stakeholder Management: Proven ability to engage, influence, and build relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including funders, partners, and community groups.
- Financial Acumen: Solid understanding of financial management, with experience in overseeing budgets, financial planning, and risk management.
- Fundraising Capability: Experience in supporting fundraising activities, identifying funding opportunities, and engaging with donors and sponsors.
- Commitment to Diversity: A strong commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, with the ability to champion these values across the organisation and its programmes.
- Passion for Nature and Storytelling: A genuine passion for the power of storytelling with an understanding of the essential role Wildscreen plays in convening important conversations, celebrating the world’s best natural world storytellers and enabling equitable access for all in the UK and internationally.
- Communication Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire, influence, and engage with a wide range of audiences.
- Time and Commitment: The ability to commit sufficient time to fulfil the responsibilities of the role. We estimate a time commitment of 10 days per annum to account for quarterly board meetings, annual away day, monthly CEO support, events, subcommittee meetings (such as governance and finance committee) reading of Board papers and other organisational activities. Occasionally, trustees will be asked to join specific subcommittees or working groups with the wider team and externals where their area of expertise is particularly relevant.
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
Wildscreen is an equal opportunities and disability confident employer. We welcome from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity. If you would like any additional support or alternative arrangements during our application process which would make you more comfortable, please do get in touch.
HOW TO APPLY
Please complete the online application form. This includes a couple of questions to outline your suitability and reasons for applying for this role with Wildscreen. You will also be required to upload a CV.
Interviews to be held: Mid-late January 2026
* No agencies, please.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Bath Area Play Project are passionate about every child's right to play and enabling children to thrive. We are looking for a Chair of our small Trustee Board to support our vision and ethos, enabling the continuation of our support services for children and families, leading strategic oversight and ensuring we are resilient for change.
BAPP provide a range of services including an Ofsted registered Nursery & Pre-school, Ofsted registered Holiday Playschemes for disabled children and those with additional needs, Children & Family Support, Alternative Provision for children with SEND and our long standing Community based Family Playdays. More information is available on our website
As we work with vulnerable children, Trustees are required to have an Enhanced DBS and to register as one of our Trustees as part of our Ofsted registration. There are 8 Trustee Meetings each year, alternating in person in Bath and online which includes our AGM. Other commitments in addition can include attending events, representing BAPP, supporting with recruitment/staffing and policy review.
For further information or if you have any questions, please get in touch.
To promote the importance of and facilitate quality, inclusive play opportunities for children and families living across Bath and North East Somerset

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Focus Birmingham is a leading local charity that provides expert support, advice, and care for people living with sight loss and complex disabilities. We deliver a range of life-changing services including residential care, supported living, day services, low vision assessments, and community outreach. Our approach is person-centered, empowering individuals to live independently and access opportunities with dignity and inclusion.
As we adapt to a changing digital landscape and explore new ways of engaging communities, supporters, and service users, we are seeking a Digital Marketing Trustee to join our dynamic and committed Board. This new role will support the charity’s ambitions to improve digital engagement, modernise communications, and strengthen our public profile and fundraising capacity.
Why This Role Matters
Effective digital communication is essential for amplifying our voice, reaching diverse audiences, promoting inclusion, and securing sustainable income. As Digital Marketing Trustee, you will offer strategic oversight and guidance to ensure our marketing and digital communications are high-impact, audience-focused, and aligned with our mission.
This is a unique opportunity to use your digital expertise to shape the future of a well-established charity while contributing to a cause with genuine social value.
Role Purpose
As a Trustee, you will share collective responsibility for the governance and strategic leadership of Focus Birmingham. In your specialist capacity, you will:
- Advise the Board on digital strategy, branding, and communications
- Provide scrutiny and insight into digital marketing and audience engagement
- Ensure the charity’s digital presence is accessible, inclusive, and aligned with its values
- Support innovation across channels to increase visibility, fundraising, and service impact
You will work alongside fellow trustees and the executive leadership team to ensure Focus Birmingham maximises its digital potential while maintaining high standards of compliance, reputation, and effectiveness.
Key Responsibilities
General Trustee Duties
As a member of the Board, all trustees are expected to:
- Ensure Focus Birmingham complies with its governing documents, charity law, and regulatory requirements
- Maintain proper oversight of strategic objectives, financial performance, and risk management
- Uphold the charity’s values and ensure ethical governance and decision-making
- Provide constructive support and challenge to the senior leadership team
- Act in the best interests of the charity and its beneficiaries at all times
- Attend quarterly Board meetings and participate in additional committee work or strategic sessions as appropriate
Digital Marketing-Specific Duties
As the Digital Marketing Trustee, your responsibilities will also include:
- Advising on the development and implementation of a digital marketing and communications strategy to raise awareness of the charity’s services, campaigns, and fundraising efforts
- Supporting the charity to grow and diversify its online presence through effective use of website content, social media, email campaigns, video, SEO, and online advertising
- Helping evaluate the effectiveness of digital channels using analytics and audience insights, and suggesting improvements based on performance data
- Offering oversight and guidance on brand development and how the charity presents itself visually and verbally in digital formats
- Promoting good practice in digital storytelling reflects the experiences of our service users in an ethical and empowering way
- Helping ensure digital communications are accessible to people with visual impairments and compliant with relevant regulations (e.g., GDPR, WCAG)
- Advising on digital aspects of donor engagement and online fundraising, including giving platforms, digital campaigns, and crowdfunding
- Championing innovation in communications and supporting a culture of creativity and responsiveness within the organisation
Person Specification
We are seeking a digitally savvy marketing leader who brings strategic insight, creativity, and a passion for social purpose.
Essential Criteria
- Substantial experience in digital marketing, digital communications, or online engagement, ideally in a senior or strategic role
- Strong understanding of digital marketing tools and platforms, including social media, CMS, email marketing, SEO, PPC, Google Analytics, and CRM systems
- Strategic thinker with a clear grasp of audience targeting, digital content planning, and user experience (UX)
- Demonstrated ability to use data and analytics to inform decisions and drive results in engagement or conversion
- Familiarity with digital storytelling, campaigns, and brand development across multi-channel environments
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to convey complex digital concepts clearly to a non-technical audience (e.g., board and senior staff)
- Commitment to inclusive and ethical digital communication practices, particularly for people with disabilities or accessibility needs
- An understanding of and commitment to charity governance, transparency, and good stewardship
Desirable Criteria
- Experience working with or advising not-for-profits, charities, or social enterprises
- Knowledge of digital fundraising platforms or experience delivering online fundraising or donor engagement campaigns
- Familiarity with accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG 2.1) and tools that improve online inclusion
- Experience leading or advising on digital transformation in a small or medium-sized organisation
- Lived or professional experience related to disability, accessibility, or sight loss
What We Offer
- A meaningful, strategic volunteer opportunity with a respected, impact-driven charity
- The chance to shape digital strategy and innovation at Board level
- A supportive and collaborative Trustee team, with induction and ongoing development
- Opportunities to meet and engage with service users, frontline staff, and supporters
- Reimbursement of reasonable expenses
- The satisfaction of contributing to a mission that improves lives across Birmingham and beyond
We exist to make lives better
