Chair Of Trustee Board Volunteer Roles in Edinburgh

Award-winning inclusion charity seeks Co-Chair to shape and lead next phase of growth

WAVE (We’re All Valued Equally) for Change inspires, encourages and enables people with and without learning disabilities to enjoy working together, creating genuinely inclusive worship and social places in the heart of their communities. You will be co-leading our Board of Trustees in North London and supporting our CEO to ensure that our mixed-ability groups and activities positively change experience and attitudes around learning disability.

We are honoured to be supporting the wonderful Crohn's and Colitis UK to recruit three new Trustees to join their board.
 

THE CHARITY

We’re the UK’s leading charity for Crohn’s and Colitis. Right now, over 500,000 people in the UK are living with a lifelong condition that can profoundly affect their quality of life. And because of the stigma surrounding their conditions, thousands are suffering in silence. But we are here to support and champion a better future. Our vision is for improved lives for people with Crohn’s and Colitis today, and in the long term, a world free from Crohn’s and Colitis altogether.

Our community look to the charity to help them navigate their way through complex health issues and support their needs wherever they live, whatever their background and whoever they are. This is our job - whether it’s lobbying for health leaders, providing vital information, or reducing the stigma around the conditions, we’re here for them
 

TRUSTEE OPPORTUNITY

The charity are looking to appoint three Trustees and have identified the following skill areas of interest;

• HR experience - Ideally leading HR strategy, ensuring legal compliance, delivering L&D strategy, pay & reward frameworks and fostering a positive work culture
• Policy, Influencing & Public Affairs experience - ideally working in policy, influencing and/or public affairs. We would also welcome media partnerships and media campaigns experience
• Fundraising strategy and implementation experience - Ideally at Fundraising Director level or have undertaken this role prior to moving to a broader role. Ideally you will have an understanding of a broad range of income generation with experience of leading supporter engagement strategies and successfully increasing reach

The charity are looking to improve the diversity on their Board, including ethnicity, socio-economic and applicants who have connections to underserved communities. They would also welcome applicants from Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, or the north of England. Most Trustees on the Board already have first-hand lived experience of Crohn’s and Colitis so new applicants for the role will not be required to have this experience.
 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Ensuring that the charity complies with its constitution, charity law and any other relevant legislation or regulations, works to fulfil its charitable objects and applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects.
• Contributing actively to the Board of Trustees’ role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and evaluating performance.
• Safeguarding the good name and values of the charity.
• Ensuring the effective and efficient management and administration of the charity.
• Ensuring the financial stability of the charity.
• Ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds.
• Employing and being responsible for the organisation’s staff
• Using any specific knowledge or experience they have to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions.
• Promoting the charity among their own contacts.

PERSONAL QUALITIES

• An empathetic interest in the work of the charity, its strategic objectives and the cause.
• Strong networking capabilities that can be utilised for the benefit of the charity, and the ability to attend relevant events when helpful or necessary.
• Good inter-personal and relationship building abilities, working collaboratively both internally with colleagues and ensuring contribution from colleagues into discussions, and externally with a range of stakeholders.
• Diplomatic, with the ability to negotiate, influence and convince through personal credibility.
• Values diversity and difference and operates with integrity and openness.

EXPERIENCE

• Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level.
• Experience of external representation, building new connections and managing a range of senior stakeholders across different sectors, including service users.
• Successful track record of leading the formulation and delivery of an organisational strategy.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

• The ability to provide leadership to and motivate staff and volunteers, bringing people together.
• Good understanding of governance issues.

HOW TO APPLY

Valued Recruitment is working exclusively with Crohn’s & Colitis UK to recruit for their Trustee Board. We are an ethical recruitment company, intent on hiring inclusively and transparently.

To apply, we welcome a CV and a 2 page (maximum) covering letter addressing your motivation for applying and your experience that is relevant to the role.

Accessibility is incredibly important to us at Valued Recruitment and at Crohn’s & Colitis UK. If you would like any accessibility amendments or support throughout the application and interview stage, please don’t hesitate to let us know. No question or request is too big or too small. We want this process to be comfortable and enjoyable and a chance for you to bring your best self to the process.

Closing date for applications: 5pm, Monday 31st March
Meeting with Chief Executive: Wednesday 30th April
Interview with Board Chair and Trustee panel: Wednesday 7th May

Role Summary:

The Chair of the Board of Trustees will provide strategic leadership to Hidayah, ensuring the organization remains aligned with its mission to support and advocate for LGBTQ+ Muslims. The Chair will guide the Board of Trustees in effective governance and act as an ambassador for the charity within both the Muslim and LGBTQ+ communities.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Governance:
   • Provide leadership to the Board, ensuring that Trustees fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity.
   • Oversee the Board of Trustees’ operation, ensuring its members work collaboratively and effectively.
   • Ensure the charity complies with its constitution, governing documents, charity law, and other relevant legislation/regulations.

1. Strategy and Planning:
   • Lead the development and implementation of the charity’s annual strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the needs of LGBTQ+ Muslims.
   • Write the annual report outlining Hidayah’s impact and achievements
   • Work with the Board of Trustees to ensure that strategic objectives are effectively executed and serve the community
   • Write and develop a portfolio of policies to ensure the smooth running of Hidayah

1. Board of Trustees Management:
   • Chair monthly Board meetings effectively, ensuring decisions are taken in a timely manner and that actions are followed up.
   • Facilitate a positive and inclusive Board culture where diverse viewpoints are encouraged and respected.
   • Manage all volunteers taken on by Hidayah

1. Advocacy and Representation:
   • Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work within both the Muslim and LGBTQ+ communities and to a wider audience.
   • Represent the charity at key events, meetings, and functions, and develop relationships with key stakeholders and partners.

1. Financial Oversight:
   • Oversee the charity’s financial health, ensuring it operates within its means and maintains proper financial control and accountability.
   • Work with the Treasurer and the finance team to ensure the Board of Trustees receives accurate and timely financial information.
   • Act as a signatory for Hidayah’s bank account and financial operations.
   • To seek out partnerships, sponsors and endorsements from individuals and organisations.

1. Risk Management:
   • Ensure appropriate risk management policies and procedures are in place and adhered to.
   • Regularly review and address potential risks to the charity’s operations and reputation.

Person Specification:

Essential:

• Demonstrable experience in a leadership role within a charity, non-profit, or similar organization.
• Strong understanding of governance best practices and charity law.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to foster a collaborative and inclusive culture.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.
• Strong financial acumen and experience overseeing budgets and financial planning.
• Passion for the charity’s mission and commitment to its values, with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ Muslims.

Desirable:

• Previous experience as a Chair or in a senior non-executive role.
• Experience in fundraising and development activities.
• Established network within the Muslim and LGBTQ+ communities and among relevant stakeholders.

Terms of Appointment:

• The Chair will be appointed for an initial term of 3 years, which may be renewed for a further term(s).
• This is a voluntary position; however, expenses incurred in fulfilling the role will be reimbursed as approved by the Board of Trustees in line with Hidayah’s policies.

Background:

Established in 2011, Kaleidoscope Trust is a UK-based charity fighting to bring about positive legislative, policy and social change for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and gender diverse (LGBTI+) people across the Commonwealth and beyond. We fund, fight for, and empower those upholding the human rights of LGBTI+ people by working with governments, changemakers, and civil society organisations to effect meaningful and lasting change in the lives of LGBTI+ people.
 

At this exciting time for Kaleidoscope Trust, we are looking to find a candidate who can take on the role as Chair of the Board of Trustees to build on the charity’s momentum, while handling the evolving opportunities and challenges of the organisation. The Chair provides strategic leadership of Kaleidoscope Trust in collaboration with the Board of Trustees and the Chief Executive Officer.
 

Overall purpose:

To provide Leadership of the Board as a team, to facilitate and drive the governance and strategic direction of Kaleidoscope Trust and to communicate its values, mission, aims, and objectives.
 

Key Responsibilities:

- Working in Partnership with the Chief Executive Officer

- Fundraising & Acting as an Ambassador

- Governance & Strategic Direction

- Communication and Culture

- Board Meetings
 

The post holder will seek to remain both well-informed about the opportunities, challenges, and risks facing the association’s services and will aim to contribute specialist knowledge/expertise to debate and decisionmaking.
 

The Chair of the Board is responsible for ensuring that the Board is effective in setting and implementing the strategic direction of the organisation and can act as a leading ambassador for Kaleidoscope Trust.

We know that diverse boards are the most effective, they can think creatively and hold each other to account, therefore we are particularly looking for applications from trans people, women, People of the Global Majority, people without a degree, working class people and people of faith.
 

Please refer to the Job Description attached for more information on the role.

Dreams Come True – Chair of Board of Trustees

Terms: This is a voluntary role and is therefore unremunerated

Length of tenure: The Chair’s tenure is for an initial period of three years.

Dreams Come True, a national charity which creates life-enhancing and life-changing experiences for children with serious and life-limiting conditions and who live in social deprivation, is seeking a new Chair for their board of trustees.

For over 30 years, Dreams Come True has been transforming lives through their unique mission and dream programme, bringing joy and lasting impact to thousands of children every year from the UK’s most socially deprived areas who have serious illnesses, life-limiting conditions or disabilities.

The charity helps to transform individual and community dreams into reality, and is committed to scaling up their work by forging new partnerships, innovating their fundraising approaches and enhancing the dream programmes to ensure that every dream granted has a lasting and transformative impact. They are now seeking a new Chair to help lead them into the next chapter of this journey to broaden reach and impact.

This is an opportunity for a compassionate and visionary individual with proven leadership skills and the ability to guide the board and executive team in achieving strategic objectives.  The ideal candidate will have significant experience on a charity board, either as a Chair or as a trustee, with a personal empathy to the mission of Dreams Come True. They will also bring strategic oversight and governance expertise, and a wider involvement with the voluntary sector and well-established networks would be highly desirable. A solid understanding of finances, particularly within the charity sector, to support sustainability and growth will be essential, alongside strong diplomacy, interpersonal and negotiation skills. They will also need to understand the challenges and opportunities of a growing charity.

The new Chair will work closely with the CEO and a talented and committed board of trustees to ensure the charity continues to deliver life-changing dreams, builds on their successes and looks to the future with ambition and optimism.

Please click through to access and download our Candidate Pack for more information [PDF] including application details.

CLOSING DATE: Monday 31st March, 9am GMT.
 

PLEASE NOTE: We will be longlisting applications as soon as we receive them, so please apply early to register your interest. 

The Chair of Trustees provides strategic leadership and direction to the Board, ensuring the effective governance of the charity. In this role, you will guide the organisation in its mission to help adults learn to read, ensuring that it operates efficiently and sustainably while delivering a profound impact on individuals’ lives.

You will lead the Board and work closely with the CEO to advance the charity’s vision that every adult who wants to learn to read, can.

Key responsibilities

Leadership and Governance:

• Lead the Board of Trustees in providing strategic oversight and effective governance, ensuring compliance with the charity’s constitution, legal, and regulatory obligations
• Ensure the charity stays true to its mission of helping adults learn to read and that all activities align with its vision, values, and strategic objectives
• Foster a culture of collaboration, inclusion, and accountability within the Board

Board Management:

• Chair Trustee meetings, setting agendas in partnership with the CEO or senior staff to ensure discussions focus on the charity’s priorities
• Encourage open, respectful debate and collective decision-making among Trustees, ensuring clarity of outcomes and actions
• Oversee the recruitment, induction, and development of Trustees, ensuring the Board is diverse, skilled, and effective in fulfilling its responsibilities
• Monitor and assess the performance of the Board, supporting Trustees to carry out their duties

Support to Senior Staff:

• Function as the primary link between the Board and the CEO, offering guidance,support, and constructive challenge
• Conduct regular appraisals and set objectives for the CEO, ensuring they have the resources and backing to succeed
• Serve as a sounding board for major decisions and initiatives, especially those that advance the charity’s literacy goals

Advocacy and Representation:

• Function as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work to external stakeholders, including funders, partners and the public
• Represent the charity at public events, campaigns, and meetings to raise awareness about adult literacy challenges and successes

Risk and Compliance:

• Ensure the charity has effective policies and systems for financial management, safeguarding and risk mitigation
• Oversee the preparation of statutory reports, ensuring compliance with the Charity Commission and other regulatory bodies
• Safeguard the charity’s reputation and ensure its activities comply with all relevant laws and its governing documents

Strategic Planning:

• Collaborate with Trustees and staff to monitor progress against strategic goals,adapting plans as necessary to meet evolving challenges and opportunities

Join Them at a Defining Moment for Be United

This is an exciting time for Be United, having recently secured £559,829 in Multi-Year Funding from Creative Scotland. They are entering a new phase of growth—and they’re looking for a bold, strategic leader to help shape their next chapter. As Chair of Trustees, you will play a key role in driving their mission forward—championing and empowering Scotland’s Black creative community while ensuring Be United continues to grow as a leading force for equity in the Scottish Cultural Sector.

Who They Are Looking For

They are seeking an experienced and dynamic leader who shares Be United’s passion for shaping an equitable cultural sector in Scotland.

Candidates should have:

• Proven leadership experience at a senior level (governance or operational).
• Strong knowledge of the arts, charity sector, or relevant fields such as creative industries and business.
• High financial acumen, with the ability to understand and navigate budgets.
• Experience in recruitment and board or organisational development is particularly welcomed as they continue to strengthen their governance structure.

What You Will Receive

• Opportunity to lead a dynamic team.
• Be part of leading strategic change within the Scottish creative sector.
• Access to and the opportunity to enjoy a range of music and live events.
• Visibility as a leader working within a growing charity in Scotland.
• Ability to contribute to the mission and ambitions of Be United.
• In-person team training in Edinburgh or Glasgow.

As Chair, You Will:

• Provide leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring they offer strong strategic direction and fulfil their governance responsibilities effectively.
• Hold the Board and Senior Leadership Team accountable for delivering Be United’s mission, ensuring that trustees are engaged and leading with excellence.
• Work closely with the CEO to ensure the organisation is thriving and growing.
• Support with recruitment and development to maintain a diverse, skilled, and engaged team that reflects the needs of the organisation.
• Act as a key ambassador for Be United, representing the charity at events, networking opportunities, and meetings with funders and stakeholders.
• Strengthen partnerships with the arts, education, and community sectors, working alongside the CEO to build strategic relationships that advance Be United’s mission.
• Leverage networks to support fundraising efforts, whether through connecting with funders, corporate partners, or high-value individual donors.
• Maintain oversight of the development of the trading arm, supporting the CEO and team to establish and develop Be United’s trading ability.

About Be United

"Championing creativity. No limits, no barriers." Be United is a registered Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation founded in 2014. They believe that ensuring diversity in the creative industries is not just a matter of fairness or representation—it is crucial for the vibrancy of the arts, the health of the economy, and the progression of an equitable Scottish society.

They are committed to advocating, nurturing, and championing Black people working in the performing arts, screen, and event sectors in Scotland. They create platforms and opportunities that empower people to define their own success.

Their values are:

• Equity: Creating a more equitable world, society, and sector.
• Empowerment: Enabling themselves and others to reach their fullest potential.
• Excellence: Striving to go beyond expectations and make an impact.

For the last decade, Be United has actively provided opportunities for Black artists working in the Scottish creative sector. Their impact includes:

• 27,000+ audience members engaged through their performance development programmes.
• £180,000+ in earned income generated for Scotland’s Black community through film and television work, having cast 500 people in Amazon Prime’s Anansi Boys.
• 400+ creatives employed through Be United initiatives.
• A growing portfolio of high-profile events, including Edinburgh Festival Carnival, Edinburgh Fringe events, Key Creatives, and Producing the Future.

With the backing of Multi-Year Funding, their key objective for 2025-28 is to support 500 Black people in Scotland to enter or progress in the creative industries. The next three years will mark a major step-change for Be United, delivering an ambitious plan that expands their reach and deepens their impact.

In a recent survey by Creative Scotland, Arts & Diversity Survey, half of respondents in the minority ethnic or mixed groups stated their ethnicity was a barrier, with a quarter stating it is a significant or very significant barrier. This compares with 5% of white respondents.

The need for change is clear. As Chair, you’ll play a vital role in shaping a fairer, more inclusive creative sector in Scotland.

Position: Chair of Trustees

The Board of Trustees is the ultimate governance body for the organisation, serving as stewards of the organisation’s resources, and is ultimately responsible for Self Help UK’s strategy, operations, adherence to law and regulation, and financial management. The Trustees serve on a voluntary basis and currently meet virtually every 6 weeks.

Chair Responsibilities: The Chair leads the Board of Trustees and works closely with the Charity’s Chief Executive and Senior Management Team to achieve its goals. The Chair is responsible for key areas, including:

Strategy and Governance

• Ensuring that the Board operates effectively in the consideration, iteration, and approval of the organisational strategy in support of the charity’s mission and values.

• With Trustees, ensuring that the charity operates efficiently and effectively to fulfil its objectives

• Safeguarding the interests of the charity’s beneficiaries and providing oversight of stakeholder interests • Maintaining high standards of governance and risk management.

• Ensuring that the Board is as diverse as possible and provides the range of knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to deliver the charity’s aims.

• Ensuring the organisation is accountable and transparent in its activities.

• Maintaining compliance with relevant charitable and company legislation.

• Oversight of the Sub Committees of the board.

• Ensuring a high-performing and effective board by committing to regular appraisal and review of Trustees and board performance (including managing retirements and resignations of Trustees).

Guidance and support to the Chief Executive

• Appointment of the Chief Executive and approval of Chief Executive’s salary with the Trustees.

• Line management of and work in partnership with the Chief Executive to support them in achieving the aims of the charity.

• Support and guidance on operations, including personnel management.

Financial

• Ensuring, with the Board, sound financial oversight, including review and approval of the annual budget

• Oversight of high standards of financial management

Advocacy and fundraising

• Using personal and professional networks to help the executive with access to potential donors and supporters, including governments, international bodies, corporations, trusts and foundations, NGOs, and individuals.

• Advise and assist in raising and maintaining the charity’s profile in the UK and internationally.

Lead Board Meetings:

• Lead all aspects of meeting management.

• Encouraging discussion at Board meetings, summarising key points and ensuring decisions are made and implemented.

Remuneration: Unremunerated, but reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed

Time Commitment: Estimated at 2 days per month, but some flexibility and the ability to offer more time on occasion are required.

Standard commitments include:

• Attending Board meetings every 6 weeks. Currently, meetings are held via Zoom

• Attendance at subcommittee meetings as necessary

• Monthly scheduled meeting with the CEO, with flexibility to respond swiftly to the occasional ad hoc issue.

• Attending, as a minimum, an annual half-day strategy session and other face-to-face events as required.

Qualities of a Chair

Essential

• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of Trusteeship and adhering to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.

• Commitment to the charity’s objects, aims, and values and willingness to devote time to carry out responsibilities. • Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims.

• Good, independent judgement, political impartiality and the ability to think creatively in the context of the organisation and external environment.

• Good communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to respect the confidences of colleagues.

• Balancing tact and diplomacy with willingness to challenge and constructively criticise.

Desirable

• Prior experience of committee/trustee work.

• Knowledge of the type of work undertaken by the organisation.

• A wider involvement with the voluntary sector.

• Experience of chairing meetings, committee work, some experience of charity finance, charity fundraising.

• Leadership skills exercised through a period change.

Surfers Against Sewage

Join the Wave of Change

Are you ready to inspire and guide efforts to restore and protect our ocean? Surfers Against Sewage is seeking a dynamic and daring leader to take the helm as our Chair of the Board. 

As we enter a new strategic plan period for 2025-2028, we are driven by our values of being open, authentic, daring, dynamic, and purposeful. We are a vibrant and diverse community of Ocean Activists, taking action where we surf, swim, and play. 

Our mission is to connect the stories, evidence, and data of our community to those in power to demand systemic change. As a strong advocate and skilled networker, you will amplify our voice, build influential relationships, and mobilize support to advance our cause. 

We are ambitious and seek nothing short of an end to pollution and the restoration of our seas and wild waters. You’ll work closely with the Chief Executive and the Board to push the boundaries of what we might achieve and help keep SAS at the forefront of environmental activism. We sound the alarm and lead the fight to stop polluters, always.

YOU WILL BE:

• Passionate about the Ocean: You have an authentic connection to the water, whether you surf, swim, or simply love the sea.
• A Strong Advocate: You are a powerful voice for the ocean, capable of inspiring and mobilizing others.
• A Skilled Networker: You bring experience and influence, with the ability to build and leverage networks to advance our mission.
• Campaign Savvy: You understand the power of great campaigning and share our thrill in creating positive change.
• Values-Driven: You operate with a strong steer from your values and share ours of being open, authentic, daring, dynamic, purposeful, and driven by a diverse and inclusive community.
• Collaborative Leader: You have an inclusive leadership style and enjoy working with others to achieve common goals.
• Fun-Loving: You have a good sense of fun and share our enjoyment for the way we campaign.

RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE:

• Strategic Leadership: Provide leadership of the Board in setting the strategic direction and priorities for SAS, ensuring effective governance while pushing the boundaries of our campaigning and activism.
• Support the Chief Executive: Drive our mission and objectives by ensuring SAS stays at the forefront in the fight to protect and restore the ocean.
• Governance and Management: Ensure the Board fulfils its governance and management duties and responsibilities.
• Team Building: Harness the skills, experience, and energy of the Board to create an effective and cohesive team for the CEO and Leadership team.
• Advocacy and Networking: Build and leverage networks to advance our mission, including political networks and connections with key influencers.

WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

• Connection to the Water: Whether professionally or through your passion, you have a deep connection to the ocean.
• Knowledge: Expertise in the water sector, plastics, chemicals, water sports, social or environmental change, politics, or policy.
• Media Savvy: Experience with public interviews, TV, and radio.
• Networking: Strong connections and influence with key people, including political networks.
• Community Engagement: Focus on healthy blue communities and economies, improving ecosystems and well-being.
• Transparency and Honesty: Lead on providing accurate and accessible real-time data, revealing the truth to deliver UK-wide transparency about all sewage and plastic pollution.
• Passion: Lead on a nature-based approach to ensure our rivers, lakes, and seas can thrive again, valuing and protecting nature forever.

TERM AND COMMITMENT

The Chair of the Board is typically appointed for a term of three years, with the possibility of reappointment. 

The role requires a modest time commitment, including attending Board meetings, representing SAS at events and in the media, and engaging with stakeholders, joining us on protests and at stunts. 

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.

ecoACTIVE is looking to recruit a new Chairperson to provide strategic direction for the charity ensuring that we are maximising opportunities for growth, development and financial stability.

As our Chairperson, you will:

• Have an interest/passion in environmental education, sustainability and community issues

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for the Board of Trustees and the charity 

• Ensure that the Board regularly reviews major risks and associated opportunities, and satisfy itself that systems are in place to take advantage of opportunities and manage and mitigate the risks

• Ensure that the Board fulfils its duties to ensure sound financial health of the charity, with systems in place to ensure financial accountability

​Key skills and experience:

• Knowledge or keen interest in the type of work undertaken by the charity and an understanding of, or wider involvement in, the voluntary sector

• Strong interpersonal and relationship building abilities, with the ability to listen and engage effectively

• Experience of chairing meetings and an understanding of governance requirements for charities

• Good communication and interpersonal skills 

• Impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidences

We are a charity that focuses on education and campaigning to support the needs wider community and of people seeking sanctuary primarily within Swindon but also considering the national situation too.

The Chair should be able to lead the charity over the next 3-5 years and empower the trustees and paid members of staff to work towards achieving all of our charitable objectives.  We are looking for an individual with a passion for the fair treatment of people seeking sanctuary within Swindon and for the education of the town's population as to the value of this group to our wider community.

What are we looking for?

A commitment to the vision and mission of Swindon City of Sanctuary.

Successful experience of operating effectively in leadership roles, ideally leading diverse teams, within a charitable, public sector or commercial organisation.

An understanding of the respective roles of the Chair, Trustees and Charity Manager and acceptance of the legal dues, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.

Demonstrable ability and experience of building and sustaining relationships with stakeholders and colleagues to achieve organisational objectives.

Knowledge of current global/national/local context relating to migration and seeking sanctuary

An ability to work effectively as a member of a team Preparedness to make difficult  recommendations to the Board, when necessary, with diplomacy.

A history of impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidences.

Willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries when required.

Lived experience of migration or seeking sanctuary would be welcomed.

Specific skills, experiences or areas of expertise to complement the existing members of the Board.

Knowledge of the Swindon community

Previous chairing experience and human resources knowledge

The full list of skills, experience and qualities are listed on the attached Job Description.

Generally we are looking for someone with leadership experience/skills, who can plan strategically taking the rest of the team with them.

What difference will you make?

This position will give the successful individual a chance to lead a well respected local charity and develop its influence over the next 5 years.  You will be able to see Swindon further develop as a safe place for people seeking sanctuary and a local population who fully understand their role in being part of the process.

With our links to the national City of Sanctuary organisation you will be able to lead campaigns that will help to shape government policy on all areas of immigration policy.

Before you apply

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining why you feel you are suitable for the post.   You will then be contacted and an informal meeting will be arranged.

Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of those affected by Long Covid? 

Long Covid Support, a registered charity in England and Wales, is searching for a forward thinking and dedicated Chair of Trustees to lead our mission. This is a unique opportunity to drive positive change, advocate for those impacted, and shape the future of our charity to better support individuals and their families/carers.

Who are we?

Long Covid Support was registered as a charity in 2022 with a clear vision: for Long Covid to be well-defined and understood, with high-quality information, support, and healthcare services accessible across the UK. Founded by individuals with lived experience, we are committed to ensuring that patients are equal partners in decisions about their health and welfare, with fair access to investigations, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Who are we looking for?

Through our networks, we bring together diverse individuals and communities—both within and beyond the UK—to connect, share knowledge, and amplify their voices in conversations that matter. As our new Chair of Trustees, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the next exciting phase of our charity’s growth, strengthening our impact, and driving meaningful change for those affected by Long Covid.

Do you have the skills and experience to lead a growing charity making a real impact? We are looking for someone with:

✅ Leadership skills

✅ Experience of committee work

✅ Tact and diplomacy

✅ Strong communication and interpersonal skills

✅ Impartiality, fairness, and the ability to respect confidentiality

Experience in chairing a trustee board or a comparable body—such as Chair of School Governors, Parish or Town Council Chair—would be a significant advantage. A background in health or social care would also be highly beneficial.

What difference will you make?

As Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will provide strategic leadership and oversight, ensuring that Long Covid Support remains focused on its mission and operates effectively within legal and regulatory frameworks.

This is an active and hands-on role, requiring a commitment beyond board meetings to support this small but impactful charity. Your leadership will help shape the charity’s direction, strengthen governance, and drive meaningful change for those affected by Long Covid.

Key Responsibilities:

�� Leading the organisation – Keeping the board focused on delivering our charitable objectives for the greatest public benefit.

�� Chairing and facilitating board meetings – Ensuring productive discussions and clear decision-making.

�� Setting strategic direction – Guiding policy development and overseeing the implementation of key decisions.

�� Acting as an ambassador – Representing the charity at events and speaking on its behalf when required.

�� Ensuring good governance – Upholding fairness, impartiality, and transparency in decision-making.

�� Planning board operations – Scheduling and organising trustee meetings, including the AGM.

�� Building a strong board – Supporting trustee induction, training, and succession planning.

�� Providing strategic oversight, support and challenge to our executive team.

�� Managing internal dynamics – Addressing conflict within the board and wider organisation.

��Ensuring that robust systems are in place for internal financial control and the protection of Long Covid Support's funds and assets. 

�� Ensuring legal compliance – Working closely with the board and external bodies to meet governance requirements.

Time Commitment

This role requires chairing quarterly trustee meetings alongside additional ad hoc meetings as needed. You will also play an active role in strategic planning, governance, and representing the charity at key events.

�� Approx. 12-15 days annually, including meetings, leadership duties, and advocacy work.

�� Flexibility is required for additional meetings and events as needed.

Term

This is a fixed term role. One third (or the number nearest one third) of the Trustees must retire at each AGM, those longest in office retiring first and the choice between any of equal service being made by drawing lots. Trustees can stand to be re-elected for another term.

Your Support

Long Covid Support has been instrumental in providing patient and public voices to all responses to Long Covid across the four nations of the United Kingdom. Our organisation comprises people with lived experience of Long Covid, medical researchers and other interested supporters. We are governed by a board of Trustees and have an operations committee who run our day-to-day activities, supported by the work of the Finance & Fundraising and Communications committees. Our work focuses on peer support, advocacy and research involvement. 

Our trustees are jointly and severally responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of Long Covid Support, its financial health, probity of its activities, and for setting and overseeing the delivery of the organisation’s aims and objectives. In addition to being a registered charity, the Charity is a company limited by guarantee and, as such, our trustees are also appointed as its company directors. This is an exciting time to be joining Long Covid Support as we launch our future strategy and are the appointed secretariat to the Long Covid APPG.

Application Process

We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse board and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those with lived experience of Long Covid.

 Please submit your CV and a covering letter 

 Application close date - 3 April 2025

Join us in leading meaningful change for those living with Long Covid. As Chair of Trustees, you’ll play a vital role in driving our mission forward, strengthening our impact, and ensuring that those affected receive the recognition, support, and healthcare they deserve.

If you’re passionate about advocacy, collaboration, and driving positive change, we’d love to hear from you!

Disqualification

Trustees must not be disqualified from acting as a trustee. You must not: 

● Have an unspent conviction for an offence involving deception or dishonesty (such as fraud) 

● Be bankrupt or have entered into a formal arrangement (e.g., an Individual Voluntary Arrangement) 

● Have been removed as a company director or a charity trustee because of wrongdoing

● Have an unspent conviction for: 

○ Specified terrorism offences 

○ A specified money laundering offence 

○ The offence of contravening a Charity Commission Order or Direction

○ Offences of misconduct in public office, perjury, or perverting the course of justice

○ For aiding, attempting or abetting the above offences 

○ Be on the sex offender’s register 

● Have an unspent sanction for contempt of Court 

● Have disobeyed a Commission Order 

● Be a designated person (under specific anti-terrorist legislation)

Trustees must be over the age of 18.

Springboard Youth Academy supports refugee and asylum-seeking young people who have recently arrived in the UK to help them succeed in the classroom and beyond. By combining participatory learning, life skills and holistic support into action-packed weekend, half-term and summer programming, we work to bridge the gap in support for young people left behind by the mainstream school system.

As educators, service providers and youth workers with years of experience working to offset the challenges these young people face, we launched a programme that helps develop young people’s English language skills whilst addressing their psychological and social needs, preparing them for mainstream education and helping them rebuild their lives in London. We do this by providing interactive and engaging programming that combines English learning, life skills and practical and emotional strategies for young people on their journey to independence and adulthood. 

About the opportunity

We are seeking a Chair to work with the Board of Trustees and Director on Springboard's strategic direction and decision making. We’re looking for people who share our love of high quality and inclusive education, as well as our commitment to working with, for and alongside refugee communities. We are keen to meet people who can bring skills, knowledge and both professional and lived experience that will help us scale up. We’re looking for people who can think strategically and creatively, work collaboratively and want to make a significant contribution to Springboard Youth Academy’s future, as well as the wider education sector. We are committed to nurturing a board that is representative, diverse and inclusive. We are interested to hear from individuals with experience in governance, as well as those new to Trustee positions. We are particularly encouraging applications from those with personal experience of forced migration and Leaving Care.

Responsibilities of the Chair include:

• Providing leadership for the board of trustees in their role of setting the strategy and policy of the organisation
• Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and setting the agendas
• Chairing and facilitating board meetings 
• Monitoring that decisions taken at board meetings are implemented
• Representing the organisation at appropriate events, meetings or functions  
• Liaising with the Director on organisational activity and providing support as appropriate 

Qualities:

• Strategic thinking
• Excellent communication skills
• Confidence and a willingness to speak their mind and ask challenging questions
• Teamwork and collaboration skills
• Understanding of safeguarding and confidentiality
• Independent judgment
• Commitment to making meetings inclusive and welcoming to Trustees with all levels of experience
• Advocacy and networking skills to help us build new relationships
• Willingness to offer expertise, skills and personal insight to support us
• Passion for championing inclusive and refugee-focused work

Time commitment

In line with all charities, Trustees are unpaid volunteers. Trustees must be able to commit to attending quarterly Board meetings and making time to read paperwork in advance of Board meetings. As a small charity, our resources are limited and Trustees are also asked to actively contribute their skills in relevant areas. As a guideline, Trustees must be prepared to offer a minimum of two hours per month to the charity. As Chair, you will be required to support with annual reporting to the charity commission, plan the agenda for board meetings and provide intermittent support to the Director. We will also require new Trustees to spend one day on site during one of our programmes to get a feel for the work, as well as undertake Trustee and Safeguarding training, within the first three months of starting the role. Board meetings are currently held virtually, and, where possible, are arranged at least two months ahead. On occasion, Trustees will be required to respond on email or phone in relation to issues that arise outside of Board meetings. Travel costs will be covered if they are a barrier. 

Support Through Court offers practical and emotional support to people going through the civil courts with no legal aid so that litigants in person are comfortable with the process and can represent themselves to the best of their ability. Our volunteers proved support face to face, on the phone, and online to people dealing with divorce, eviction, access to children and many other challenges. We believe that no one should have to face court alone.

Our current Chair, Caroline Artis is standing down at the end of May and we are looking to recruit a replacement. The new Chair will lead an established board of 9 trustees with a wide range of skills and experience, and work with our Chief Executive and leadership team.

We are looking for a Chair who has skills and experience in leading teams, focusing on strategic goals, communicating with stakeholders, and championing the values of an organisation. While we would expect the Chair to be committed to the values of Support Through Court we do not require applicants to have any experience or qualifications in law or the legal system. We value diversity in our trustees and encourage applications from all walks of life.

Our Chair will work closely with our Chief Executive and other trustees to achieve our strategic objectives. Our board meets five times a year and has three sub-committees dealing with service, audit and risk, and fundraising, each with its own chair. In addition to chairing full board meetings, the Chair will be responsible for appraising the work of the Chief Executive and acting as an ambassador for Support Through Court at various events.

Being a trustee and Chair of Support Through Court is hard work and needs real commitment but it is inspiring and fulfilling to be part of this team.

For further information visit our web site.

Closing date for applications: 6th April 2025