Chair volunteer volunteer roles in London

Rainbow Migration, the longest-running UK charity dedicated to supporting LGBTQI+ people through the asylum and immigration system, is seeking a trustee who is or has been a refugee due to persecution as an LGBTQI+ person. This is part of an ongoing commitment to increase leadership in the organisation by people with lived experience of the issues we work on.

We are looking for someone who is passionate about our vision that LGBTQI+ people can settle in the UK and lead fulfilling lives, and our mission to support LGBTQI+ people through the asylum and immigration system and influence policy and practice.

At Rainbow Migration, we don’t just accept difference – we celebrate it, we support it, and we thrive on it. We particularly encourage applications from people who have sought asylum on the basis of their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics. 

More information on Rainbow Migration is in appendix 1 of the application pack.

If you would like to find out more before applying, you can attend a webinar on Friday 17 April 2026 from 1 to 2pm. This is an opportunity to meet Rainbow Migration’s Executive Director and a trustee and ask us any questions. It is not part of the application or selection process. Please register using the form linked in the application pack and a Zoom link will be sent to you. If you cannot attend, you can still fill out the form and request a recording afterwards.

If you would prefer to have a one-to-one conversation, or have any questions about the role, the webinar or how to apply, please contact us using the email address in the application pack.

The role of trustees

Trustees are volunteers who bring their skills and experience to shape our strategic direction. They have legal responsibility for the charity, ensure good governance, and make sure our finances and resources are used well to implement our mission. Trustees also play a role as ambassadors for the organisation and our work.

Trustees do not get involved in operational decision-making. For example, decisions on which social media platforms we use or what group activities we run for service users are taken by staff.

Because trustees are volunteers, they do not receive payment for their time. Rainbow Migration can pay your costs when incurred solely for fulfilling trustee duties (e.g. travel, phone top-ups if needed exclusively for trustee work).

You can find out more information about what being a trustee involves at the links available in the application pack.

Time commitment

We are looking for people who can commit to being a trustee for at least three years. Trustees can then be re-elected for another three years. The maximum term limit for our trustees is nine years (in line with Charity Commission guidance).

Trustees meet on a weekday evening, from 6 to 9 pm, five times per year. There may be additional meetings in 2026 as part of our work on anti-oppression and to develop our next organisational strategy.

Meetings are usually held on Zoom except in December when we meet in-person in London, with an informal dinner first. For in-person meetings, travel costs (and meals and accommodation if relevant) can be covered.

You will need to spend two to four hours reading 8 to 30 papers before each meeting. Papers are provided a few days in advance of meetings. The “Board Buddy” (see below under Support for Trustees) can help with understanding them. You can also ask to meet with the Executive Director or Chair to explain them.

You can see examples of topics of discussion at board meetings in appendix 2 of the application pack.

You will also need to give some time between meetings. This includes, for example:

• Spending 10 to 30 minutes reviewing and correcting the minutes (written record) of the last board meeting
• Spending 30 to 60 minutes reviewing and giving feedback on documents, such as a new or updated draft organisational policy (e.g. data protection, safeguarding, health and safety)
• Reading and responding to emails within one or two days.

The board has two subcommittees: one on HR and one on finance. You may be asked to join one of these a few months after you become a trustee. If you do, there will be up to four more meetings a year and there will be papers to read for each of these meetings.

Support for trustees

We provide numerous resources for trustees. Below are some examples but they are not exhaustive and we are open to suggestions. Support can be accessed throughout the time someone is a trustee.

Training:

• We can pay for trustees to access training on good governance, the duties of a trustee, and charity finance.
• We give access to webinars and online training e.g. on safeguarding and cyber-security.
• We provide internal training (by staff) on areas such as safeguarding and data protection.

One-to-one support:

• New trustees have induction meetings with Rainbow Migration staff.
• An existing trustee can act as a “Board Buddy” for new trustees, which includes formal and informal meetings and support around board meetings and papers.
• We can help you to find a mentor e.g. The Experts by Experience Employment Initiative can provide mentoring for people with lived experience of migration.
• We can discuss accommodations that are needed for disabled people and other ways to ensure trustees feel fully included and able to participate

Equality, diversity, inclusion and anti-oppression

We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, and we know this is ongoing work. We are also reviewing what we do and how we do it through an anti-oppression and anti-racism lens, as well as investing in being more informed and led by LGBTQI+ people who have sought asylum. We want our organisation — including our trustee board — to be increasingly shaped and led by LGBTQI+ people who have sought asylum. That is why this trustee position is specifically for someone who has been granted refugee status in the UK as an LGBTQI+ person.

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of backgrounds, identities and experiences – including from people who are trans (including non-binary, genderqueer, genderfluid, gender non-conforming and agender) and intersex. We recognise that people have different journeys, strengths and access needs, and we are committed to removing barriers wherever we can. If you share our vision, mission and values, we encourage you to apply and let us know how we can support you through the process.

To support candidates during the interview process, we send some of the questions in advance to give applicants more thinking time. You are welcome to bring notes with you and also take notes in interviews to help process information. Please let us know if we can make other adjustments to support you through the application and selection process.

Once appointed, trustees can continue to access a range of support options throughout their time on the board.

Person specification

Essential

For this role, we are looking for someone who has been awarded refugee status in the UK on the basis of their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or sex characteristics. At this time, we are not accepting applications from people who still in the process of applying for asylum, or who have leave to remain in the UK on other grounds (e.g. work, human rights, marriage) as these experiences are already represented on our board.

We welcome applications from people who have used our services as well as those who have never interacted with us before.

In addition to having been granted asylum in the UK as an LGBTQI+ person, the following are necessary:

• Commitment to Rainbow Migration’s mission, vision and values
• Ability to work constructively with other trustees and staff
• Good English (so you can understand spoken conversations in meetings and contribute)
• Ability to read and understand long documents (e.g. trustees must be familiar with our policies, such as our safeguarding policy, and the key points in our publications such as Still Falling Short)
• Courage and enthusiasm to learn, encourage, challenge, influence and support other people and the organisation
• Confidence to ask questions (this helps everyone learn and improve) or request training or support
• Ability to analyse and scrutinise information provided by staff and trustees (the Board Buddy and other trustees can assist you in this)
• Ability to use independent judgement and share your thoughts with trustees and the Executive Director
• Willingness to share your opinion and give guidance to the board in areas where you have knowledge or experience
• Commitment to speak well about the organisation to others (e.g. funders, other charities)
• Regular access to a secure, private email account and a quiet, private space for joining online meetings and telephone calls
• Be living in the UK (England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland)
• Aged 16 or over
• Not be previously disqualified as a trustee or company director, have an undischarged bankruptcy or have unspent criminal convictions for an offence involving dishonesty or deception (such as fraud).

Desirable

It would be beneficial if you have work or volunteer experience in an area relevant to Rainbow Migration’s work (e.g. service delivery, communications, campaigning, lobbying, fundraising, HR, IT) but this is not a requirement.

Make a Smile is seeking a motivated and organised Chapter President to lead one of our local Chapters. This is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing committee operations, supporting volunteers, and ensuring the smooth running of all Chapter activities.

About Make a Smile

Make a Smile is a charity dedicated to bringing joy to children through character visits, events, and community engagement. Each Chapter is run by a volunteer committee, and the President plays a central role in guiding and supporting that team.

Role Overview

The Chapter President is responsible for the overall management, development, and compliance of their Chapter. You will lead the committee, coordinate activities, and act as the main link between your Chapter and the national Board of Trustees.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys leading teams, solving problems, and making a meaningful impact in their community.

Key Responsibilities

• Local Leadership
• Oversee the day‑to‑day running of the Chapter and support committee members in their roles.
• Provide direction, guidance, and oversight across volunteer recruitment, events, fundraisers, and costume management.
• Chair committee meetings and ensure tasks are completed efficiently and on time.
• Identify when committee members need support and step in with advice, delegation, or hands‑on help.
• Complete and maintain the Chapter Development Plan and work towards improving Chapter performance each year.
• Ensure all activities comply with the charity’s constitution, handbook, and legal requirements.

National Responsibilities

• Act as the primary point of contact between your Chapter and the Board of Trustees.
• Submit a monthly report on Chapter progress, challenges, and key decisions.
• Attend the monthly Charity Leadership Meeting to share updates and contribute to national planning.
• Implement national guidance and changes communicated by Trustees.
• Manage your Chapter’s allocated budget and support fundraising targets.
• Ensure all required paperwork is kept up‑to‑date, including logs, finances, and post‑event forms.

What We’re Looking For

• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to motivate and support a team.
• Organised, proactive, and able to manage multiple responsibilities.
• Confident decision‑maker with a collaborative approach.
• Passionate about Make a Smile’s mission and working with volunteers.
• No prior charity leadership experience required — full training and guidance provided.

What You’ll Gain

• Leadership and management experience.
• Opportunities to develop strategic planning and organisational skills.
• A chance to make a real difference in your community.
• Experience working closely with a national charity board.
• A rewarding role where you help create magical experiences for children.

Summary

As Chapter President, you will:

• Lead and support your committee.
• Ensure effective operations and compliance.
• Drive Chapter development and improvement.
• Represent your Chapter at national level.
• Lead by example and uphold the values of Make a Smile

 About HIAS+JCORE

HIAS+JCORE is the UK Jewish response to refuge and asylum. Our vision is a UK where refugees can live in dignity, in a society free from racism. This work is driven by the belief that the Jewish community should play an active part in empowering refugees to thrive.

Our organisation came into this form through the joining of operations between two organisations: the UK-based JCORE (Jewish Council for Racial Equality) and HIAS, a global humanitarian aid and advocacy organisation. HIAS+JCORE is inspired by Jewish values and history to support those who are displaced, no matter their background.

Role purpose

The Fundraising Trustee will bring expertise, insight, and strategic guidance to help the charity strengthen and diversify its income. Working with the Board and staff/volunteers, they will ensure fundraising is ethical, sustainable, and aligned with the charity’s mission and values.

Key responsibilities

• Contribute to the overall governance of the charity as a member of the Board of Trustees.
• Provide advice and support on fundraising strategy, ensuring income generation is realistic and compliant with regulation.
• Act as a fundraising champion on HIAS+JCORE’s board, working with and supporting other trustees to explore fundraising possibilities.
• If networks for fundraising exist, use them to support the work of the charity.
• Support the development of diverse fundraising streams (e.g. individual giving, trusts and foundations, community fundraising, corporate support) and advise and support with appeals and major fundraising events/campaigns.
• Ensure compliance with fundraising regulation and best practice, including the Code of Fundraising Practice, and through HIAS+JCORE’s policies and procedures.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work and helping to raise its profile.

Person specification

Essential:

• Commitment to the charity’s mission and values.
• Understanding of the legal duties and responsibilities of charity trusteeship.
• Knowledge and experience of fundraising (e.g. trusts, corporates, major donors, community fundraising, or digital campaigns).
• Strategic thinker, able to balance long-term planning with practical advice.
• Strong communication and networking skills.

Desirable:

• Experience of fundraising in a small charity context.
• Existing networks that could support the charity’s fundraising efforts.
• Understanding of charity finance and/or marketing.

Do you believe that every person has a right to a full life, with friendship, belonging and chances to contribute their gifts? Do you want to support a global movement that shares the struggle of people with learning disabilities for voice, rights and community? If so, you could make a profound contribution to L’Arche through joining our Board of Trustees.

This is a pivotal time for L’Arche as, after 50 years in the UK, we work to deliver our 2030 Strategy for Beautiful Community, Brilliant Care and Effective Organisation. We are now looking for three to four new Trustees who can bring a depth of professional and personal experience to diversify the voices and expertise on our Board, in support of our vision to show that everyone belongs.

In particular, we would welcome people who can bring expertise in Fundraising, PR and Marketing, in Learning Disability Services and Commissioning, in Housing and Health & Safety, or Legal Expertise. We also want to strengthen the representation on the Board of people, for example in terms of age, ethnicity, lived experience of disability, gender and LGBTQ representation.

L’Arche in the UK is part of a worldwide movement of people with and without learning disabilities building community together. We aim to be a beacon for our society - of what social care can be, what life with learning disabilities can be, and what a more human society can be.

Our 11 Communities in England, Scotland and Wales offer a varied mix of adult supported living, registered care, and day services. We focus on building mutual relationships and going beyond traditional care models to celebrate the value of every individual.

L’Arche was first founded on Christian principles. These principles mean we stand for radical inclusion, and for the right of every person to flourish in their spirituality, whatever their background. To find out more about spirituality in L’Arche, have a look at our website to see what people said in our Big Conversation on Spirituality.

For further information about the role and context, including full details of how to apply, please see our Appointment Details Pack which can be downloaded from the supporting documents section below. Application is by submission of CV and cover letter via email to Laura Bagley at Macaulay Search (please see Appointment Details Pack for contact details).

The closing date for applications is Monday 11th May 2026.

We’re looking for an outstanding trustee who is a bold and visionary leader in their field to join our Board of Trustees. You will help us achieve our vision of making sure our members have an outstanding experience during their time at UCL and at one of the best student unions in the world.

We’re looking for an inspirational leader in a field related to one of our services or values to join us in our mission. That mission is to build a vibrant and empowered student community with real influence in UCL and beyond, that enables students to enjoy their time at university; pursue their interests and passions; see the world in new ways; and develop the skills and experience to change the world for better.

The Board of Trustees is responsible for setting the mission, vision and values of the Students’ Union and for ensuring the delivery of organisational purpose through our 2025-2030 Strategy, Making More Happen. The Trustees ensure development of, and agree, a long-term strategy and approve and monitor plans and budgets to deliver the strategy. There are five meetings a year, and as an External Trustee you will work with our Board and Senior Management Team to affect change and ensure everything we do for our 50,000 members is led by our values to be Community Building, Empowering, Inclusive, Democratic, Bold, Sustainable and Fun.

To apply please send a CV and cover letter by email no later than 17.00 on Tuesday 5 May 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview on Tuesday 19 or Thursday 21 May 2026 and will join our Board for a four-year term beginning in June 2026.

Please note that this position is only open to candidates who are neither a student, alumnus or employee of UCL.

Trustee Treasurer

Volunteer role (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Location: Remote (Poole-based charity; meetings held online/hybrid)

Time commitment: Around 4 to 6 hours per month on average, with extra time needed around budgeting and year-end accounts

Term: 1 year, eligible for re-election annually

Board meetings: Approximately 6 per year (online/hybrid)

What you’ll do

You’ll join the Board as Trustee Treasurer and help provide clear, steady oversight of the charity’s financial governance. Working with fellow trustees and any staff or external support, you’ll help ensure the charity’s finances are well managed, transparent, and aligned with its purpose and values.

You’ll help the board make confident decisions so the charity can sustain and grow its work. You don’t need prior trustee experience if you can offer financial insight, integrity, and a willingness to contribute at board level.

If you’re an experienced Treasurer, or you’d like this to be your first trustee role, we’d love to hear from you.

Key responsibilities

You’ll help the Board to: 

• Maintain oversight of financial affairs and ensure appropriate controls and procedures are in place
• Ensure proper accounting records are maintained, and resources are safeguarded and used in line with the charity’s purposes
• Review income, expenditure and cash flow, and flag risks or concerns early
• Provide oversight of payroll processes and contractor payments, supporting segregation of duties where possible
• Support key financial policies such as reserves (and investment policy where relevant)
• Lead or support annual budget-setting, monitor performance against budget, and support sustainability and longer-term planning
• Ensure the Board receives clear financial information and present updates at trustee meetings to support informed decision-making
• Oversee annual accounts, liaise with the independent examiner (or auditors if applicable), and support timely Charity Commission submissions
• Act as the Board’s lead on financial governance matters

What you’ll get from the role

• A full trustee induction, plus support to get up to speed on the charity’s finances and current processes
• The chance to make a real difference behind the scenes, helping the Board make confident decisions
• Opportunities to develop your governance experience and deepen your financial oversight skills
• A welcoming board environment where constructive challenge is valued

This role will suit you if you

Essential 

• Have knowledge of (or affinity with) Christian Science and/or faith-based community work and the ability to represent the charity’s purpose and values appropriately and sensitively
• Can read, interpret and explain budgets, management accounts and cash flow to non-finance trustees
• Bring integrity, sound judgement, and the confidence to ask the right questions
• Work well with others and can offer constructive challenge and support
• Can commit the time and follow through on agreed actions

Desirable

• Charity finance or trustee experience
• Accounting/bookkeeping/controls/risk background
• Experience working with an independent examiner/auditor
• Familiarity with charity reporting (including SORP awareness)
• Experience chairing or contributing to a finance committee

About us

You’ll be supporting a Poole-based registered charity (England & Wales) that serves as a central resource for Christian Science literature and activities. You don’t need to be a Christian Scientist to apply, but you should be comfortable supporting and representing the charity’s purpose and values as a trustee.

Inclusion and accessibility

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and life experiences. If you need adjustments at any stage of the process, please tell us what would help.

Safer recruitment, eligibility and declarations

We’re committed to safeguarding and to taking reasonable steps to protect everyone who comes into contact with the charity. Appointments will be subject to proportionate safer recruitment checks and declarations, which may include references and verification of identity.

This includes confirmation that you are not disqualified from acting as a charity trustee under the Charity Commission’s automatic disqualification rules, and a conflict of interest declaration with agreement on how any conflicts will be managed.

A DBS check will only be considered where it is legally eligible and proportionate to the activities of the role.

How to apply

Please submit your CV along with a statement of up to one page explaining your interest in supporting the charity’s purpose and values in a Trustee capacity, and any relevant experience.

• Closing date: 10 May 2026 (we may review applications as they’re received)
• Interviews: Remote via Microsoft Teams

Note: We reserve the right to close early if we appoint before the closing date.

The Association of Illustrators (AOI) is seeking up to two non-executive directors to join our Board and help shape the future of a thriving global illustration community.

We support over 2,000 illustrators, agents and educators – championing rights, delivering industry-leading events, and celebrating excellence through the World Illustration Awards.

This is an exciting time to join the AOI as we enter a new phase of strategic growth, responding to rapid changes across the creative industries.

The Role

As a non-executive director, you will:

• Contribute to the AOI’s strategic direction and long-term sustainability
• Support good governance and decision-making
• Act as an ambassador for the organisation and its members
• Bring insight, challenge and expertise to Board discussions

This is a voluntary (unpaid) role, with travel expenses covered where needed.
Time commitment is approximately half a day per month.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applicants from a wide range of backgrounds. You might bring:

• Experience in strategy, leadership, or board-level decision-making
• A connection to, or strong interest in, the creative industries
• Strong judgement, collaboration skills, and a commitment to equity and inclusion

We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in:

• Finance (Treasurer)
• Fundraising & development
• Marketing & communications
• Organisational development & business growth

What’s Involved

• 4 Board meetings per year (in person, London)
• Attendance at events such as World Illustration Awards and AGM
• Occasional advisory support 
• Acting as an advocate and connector for AOI

Why Join the Board?

• Make a meaningful impact on the illustration industry
• Support emerging and established creatives
• Expand your network and leadership experience
• Access AOI events and professional development opportunities

How to apply 

We welcome applications from individuals with a variety of backgrounds, experience and perspectives. 

Please apply by sending the following:

1. A letter of interest setting out why you wish to join our Board and the skills and experience you can provide (no more than two pages)
2. An up-to-date CV

Deadline: 5pm, Tuesday 12 May 2026