Community Support Manager Volunteer Roles in Edinburgh

This is an exciting opportunity to help lead Big Leaf Foundation in the next phase of its development, as we transition our self-employed contractors to employee contracts and explore new multi-year core funding opportunities to build greater sustainability in our work. We are looking for someone with direct experience in financial management and/or charity finance and fundraising to fill this role. Ideally you will have experience of moving people onto employee contracts. You will use your skills and knowledge to make a lasting difference to the lives of displaced young people in Surrey.

In addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee, duties of the treasurer include:

• Overseeing, approving and presenting budgets, accounts and financial statements.
• Being assured that the financial resources of the organisation meet its present and future needs.
• Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate reserves policy.
• Preparing and presenting financial reports to the board.
• Ensuring that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place.
• Liaising with any paid staff and volunteers about financial matters.
• Advising on the financial implications of the organisation’s strategic plans.
• Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate ethical funding policy.
• Ensuring that there is no conflict between any funding sources and the aims and objects of the charity.
• Ensuring that the accounts are prepared and disclosed in the form required by funders and the relevant statutory bodies, for example the Charity Commission.
• Ensuring that the accounts are scrutinised in the manner required (independent examination or audit) and any recommendations are implemented.
• Keeping the board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities.
• Contributing to the fundraising strategy of the organisation.
• Ensuring the accounts are presented in a coherent and easily understandable way in our annual review.
• Sitting on appraisal, recruitment and disciplinary panels as required.

In addition, with other trustees to hold the charity “in trust” for current and future beneficiaries by:

• Ensuring that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.
• Being responsible for the performance of the charity and for its “corporate” behaviour; ensuring that the charity complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.
• Acting as guardians of the charity’s assets, both tangible and intangible, taking all due care over their security, deployment and proper application.
• Ensuring that the charity’s governance is of the highest possible standard.

"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

We are a Kingston-based social marketing enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion.

We aim to attract knowledgeable individuals encouraging different cultures to unite which enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons.

Partnering with local organisations, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance.

We conduct research to support our cause to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. As well as delivering workshops on unconscious bias in the workplace.

The Personal Assistant role offers a great opportunity for the right person who is looking to:

• Gain experience in the Third Sector.
• Develop their skills and management experience; or just simply 'give something back to their community'.

The role provides you with flexibility and autonomy at work. Where necessary, specific training will also be provided to help you develop and grow your skill set.

Main Responsibilities

• Managing organisation of meetings and appointment
• Organising events and conferences
• Managing databases
• Implementing and maintaining procedures and administrative systems
• Liaising with staff
• Miscellaneous tasks to support the team.

General tasks

• Contribute to staff meetings and other internal meetings with views and suggestions etc.

Essential:

• You will need to have good written skills.
• Well-organised, proactive, and able to deliver tasks efficiently.
• Good time management
• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments
• Strong team player
• Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed.
• Able to participate at least 12 hours a week (2 days, 6 hours each day)

Desirable

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.
• Proficiency in Microsoft and Excel.

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours of commitment per week across Monday and Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer

Expected hours: No less than 12 per week

Benefits: Work from home

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: Remote

Chair of Trustee -  a visionary leader for an exceptional charity supporting children, young people and families.

About Grief Encounter:

Grief Encounter is a leading charity dedicated to providing transformative bereavement support for children, young people, and their families. With a compassionate approach and evidence-based programmes, we empower those navigating the complexities of grief, with the mission to ensure that no child grieves alone. As we embark on an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation, we seek an exceptional individual to lead our Board as Chair of Trustees.

Role Overview:

This pivotal position will require a visionary leader who is not only passionate about our work but also possesses the strategic acumen to guide the charity in its mission to support bereaved families, As Chair, you will work closely with our talented Board, management team, and stakeholders to drive our vision, foster impactful partnerships and ensure governance excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership to the Board, setting a clear vision and direction for Grief Encounter.
• Oversee the effective governance of the charity, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and ethical standards
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive culture within the Board and across the organization.
• Represent Grief Encounter at key events, fundraising initiatives, and public engagements, acting as an ambassador for the charity.
• Cultivate relationships with stakeholders, partners, and the community to enhance awareness and support for our mission.
• Lead the Board's performance evaluation processes, ensuring continuous improvement and strategic alignment.

What we are looking for:

• Proven experience in a senior leadership role, preferably in the charity sector or with organizations focused on mental health, education, or social care,
• Strong understanding of governance, financial management, and strategic planning in a non-profit context.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and engage a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Demonstrated passion for supporting bereaved children and families, with a commitment to advancing their needs.
• A track record of successful relationship-building and influence within organizational or community settings.

What We Offer:

• The opportunity to lead a respected charity making a difference in the lives of children and families experiencing loss.
• A collaborative and dynamic Board committed to innovation and excellence in bereavement support.
•  Networking opportunities with influential leaders, stakeholders, and supporters in the non-profit sector.
• A chance to shape the future of Grief Encounter, driving impactful initiatives and contributing to our strategic growth.

Join Grief Encounter in leading the charge for change and healing, ensuring that every child and family receives the compassionate support they need during their most challenging times.

Grief Encounter is an equal-opportunity organisation. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all.

About I Have a Voice

At I Have a Voice, we are passionate about empowering young people to engage with politics and have a say in the decisions that shape their lives. We break down barriers to political participation through education, advocacy, and grassroots campaigns—ensuring that young people, regardless of background, feel confident and equipped to influence change.

From working with schools to delivering training and amplifying youth voices on key policy issues, our work is making politics more accessible, diverse, and representative. As we grow, we are looking for committed and experienced individuals to join our Board and help shape our strategic direction.

Why Join Our Board?

This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in a dynamic, purpose-driven organisation at the forefront of youth political engagement. As a Board Member, you will:

• Influence the growth and sustainability of I Have a Voice.
• Help shape our strategy to expand our impact and reach.
• Guide governance and financial sustainability, ensuring strong and effective decision-making.
• Be part of an inspiring network of changemakers dedicated to democracy, education, and empowerment.

We are particularly keen to hear from individuals with expertise in:

• Governance – ensuring strong organisational leadership and compliance.
• Fundraising & Development – securing sustainable income and forging key partnerships.
• Education – deepening our impact in schools and the wider education sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Oversight: Help shape and refine I Have a Voice’s strategic priorities.
• Governance & Compliance: Ensure we meet legal and ethical responsibilities as a nonprofit.
• Fundraising & Partnerships: Support initiatives to secure funding and build strategic relationships.
• Advocacy & Influence: Champion I Have a Voice’s mission and expand our network of supporters.
• Advisory Role: Provide guidance and mentorship to the leadership team where needed.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from passionate individuals who share our vision of a more engaged and empowered generation of young people. You might have experience as a board member or trustee, in school leadership, policy work, fundraising, or nonprofit governance. Above all, you should be:

• Committed to youth political engagement and democratic participation.
• A strategic thinker with strong problem-solving skills.
• Willing to actively contribute to Board discussions and initiatives.
• Well-connected within governance, fundraising, or education sectors (desirable).

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board that is reflective of the communities we work with - from across the UK, lower socioeconomic households and racially marginalised groups.

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy levels amongst people in prison?

Our three year strategy is proving to be effective, with improvements and expansions to our delivery model and a renewed vision and mission. We want to continue to develop and grow.  To support this, we’re looking for a creative and passionate Design Volunteer to support our communications and resources teams with print and digital design requests. This includes materials such as posters, leaflets, reports, and social media graphics that help us engage learners, volunteers, and supporters.

This is a home-based role and we are looking for a volunteer who can commit to 2 – 4 hours per week on a consistent and reliable basis. The individual will ideally have previous experience with graphic design (Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, or similar or is keen to gain experience in a design environment.

Volunteer benefits include; induction training and ongoing training, support and development in the role, flexible working, recognition for your contribution and reimbursement of expenses where applicable. The biggest benefit though is our culture – our people really want to work for the organisation.

We welcome volunteer applications from people with lived experience of the criminal justice system and do not routinely ask for details of any criminal convictions.

Closing date: 30 March 2025
Interview date: 9 April 2025

Chair of Board of Trustees Recruitment

Founded in 1975, Rights of Women is the only charity dedicated to providing frontline legal advice to women experiencing all forms of violence against women and girls in England and Wales. We campaign for access to justice and safety for all women.

We are seeking a new Chair in our 50th anniversary year to lead our Board to replace Dr Annie Hedge, our long standing, inspirational, retiring Chair. Our new Chair will help us to build on our success and ensure that we continue to change women’s lives for the better.

We welcome applications from women* from diverse backgrounds whose skills and experience will complement our existing high performing Board, enabling us to stay at the forefront of women’s rights and legal policy debates.

We recognise the critical role that intersectional and structural discrimination play in society and welcome applicants with a strong commitment to addressing these issues throughout our work. We are keen to receive applications from Black and minoritised communities including refugee and migrant women, disabled women and women who have personal experience of the issues that are core to our work including domestic violence and abuse, insecure immigration status and workplace sexual harassment.

Rights of Women is a national charity however given the specific demands of the Chair role and our office location in London it is important for the Chair to be able to travel to London regularly.

We are keen to recruit a Chair committed to our vision and values who has:

· Experience in governance, leadership, and strategic decision-making, ideally within a charity or public sector setting.

· Strong financial and risk management acumen.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively

· Experience in supporting organisational growth and development.

Commitment:  Average 2 days a month

Full details can be found in our application pack.

Applicants are required to complete an application form and provide referees. Shortlisted applicants will also be required to attend an in-person interview at our offices and meet the Director and staff.

Key dates:

Closing date: Friday 4th April 2025 5pm

Interview dates: From week commencing Tuesday 22nd April

First Board meeting: Wednesday 18th June 2025

*Occupational Requirement (Equality Act 2010, Schedule 16, Part I) applies

Created by a team of passionate dog lovers from the animal welfare group IAPWA, the I Love Hiking and Dogs UK Facebook community is a space to explore new walking routes, connect with like-minded dog owners, and take part in dog-friendly hiking meet-ups across the UK. While our group is designed for dog lovers, you don’t need to own a dog to get involved, everyone is welcome to join our community, share experiences, and take part in our group walks. Our meet-ups also offer an opportunity to support animal welfare causes, helping to improve the lives of dogs around the world.

About the Role
We are looking for enthusiastic, friendly volunteers to help coordinate and host local Wag & Walks in their area. These walks are casual, community-led dog walks where members of our Facebook group can meet up, enjoy nature, and connect with fellow dog lovers.

As a Wag & Walk Coordinator, you will:

• Organise and promote dog-friendly walks in your local area.
• Create Facebook events within the group, including key details about the walk (date, location, distance, difficulty).
• Encourage local participation by sharing the event in the group and inviting members.
• Welcome attendees on the day of the walk and ensure a friendly, inclusive atmosphere.
• Share photos and highlights from the walks to inspire others to join in.

This is a flexible volunteer role - you can organise walks as often or as little as you like, depending on your availability.

We’d love to hear from you if you are:

• A dog lover who enjoys walking and meeting new people.
• Organised and able to coordinate group walks in your area.
• Enthusiastic about bringing your local dog-friendly community together.
• Comfortable promoting events in the Facebook group and engaging with members.

Important Considerations

• Wag & Walk are peer-led walks, not official guided hikes. You will simply be organising a community walk rather than leading an event in any formal capacity.
• Each attendee is responsible for themselves and their dog. Your role is to coordinate, not supervise.
• You must clearly communicate walk details, including difficulty level and accessibility, so that attendees can make informed decisions.

Why Get Involved:

• A great way to meet fellow dog lovers and explore new walking routes.
• Contribute to building a supportive, dog-friendly community.
• Enjoy the outdoors while helping others connect through shared experiences.
• Have the opportunity to support animal welfare initiatives through our group activities.

How to Apply
Please click the 'Apply' button for details of how to apply for this volunteer role.

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.

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.

Are you passionate about issues relating to gender inequality and ending violence against women and girls?

If so, come and volunteer with Women and Girls Network’s Sexual Violence Helpline!

About the opportunities

We are seeking Sexual Violence Helpline Volunteers who will thrive in a multi-cultural feminist environment. In this unique role, you will provide emotional support for self-identifying women, girls, and non-binary people affected by sexual violence. You will create a safe space where survivors are free to be themselves, have their voice heard and safely explore the impact of their experiences.

As a Sexual Violence Helpline Volunteer, you will make a difference to survivor’s lives, gain valuable front-line experience within London’s VAWG sector and join a friendly, committed and passionate team. We also offer a comprehensive induction programme, access to specialist training courses and ongoing support. 

About the service

As part of the Ascent partnership within the London Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) Consortium, the SVHL provides free and confidential emotional support to self-identified women aged 14+ and based in London, and who has been affected by any form of sexual violence at any time in their lives.

The SVHL consists of a specialist team of women, including trained counsellors and volunteers, who provide a safe space for survivors to explore their feelings. Support is also provided to the friends and families of survivors and other professionals to understand how best to support survivors of sexual violence.

Services provided by the SVHL includes a Freephone Helpline, Emotional Webchat, and Emotional Services Session (for those on the counselling wait list).

About WGN

Established in 1987, Women and Girls Network (WGN) is a community-based organisation providing women with a comprehensive range of therapeutic services which facilitate healing and recovery from experiences of violence. We work with all forms of gendered violence, whether physical, sexual or emotional.

The crimes of violence committed against women and girls usually involve assault and violation of both mind and body with devastating consequences. Where women’s lives may have been shattered and fragmented by gendered violence, our services provide a holistic healing journey engaging all aspects of self: mind, body and spirit.

We are committed to offering services which empower women with a choice of therapeutic activities that encourage them to be self-nurturing, creative and active participants in their healing process.  We recognise the individuality of every woman and the uniqueness of her experience; we view healing as a partnership where women retain control by choosing specific programmes which meet their needs.  Our work is intended to inspire and facilitate growth, resolution and change, moving a woman from survivor to thriver.

Interview details

Interviews are expected to take place on a rolling basis until all posts are filled, early applications are highly encouraged.

Further information

These posts are subject to pre-volunteering checks including DBS, references, and social media background screening 

WGN is an equal opportunities employer. 

The above posts are exempt under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, Part 1. 

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

2025 is a pivotal time for our small, family centred Charity as we move into our 22nd year. This year our Board will be defining our new mission and preparing for implementation. We're seeking new trustees to join us to contribute to our new mission and define the Charity's direction as we conclude our first mission in late 2025.

The Muscle Help Foundation (MHF) is a small multi-award winning, family-centred charity, delivering both in-person and virtual interventions and experiences in the UK - these moments-in-time are called Muscle Dreams, designed specifically for children & young people (8-28yrs) with the muscle wasting disease, Muscular Dystrophy (MD).

MHF’s impact is felt by beneficiaries and their families across the UK – from improved confidence, greater self-esteem, and an increased sense of hopefulness to a powerful shared identity that connects families, giving a platform to share knowledge, memories and establish lasting friendships.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

We are looking for Trustees who have a passion to take the charity forward, to grow impact, to leave a personal legacy and to feel the sense of personal fulfilment from the time they volunteer.

AS A TRUSTEE, YOU WILL

• Have an opportunity to help improve the lives of children, young people and their families
• Contribute to the governance of our small, well respected, national charity
• Have strategic responsibility for a specific skill area
• Act as an advocate/champion in promoting the charity's work across your network
• Receive induction, support and training
• Bring your lived experience, in using and further developing your skills for the benefit of others
• Be a part of the team that will help the charity achieve its overarching 657 Muscle Dream mission

REQUIREMENTS + KEY CRITERIA

Commitment to the charity’s values, bags of enthusiasm, an understanding and passion for our work, great comms skills and a real desire to want to make a difference to the lives of our vulnerable community. You may have experience of living with muscular dystrophy, other disabilities or life limiting conditions, but this is not essential.

MAIN BOARD MEETINGS + EXPENSES

Trustee Board meetings take place virtually. They are usually 2hrs. Over and above this time commitment, trustees on average, depending on their role, may give additional time in being directly involved in occasional ad projects – MHF Trustees ‘own’ a ‘bucket’, in other words, an area of responsibility like HR, Fundraising, Safeguarding, Marketing, Finance, Digital, Risk or Campaign Management that allows an individual to bring their skills, experience and talents to the charity. Reasonable expenses will be covered.

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR – PERSON SPECIFICATION

• Absolute belief in the cause
• Desire to learn the trustee role, previous governance expertise is an advantage
• Excellent communicators with great listening, responding and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to both empower and challenge supportively.
• Strong commitment to equality, and an understanding of disability and how for example this may impact on the quality of life and life choices for disabled people and their families.
• Commitment and time to dedicate to the role and responsibilities of being a Trustee.
• Commitment to the charity’s vision, mission and values.
• Strong desire to make a difference to the lives of our vulnerable beneficiary community.
• Understanding of the context/environment in which the charity works - it is estimated that some 96% of MHF's beneficiaries are those with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), the most severe variant of muscular dystrophy - it is life limiting.
• Understanding the importance of ensuring public confidence and trust in the charity.
• Collaborative working (part of a team), using sound independent judgement and collective decision making.
• The capacity to grasp issues outside ones personal experience.
• The ability to think creatively both in terms of high level strategy and development.
• Commitment to equality and diversity with other trustees, staff, beneficiaries and other stakeholders.

WHAT DIFFERENCE WILL YOU MAKE?

To provide strategic leadership in line with our values and goals. Trustees will use their knowledge, skills, passion and experience to ensure that the charity achieves its objectives – as a Trustee, you will represent the interests of all stakeholders and act as an ambassador. 

AN AMAZING OPPORTUNITY TO BRING YOUR UNIQUE SELF

As an MHF Trustee, this is an exciting opportunity to bring your unique skill set to help the strategic progression of the charity in reaching its overarching goal to deliver 657 Muscle Dream interventions, that's one experience for every muscle in the human body, cherished moments-in-time that truly changes lives and give hope, and beyond as we reach this goal.

IN RETURN FOR YOUR COMMITMENT

• You will have an opportunity to help improve the lives of children, young people and their families
• Be part of a team all supporting the charity and rowing in the same direction
• Contribute to the governance of a national charity, that's worked tirelessly over the past 20 years
• Have your voice heard and listened to
• Attend events, meet beneficiaries & families and directly witness the impact of the charity’s work
• Have strategic responsibility for a skill area such as: HR, Fundraising, Corporate Partnerships etc
• Network with other like-minded individuals with common values
• Receive induction, support and training
• And much more…

INCLUSION - PROUD OF OUR BOARD DIVERSITY

Our greatest strength as a board and as an charity is in our community's diversity. We are particularly interested in hearing from applicants with diverse skills and experiences that reflect the diversity of our beneficiaries and welcome applications from first time Trustees.

Can you help us to bring in the funds we need to make the food bank a success? 

We are looking for a volunteer Fundraising Lead to play a significant role in shaping a fundraising strategy, help raise awareness of Bounds Green Food Bank (BGFB) and generate income through events, projects and fundraising activities.

We currently raise money through grants, individual donations and community projects. We would like to broaden our fundraising initiatives and are looking for someone to raise funds, meet fundraising targets, raise our profile with key funding partners, and inspire relevant groups to support us.

About Bounds Green Food Bank: 

Open since June 2020, we serve over 1,500 children and adults in the community. We are committed to improving lives by providing food and essential household items and helping alleviate household food insecurity. We strive to promote social inclusion by supporting people and families in crisis situations and needing assistance.

The role: 

• Work with the Board of Trustees to agree a fundraising strategy, including setting annual fundraising targets

• Help to develop a fundraising team

• Identify income-generating opportunities and develop projects

• Build, develop and maintain relationships to secure funding

• Provide guidance to other teams that support fundraising initiatives e.g. the Grants Writing Team, Events Team and the Communication Team

Person specification: 

• Passionate about food insecurity and reducing social isolation

• Experience working in a fundraising role, including grants, trusts and foundations

• Ability and willingness  to work to financial targets 

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and attention to detail

• Able to work flexibly and under pressure

• Ability to be creative and entrepreneurial in order to find new ways to raise funds

Benefits:

• Gain access to free workshops for volunteers and upskill on a range of topics (conflict resolution, mental health first aid, arts and crafts, and more)

• Join free social events for volunteers (such as picnics, walks, creative workshops and celebration events)

• Give back to the community - one of the NHS’ 5 Ways to Wellbeing!

• Gain a sense of community and meet the huge team of volunteers

About Waterwatch UK

Waterwatch UK is currently transitioning to become a charity, strengthening its mission to hold polluters accountable and empower communities to protect and improve water quality. We work to ensure transparency, drive policy change, and support public engagement in safeguarding our waterways.

Role Purpose

As a trustee, you will provide strategic oversight, ensure good governance, and help Waterwatch UK achieve its mission. Trustees collectively guide the organisation’s direction, legal compliance, financial health, and public impact.

Available Trustee Roles

We are recruiting trustees with expertise in the following areas. Candidates should specify in your application which role they are applying for.

Please note that the specific roles may be adjusted based on the applications we receive to ensure the best mix of skills and expertise on the board.

1. Chair of Trustees

• Leads the board, ensuring effective governance, decision-making, and strategic direction.
• Acts as a key ambassador for Waterwatch UK.
• Supports and guides the CEO.
• Chairs board meetings and ensures all trustees are engaged.

2. Treasurer

• Oversees financial planning, budgeting, and financial reporting.
• Ensures compliance with charity financial regulations.
• Works with the CEO to develop sustainable funding strategies.

3. Secretary (Governance Trustee)

• Manages governance processes, ensuring compliance with Charity Commission requirements.
• Supports meeting administration, record-keeping, and reporting.
• Ensures policies and procedures are up to date.

4. Fundraising & Grants Trustee

• Develops and oversees fundraising strategies, including grant applications and donor engagement.
• Identifies new funding opportunities and partnerships.
• Advises on diversifying income sources.

5. Marketing & Communications Trustee

• Leads public engagement strategies, including branding, digital media, and PR.
• Supports outreach efforts to raise awareness and grow Waterwatch’s supporter base.
• Advises on website, social media, and campaign strategies.

6. Legal & Compliance Trustee

• Ensures Waterwatch UK operates within charity law and regulatory requirements.
• Provides legal guidance on governance, contracts, and policies.
• Advises on risk management.

7. Community Engagement & Partnerships Trustee

• Strengthens relationships with local communities, ensuring Waterwatch UK remains community-led.
• Develops partnerships with key stakeholders, including local authorities, businesses, and campaign groups.
• Supports volunteer engagement.

8. Environmental & Policy Trustee

• Provides expertise on water pollution, environmental law, and policy advocacy.
• Helps shape Waterwatch UK’s campaigns and policy positions.
• Engages with policymakers and regulators to push for systemic change.

General Trustee Responsibilities

• Ensure Waterwatch UK operates in line with its charitable objectives and complies with relevant laws.
• Contribute to strategic planning, decision-making, and risk management.
• Support financial oversight, ensuring funds are well managed and aligned with charitable goals.
• Represent Waterwatch UK’s values, advocating for its mission and engaging with stakeholders.
• Participate in board meetings and relevant working groups or committees.

Person Specification

We are looking for individuals who:

• Are committed to Waterwatch UK’s mission and values.
• Have expertise in at least one of the areas listed above.
• Can dedicate time and energy to board meetings and strategic work.
• Bring an independent perspective and constructive challenge.

Time Commitment

• Attend quarterly board meetings (in person or virtual).
• Participate in relevant working groups or committees.
• Support fundraising, advocacy, or governance efforts as needed.

Why Become a Trustee?

• Help shape the future of a newly forming charity tackling water pollution.
• Gain board-level experience and expand your professional network.
• Be part of a passionate and purpose-driven team.

How to Apply

Please include the trustee role you are applying for.

In your email, please include:

• A short expression of interest (1-2 pages) outlining:
  • The role you are applying for.
  • Your relevant experience and skills.
  • Why you want to support Waterwatch UK.
• Your CV
• LinkedIn profile (optional).

Currently, expenses are not covered, but the role should not incur any financial burden as it is remote. Once we secure funding, expenses will be reimbursed.

Deadline for applications: 17th April 2025 at 18:00