Independent Living Service Volunteer Roles in London, Greater London
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Would you like to volunteer your time and knowledge as a Trustee to support Latin American communities across London and the UK? IRMO would love to hear from you.
We are recruiting three new trustees to help steer our organisation through its next chapter of growth. As board members, IRMO trustees play a vital role in supporting our organisation to broaden its reach and impact, bringing valuable and varied expertise to the table.
We particularly encourage individuals from the Latin American community to apply. However, we would like to hear from all candidates who believe they can make a difference for our organisation and our community.
About IRMO
Our vision is a future where Latin Americans and other Spanish and Portuguese speakers living in the UK have equal rights, live free from poverty and discrimination, and feel empowered to pursue their aspirations.
Our mission is to enable the development, agency, and participation of all Latin Americans and other Spanish and Portuguese speakers, by responding to both immediate needs and structural inequalities.
We do this by offering high-quality information and advice services, opportunities for development and training, and a platform to seek social and systemic change. Our work is organized across three main operational areas—Advice and Casework, education, Training and Employment, and children and Young People—and a crosscutting area: Advocacy, Research, and Campaigning.
With 40 years of experience, we support over 4,000 people every year.
Being a Trustee
IRMO’s Board of Trustees is made up of six to nine Trustees, who work together to ensure the charity is run properly. As a trustee, you will have the opportunity to support IRMO’s strategic development and oversee its finances. Trustees meet every two months (usually online in the evening) and are asked to commit an additional eight to ten hours between meetings to follow up on actions and provide advice and input on strategic documents and areas of work relevant to their areas of expertise.
General Responsibilities
- Stay up to date with and assess the political, economic and social contexts that affect IRMO’s work
- Support the development of and approve IRMO’s key strategic documents
- Annually review and approve IRMO’s budget
- Review, update and approve major policies
- Approve salaries, benefits, terms and conditions for staff
- Ensure that IRMO’s financial structure is adequate for its current needs and long-term strategy
- Ensure that the organisation has the necessary resources in place to meet its long-term goals
- Ensure that the Board of Trustees is adequately informed of the condition of the organisation and its operations
- Ensure that published reports adequately reflect the nature of the services and the financial condition of the organisation
- Approve major actions of the organisation, such as capital expenditure over authorised limits and major changes in activities and services
- Review staff results in relation to IRMO’s aims and objectives, as well as annual and long-term goals
- Appoint, supervise, support, and appraise IRMO’s Director
- Provide candid and constructive criticism, advice, comments and praise
- Ensure that the Director has established appropriate policies to define and identify conflicts of interest throughout the organisation and are administering and enforcing those policies
- Appoint independent examiners/auditors subject to approval by members
- Ensure compliance with relevant legislation affecting the organisation
- Annually review the performance of the Board of Trustees and take steps to improve its performance
We encourage applicants to apply as soon as possible, as applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Enable the development, agency, and participation of all Latin Americans by responding to both immediate needs and structural inequalities
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
NEW TRUSTEES WANTED FOR AGE UK MERTON BOARD
Age UK Merton is an independent charity operating within the national Age UK network. We provide services for older adults in the London Borough of Merton in south west London. Our role is to ensure that older adults can easily access the support, services and care they need and to help older adults to live active and fulfilling lives. Our comprehensive services are specifically designed to support older people and reach around 3,000 Merton residents a year.
Age UK Merton has a strong and diverse Board comprising a group of Trustees from a wide variety of backgrounds. We are interested in hearing from individuals who believe they have skills and experience to make a valuable contribution to the Board. The new Trustees will join the Board at the AGM in November 2024.
Person specification
Essential
· Commitment to Age UK Merton
· Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
· Strategic vision
· Experience of operating at Board or senior level professionally
· Good independent judgment
· Ability to think creatively
· Understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship
· Ability to work effectively as a member of a team
· Ability to use and access IT
Desirable
· Experience of the adult social care or health sectors
· Experience of being a charity Trustee
· Understanding of Merton as a place
Role description
Trustees have a number of core duties, including ensuring the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law, and relevant legislation; ensuring it pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document; actively contributing to the Board in giving strategic direction to the organisation; ensuring the financial stability of the organisation; and ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
In addition, Trustees should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board reach sound decisions, including by scrutinising Board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues and working on sub-committees.
Commitment required
Trustees have a significant responsibility within the organisation, so it is important that you can commit time to read and consider papers and reports, attend meetings and contribute to discussions and decision-making. Trustees meet a minimum of five times a year. We alternate between in-person and remote meetings. We also have sub-committees which meet several times a year. Trustees are expected to devote the necessary time to ensure they are fully prepared to actively participate in all meetings.
To find out more and to apply
If you are interested in applying, please send a CV (maximum 2-sides of A4) and cover letter (maximum 1-side of A4) to our chair, Tobin Byers. If you would like to have an informal discussion about the role, please contact Tobin who would be pleased to speak to you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you a qualified accountant with a professional accounting background and could use your skills to help inspire young people to believe in a brighter future, living through and beyond cancer? The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is recruiting for a Trustee (Treasurer) and wants to hear what you could offer.
You will support our Board of Trustees, Youth Advisory Group, Chief Executive Officer and Leadership Team in achieving our strategic Ambitions. You will join our 10-strong Board of Trustees, responsible for keeping the charity on track to make sure the best outcomes for young people are always delivered.
The full Board meets four times a year with five committees (Finance and Investment; Governance; Fundraising; HR and Personnel; and Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging) overseeing and ensuring the ongoing impartial governance of the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. Meetings are usually held in London or Southampton (travel expenses can be reimbursed) and the option to join digitally is always available. Some support outside of meetings is required, and we ask Trustees to commit to approximately 1/2 a day per month. With this role’s Treasurer responsibilities, additional support to the CEO and Bookkeeper will be required around the annual audit (usually March-June). The role is unpaid.
This is a fantastic opportunity to help steer the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust towards our aim to be even more accessible and inclusive to all young people who have a cancer diagnosis in the UK and to ensure every young person experiences belonging and improved mental wellbeing with us.
COULD THIS ROLE BE PERFECT FOR YOU?
Are you passionate about making a difference to the lives of young people who are living through and beyond cancer and comfortable making decisions that determine the course the charity takes? An interest in or experience of sailing is not necessary.
As Treasurer, you will have a high-level involvement in supporting the Chief Executive Officer and Bookkeeper with the preparation of the annual accounts and audit.
In addition, you will have…
- Responsibility to represent and present the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust in a positive way at all times.
- An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship.
- The ability to work cooperatively as a member of a remote team.
- Sound, independent judgement.
- Strategic vision.
- Integrity.
Location: Our Trustees are based around the country with meetings usually taking place in London or Southampton, however an option to join digitally is always available.
Duration: Our Trustees serve a three-year term, with option to stand for re-election if they wish.
Application closing date: Friday 27th September 2024
For full details of the role please take a look at our Recruitment Pack
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for a new Honorary Treasurer to join our diverse Board of Trustees. This is a key role within the organisation, offering a wonderful opportunity to make a difference to the lives of separated children arriving in the UK.
In addition to the general responsibilities of a Trustee, the Honorary Treasurer maintains an overview of The Separated Child Foundation’s financial affairs, monitors the financial administration of the charity and provides financial management advice and information to the Board of Trustees and to the Chief Executive.
Main responsibilities
• Making sure the charity keeps proper accounts
• Reviewing the charity’s financial performance
• Drawing up or reviewing policies for finance and investment
• Ensuring that the charity has robust and effective financial controls in place
• Liaising with external bookkeeping providers and with the charity’s Independent Examiner
• Reporting on financial matters where relevant
• Acting as a counter signatory on bank payments
• Liaising with external payroll provider regarding payroll preparation for new employees
• Ensuring our banking services are fit for purpose
Financial overview
• Act as the main interface between the Board of Trustees and the Chief Executive on financial matters
• Advise the Board as necessary on its financial duties and responsibilities
• Maintain an overview of the organisation’s financial status and viability and provide overall financial management advice to the Board and to the Chief Executive
• Advise and monitor financial risks to which the organisation is exposed
• Oversight of and input into financial controls
• Involvement in the preparation of the Trustees’ Annual Report and Accounts (TARA) and Annual Review
Strategic input and budget monitoring
• Work with the Chief Executive to draft 1-3 year budgets to deliver the strategic plan
• Advise on the financial implications of the strategic plan
• Support the Chief Executive’s review of monthly management accounts as needed
Additionally, the Honorary Treasurer is a key member of the Management Committee, which – amongst other duties – reviews and makes recommendations to the Board on staff pay in line with the charity’s policy
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Befriending Volunteer
You can make a difference…Age UK Wandsworth is a small, local, independent charity that has been working with older people in the area since 1963. We rely on your support to keep serving the older residents with in the Wamdsworth community. We have a dedicated team of experienced staff and a large network of dedicated local volunteers. Our aim is to enable everyone to age well in Wandsworth. We would love your help to be able to continue to support older Wandsworth residents.
Our Be-a-Friend service is one of our longest running services, matching people over 65, who live alone and have limited social contact, with a friendly local volunteer with similar hobbies and interests. The volunteer and their new friend set up a suitable time for them to meet each week for a chat and a cup of tea, which could be during the day, in the evening on the way home from work or even on the weekends . If you would prefer to volunteer from home, you can also be matched with an older person for telephone befriending. For many of our matched pairs, this is the beginning of a firm friendship.
Befriending Plus
Befriending Plus is an extended version of the Be-a-Friend programme, for individulas needing help with life admin and small tasks as well as companionship. For Befriending Plus pairs, time spent together can include helping to use a phone or tablet, helping the client to organise their file, going out for a coffee or popping to the post office together. This support can help older people to stay independent at home for longer, as well as increasing their confidence to do these tasks when the volunteer is not there.
Our mission is to help older people to age well in Wandsworth.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Would you like to have fun in your local area and get reimbursed for your time? We are always looking for caring and compassionate people to take out a local child or young person for fun activities.
Right now we are looking for applicants in the wider Newport area for a fabulous young person who enjoys the gym, boxing, cinema, food and chats. They would prefer a male, but we have other young people who would fit with a female volunteer.
Activities can include things like: playing football in the park, trampolining, cinema, food, swimming, climbing, play centres, beach, cycling, board game cafes, escape rooms, circus, shows, concerts, go karting etc.
We reimburse reasonable expenses, including travel, for you and your young person up to around £40 a month.
Preferred experience:
- Driving and use of a car due to sometimes rural locations. (We are unlikely to be able to find you a suitable match if you do not drive.)
- Ability to communicate in English.
- Basic IT skills for completing reports and submitting receipts via an easy to use App.
Benefits:
- Opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
- Gain valuable experience in supporting children and families.
- Access to online training portal with hundreds of courses. - Access to local authority training.
- All travel and reasonable documented expenses reimbursed.
If you are passionate about helping others and making a positive impact, we would love to hear from you.
At NYAS, we listen to what children, young people and vulnerable adults want. We empower them to have their voices heard.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Could you be our next Trustee?
Every hour, two people are diagnosed with Parkinson’s. In fact, it’s the fastest growing neurological condition in the world.
Parkinson’s doesn’t discriminate. Anyone can get it.
Despite this, evidence suggests where you live, your income, ethnicity or gender can impact when you’re diagnosed and the support and services you can access.
We want to change that. We can and must do more. We want to remove barriers so that everyone in our community can access the right support and services, tailored to their needs.
To do this, we are building a diverse and inclusive board that reflects the community we serve. By having a diverse network of people working right across the charity we’re more likely to make breakthroughs that change the lives of people with Parkinson’s.
In the last 50 years, we’ve invested more than £120 million in cutting-edge research to uncover the causes of Parkinson’s. We believe we’re close to finding a solution. But to get there, we need more people like you!
What you’ll do
Guided by the Parkinson’s community, we’ve shaped our strategy ‘Every Parkinson’s Journey’ for 2023 to 2026. Our strategic aims are focused on improving access to health and care; improving our community offer and continuing with our groundbreaking research.
We're a growing organisation with 605 employees, 4000 volunteers and a projected income of £43m. The Board of Trustees and its committees govern the charity with diligence and enthusiasm and make sure we're financially stable, well-run, and delivering what the Parkinson's community really needs.
Our trustees and independent committee members come from a wide range of backgrounds and have diverse experience, which we draw on to guide and oversee the charity’s work. Trustees share this responsibility both individually and collectively. This requires Trustees to contribute in an informed and active way to all aspects of the Board’s work.
What you’ll bring
To complement our collective skillset we are looking for a new Trustee to join the Board (currently comprising 13 Trustees) who is, or who has significant and recent experience as a Parkinson’s health and care professional in the UK, to help oversee the charity’s activities in health and social care.
We welcome applications from candidates, who can demonstrate the following:
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Substantial specialist Parkinson’s clinical experience in a UK health or social care setting
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Good understanding of wider issues and opportunities in UK health and social care, for example in:
- the delivery of services to people with Parkinson's and/or
- educating and developing the workforce
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Understanding or willingness to learn about what it means to be a trustee
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Willingness and availability to devote the necessary time and effort
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Ability to work effectively as a member of a team
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Effective networking and communication skills to represent the charity with external stakeholders
Who can apply?
It’s vital that the people who work for Parkinson’s UK are representative of our diverse community. We actively encourage people from all sections of the community to apply, regardless of race, ethnicity, socio-economic group, gender identity, age, disability, sexual orientation, or religion. To find out more about our ambitions and strategy that underpins this commitment, please see here.
Whether you are an experienced trustee or looking to take on your first trustee role, if you have the skills, time and energy to commit to the role, we’d love to hear from you and can provide full support.
Please apply by following the link and uploading a CV or a short bio, together with a detailed supporting statement which will fully demonstrate how you meet all the criteria of the role, as stated in the "What you'll bring" section of the role description.
Closing date: 6 November 2024
Interview date: 29 November 2024
No Agencies
What's it like to work for us?
We aim to find a cure and improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson's - and you could help us achieve this.
We offer a variety of paid job roles and volunteer opportunities both at our UK office in London and across the UK.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Trustee - Community Support Network South London
CSN was set up in 1993 by people with lived experience of mental health issues. It has been providing Independent Mental Health Advocacy services since 1996 and achieved charitable and company registration in 2000. Since 2000, CSN has developed its range of service delivery to include support for a local user group, community, prison and forensic Independent Mental Health Advocacy Services and Community Advocacy & Befriending Services.
About you
We are looking for people with or without board level experience, and we would welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds.
In order to continue to enhance the diversity of our board, we would particularly like to hear from people from ethnically marginalised groups, particularly Black African backgrounds, LGBTQ+ people, people with physical disabilities, and other marginalised groups, and especially those with direct experience of services provided by our hospice.
On this occasion and following a recent skills audit of our current trustees, we are particularly looking for people with expertise in any of the following areas:
- Finance and accounting (with a view to succession planning for our current Treasurer)
- Co-production, community engagement and community development
- Property and estate management
Commitments from trustees and from the hospice
Trustees are expected to attend, in person or via tele-conferencing:
• Sessions agreed as part of each trustee’s personalised induction programme.
• Bi-monthly board meetings.
• Approximately two board away days per year, dedicated to strategic planning.
Where they are willing and able, trustees may be asked to join one of the board sub-committees.
Whilst this is an unpaid, voluntary role, out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed. A personalised induction programme, training, support and mentorship will be provided.
Person specification
Each trustee must have:
• commitment to the vision of the hospice
• willingness to meet the minimum time commitment
• integrity
• strategic vision
• good, independent judgement
• the ability to think creatively
• willingness to speak their mind
• understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• the ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to take decisions for the good
of the hospice.
Previous board/trustee experience is not necessary and the hospice welcomes applications from all ages and backgrounds.
Closing date for applications is Monday 7 October.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Help shape the future of the science profession.
We are looking to appoint up to three individuals to our Finance, Audit and Risk Committee who can work collaboratively to support the Science Council to; strengthen the collective impact of the science community for public benefit; and realise our ambition of a diverse science profession that is trusted, respected and equipped to deliver national ambitions.
As an independent member of the Finance, Audit and Risk Committee, you will play a key role in the governance and strategic direction of the Science Council, ensuring good financial and risk oversight. You will actively participate in decisions regarding the effective and efficient use of our resources to support our long-term financial stability and help grow the Science Council into an increasingly respected and influential organisation.
We are particularly looking for individuals with financial expertise as demonstrated by a relevant qualification and/or membership of a Chartered Accountancy Body. Other essential qualities include an ability to understand complex issues; a strong business environment and strategic awareness and ability to identify emerging external factors that may impact on financial and strategic plans; and the ability to demonstrate an understanding of charities’ legal duties, liabilities and responsibilities.
Experience of working within professional body, membership or regulatory sectors will be highly beneficial. Additionally, candidates would benefit from having a solid understanding to charity audit and risk management frameworks to support our financial stability and strategic growth.
We are committed to the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion, and as such we welcome applicants from all backgrounds to represent the diverse population of people that we serve.
This is your opportunity to join an ambitious and well-run organisation and play a leading role in the shaping the future of the Science Council.
The closing date is midnight Monday 30th September.
The information pack will provide you with further information about the role and its requirements.
Please note that employees and members of our Member Organisations are not eligible for this role.
For more information contact Governance and Corporate Services Manager, Oliver O’Hanlon (o.ohanlon(at)sciencecouncil(dot)org).
Prior to making an application we invite you to have a discussion with us about the role. Please contact the Governance and Corporate Services Manager, Oliver O’Hanlon. If you do wish to apply, please visit our application website where you will be asked to provide an up to date CV (which should be no more than 2 pages in length) and covering letter (which should be no more than 2 pages in length) outlining your suitability for the role. Please note that we will not consider applications that do not include a CV and covering letter. Please also provide details of two referees that we may contact (we will not contact your referees without your prior consent).
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to create a world without barriers. This face to face opportunity will see you providing information about RNIB services and activities to help people with sight loss live the lives they want, enabling them to hear about the support that is available, and how they can help others. What you’ll be doing • Creating a welcoming and interesting display stand. • Speaking directly to people affected by sight loss. • Being a friendly face of RNIB locally - engaging with a diverse range of people. • Providing information and demonstrations of basic independent living aids for the general public and professionals. What you’ll gain from the role: • An opportunity to give something back. • A chance to build a strong community. • A sense of achievement through the difference you make. • A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people • An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies. In return for donating your time we will provide: • A supportive route to building your confidence in meeting members of the public and serving customers. • A rewarding experience. • A great Induction and training. • A supportive manager. • Regular updates and catchups. • Expenses. • An opportunity to connect with other volunteers. In applying for / signing up for this role you agree to be contacted when we are seeking volunteers to help with an event in relation to this role description. We will contact you via a communication method for which you have given consent.
Who this opportunity will suit
Minimum age
- You must be at least 18 years old to apply
What skills and experience are needed?
- • An outgoing, friendly approach to meeting new people • An empathetic and professional manner. • Good communications skills with active listening. • An interest in helping people access the information they need.
Letter from Imelda Redmond, our chair of trustees
The current Board is a welcoming, collegiate and energetic group, working hard to make a positive impact on the lives of older people in Tower Hamlets, Newham and Hackney. I have recently joined the organisation as chair and am looking forward to steering the organisation through an exciting period of transformation as we begin to implement our new, and ambitious, five year strategy.
AUKEL has sound finances and a strong reputation for its service delivery (Hospital to Home service, community services, digital inclusion and Information and Advice). From this base, the organisation has an ambition to amplify the voices of older people within our communities and to create a more collaborative culture which both improves the connectedness of our services and also strengthens our relationships with local voluntary, statutory, community and faith groups.
We are looking for someone with the time, passion and expertise we need to work collegiately with trustee colleagues to lead the organisation through this next exciting phase.
Yours,
Imelda Redmond
AUKEL Chair of trustees
About us
Age UK East London (AUKEL) is a local independent charity, which is part of the national Age UK network. We work across Tower Hamlets, Hackney and Newham to deliver services which support older people to live healthier, happier and more fulfilled lives.
Our work
Each year we support around 20,000 older East Londoners by providing flexible practical and emotional support in homes, hospitals and in the community.
Our boroughs have the country’s highest pensioner poverty in the country, further exacerbated by the current cost of living crisis.
How we help
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We tackle poverty
Each year our advice service supports over 2,000 older people to claim £3.2million in welfare benefits, grants and relief entitlements. During the cost of living crisis we distributed £42,000 worth of emergency vouchers for food, helping older people ensure there was food in the fridge.
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We alleviate loneliness
According to a national model, Tower Hamlets has the highest rates of loneliness in London and in England. Our East End Friends initiative teams housebound older people who’d like a bit more company with a volunteer to visit them at home. 92% of older people said they felt less isolated and lonely and 100% of volunteers would recommend the scheme.
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We improve health.
Many older people in our boroughs have very poor health. For example, at age 65, women can expect just six more years of good health, which is the lowest in London and almost the lowest in England. This reduces their quality of life and can make it harder to remain independent. As well as increasing income and addressing loneliness (both determinants of health) we offer yoga, walking, and chair-based exercise groups at our community centre in Bow. 87% of participants said they are more independent as a result.
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We increase independence.
Many older people live alone and struggle to manage around the home. Our home from hospital service supports 3,000 older people to return to a safe and warm home. Just 6% are readmitted to hospital within 28 days compared to 15.3% in areas where there aren’t these services.
The Team
We have an established and talented Senior Management Team, a committed staff team and an extraordinary group of volunteers. Fifteen months ago the board recruited a new Chief Executive. She is ambitious for the charity, comes with a great track-record of charity leadership, and has worked hard with trustees to develop our new organisational strategy.
Role Requirements
We are looking for someone to be our Trustee Safeguarding Lead, and to contribute to the strategic development of our service delivery offer. We are therefore looking for someone with experience in Safeguarding and who has experience of overseeing significant service delivery (NHS, local authority or large third sector organisation).
You must want to improve the lives of older people across East London and be committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and understand the impact disadvantage and discrimination has on the life chances of our population. You will be curious, collaborative and ambitious and able to commit to an average of one-to two days a quarter (most meetings are in the evenings).
We would really like our board of trustees to look more like the community we serve. We would particularly encourage you to apply if you are an older person and/or you are a person of the global majority.
Full role description can be found in appendix 1 and 2
Context of the safeguarding trustee role
As an organisation we have a safeguarding responsibility to all clients and staff members.
The Charity Commission, our regulator, is clear that safeguarding is the responsibility of all Trustees and expects organisations interfacing with vulnerable people to appoint a Trustee Safeguarding Lead (TSL) to hold accountability at Board level for safeguarding within the organisation. The TSL has high level oversight of an operational safeguarding agenda that is managed on a day-to-day basis by the Safeguarding Lead (SL).
Information and Support for the Role
If appointed to the role of TSL you will be expected to engage as a critical friend (rather than operationally) and will triage any safeguarding issues brought directly to you.
You will be supported by the Chair of Trustees (who is currently the interim TSL), and/or if required an adviser, and will receive training appropriate to the role as required.
You will attend meetings throughout the year, both physical and virtual, including full Board meetings, Service Development Committee meetings and at least one review meeting with the organisation’s Safeguarding Lead.
What I get out of being on the AUKEL Board
'I continue to be impressed with the extent of the help AUKEL provides in our communities. The need for the service is increasing as the cost of living crisis deepens. I see the Trustee role as an enabling role. I enjoy rolling up my sleeves alongside my fellow trustees to tackle some challenging issues with our combined skill sets. I particularly enjoy working on the new People sub-committee and I can sense a renewed enthusiasm for finding ways to optimise the Trustee contribution.'
Time commitment
Trustees will be required to complete an induction to the organisation and the Board. This will include site visits and meetings with the CEO, Senior Management Team, Chair and Board members.
The Board meets quarterly on Wednesdays from 6.00 – 8.00pm in East London.
In addition to the full Board meetings, the Finance Committee meets quarterly on Thursdays from 6.00 – 8.00pm in East London, the People Committee meets quarterly on Mondays from 6.00-7.30pm online, and the Service Development Committee meets quarterly online (regular days/times tbc). The Safeguarding trustee will be expected to attend the Service Development Committee.
Board members may be asked to commit additional time to support staff recruitment, review tenders and share expertise.
The agenda and papers for each meeting are usually emailed to Trustees a week in advance
To allow for preparation time.
Travel expenses can be reimbursed.
How to apply
If you are interested in being considered for this role please submit your CV/LinkedIn profile with a covering letter explaining why you wish to join the charity and the skills/experience you will bring to the Board
Please consider the information in Appendix 1&2
Potential candidates are welcome to have an informal conversation about the role. Please contact AUKEL recruitment team to arrange this.
Closing date is: Monday 30th September 2024. Interviews will take place during October.
Appendix 1: Trustee role description
Purpose of the role
The Board is responsible for the governance of the organisation, supporting the Chief Executive to ensure things run smoothly and effectively You will be supporting our 75 members of staff and part of our 90+ strong volunteer team. You will also have the opportunity to learn about how to tackle the challenges that our beneficiaries face, and how to deliver appropriate co-produced services that enrich older people’s lives and enhance the whole community of East London.
Trustee Main tasks
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Make decisions for the benefit of Age UK East London, exercising independent judgement and declaring any interests, exercising reasonable skill, care and diligence in carrying out activities.
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Contribute to Board meetings, helping to give firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting policy and targets and evaluating performance.
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Be familiar with the rules that govern Age UK East London (Articles of Association) and make sure we follow those, Charity Law, Company Law and all other relevant legislation and regulations., training and support is available.
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Ensure the organisation’s financial stability, overseeing the setting of the budget and monitoring variance against the budget (the Board also has a Finance Sub-Committee to help oversee this).
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Ensure that we use our resources in line with our Articles and the requirements of
funders, and that our accounts are a ‘fair and true’ representation of our finances.
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Safeguard the values of Age UK East London a maintain positive reputation for the organisation and its work.
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Contribute to a subcommittee that best suits your knowledge.
Trustee Person specification
A blend of the following skills and experience would be beneficial:
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A commitment to the mission and values of AUKEL
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Strategic vision
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Good, independent judgement
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An ability to think creatively
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A willingness to speak your mind
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An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship
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An ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to take decisions for the good of AUEKL
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Have a personal commitment to the Nolan Principles of Public Life
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selflessness
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integrity
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objectivity
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honesty
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leadership
In particular, we are looking for individuals with a skill set in Safeguarding, ideally with experience of overseeing large-scale service delivery (NHS, local authority or large third sector organisation).
Appendix 2: Trustee Safeguarding Lead role description
Purpose of the role
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To act as an independent source of support and critical friend to the organisation's Designated Lead Safeguarding Lead (SL)
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To act as an independent source of confidence and assurance to the organisation and the Board of Trustees.
Main tasks
The key areas of responsibility of the TSL include, but are not limited to:
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Supporting the SL and Board of Trustees to champion effective safeguarding throughout the organisation.
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Ensuring that safeguarding concerns are handled appropriately by the SL.
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Ensuring AUKEL's staff regularly review (1) the Safeguarding Policy and Procedures to ensure they reflect current safeguarding legislation, statutory guidance, and the safeguarding expectations of all applicable regulatory bodies and (2) the strategic plans of the organisation to ensure they allow for the exercise of the obligations in (1) above.
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Ensuring there are procedures in place which allow that specific safeguarding risks are appropriately recorded and managed through the Safeguarding log and organisational Risk Register.
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Regularly reviewing, in conjunction with the organisation's SL, the safeguarding mechanisms within the organisation to keep people safe and promote a healthy safeguarding culture.
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Ensuring safeguarding is a standing agenda item within Committee and Board meetings and assumes a high profile within the organisation.
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Ensuring the Safeguarding Policy and Procedures are effectively promoted and accessible within AUKEL.
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Ensuring staff are implementing effective monitoring systems, and reporting routes are in place in respect of Safeguarding requirements
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Discussing and supporting shared learning from case reviews with the SL and Board of Trustees, ensuring implementation of lessons learnt.
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The term for this role will be three years. A Trustee may offer themselves for re-election to be agreed by a majority of the Board
Relationship with Whistleblowing
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It is intended that this role has a remit narrowed to the treatment of safeguarding issues. Significant concerns (not related to safeguarding) raised under the protection of the Whistleblowing legislation will necessarily be handled according to the terms of the Whistleblowing Policy,
Trustee Safeguarding Lead Person specification
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Recent senior level safeguarding experience in the statutory or voluntary sector
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Good Knowledge of The Care Act 2014.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to create a world without barriers. This face to face opportunity will see you providing information about RNIB services and activities to help people with sight loss live the lives they want, enabling them to hear about the support that is available, and how they can help others. What you’ll be doing • Creating a welcoming and interesting display stand. • Speaking directly to people affected by sight loss. • Being a friendly face of RNIB locally - engaging with a diverse range of people. • Providing information and demonstrations of basic independent living aids for the general public and professionals. What you’ll gain from the role: • An opportunity to give something back. • A chance to build a strong community. • A sense of achievement through the difference you make. • A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people • An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies. In return for donating your time we will provide: • A supportive route to building your confidence in meeting members of the public and serving customers. • A rewarding experience. • A great Induction and training. • A supportive manager. • Regular updates and catchups. • Expenses. • An opportunity to connect with other volunteers. In applying for / signing up for this role you agree to be contacted when we are seeking volunteers to help with an event in relation to this role description. We will contact you via a communication method for which you have given consent.
What skills and experience are needed?
- • An outgoing, friendly approach to meeting new people • An empathetic and professional manner. • Good communications skills with active listening. • An interest in helping people access the information they need.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Pelvic Radiation Disease Association (PRDA) is looking for a Chair of Trustees to provide strategic leadership for the charity, working in partnership with our Operations Manager and supported by a committed team of Trustees.
Who we are
Pelvic Radiation Disease (PRD) is a long-term side-effect (‘late effect’) of pelvic radiotherapy treatment affecting an estimated 100,000 people in the UK. People affected by PRD often have a complex set of symptoms affecting the bowel, bladder, sexual function or other functions for many years after radiotherapy, sometimes only appearing several years after radiotherapy treatment
PRDA is a small UK charity whose objectives are to see that the effects of PRD are minimised, that people affected by PRD are given the best possible care and treatment, and that PRD is accepted as a serious problem and given the attention it deserves.
Duties of the Chair
In addition to the duties of a Trustee, the Chair will:
- Provide strategic leadership to the charity and the Board, ensuring that PRDA achieves its mission.
- Work in partnership with the Operations Manager and team to achieve our mission.
- Lead the board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation.
- Optimise the relationship between the board and PRDA’s staff and volunteers.
- Plan and chair the board meetings and the AGM, with others as appropriate.
- Act as a spokesperson and figurehead for PRDA.
What PRDA is looking for
Each trustee must have:
- a commitment to the vision and aims of the Pelvic Radiation Disease Association
- willingness to meet the minimum time requirement
- integrity
- strategic vision
- good, independent judgement
- an ability to think creatively
- a willingness to speak their mind
- an understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
- an ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to take decisions for the good of PRDA.
Ideally, trustees should also have one or more of the following:
- Understanding of the impact of Pelvic Radiation Disease on people’s lives either through personal or professional connections, or be willing to learn about this;
- Prior experience of committee/trustee work;
- Knowledge of the type of work undertaken by PRDA (helpline, support groups, online support, health professional engagement, awareness-raising) and/or fundraising for a small charity, and
- Leadership skills.
Please see the full job description for more detail.
For an informal discussion about the role please contact David Jillings, PRDA Treasurer & Vice-chair.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.