Independent living service volunteer roles

Join Our Board of Trustees and Help Drive Positive Change!

Are you passionate about making a difference in people’s lives? Do you thrive in a team environment and want to give back to the community where you live, work, or study?

We are a local charity dedicated to providing social welfare advice, information, and support through our incredible team of staff and volunteers. We are now seeking two new Trustees to join our board and help guide our organisation forward.

Last year, we:

✅ Assisted over 15,000 clients in finding solutions to their challenges

✅ Addressed over 37,000 separate issues for those in need

✅ Secured nearly £2 million in additional income to support people during the cost-of-living crisis

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities across Cheshire West—your age, background, origins, or health conditions are not barriers. We actively seek diverse perspectives to better serve our community.

We are particularly interested in individuals with:

�� Experience in digital and AI solutions implementation
�� Expertise in volunteer engagement
�� A strong commitment to our mission, enthusiasm, and a supportive approach

However we welcome applications from people from all backgrounds, skills and experience including lived experience.

What’s Involved?

As a Trustee, you will:

�� Attend at least five board meetings per year (in-person and remote, often in the evenings)

��Participate in one annual trustee development day

��Have opportunities for further involvement in shaping our work

This is a voluntary role, but all reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. Volunteering does not affect state benefit entitlement.

If you’re ready to play a key role in shaping the future of our organisation, we’d love to hear from you! 

Amica Care seeks a Chair of the Board of Trustees

• Unremunerated: This is a voluntary position, without remuneration, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.
• Location: Taunton Somerset

· Time Commitment: Approximately 6 hours per month of time required

Amica Care delivers exceptional, person-centred care for older adults across the West and Southwest of England. Their network includes five nursing and residential care homes and three independent living sites, offering a full spectrum of services from daycare and assisted living to specialised dementia and end-of-life care. Each site contains excellent facilities, enabling residents to balance independence with community.

Alongside providing outstanding support and care, Amica is committed to enriching each resident’s life. They help residents have meaningful experiences, creating special memories with friends and family. With aspirations to expand and serve more communities, they are seeking a new Chair of the Board of Trustees.

The Chair of Trustees provides effective leadership to the Board of Trustees, bringing impartiality and objectivity to the decision-making process. The Chair develops the knowledge and capability of the Board, encouraging positive change when appropriate and resolving any arising conflicts. They also collaborate with the CEO, providing support and guidance when required.

Knowledge/Experience 

Knowledge or experience in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous, but not essential:

· Care Sector

· Social Enterprise

· Finance

· Legal/Contract Law

· Property/Facilities

· IT

· HR

· Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation

· Experience of working with or as part of a Board

· Experience of chairing meetings

· Financial management expertise and an understanding of charity finance issues

· Charity governance

Previous experience as a Chair, Vice-Chair or Charity Trustee is essential

Luminus Non-Executive Director opportunity

Are you looking for a chance to make a real difference to the lives of local people in Surrey, particularly those at risk of health inequalities?

As the NHS and local authority services face a period of significant change, it's vital that people and the quality of care remain front and centre, and their voices and experiences are heard.

This is a voluntary, unremunerated role, although we do cover all reasonable expenses and applicable care costs.

Luminus is a Surrey-based Community Interest Company (CIC) which exists to make sure those voices are heard. We are now seeking new Non-Executive Directors to help guide the next stage of our growth. This is a great time to join a well-led and well-governed organisation, bringing your existing skills, or building your experience on a Board, as we offer a warm welcome, friendly atmosphere, mentorship and training - as well as the chance to make a real difference. In particular (but not exclusively), we welcome applicants who have experience of one or more of the following:

• growing a business;
• a network of contacts across Surrey and beyond who are potentially relevant to the wider business interests of Luminus; and/ or
• a particular interest/ experience in fulfilling the Board’s oversight of finances and/ or its governance in general.

Luminus welcomes applicants with a diverse range of perspectives and experience, and welcomes people seeking their first Non-Executive Director (NED) role. A willingness to learn about our organisation and the responsibilities of our NEDs, and an ability to commit to the time involved, are essential.

We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from ethnic minoritised communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ communities, and those with lived experience of social or health inequalities. If you are passionate about our mission but unsure whether this role is for you, we would love to hear from you - we welcome fresh perspectives.

Time commitment: Quarterly Board meetings plus workshops and potentially sub-committees – around 1 to 2 days per month.

Please find out more about the role in our NED recruitment document on our website.

We are also offering 2 further opportunities to find out more:

• We will be running an online information session via Teams on Wednesday 7 May at 1.30pm where you will be able to hear from our current Board co-chairs and CEO, and ask questions. If you are interested in attending please contact us for joining instructions before 7 May 2025.
• If you’d like an informal telephone chat with one of our co-chairs, please contact us and we can arrange this for you at a time that suits.

How to apply

Please submit your completed application form and CV by 5pm on 16 May 2025. Application forms are available on the Luminus website or message us and we will send to you.

If you have questions about the application process or would like support in applying please contact us.

Interviews will be held during the week commencing 26 May 2025 at our offices in Burpham, Guildford.

WellChild, based in Cheltenham, is the national charity for seriously ill children and their families. We fund programmes and services to make it possible for children and young people living with complex medical needs to thrive at home instead of hospital.

What we are looking for:

An experienced senior paediatric doctor with knowledge of the current challenging environment faced by children with complex medical needs and their families.

Purpose of the role:

Our medical trustee is the professional/clinical link championing our families and professional voices to ensure that we always act in the best interest of our service users which is the focus of our charity.

It is the duty of the board of trustees to act in the interests of the charity’s service users. It should ensure that the charity has a clear strategic direction and fulfils its charitable purpose as set out in the charity’s governing document – Articles of Association.

The board of trustees follows the Nolan principles of acting with integrity. It adopts values, applies ethical principles to decisions and creates a welcoming and supportive culture which helps achieve the charity’s purpose. The board ensures the charity’s ethics and values are embedded throughout the organisation.

Trustees undertake their duties with this in mind.

Twinkleboost CIO equips new parents with the skills they need to support their child’s communication development, so children can have better outcomes in life. We deliver this support in the non-threatening context of a fun; multi-sensory parent and baby class; led by Speech and Language Therapy Assistants. Each week, parents and carers are taught an evidence-based speech and language strategy which is practiced throughout the session. We focus on providing free sessions to families of children living in disadvantaged areas and children with SEND. For almost a decade, Twinkleboost has operated as a CIC and has recently transitioned to a CIO.

We are looking for a number of trustees to join our board who are able to support the growth of Twinkleboost CIO. We are looking for a trustee with experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Experience of grant writing and bid applications
• Experience of income generation within a charity
• Experience of accounting
• A academic background of Speech and Language Therapy
• Personal experience of facing challenges as a parent
• Those living in the areas Twinkleboost operates: Wythenshawe, Greater Manchester
• Experience of business or management

The successful candidate with possess the following personal attributes:

• Flexibility to engage in the operation of the charity
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Good independent judgement

What difference will you make?

As a member of our board you will support our work and strategic direction, as well as help us to achieve our Purpose to support families so children can have better outcomes in life. The role of trustee at Twinkleboost is varied and interesting, providing scope to really make a difference.

Duties and Responsibilities

As a trustee, you will:

• be committed to the purpose and values of Twinkleboost CIO.
• work with the other trustees to implement and deliver the Strategic Plan.
• ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• contribute to the running of Twinkleboost CIO in your area of experience.
• prepare for, and attend, trustee and committee meetings.
• maintain confidentiality on sensitive and confidential information.

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.

This is an exciting time in our growth as we look to grow our governance systems, build on our successes and ensure we are a radical, dynamic organisation rooted in our anti-racist and anti-oppressive values.  We are looking to recruit 2 new trustees.  We are looking to diversify the experience and expertise of our Board, and we believe that there are people out there who have knowledge, skills and passion in different areas that will help SWWB. Areas for organisational development include:

· Embedding lived experience expertise into the design, delivery and evaluation of our work

· Developing our campaigning and strategic work

· Building up our social media and comms presence

· Stepping up our fundraising game

If you think you can help with any of these things (or something else), and you are interested in being a trustee, please get in touch, we would love to hear from you!

Disability charity in Brighton seeks new trustees. Help shape the next 5 years as we go through an exciting period of change.

A well established charity operating in Brighton & Hove and across Sussex, we are a user led organisation, whose membership, staff, volunteers, and trustees, are drawn from people with a personal or professional experience of disability. 

Our charity has been through a period of change, with a new Chief Executive Officer appointed in August 2024, following a year with an Interim CEO in place. We are ambitious about what we can achieve, and passionate about being the voice of disabled people within our communities. We are navigating a period of cultural change and discovering new opportunities to develop our work and reach broader communities. 

The charity has faced a changing and challenging funding landscape, with local councils and grant making bodies both reducing the monies available, against a background of rising costs. We have diversified our income streams, but seek further help and direction with this and in particular are seeking fundraising skills and innovative income generation and marketing ideas. 

We envisage the next 5 years as being a period of growth and change with real opportunities to shape the future direction of the charity. We are seeking trustees who have relevant professional skills across a broad range of areas who can help us move into the next stage of the charity's development with confidence. 

Currently 75% of our staff and volunteers have lived experience of disability and as a disability charity we particularly welcome applications from disabled trustees or those with lived experience. However, we welcome all applications.  

As a course of positive action and to ensure a wide representation of our diverse communities, we actively encourage applications from younger people, people from minority ethnic groups, people from the lesbian and gay communities, and those who are transgender, non-binary, or gender-diverse. We recognise these communities are currently under-represented on our board and we would love to hear from you.

Becoming a trustee is a rewarding and interesting role, with plenty of opportunity for personal growth. More importantly, you have the opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of disabled people and those living with long-term health conditions, including mental health.

We are looking for to increase the number of trustees on our board and are looking for candidates who are truly passionate about our vision and mission. Maybe you could play a part in ensuring the development and sustainability of the charity as we continue to support disabled people and look towards the future?

We need trustees with the right skills and experience to guide and challenge the strategic direction of every area of the organisation. 

As a charity it is imperative we have a reliable Board, fit for purpose. You don’t need prior experience being a trustee; If you are committed, passionate, and determined, we would love to hear from you.

We are looking for two dedicated Lay Trustees who will join our Board to support the strategic direction of the charity. We are member-led, funded by our universities and together with students we strive to create a world class student experience for all.

Introduction

Thank you for your interest in our Lay Trustee roles here at Falmouth and Exeter Students’ Union (The SU); based in beautiful Cornwall. We're very pleased to announce the opening of applications for our esteemed Board of Trustees. We are very proud of what we do, and we are looking for two dedicated Lay Trustees who will join our Board to support the strategic direction of the charity. You will need to share the values of the SU and commitment to achieve our priorities, working collaboratively to help take us to the next level. We are a member-led charity, funded by our universities and together with students we strive to create a world class student experience for all.

Our membership comprises of students studying with both Falmouth University and the University of Exeter (Cornwall) which creates a unique and special experience of which we love to be a key part of.

The role of Lay Trustee provides an opportunity to support our President Trustees and Student Trustees, foster a culture of student leadership and deliver a student focused service.

You will be taking up the role at a critical and exciting time, as we are undertaking two crucial pieces of work: finalising our new 2025-2028 strategic plan, and beginning the quintennial review of our Constitution.  If you are excited at the prospect of contributing to the growth and development of the SU, then we eagerly anticipate the possibility of working alongside you to shape the future of our organisation.

We are especially keen to hear from applicants with experience in Finance, Higher Education, Human Resources, Charity or Employment Law.

About Us

We’re an autonomous organisation and we’re funded by the University of Exeter and Falmouth University. Acting independently ensures that we remain entirely focused on our students with one purpose in mind: to improve their student experience.

As a registered charity (1193045), our charitable purpose is the advancement of education, and our funds can for used for this charitable purpose only. This means that as a not-for-profit organisation: any income we gain goes straight back into providing services for students.

We are a member-led democratic organisation; our students are at the heart of everything we do. Our members views, opinions and experiences regarding students’ lives influence decision makers operating at every level, helping to shape the wider student experience and we enjoy positive collaborative relationships with both universities. Students have the power to shape what the Union does through our Annual Student Members’ Meetings and referenda, and they lead our Student Forum, which determine our Union priorities.

We are proud of the range of opportunities and services that we provide to students, which includes student led societies and sports clubs, volunteering opportunities, professional independent specialist advice, academic representation, and democratic activities. We also help students to organise a wide range of events and activities specifically for their fellow students.

Our Board

Our board is unique in the charity sector. We have a young and dynamic board; two thirds of the trustees are either recent or current students at the universities resulting in a purposefully high turnover of trustees. The charity is based in a complex, ever-changing Higher Education sector, working closely with two very different universities.

We have three sets of Trustees:

• Four President Trustees: a President and Vice President from each university, elected by cross-campus ballot. These are student leaders who have either just finished their degree or take a sabbatical to take up this role, in which they are also a full-time employee. Term: one year, maximum of two terms.

• Four Student Trustees: two from each university, appointed via the Appointments Committee. These are current students who offer direct insight into university life. Term: two years, maximum of two terms.

• Four Lay Trustees: appointed via the Appointments Committee. These trustees offer expertise, continuity, and insight. They are experienced, skilled members who enjoy being part of a dynamic board and supporting the younger trustees. Term: three years, maximum of three terms.

The Chair of the Board will always be a President Trustee, and the Deputy Chair will always be a Lay Trustee. Any Trustee can chair one of our three sub-committees: Finance, Appointments, Remuneration and Human Resources.

Why Should You Become a Trustee?

Being a Trustee is a valuable and rewarding experience. You’ll get to make a lasting difference to the lives of our students, and influence how the Union is run. You will use your skills, knowledge, and experience to support the Board in reaching sound decisions. You will be involved in leading discussions, making collective decisions, and identifying key issues. You’ll have the opportunity to mentor and support our President and Student Trustees. As a Lay Trustee, you are eligible to become Deputy Chair of the Board, or Chair of one of the sub-committees.

You will receive comprehensive induction training, and further training relevant to your role as a Chair or member of a sub-committee.

Job Description

We’re looking for someone to work collectively with our board of trustees to provide support and strategic direction to our Students’ Union.

Remuneration: Lay Trustees are voluntary, unpaid roles. However, all reasonable out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed, such as travel costs to board meetings.

Hours: Hours can vary however typically each year:

• Four Board of Trustees meetings – each meeting is around three hours long conducted online.

• Additional two (eight for Finance) sub-committees meetings conducted online – each meeting is around 45 minutes.

• There are usually one or two in-person events per year including a Board of Trustees meeting – each event is usually a day and/or an evening event. These are delivered in Cornwall (expenses paid).

Term of office: three years, up to three terms.

Location: Homebased with one or two in-person events in Cornwall per year.

Role Purpose

The Trustees are ultimately responsible, individually and collectively, for all activity within the SU. The Board is legally responsible for our staff, finances, risk management and reputation. The Board is responsible for setting the vision and values of the organisation and for ensuring the delivery of organisational purpose. The Trustees ensure development of and agree a long-term strategy. They approve and monitor plans to deliver the strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

• To ensure The SU acts in accordance with its charitable purpose, constitution and other governing documents and relevant legislation while remaining true to its Mission, Vision and Values.

• To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees role by determining the Students’ Union strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.

• Ensure The SU uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects/purpose.

• Act as guardians of The SU’s assets and ensure the financial stability of the organisation.

• Prepare for Board meetings by reading through materials and Board papers beforehand, scrutinising information and be able to discuss issues.

• Take advice on matters on which you are not competent to decide.

• Provide support to President Trustees and Student Trustees.

• Take part in Board Reviews and Skills Audits each year.

• Use personal skills and experience to ensure the Union is well-run and efficient

• Seek external professional advice where there may be material risk to the Union or where the Trustees may be in breach of their duties or at any other appropriate moment.

• Add value to the Trustee Board and the Union through generating ideas, challenging the status quo, broadening thinking and supporting and promoting innovation and creativity.

• Abide by the Union Trustee Code of Conduct.

CRITERIA

All Trustees must display the following characteristics

Commitment to and passion for The SU.

Willingness and reliability to devote the necessary time and effort.

Strategic vision.

Good, independent judgment.

Ability to think creatively.

An understanding of and commitment to the values and principles of student representation and democracy.

Willingness to speak their mind.

Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.

Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.

Responsible, especially when handling sensitive and confidential information.

A commitment to act in accordance with the Nolan principles for ethical conduct in public service.

We are looking for individuals who have skills, knowledge or experience in one or more of these sectors

Finance

Higher Education

Human Resources

Charity or Employment Law

How To Apply

Please visit the role posting on our website for further details on how to apply. We require the completion of a Person Details form, and Skills Audit spreadsheets, along with your CV and covering letter. The deadline for applications is 09:00 on Friday 16 May. Interviews will take place online via MS Teams on Wednesday 21 May, an additional slot is also available on Thursday 22 May if this is not convenient.

You must be available to attend Trustee Training on Friday 20 June, and Board of Trustees on Wednesday 25 June (as an observer), both online via MS Teams. Your term of office will start on Tuesday 1 July.

Eligibility

There are strict conditions placed on charity Trustees by law and all applicants must declare that they are eligible to become a charity Trustee. You will not be eligible if:

• You are on the Sex Offenders’ Register

• You have any unspent conviction for an offence involving:

o deception or dishonesty

o terrorist offences

o money laundering

o bribery

o misconduct in public office, perjury, perverting the course of justice

o contravention of certain preventative Orders of the Charity Commission (Section 77 of the Charities Act 2011)

o attempting, aiding or abetting the above offences

• You have any designation under specific anti-terrorist legislation

• You have been convicted of contempt of court

• You have been removed from:

o trusteeship, or as an officer, agent or employee of a charity by the Court or the Commission for misconduct or mismanagement

o a position of management or control of a charity in Scotland for mismanagement or misconduct

• You have been found guilty by the High court of disobeying a Commission order or direction

• You have an undischarged bankruptcy

• You have a composition or arrangement with creditors which includes an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA) and is currently on the Insolvency Service Register

As part of the recruitment process, we will ask you to sign a declaration that you are legally entitled to become a Trustee and commit the required time.

Data Protection

We’re committed to data protection and it’s important to know what’s happening with your data when you apply for a role. That means we’ll only use the information you supply for the purposes of progressing your application (or to fulfil legal or regulatory requirements if necessary) and we’ll never share your information with any third parties for marketing purposes or store it outside of the European Economic Area.

Equal Opportunities

We’re committed to ensuring our workforce accurately reflects the diversity of the world we live in. We positively encourage applications from all individuals irrespective of their gender, age, home country, ethnic background, sexuality, religious beliefs or disability. All candidates will be treated equally and all appointments made on merit.

ENGINEERS/MAKERS

Across the UK, our 60+ local branches help disabled people live the lives they choose. Our network of skilled volunteers respond to thousands of requests each year to design and make customised equipment free of charge.

Our Engineer/Maker volunteers are at the very heart of what our local branches do. They use their practical skills and creativity to help people with disabilities live fuller and more independent lives.

What the role involves

This is a varied role where local need shapes what you’ll be working on, but it often includes:

• Designing and making pieces of equipment for individuals with specific needs

• Using your practical skills working with metal, wood, plastic, or electronics (or a combination of them)

• Attending a monthly meeting of the local branch.

We can support you to develop the skills you need for this role, and there’s an induction that covers all the areas above. You’ll also have chance to discuss your role and any additional needs with us.

What you’ll need for this role

Essential

• Practical experience in working with one of the above materials

• Comfortable working with people, listening to them and understanding their needs

• Able to apply our risk management system

• Able to apply disability, equality, and inclusion practices

• Able to keep people’s personal details safe

• Willing to follow REMAP policies and procedures and a commitment to our values

Desirable

• Access to your own tools and workshop (or can access these)

• Able to drive or have good transport links

You’ll also need to complete the induction checklist and some online training, as well as a DBS check and reference check.

Please note that this position has a rolling deadline and is open past January.

About TLC 

The Trans Legal Clinic is the first trans-led specialist gender identity legal practice and registered charity in the UK. The mission of the Trans Legal Clinic is simple; we provide free and accessible legal help to transgender and non-binary people in need. Our overarching vision is a society where all people have access to the legal resources required for gender self-determination and where gender diversity is not just accepted but embraced, with trans* people equipped with the necessary legal tools to navigate the world in their affirmed gender. 

Service Introduction 

The Casework department is the core of our organisation, working directly with clients by offering them support and advocacy. We have assisted over 70 clients since October 2023 and will be re-opening our referrals in January 2025 to new clients seeking our support. 

Our Casework department is divided into four teams. Each team constitutes of a Specialist Caseworker who oversees 5-15 casework volunteers. Our four teams are: 

Housing and Homelessness 

Discrimination 

Gender Recognition: legal transition and healthcare advocacy 

Gender-Based Violence: domestic abuse and hate crime 

The Gender Recognition team supports clients to navigate their social and legal transition, including assisting clients with changing their name via deed poll and updating identifying documents such as driver’s licenses and passports as well as obtaining Gender Recognition Certificates. You will also provide a healthcare advocacy service supporting clients to accessing gender-affirming care by direct liaison with healthcare providers including GPs, GICs, and private providers, ensuring that fair and supportive processes are followed.  

Key tasks and responsibilities 

Support and outreach 

Be fully aware of safeguarding issues and lead on client risk management within the service. 

Update the Gender Recognition client database to ensure client records are updated within agreed timeframes and that they accurately record interventions and demonstrate progress. 

Liaise with our team of solicitors when requesting advice and guidance on a case. 

Reach out to organisations that specialise in gender recognition, legal transition, and gender affirming healthcare, to collaborate and share knowledge and resources.

Teamwork 

Lead the Gender Recognition team by supervising caseworkers.

Support caseworks by setting clear objectives and holding team and individual supervisions regularly. 

Set and moderate team performance targets. 

Attend department meetings and contribute to discussions. 

Be respectful to colleagues and support good communication between all stakeholders. 

Research 

Create and deliver training for current and future caseworkers in the Gender Recognition team. 

Create resources for caseworkers on relevant legislation, case studies, and good practice, to allow them to become more knowledgeable and independent whilst working with clients. 

Create resources for clients and those seeking information on our website about their rights regarding gender recognition, legal transition, and gender-affirming healthcare. 

Conduct general research into gender recognition, legal transition, and gender-affirming healthcare in the UK. 

General 

Adhere to Trans Legal Clinic’s Policies and Procedures at all times. 

Cover for other members of the team and department as necessary. 

Be proactive in reviewing and evaluating own performance and identifying upon areas for improvement and development. 

Undertake development and training opportunities. 

Undertake any other duties compatible with the level and nature of the role and/or reasonable required by more senior members of staff. 

Attend and participate in external meetings and briefings as required. 

The duties listed are not exhaustive and may be varied from time to time as dictated by the changing needs of the Trans Legal Clinic. The post holder will be expected to undertake other duties as appropriate and as requested by their line manager. 

The board of trustees are jointly and severally responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the Farm, it’s financial health, probity of its activities, developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document and legal and regulatory guidelines.
All trustees should be aware of, and understand, their individual and collective responsibilities, and should not be overly reliant on one or more individual trustees in any particular aspect of the governance of the charity. For example, all trustees should be able to read the financial accounts.

THE ROLE

Main Responsibilities

· To ensure that the charity, and its representatives, function within all legal and regulatory requirements applicable, and in line with the organisation’s governing document, continually striving for best practice in governance.

· To maintain the fiduciary duty invested in the position, undertaking such duties in a way that adds to public confidence and trust in the charity.

· To take appropriate professional advice in all matters where there may be a material risk to the charity, or where the trustees may be in breach of their duties.

· To determine the overall direction and development of the charity through good governance and clear strategic planning.

· To avoid any personal conflict of interest.

· To manage and use the resources of the charity so as to optimise its potential.

· To ensure that robust systems are in place for internal financial control and the protection of the charity’s funds and assets.

· To undergo a thorough induction upon appointment and ongoing training to remain alert to, and aware of, their duties and responsibilities, and of the environment in which they operate.

· To achieve the purpose of the charity and to pursue the charitable objects, and provide public benefit.

Main Duties

• Ensuring the charity complies with legislative and regulatory requirements, and acts within the confines of its governing document and in furtherance to the charitable objects.
• Acting in the best interest of the charity, beneficiaries and future beneficiaries at all times.
• Promoting and developing the charity in order for it to grow and maintain its public benefit and recognising the situation when it may be more appropriate to wind the charity up where there is no longer a need for the charity to provide the services it does or because the charitable objects are no longer relevant to contemporary social situations.
• Maintaining sound financial management and control of the charity’s resources.
• Ensuring a fully effective and appropriate system for the recruitment, appointment and monitoring of the work and activities of the General Manager and, where applicable, other members of the senior management team.
• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the charity and its resources, striving for best practice in good governance.
• Acting as a counter-signatory on charity cheques (including any electronic transactions) and any applications for funds.
• To maintain absolute confidentiality about all aspects of the trustees’ business, bearing in mind the over-riding legal obligations placed upon trustees.

PERSONAL SPECIFICATION

• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Good independent judgment
• Strong communication
• Friendly and approachable
• Knowledge of and interest in animals and community farms is desirable.  
• Candidates who are local are desirable, but it is essential that you are able to travel to the farm for meetings, events and the odd day of volunteering.

ABOUT DEEN CITY FARM
Deen City Farm and Riding School is an urban farm with an educational focus in the heart of the London Borough of Merton. With over 60,000 visitors a year, our five-acre site includes a farmyard, gardens, riding school, shop, café and small playground. As well as welcoming visitors who want to meet the animals and enjoy the setting, we also work with local schools and community groups to fulfil our charitable aim of improving the lives of everyone in the community. Volunteering is at the heart of the project and we also provide a work experience programme.
Deen City Farm is a limited company as well as a registered charity.

ENGINEERS/MAKERS

Across the UK, our 60+ local branches help disabled people live the lives they choose. Our network of skilled volunteers respond to thousands of requests each year to design and make customised equipment free of charge.

Our Engineer/Maker volunteers are at the very heart of what our local branches do. They use their practical skills and creativity to help people with disabilities live fuller and more independent lives.

What the role involves

This is a varied role where local need shapes what you’ll be working on, but it often includes:

• Designing and making pieces of equipment for individuals with specific needs

• Using your practical skills working with metal, wood, plastic, or electronics (or a combination of them)

• Attending a monthly meeting of the local branch.

We can support you to develop the skills you need for this role, and there’s an induction that covers all the areas above. You’ll also have chance to discuss your role and any additional needs with us.

What you’ll need for this role

Essential

• Practical experience in working with one of the above materials

• Comfortable working with people, listening to them and understanding their needs

• Able to apply our risk management system

• Able to apply disability, equality, and inclusion practices

• Able to keep people’s personal details safe

• Willing to follow REMAP policies and procedures and a commitment to our values

Desirable

• Access to your own tools and workshop (or can access these)

• Able to drive or have good transport links

You’ll also need to complete the induction checklist and some online training, as well as a DBS check and reference check.

Care Quality, CQC Governance, and Service Quality Trustee - Focus Birmingham

Role Overview
Focus Birmingham is seeking a dedicated Trustee specialising in Care Quality, CQC Governance, and Service Quality to help drive the delivery of outstanding, person-centred care across our services. In this crucial role, you will work closely with the Board to ensure that the charity not only meets but exceeds regulatory standards, with a particular focus on compliance with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) framework. Your expertise will support the Board in overseeing the quality and safety of our services, championing continuous improvement and innovation.

This is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the strategic direction of Focus Birmingham, ensuring the highest standards of care for people with disabilities and support needs.
 

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight and guidance on care quality, safety, and service effectiveness, ensuring that Focus Birmingham meets all CQC requirements.
• Support the organisation in achieving and maintaining high ratings in CQC inspections by contributing expertise in governance, compliance, and quality improvement.
• Scrutinise and challenge policies, procedures, and performance data to ensure the highest standards of care and safeguarding.
• Promote a person-centred approach, ensuring that the voices of the people who use our services are central to decision-making.
• Work with senior leadership and operational teams to identify risks and opportunities related to care delivery and service development.
• Oversee Focus Birmingham’s Safeguarding practices, ensuring robust safeguarding policies and procedures are in place, adhered to, and reviewed to protect vulnerable individuals.
• Support the development of a culture of continuous improvement and innovation in care services.
• Ensure the Board is well-informed about emerging trends, best practices, and regulatory changes in the health and social care sector.
• Act as an ambassador for Focus Birmingham, advocating for high-quality, inclusive, and accessible services for people with disabilities.

What Difference You Will Make
By bringing your expertise in care quality governance and regulatory compliance, you will:

• Help safeguard the well-being of those who rely on our services, ensuring they receive safe, high-quality care.
• Strengthen Focus Birmingham’s ability to meet and exceed CQC standards, leading to improved inspection ratings and public confidence.
• Influence strategic decision-making to ensure care quality remains at the heart of the organisation.
• Support our teams in embedding a strong culture of quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure the voices of the people we support are heard, respected, and reflected in how we shape and deliver care.

What You Will Achieve
As a Trustee, you will contribute to:

• A robust governance framework that supports outstanding care provision.
• Improved service outcomes and positive experiences for individuals supported by Focus Birmingham.
• A confident, well-informed Board that prioritises care quality in strategic planning.
• A proactive approach to regulatory compliance, reducing risks, and enhancing our reputation.
• The growth and development of innovative, person-centred services that empower people with disabilities to live life to the fullest.

Who Are We Looking For?
We are looking for an individual with expertise in health and social care governance, particularly in relation to CQC compliance, service quality, safeguarding, and person-centred care. Ideal candidates will have:

• Strategic-level experience working in or alongside CQC-regulated services such as social care, healthcare, or disability services.
• Knowledge of best practices in care quality, safeguarding, and risk management.
• A strong understanding of governance and supporting services.
• The ability to provide constructive challenge and strategic insight to ensure continuous improvement.
• A commitment to our values and mission, with a passion for empowering people with disabilities.
• A team player, willing to work collaboratively with other trustees and staff to achieve our strategic vision.
• The ability to think strategically, analyse complex issues, and develop creative solutions.
• Availability to attend Board meetings (4 per year), committee meetings (4 per year), other meetings, and engage with individuals with disabilities on an ongoing basis.
• A strong commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities and promoting their active participation in decision-making.
• The ability to understand and empathise with the diverse needs and perspectives of adults with care and support needs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for facilitating engagement and collaboration.

This is a voluntary role, but the impact you will make is invaluable. If you are passionate about driving excellence in care and safeguarding, we would love to hear from you.

To Apply
Please submit a complete application form via CharityJob.

Closing Date for Applications: 11th May 2025

We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming a new Trustee to our team!

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Our Engineer/Maker volunteers are at the very heart of what our local branches do. They use their practical skills and creativity to help people with disabilities live fuller and more independent lives.

What the role involves

This is a varied role where local need shapes what you’ll be working on, but it often includes:

• Designing and making pieces of equipment for individuals with specific needs

• Using your practical skills working with metal, wood, plastic, or electronics (or a combination of them)

• Attending a monthly meeting of the local branch.

We can support you to develop the skills you need for this role, and there’s an induction that covers all the areas above. You’ll also have chance to discuss your role and any additional needs with us.

What you’ll need for this role

Essential

• Practical experience in working with one of the above materials

• Comfortable working with people, listening to them and understanding their needs

• Able to apply our risk management system

• Able to apply disability, equality, and inclusion practices

• Able to keep people’s personal details safe

• Willing to follow Remap policies and procedures – and a commitment to our values

Desirable

• Access to your own tools and workshop (or can access theses)

• Able to drive or have good transport links

You’ll also need to complete the induction checklist and some online training, as well as a DBS check.