Live volunteer roles

We are looking for two Governors for our voluntary-aided boys’ school who care deeply about transforming the lives of young people through education in some of the most disadvantaged and ethnically diverse communities in the UK.

What will you be doing?

About You

Applicants must have a keen interest in the school and be prepared to play an active part in the governing body’s work to help improve outcomes for students. Successful candidates will:

• be a member of the governing body
• join one additional sub-committee (Teaching & Learning; Pay & Personnel; Finance; or Pastoral, Premises, Health & Safety) 
• act as link governors for one faculty (Link governors act as liaison between the governing body and a particular faculty)
• participate in a range of other ad hoc circumstances where governor involvement is necessary (e.g. periodic meetings with students, staff and parents that usually take place during the day).

Time Commitment

Governors usually spend ~20 hours per term on core governing duties. Successful candidates would be expected to attend up to 4 governing body/committee meetings a term, which usually take place on a Thursday (late afternoon/early evening). They would also need to allow time to read papers and prepare for meetings. The link governor role involves spending one morning or afternoon in school during the year, meeting with the faculty lead and visiting classrooms. 

In addition, we are particularly looking for the successful candidate to be able to spend a further 8 – 10 hours per term on ad hoc matters requiring more 'hands on' governor involvement, including meetings with students, staff and parents which usually take place during the school day. 

Skills and Background

We are particularly interested in individuals who have had experience in law or finance or are experienced at a senior leadership level in a large company. We encourage applications from all members of society, regardless of background, gender, ethnicity, disability, or age.

Being a Foundation Governor

Governors come from a wide range of backgrounds and professions and include some appointed by the staff of the school, parents and the Islington Local Authority.  A majority of the governors are appointed by the Central Foundation Schools of London. As an Educational Charity we support two schools in inner London, the Boys' School and also the Central Foundation Girls' School in Tower Hamlets. This appointment will be a joint appointment by the Foundation and the boys' school governing body.

Training on the of role of governor will be provided for the successful candidates.

What are we looking for?

Applicants need to have a keen interest in the school and are prepared to play an active part in the governing body’s work to help improve outcomes for students.  We are particularly interested in individuals who have had experience in law or finance or are experienced at a senior leadership level in a large company. We encourage applications from all members of society, regardless of background, gender, ethnicity, disability, or age.

What difference will you make?

Your impact matters

As a Foundation Governor you will play a critical role in fulfilling our vision that through an exceptional Central Foundation education, every student learns, develops, and grows so they can reach their full potential. 

The Boys' School is a popular, over-subscribed, voluntary-aided, comprehensive school for boys aged 11-16, with a successful co-educational Sixth Form. A Central Foundation education involves providing students with a wide range of educational experiences not available to many state schools or students from the communities and backgrounds we serve.

As well as an outstanding academic offer, the support of the Central Foundation and its funding partners enables an extensive sporting, performing arts, careers, activities and wider programme to be offered. As a Foundation Governor, you will ensure that through this provision students develop the knowledge, skills and attributes they need to lead successful lives and develop their own unique talents and confidence to forge their individual paths in life.

Underpinning a Central Foundation education is a rigour and a drive for excellence.  We are proud of our students’ examination results. In the last few years these results have consistently shown Central Foundation Boys' School to be one of the leading educators of boys in the country.   

Central Foundation Boys' School aim is that every single student can achieve outstanding outcomes in their education, both in terms of qualifications and the development of the skills, attributes, knowledge and understanding necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world. It is these outcomes that will transform their futures and your role as a Foundation Governor will oversee and ensure the character of the school is preserved and developed.

Before you apply

Please apply through Reach in the first instance. 

In your application we would really like to hear why you are interested in joining the Central Foundation Boys School Governing Body and what you think you would bring so please send your CV with a short covering statement.

Interviews will take place in May initially with the Chair of Governors, Simon Dodds. An appointment confirmation meeting with the Chair of the Foundation Board of Trustees and the opportunity to visit the school. 

New governors will be invited to join the Governing Body at their final meeting in the current academic year in July 2025.

Please contact us via Reach with any questions.

Canine Partners trains assistance dogs to transform the lives of adults with physical disabilities and their wider community of family, friends, and colleagues. Our values are excellence, respect, passion, teamwork, innovation and the personal touch’. The charity has a National Training Centre in Leicestershire, and a national network of staff and volunteers, supporting and developing our dogs from birth through to partnership then retirement and beyond with their welfare and care prioritised throughout.

Our teams work with adults with a wide range of complex physical disabilities as they partner with dogs and benefit from the deeply rewarding bonds that are formed. The Canine Partners team of over 90 staff includes occupational therapists, highly skilled dog trainers, experts in dog breeding, veterinary professionals, and skilled support teams working alongside around a thousand volunteers who help at every stage of the journey to creating life-changing partnerships between dogs and people.

This is an extraordinary opportunity to make a positive and sustained difference, not only to the lives of adults with disabilities, but also to their families and communities.  We are actively seeking to attract new Trustees who will use their skills, experience and expertise to make a real difference to our well-respected and growing charity. We are particularly looking for people who have experience or knowledge in the following areas: 

• Fundraising 

• Veterinary or animal wellbeing

• Dog training or dog behaviourist experience

• Occupational health 

• Working with people with disabilities e.g., health care sector

• IT or digital technology

• People/human resources 

What is involved in our Trustee role for Canine Partners  

The Canine Partners Trustee Board is diversely talented, highly engaged and united in its purpose. It works closely with the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team to ensure Canine Partners effectively delivers its mission and is governed to the highest standards.

We are seeking to attract new Trustees who will use their skills, experience and expertise to make a real difference to our well-respected and growing charity. You will possess strategic vision, organisational acumen and a passion to support adults with disabilities and their network. 

Trustees of Canine Partners will possess the right balance of skills, commitment, interests and motivations to serve the needs of the charity at the time. This will be determined in line with the strategic needs and the profile of the other members of the Council of Trustees. 

We ask for a commitment of attendance at our meetings, five to ten board meetings per year. Our meetings are a combination of online and face-to-face.

We ask you to read associated documentation and contribute to discussions. During our meetings, we debate important decisions robustly, drawing on many different perspectives, and always prioritising the interests of our beneficiaries. Decisions made in these meetings are delivered with collective responsibility, so it is important that Trustees feel empowered to question the Officers and Executive accordingly. 

In addition, Trustees may be asked to offer their skills, expertise and insight into specific projects and/or support Executive arms of the Charity in determining and delivering strategic objectives. This offers the opportunity to both broaden and deepen knowledge and understanding of the work of Canine Partners and, more broadly, a complex skills-led organisation. 

The board celebrates the charity’s values and leads by example. 

Knowledge, Experience and Attributes - What we require from you 

Charitable Trustees have a general obligation to: 

• Act in the charity’s best interests 

• Manage the charity’s resources responsibly 

• Act with reasonable care and skill 

Trustees should understand the purpose and activities of the charity and ensure they are in line, and complying, with the governing documents (the Memorandum and Articles of Association). Potential future Trustees must be over 18 and will be appointed following the procedures outlined in the charity’s governing documents. 

A Trustee must have: 

• A commitment to Canine Partners vision and mission 

• A willingness to meet the minimum time requirement.

• Integrity

• Strategic vision

• Good, independent judgement

• An ability to think creatively. 

• Willingness to speak their mind an understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.

• To work effectively as a member of a team and to take decisions for the good of Canine Partners 

• Enthusiasm and curiosity 

• Support and challenge the senior leadership team. 

From time to time, formally or informally, Trustees may have to represent Canine Partners to a wide range of current or potential stakeholders. Trustees are expected to ascribe to the Canine Partners values of Excellence, Respect, Passion, Teamwork, Innovation and The Personal Touch and conduct themselves accordingly.

Trustees are expected to commit the necessary time and resources to fulfil their obligations. It is recognised and accepted, however, that individual capacity may vary from time to time. 

Further Reading and Information 

For further information on the duties and responsibilities of charity Trustees, please click here. 

We encourage applications from all sections of society and locations and are keen to ensure continued diversity brings constructive challenge and adds to the governance and work, of the 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 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.

Trustees play a vital role in ensuring Middlewich & District Foodbank meets its core purpose by overseeing the management and administration of the charity and ensuring that the foodbank has a clear strategy in line with our vision and goals.

What will you be doing?

As the People Strategy Lead Trustee, you will ensure the highest standards of governance in policies and practice related to employee and volunteers’ relations, recruitment, retention, reward, and recognition. You will also be involved in developing the longer-term strategic direction of the food bank’s staffing requirements and succession planning.

Key tasks:

Trustee (People Strategy Lead) Responsibilities:

• to ensure that the Trustee board understand their legal and regulatory responsibility on matters relating to employed staff and volunteers.
• to ensure the Trustee Board monitors and reviews the performance of the foodbank manager, rewards performance accordingly and identifies appropriate development opportunities.
• to ensure that the Trustee Board monitors and reviews the charity’s volunteer programme, ensuring that volunteers are trained, managed and supported.
• to drive the succession planning process.

Other responsibilities, along with the board of trustees, include:

• to approve, support and guide the charity’s purpose, vision, strategy, goals and objectives.
• to manage the charity’s resources responsibly, including ensuring the charity’s assets are used only to carry out its purpose, avoid undue risk, and not over-commit the charity.
• to ensure appropriate financial plans are in place, budgets are monitored, and progress is evaluated.
• to review and approve financial statements.
• to ensure the charity has appropriate procedures to comply with current legislation and good practice, including employment, health and safety, equity, diversity and inclusion, safeguarding and GDPR compliance/data protection.
• to prepare for and regularly attend and participate in board and subcommittee meetings and any trustee away days.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for people who want to help their local community and work towards the eradication of food poverty. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:

• some knowledge or experience of working in HR or Volunteer Management.
• an understanding of the differences between employees and volunteers.
• a willingness to learn to fill any current knowledge gaps.
• it is not necessary to have previous board experience as training and support will be provided.
• this role could support someone taking their first steps to develop wider board level and governance experience.

Whatever your background, we want to make sure you are supported and empowered and enjoy your time volunteering with us. We know that having volunteers from a diverse range of backgrounds, with varying experiences, can help to make what we do as effective as possible. As such, we welcome all applicants regardless of age, religion or beliefs, disability, ethnic background, gender reassignment, sex, or sexual orientation. We also encourage those with lived experience of poverty to apply.

What difference will you make?

By supporting the governance of the food bank, you are part of a team providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who comes into contact with Middlewich & District Foodbank.

General Election Volunteer 

We’re the MS Society – a community of people living with MS, volunteers, scientists, campaigners, listeners, organisers, ambassadors and fundraisers. Join us today so that together we can stop MS.

The UK General Election is on Thursday 4 July 2024. It’s an opportunity for us to campaign on the issues that matter most to people living with MS. And to engage with candidates across all political parties. We’re asking all our volunteers and local groups to make sure every candidate knows how they can speak up for MS, if they’re elected. 

What you need for this role

 Access to the internet, via laptop, mobile or tablet 

Trustees

Closing date Midnight Sunday 27th April 2025

We are looking for ambitious and passionate Trustees to join our Team at Advicenow at a time of growth for the charity but also substantial social and economic challenges for our beneficiaries.

Advicenow has been providing legal support to individuals and communities since 2011. We provide routes to access to justice for people who are otherwise unable to secure basic rights and entitlements to their income, their home and to protect their families. We have a strong track record in leading technological innovation, and educational and research design to tackle legal needs at scale.

As a member of the board you will ultimately be responsible for the overall direction, vision and strategy of Law for Life. We are seeking an enthusiastic and committed Trustee to work alongside the Chair, Board and CEO to ensure sound growth, strategic development and the ability to manage scale.

You will have the ability to innovate, to think strategically, while demonstrating sound judgement. You will help us to move on to the next stage of our three year strategic plan We are looking to appoint individuals who share our values in social justice and legal empowerment and would like to become involved.

 In particular, we would also like to hear from people who have experience in any of the following areas:

• People with experience in charity fundraising and communications & marketing, particularly community giving & philanthropy and digital & media marketing.
• People with experience in digital innovation and IT strategy in particular generative AI, data architecture, generative or Cybersecurity.
• People with experience in building high-level partnerships and fostering collaborations to support the charity’s mission.
• People with lived experience of legal, social, or financial challenges similar to those faced by Advicenow’s service users, offer a first-hand perspective on their needs and barriers to access.We are searching for people from all backgrounds and sectors but are particularly keen to enhance Board expertise from people with lived experience of discrimination, poverty or access to justice needs.

For more information and how to apply download our recruitment pack.

Help thousands of older people in Essex live their best lives.

Do you believe every older person deserves to live a happy, connected and dignified life? Join Age Well East as our next Chair of Trustees and lead positive change across one of the UK’s most populous and diverse counties.

Age Well East supported over 4,000 older people last year through nearly 400 volunteers and 23 staff, delivering befriending, benefits advice, social activities, and mental health support. We operate virtually and face-to-face, from our base in Clacton and across the community.

Yet, challenges remain. An estimated 47,000 older people in Essex live in poverty, 29,000 experience loneliness, and we know that in neighbouring Suffolk, 179,000 older people currently have little support

.The Role

We’re seeking a new Chair to guide the next phase of our development. You'll provide strategic leadership, act as line manager to the CEO, and ensure we continue to grow our impact while maintaining strong governance.

The expected time commitment is around 2–3 days per month, aggregated across the month to support flexibility. Board meetings are held quarterly (mostly via video call), with additional engagement as needed.

To ensure a smooth handover, the successful candidate will be invited to Co-Chair alongside our current Chair, Nick Avery. The length of this transition period is flexible and will be tailored to the new Chair’s preference, with full transition expected by early 2026 at the latest.

About You

You’ll share our belief that all older people should be able to Age Well. You’ll be collaborative, values-driven, and a confident leader able to support our CEO and work effectively with our Board. While prior Chair experience isn’t essential, we are looking for someone who has served on a Board—whether in the charity, public or private sector. Fundraising experience is a plus, and so is a strong network or voice in support of older people.

Our core Befriending Project supports people who are socially isolated in Ealing and Hounslow. They may have a physical or sensory disability, or they may have mild dementia, and are sometimes housebound.

This is an opportunity to become a Befriender.

On successful completion of the training, Befrienders are matched with someone who lives close to them.

They make a weekly 1-2 hour visit to the client's home, where they might stay in and chat over a cup of tea or, where possible, go out for a walk together, visit a cafe or undertake a local activity.

These visits make such a difference for the client, but volunteering with BEfriend not only enriches the lives of those who are isolated, it also offers immense personal rewards.

As a Befriender, you’ll get to know inspirational people with fascinating stories, develop new skills and be part of a supportive team that values compassion and connection.

At the Mental Health Foundation, we are seeking an experienced Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees. This is a voluntary position which will bring you a rewarding experience and an opportunity to help the Foundation deliver its mission. The role is part-time, with attendance required at various meetings throughout the year.

Deadline: 5pm on Sunday 27th April
Location: Glasgow/London/Belfast/Cardiff
Time commitment: 2-3 hours every 6-8 weeks, plus an away day each year, for a 3-year term

This is an exciting opportunity for individuals to join a dynamic and inclusive Board of trustees and help ensure the Foundation maximises its impact.

What does the role involve?

• Monitoring the financial administration of the charity and reporting to the board of Trustees, in compliance with the governing document. 
• Overseeing the charity’s financial risk-management process.
• Acting as a counter signatory on cheques and applications to funders as needed.

What skills, knowledge and experience are we looking for?

• Integrity, strategic vision and good relationship building skills
• Understanding of or interest in mental health and public mental health approaches
• Accounting and/or finance skills and experience

Safeguarding is Everyone’s business – Mental Health Foundation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all its beneficiaries, those who surround them, its staff, volunteers, and anyone else who comes into contact with its services and expects all trustees, staff, and volunteers to share this commitment.

How to apply

If you think your skills match and you’d like to be part of a dynamic and growing organisation, please complete and submit your application form by clicking 'Apply via Website'. Please ensure you attach an up to date CV and statement of suitability answering all points of the person specification. Applications will close at 5pm on Sunday 27th April.  Interviews are planned for 20th, 26th & 27th June. 

We believe our people should represent the communities, organisations and individuals we work with. Diversity and inclusion is a strategic priority for us as an employer and mental health charity, and we are proud to be signatories of the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter and the Disability Confident Committed Scheme. Applications from under-represented sections of the community are actively encouraged.

If you have a disability, require any additional support or have any questions regarding the role, please contact us. We make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and during employment. Disabled candidates who meet all the essential person specification criteria will be offered an interview. Therefore, please do ensure you tick the relevant box on the application form and clearly indicate in your application/covering letter if you consider yourself to meet the requirements of the Equality Act 2010 / Disability Discrimination Act 1995.

We are currently operating mostly digital recruitment (including interviews via video conferencing).

We look forward to hearing from you!

Job Title: Charity Trustee 
Organization: QUAD-REBUILD 
Location: Elsie Whiteley building, Halifax HX1, West Yorkshire, UK 
Position Type: Voluntary 

About QUAD-REBUILD 

QUAD-REBUILD is a dedicated charity committed to providing lifelong support to individuals affected by spinal cord injuries, along with their families. We strive to raise awareness, provide vital home adaptations, offer financial support, and champion mental health services. 

Our motto reflects our mission: 
“Rebuilding Lives, Rebuilding Homes, Rebuilding Your Image to Rebuild Your Future.” 

The Role: Charity Trustee 

As a Charity Trustee at QUAD-REBUILD, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the organisation. You will provide strategic oversight, ensure good governance, and help advance our mission to create a more inclusive, supportive world for those living with spinal cord injuries. 

This is a voluntary role ideal for individuals passionate about social impact, strategic thinking, and community transformation. 

Key Responsibilities 

Strategic Leadership: Contribute to and guide the strategic direction of the charity in alignment with its mission. 

Governance & Accountability: Uphold high standards of transparency, integrity, and ethical practice. 

Financial Oversight: Approve budgets, review financial reports, and help ensure financial sustainability. 

Fundraising & Development: Support fundraising efforts and help foster relationships with donors, supporters, and partners. 

Risk Management: Identify potential risks to the organisation’s operations or reputation and assist in mitigation strategies. 

Compliance: Ensure the charity meets all legal and regulatory obligations. 

Advocacy: Promote the charity's work and increase awareness within the community and beyond. 

What We’re Looking For 

Experience & Qualifications: 

A strong belief in and commitment to QUAD-REBUILD’s values and mission. 

Understanding of, or lived experience with, spinal cord injuries is highly desirable. 

Awareness of the legal, financial, and regulatory responsibilities of charities (or willingness to learn). 

Strong communication, interpersonal, and networking skills. 

Experience in areas such as finance, governance, fundraising, healthcare, or community engagement is a plus. 

Personal Qualities: 

Integrity, honesty, and a passion for ethical leadership. 

A collaborative and strategic thinker. 

Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

Willingness to dedicate approximately 5 hours per month, with flexibility to provide additional time as needed. 

Term of Office 

Trustees are appointed for a minimum term of 2 years, with the opportunity for re-election based on continued commitment and contribution. 

Time Commitment 

Approximately 5 hours per month, including board meetings and committee participation. As the charity grows, we ask trustees to remain flexible and ready to commit additional time if necessary. 

Application Deadline: 30th May 2025 

QUAD-REBUILD is an equal opportunity organisation and warmly welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with lived experience of spinal injuries. 

Introduction

Do you care about the future of the countryside in North and East Yorkshire?  Do you have skills and experience in supporter development/fundraising that you could bring to our work?  CPRE North and East Yorkshire are looking for a Trustee and Supporter Development Lead to contribute to our important work protecting our beautiful local countryside and green spaces.

Who we are

CPRE campaigns nationally and locally for positive solutions which safeguard the long-term future of our precious countryside. At national level, the charity produces in-depth research and sound arguments to press government, Parliament and other decision-makers to support our countryside, be it national landscapes or simply much loved local green spaces, through policies which ensure:

- The right development in the right place

- Active support to improve biodiversity and 

- Countryside protection from climate change impacts and contribution to climate change solutions.

Here in North and East Yorkshire, the largest of the CPRE regions (6,900 square miles!), we have a successful track record of enabling residents and community groups to help shape development in ways that enrich the countryside around them. We also use our planning expertise to proactively campaign for local authority planning policies that safeguard and enhance our beautiful and varied landscapes.

The role

Our small but energetic team of volunteer Trustees enable people to protect the countryside they love and enjoy the benefits it brings wherever they live.  But with your support we can do even more! 

In joining us as a Trustee on the Board you’ll have a general role in developing the charity in line with our strategy and, together with other Trustees, ensuring compliance with Charity Commission and other legal and governance regulations.  However additionally as our Lead for Supporter Development you will use your specialist knowledge to inform and guide the Trustee Board in this area and coordinate and drive forward related activities to meet agreed aims.   As part of this remit, you will also oversee the recruitment of a Communications and Supporter Care Officer (a brand new role) and have ongoing responsibility for communicating organisational requirements and providing feedback to the individual once engaged.

+Trustees initially serve a three-year term and may serve up to six years in total. 

What we need and what’s in it for you

You don’t need to have prior Trustee experience but we are looking for applicants with manager/senior level expertise in Supporter Development/Fundraising.  By volunteering with us you’ll be using what you know to help find positive solutions for the major issues facing the countryside and the environment as well as being part of a group of people who share your passion for the countryside.  Our friendly team will provide you with initial training and support to develop in your role. You’ll gain valuable skills and experience in charity governance and leadership.  Further information on role responsibilities and our skill requirements are provided in the supplementary documents available on our application website CPRENEY. 

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.

Trustees play a vital role in ensuring Middlewich & District Foodbank meets its core purpose by overseeing the management and administration of the charity and ensuring that the foodbank has a clear strategy in line with our vision and goals.

What will you be doing?

The Risk and Assets Lead Trustee will be responsible for the management of a risk register, ensuring that the Board of Trustees are aware and kept up to date regarding their legal, regulatory, and governance responsibilities. In this role you will monitor the food bank’s risk log, ensuring that the Board of Trustees at Middlewich & District Foodbank are aware and kept up to date with regard to current risks and their status.

Key tasks:

Trustee (Risk Lead) Responsibilities:

• to ensure that the Trustee board understand their legal and regulatory responsibilities with regard to the maintenance and updating of the charity’s risk register and other matters relating to risk.
• to maintain the risk register for the charity, liaising with the Chair of Trustees and wider board to identify when risks require review.
• to ensure, along with operational management support, that policies and risk assessments are in place and kept up to date with the changing internal and external environment.
• to be the allocated point of contact for risk related enquiries.
• to liaise with relevant teams at Trussell to ensure that the risk register is updated in line with current best practice guidance
• along with operational management support, to ensure that all relevant staff, trustees or volunteers are aware of the correct process to follow when risks are identified, including how to raise any concerns.
• to ensure that the charity’s assets are properly maintained and insured.

Other responsibilities, along with the board of trustees, include:

• to approve, support and guide the charity’s purpose, vision, strategy, goals and objectives.
• to manage the charity’s resources responsibly, including ensuring the charity’s assets are used only to carry out its purpose, avoid undue risk, and not over-commit the charity.
• to ensure appropriate financial plans are in place, budgets are monitored, and progress is evaluated.
• to review and approve financial statements.
• to ensure the charity has appropriate procedures to comply with current legislation and good practice, including employment, health and safety, equity, diversity and inclusion, safeguarding and GDPR compliance/data protection.
• to prepare for and regularly attend and participate in board and subcommittee meetings and any trustee away days.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for people who want to help their local community and work towards the eradication of food poverty. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:

• knowledge or experience of risk management and a charity’s legal and regulatory responsibilities in relation to risk management.
• an ability to lead on and monitor any matters relating to risk.
• it is not necessary to have previous board experience as training and support will be provided. This role could support someone taking their first steps to develop wider board level and governance experience.

Whatever your background, we want to make sure you are supported and empowered and enjoy your time volunteering with us. We know that having volunteers from a diverse range of backgrounds, with varying experiences, can help to make what we do as effective as possible. As such, we welcome all applicants regardless of age, religion or beliefs, disability, ethnic background, gender reassignment, sex, or sexual orientation. We also encourage those with lived experience of poverty to apply.

What difference will you make?

By supporting the governance of the food bank, you are part of a team providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who comes into contact with Middlewich & District Foodbank.

About Roots Academy 

At Roots Academy, we’ve built a learning experience that’s changing the lives of the ummah’s future leaders, change-makers and visionaries.

Our vision is enabling university students to live God-centred lives, so we teach structured, engaging and transformative face-to-face foundational Islamic education to over 1,800 students across the UK.

Role Summary

As part of teaching at Roots, instructors are supplied with many teaching resources to help them teach the Roots way, such as instructor slides, teaching notes and walk-through videos.
Your role at Roots is to produce well-curated teaching notes, to ensure instructors understand the content and know exactly what is being taught.

Key tasks

• Assessing the current standard of teacher note 

• Taking on the role of editor/proofreader of all academic content

• Have a keen eye for detail such as grammar, language and punctuation

What we’re looking for

• Has a keen eye for detail

• Has experience in copy editing 

• Able to prioritise and organise workload

• Has some experience in assessing the quality of educational material

What we have to offer

• Be part of a team of 100+ dedicated volunteers from across the country.

• Receive continuous rewards for those that seek Islamic knowledge from the Roots platform. 

• Be a part of a growing organisation that aims to revive and educate Muslims from a grassroots perspective.

• Receive in-house tarbiyah sessions to develop your deen. 

Please note this is an unpaid volunteer position. 

Volunteers are entitled to claim expenses incurred for food, travel and equipment, in line with our Expenses policy.