Trading Volunteer Volunteer Roles in Edinburgh

Trustee - International House London (English Language Teaching or Legal Background preferred)

International House Trust Ltd (trading as International House London, (IH London), a registered UK charity is seeking passionate and dedicated new Trustees to join their Board and help drive the mission of delivering high-quality language and communication training that unlocks human potential. As a global leader in language teaching, teacher training, and trainer development, IH London is committed to creating meaningful change in the world by fostering effective communication.

We are particularly committed to creating an inclusive environment and are actively seeking applications from individuals from diverse backgrounds, including women and individuals from underrepresented communities, to ensure that our Board truly reflects the communities we serve. Your unique perspective and expertise will help us expand our impact and create lasting change.

Vision: Do you want to be part of an ambitious, forward-thinking organization that brings people together and acts as a force for positive change? If so, we want to hear from you!

Location: Remote

Report to: Chair of Board of Trustees

Time commitment: Quarterly Board and Committee Meetings (normally remote), ad hoc issues etc.

Remuneration: This is an unpaid voluntary role, with reasonable expenses reimbursed

Responsibilities: As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the future direction of IH London.

Key responsibilities include:

• Contributing to the strategic and long-term direction of IH London
• Ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and aligning resources with objectives
• Protecting and promoting the reputation of IH London and acting in the best interests of the charity
• Ensuring financial stability, sustainability, and effective risk management

Person Specification:

We are looking for candidates who can bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to provide oversight at a senior level to join our strong and committed Trustee Board including:

Proven leadership skills - You will display a record of leadership and a proven track record of working at strategic and senior levels, with an ability to provide sound governance and oversight alongside objective, independent judgment.

Strategic thinking ability - You will demonstrate a proven ability to think strategically, analyse complex concepts and actively contribute to the strategic direction setting of IH London, both over the long and short term.

Communication skills - Demonstrable effective written and oral communication skills, the ability to influence others and to advocate on behalf of IH London.

Specific Expertise: We are actively seeking for candidates with specific expertise in the following areas:

• ELT Expertise: Experience in English Language Teaching to offer strategic oversight on language training programs.
• Legal Expertise: Legal qualification ideally with experience in commercial law to provide legal advice and guidance.

Application process:

If you are interested in joining the Board of one of the world’s most respected English Language educational brands, please submit a CV and a brief covering letter explaining your interest in the role and how your skills can contribute to our success.

Applications should be sent by 5pm 21st March 2025.

The selection process for shortlisted candidates will include an online conversation with the Chief Executive and a meeting with a group of Trustees.

We are recruiting a number of new trustees to our Board, particularly individuals with a background and skills in clinical psychological care, finance, fundraising and/or marketing and communications, digital, data and technology, and more generally in the charity sector, to join our talentedand collegiate team.

For more than 80 years, Fire Fighters Charity has stood side-by-side with the UK’s fire and rescue services community, as a trusted source of clinical care and support, an independent shoulder to lean on, and an enabler for positive health and wellbeing change.

Our Board, together with our dynamic and developing Senior Leadership Team take pride in the quality of our services, our relationships and partnerships, and the rich history of our charity and the fire sector more generally. For us, it is a pleasure to apply our skills and expertise to this compelling cause, and an organisation that can mean the difference between darkness and light, despair and hope, and to be able to see firsthand the relief, respite, wellbeing and happiness our services can bring. Our teams of staff and volunteers, right across the UK, are ambitious, dynamic and committed; we invite you to consider joining us on our journey.

The role:

• Ensure the charity and its subsidiaries comply with the charity’s governing document (Articles of Association), charity law,  company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

• Ensure the charity pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.

• Ensure the charity applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives.

• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, contribute actively to the board of trustees by giving strategic direction to Fire Fighters Charity, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets, and evaluating performance against these.

• Ensure the financial stability of the charity - protect and manage the charity, ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds.

• Safeguard the good name and values of Fire Fighters Charity and its subsidiaries. Principal trustee responsibilities:

In addition to these statutory duties, trustees should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board make appropriate and timely decisions, for example by scrutinising performance information, leading discussions and dialogue about key issues, providing advice and steer, evaluating or offering advice on areas where a trustee may have particular expertise.

We are looking for individuals with strong personal commitment to Fire Fighters Charity’s work and objectives, and a desire to develop and promote the charity so that we can extend our reach and grow our impact.

About the Trustee Role

Role Overview

Trustees play a key role in governing Rebuilding Lives UK, ensuring it remains compliant, sustainable, and impactful. We are particularly seeking individuals with expertise in legal, HR, safeguarding in domestic abuse sector or related fields, media, leadership and development, business development, housing, or construction.

Trustees are expected to be actively involved in the charity’s work, contributing beyond board meetings by engaging with staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries. Trustees must actively fulfill their governance responsibilities, contribute to decision-making, and participate in all required training.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to the strategic direction of the charity, ensuring decisions align with its mission.
• Ensure compliance with governance, financial, and safeguarding regulations.
• Support and oversee the Chief Executive while ensuring appropriate accountability.
• Promote and advocate for the charity through professional networks and personal outreach.
• Offer professional insight in areas such as experience in legal, HR, safeguarding in domestic abuse sector or related fields, media, leadership and development, business development, housing, or construction.
• Engage in fundraising and awareness-raising initiatives where possible.
• Be actively involved in the charity’s activities, providing hands-on governance and operational support.
• Trustees share collective responsibility for the charity’s governance, ensuring the charity’s mission is achieved and its operations are effective. Trustees support the CEO by contributing to strategic planning, offering expertise, and working together to provide the necessary oversight and direction for the charity’s growth and success.

Who We Are Looking For

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Strong governance and leadership skills.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).
• Experience in at least one of the following:
• Legal, HR, Safeguarding in Domestic Abuse sector or related fields, Media, Leadership and Development, Business Development, Housing or construction.

What You’ll Gain from This Role

Becoming a trustee with Rebuilding Lives UK is more than just a governance role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to creating real, lasting change. As a trustee, you will:

• Play a vital role in supporting survivors and helping them rebuild their lives.
• Be part of a passionate and driven team working towards a shared mission.
• Gain valuable leadership, governance, and strategic experience.
• Develop transferable skills in decision-making, safeguarding, and advocacy.
• Expand your professional network and engage with like-minded individuals.
• Have access to training and development opportunities to strengthen your expertise.

Mandatory Training Requirement

All trustees must complete trustee governance and safeguarding training within the first three months of appointment. Additional training will follow as needed.

Terms of Appointment

Trustees serve an initial one-year term, with the option for renewal up to a maximum of three years.

Voluntary Role

All voluntary roles are subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.

This is an unpaid remote position (UK Based); however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. 

Time Commitment:

• 8 hours per month, including:
  • Monthly board meetings (held via Zoom).
  • Active involvement in governance and decision-making processes.
  • Annual half-day strategy session to contribute to the charity’s direction.
  • Engagement in charity activities beyond board meetings, as appropriate.

Who we are

MS is a neurological condition affecting the central nervous system creating a wide range of symptoms which vary greatly from person to person.

We work with the MS community, supporting them to make the right choices for themselves about how to manage the impact of their MS and live a life as close as possible to how they wish.

The role
Following our most recent skills audit, we are looking to recruit two or three new trustees to
supplement our combined skill set.

Whilst we are keen to hear from people with a passion for supporting the MS community, we are open to applications from people that can bring specific skills where we have identified gaps also.These include, but are not limited to:

• Health/ holistic healthcare
• Legal
• Fundraising
• Hands on social media implementation and optimisation
• Data strategy and technology

About the Safeguarding Trustee Role

Role Overview

The Safeguarding Trustee ensures Rebuilding Lives UK meets all safeguarding obligations and promotes a culture of safeguarding at every level. They provide expert oversight, policy guidance, and ensure best practices are embedded across the organisation. The Safeguarding Trustee works closely with senior leadership to ensure the organisation remains compliant with safeguarding regulations. Trustees are expected to be actively involved in the charity’s work, providing hands-on support where appropriate.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure robust safeguarding policies are in place, regularly reviewed, and adhered to.
• Provide safeguarding advice to the board and senior leadership.
• Ensure all trustees and staff receive appropriate safeguarding training.
• Oversee risk management relating to safeguarding, ensuring all cases are handled correctly.
• Promote a safeguarding-first approach across the charity’s activities.
• Ensure compliance with relevant safeguarding legislation and guidance.
• Act as the board’s safeguarding lead, providing regular updates and reports.
• Trustees share collective responsibility for the charity’s governance, ensuring the charity’s mission is achieved and its operations are effective. Trustees support the CEO by contributing to strategic planning, offering expertise, and working together to provide the necessary oversight and direction for the charity’s growth and success.

Who We Are Looking For

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Professional experience in safeguarding children or adults.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to advise on safeguarding matters.
• Awareness of safeguarding regulations in the charity sector.
• Ability to ensure safeguarding remains a board-level priority.

What You’ll Gain from This Role

Becoming a trustee with Rebuilding Lives UK is more than just a governance role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to creating real, lasting change. As a trustee, you will:

• Play a vital role in supporting survivors and helping them rebuild their lives.
• Be part of a passionate and driven team working towards a shared mission.
• Gain valuable leadership, governance, and strategic experience.
• Develop transferable skills in decision-making, safeguarding, and advocacy.
• Expand your professional network and engage with like-minded individuals.
• Have access to training and development opportunities to strengthen your expertise.

Mandatory Training Requirement

The Safeguarding Trustee must complete trustee governance and safeguarding training within the first three months of appointment. Additional training will follow as needed.

Terms of Appointment

Trustees serve an initial one-year term, with the option for renewal up to a maximum of three years.

Voluntary Role

All voluntary roles are subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.

This is an unpaid remote position (UK Based); however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. 

Time Commitment:

• 8 hours per month, including:
  • Monthly board meetings (held via Zoom).
  • Active involvement in governance and decision-making processes.
  • Annual half-day strategy session to contribute to the charity’s direction.
  • Engagement in charity activities beyond board meetings, as appropriate.

About the Treasurer Trustee Role

Role Overview

The Treasurer plays a critical role in ensuring the financial health, stability, and accountability of Rebuilding Lives UK. They oversee financial strategy, ensure compliance with financial regulations, and provide guidance on long-term financial sustainability. The Treasurer ensures that financial risks are identified and managed appropriately while making financial information accessible to the board. Trustees are expected to be actively involved in the charity’s work, providing hands-on support where appropriate.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure financial policies and procedures are followed and regularly reviewed.
• Oversee budgets, financial reporting, and compliance with legal requirements.
• Support financial decision-making and long-term financial planning.
• Work closely with auditors and external financial advisors.
• Monitor financial health, ensuring reserves are maintained and risks mitigated.
• Present financial reports to the board in an accessible, non-technical manner.
• Assist in fundraising strategy development and grant applications where necessary.
• Be actively involved in the charity’s operations where possible, offering financial guidance beyond governance.
• Trustees share collective responsibility for the charity’s governance, ensuring the charity’s mission is achieved and its operations are effective. Trustees support the CEO by contributing to strategic planning, offering expertise, and working together to provide the necessary oversight and direction for the charity’s growth and success.

Who We Are Looking For

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Experience in finance, accounting, or financial management.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of charity financial regulations.
• Ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-finance specialists.

What You’ll Gain from This Role

Becoming a trustee with Rebuilding Lives UK is more than just a governance role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to creating real, lasting change. As a trustee, you will:

• Play a vital role in supporting survivors and helping them rebuild their lives.
• Be part of a passionate and driven team working towards a shared mission.
• Gain valuable leadership, governance, and strategic experience.
• Develop transferable skills in decision-making, safeguarding, and advocacy.
• Expand your professional network and engage with like-minded individuals.
• Have access to training and development opportunities to strengthen your expertise.

Mandatory Training Requirement

The Treasurer must complete trustee governance and safeguarding training within the first three months of appointment. Additional training will follow as needed.

Terms of Appointment

Trustees serve an initial one-year term, with the option for renewal up to a maximum of three years.

Voluntary Role

All voluntary roles are subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.

This is an unpaid remote position (UK Based); however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. 

Time Commitment:

• 8 hours per month, including:
  • Monthly board meetings (held via Zoom).
  • Active involvement in governance and decision-making processes.
  • Annual half-day strategy session to contribute to the charity’s direction.
  • Engagement in charity activities beyond board meetings, as appropriate.

About the Chair of Trustee Role

Role Overview

The Chair of Trustees ensures effective governance and strategic direction for Rebuilding Lives UK. They provide leadership to the board, oversee decision-making, and act as a key ambassador for the charity. The Chair supports the Chief Executive while ensuring accountability and compliance with regulatory requirements. A key responsibility of the Chair is to ensure that all trustees are actively engaged in their roles, fulfilling their responsibilities, and participating in training.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the board to ensure strong governance, accountability, and strategic leadership.
• Ensure that all trustees actively fulfill their roles, contribute to decision-making, and engage with the charity’s work.
• Provide mentorship and oversight to the Chief Executive.
• Hold trustees accountable for attending training and participating in board activities.
• Ensure that safeguarding measures are implemented across the charity.
• Oversee board meetings, ensuring productive discussions and informed decision-making.
• Represent the charity externally and strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders.
• Support financial oversight, ensuring sustainability and compliance.
• Be actively involved in the charity’s operations where possible, offering support beyond governance.
• The Chair plays a key role in providing strategic direction and supporting the CEO through regular mentoring and guidance. While the board collectively oversees the charity’s performance, the Chair works closely with the CEO to ensure they are supported in their role, offering insights and fostering a collaborative relationship between the CEO and trustees.

Who We Are Looking For

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Experience in chairing boards or senior governance roles.
• Strong strategic leadership and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI).
• Minimum of 10 hours per month dedicated to board duties.

What You’ll Gain from This Role

Becoming a trustee with Rebuilding Lives UK is more than just a governance role—it’s an opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to creating real, lasting change. As a trustee, you will:

• Play a vital role in supporting survivors and helping them rebuild their lives.
• Be part of a passionate and driven team working towards a shared mission.
• Gain valuable leadership, governance, and strategic experience.
• Develop transferable skills in decision-making, safeguarding, and advocacy.
• Expand your professional network and engage with like-minded individuals.
• Have access to training and development opportunities to strengthen your expertise.

Mandatory Training Requirement

All trustees, including the Chair, are required to complete trustee governance and safeguarding training within the first three months of their appointment. Additional training will follow as needed.

Terms of Appointment

The Chair serves an initial one-year term, with the option for renewal up to a maximum of three years.

Voluntary Role

All voluntary roles are subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.

This is an unpaid remote position (UK Based); however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. 

Time Commitment:

• 10 hours per month, including:
  • Monthly board meetings (held via Zoom).
  • Providing strategic leadership and guidance to the CEO.
  • Annual half-day strategy session and leadership planning.
  • Regular check-ins with trustees to ensure engagement and accountability.