Trustee volunteer roles

The Organisation:
Founded in 1868, the Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) is the oldest charity dedicated to the Commonwealth. The RCS is a network of organisations and individuals across more than 70 countries in the Commonwealth and beyond who promote the value and the values of the Commonwealth.
His Majesty The King is the Patron of the Royal Commonwealth Society, and Her Majesty The Queen is the Vice-Patron.
The King succeeded The late Queen Elizabeth II, who had been Patron since 1952 when she was also Head of the Commonwealth. Queen Camilla had previously been our inaugural Vice-Patron since 2018.
The Honorary Vice-President is the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.
The Royal Commonwealth Society is governed by an experienced Council
comprising the Executive Chair and Trustees.
The offices are in Guildhall, London, with team members based in Canada, Malta, Nigeria, the Solomon Islands, South Africa, and Sri Lanka.
In addition to branches, the Royal Commonwealth Society has an active network of over 450 Associate Fellows. Formerly Queen’s Young Leaders and other outstanding young people from all 56 Commonwealth countries, the Associate Fellows are reappointed annually based on their contributions to their respective Working Groups.

To find out more about the Royal Commonwealth Society, visit the website.
 
The Role:
To get the most out of being on the RCS’s Council, we are looking for those who have a passion for our aims and can commit to the time and effort required. Our trustees need strategic vision, independent judgement, and an ability to work effectively and actively as part of a small but dedicated charitable organisation. We are seeking an experienced Chair who can lead the Council in a collegiate and effective manner to deliver the most impact for the citizens of the Commonwealth.
To fulfil the duties of this role, we are looking for someone who has considerable board experience and a commitment to charitable endeavours. A background in the Commonwealth is not required. We are especially keen to hear from people from a wide range of backgrounds.

• Oversee the Council and the Society’s strategy and direction
• Management of finances of the Society
• Lead fundraising efforts
• Responsible for the governance of the Society
• Maintain relationships with external stakeholders

Person Specification:

• Chair experience would be highly desirable
• Board experience would be required
• Trustee experience of charitable organisations would be desirable
• High-level professional experience
• Interest in the voluntary sector and its contribution to society
• Commitment to good governance
• Strong interpersonal skills and a collegiate approach
• An interest in global affairs and an international outlook
• Experience of working with stakeholders and doing so with professionalism and discretion
• Confidence in being the high profile representative of a significant institution

Further Information:
For comprehensive information about the Royal Commonwealth Society, the role responsibilities and the person we are looking for, please download the Candidate Information Document.

How to Apply:
If you are passionate about joining the Royal Commonwealth Society and believe you have the skills and experience we are looking for, please apply with the following:

• An up-to-date 2 page CV
• A supporting statement of no more than 1 side of A4, detailing why you would like to be considered, your relevant experience and expertise and what you think you can bring to the role.
• 3 referees’ contact emails and telephone numbers. 

All applications are being handled by our recruitment partner, Trustees Unlimited (part of the Russam group).

All applications should be sent to Trustees Unlimited.

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Melissa Baxter, Managing Partner - Charities.

Closing date for applications: Monday 5th May 2025
Interviews with Royal Commonwealth Society: Monday 19th May [online] and Tuesday 27th May 2025 [in person, at the Guildhall]. 

The role commences on 1st June 2025.

Please confirm the above dates are suitable in your covering letter. Please also highlight any potential conflicts of interest. References and other checks will be conducted.

Vice Chair
Location: London (Hybrid)
Remuneration: This is an unremunerated role. However, expenses such as childcare, care for other dependants, and travel will be covered to support attendance at board meetings.

Our client is a registered Charity Incorporated Organisation that aims to support and invest in young people (predominantly 18-25 years old) through their adolescent years which can be difficult because of both personal circumstances and the injustices in society. They fund work nationally, as well as having a specific focus on several counties in the South East of England. The grants they make total c. £3 million per year.

The Trust has evolved a lot over the years and is very much values driven around their mission “to bring lasting change to the lives of young people; investing in them as powerful forces for change and acting upon their right to be heard in pursuit of a fair and just society.” They really want to be a foundation that listens well and gives young people power to change and improve society whilst staying responsible, trusting and progressive. They do this primarily by providing grants to organisations working with young people, influencing youth policy alongside them and investing directly in young changemakers.

Our client is looking for a new Vice Chair to join their inclusive, inspiring and professional Board. The Vice Chair will provide support to the current Chair and additional leadership to the Board. You will bring experience of working with young people or within/around youth led organisations. This individual will be able to be an effective ambassador and will bring an understanding of boards and charity governance, ideally though a previous board role or experience in an aligned role. The Trust provides training and ongoing support, and they looking for someone committed both to the role and to continuous learning.

Most importantly, this individual will be motivated to live the Trust’s values and share their vision of a world where all young people have hope, access to the support they need, a stake in society and influence over their futures. They are committed to centering the voices of those thet seek to serve. The board and staff team have relevant lived and learnt experiences to help us fulfil the Trust’s mission. They listen to the communities they seek to serve both directly and broadly to have as accurate of an understanding as possible about the issues that those they’re here to serve are facing. Our client encourages applications from younger candidates and for those who may not have previously held a Chair or Vice Chair role.

For further details about this exciting opportunity, please refer to the full appointment brief attached below. To apply, please click ‘Redirect to Recruiter’

Deadline for applications: 18th May
Interviews with client: w/c 26th May or 2nd June

You will be making a real difference by helping Swanage Pier Trust to protect and maintain our heritage. Becoming a volunteer shop manager could be just what you’re looking for.

Supported by a wider team, you would be responsible for the overall running of the Swanage Pier Gift Shop.

Purpose of Role

The main purpose of the post is to manage the Gift Shop for Swanage Pier Trust. This is a customer facing role and will require good customer service, retail and administration skills. A good knowledge of retail will help. The postholder will need some experience in a retail role. A flexible approach and a great sense of humour will help. 

Task Duties

To be responsible for the trust gift shop and act as a first point of contact for visitors, members of the public, trustees, volunteers and staff.

To have a flexible working approach and to help coordinate cover by volunteers and staff at all other times.

To efficiently manage and direct enquiries.

To be responsible for the sale of merchandise in the shop and online and to oversee shop stock levels.

To liaise with shop suppliers, place orders and record new stock on the till system.

To ensure that the gift shop area and displays are kept tidy, stocked and well presented.

To assist with the administration of shop income.

To identify and uphold health and safety measures.

To maintain confidentiality and ensure equal opportunities is upheld at all times.

To encourage people to be supporters of Swanage Pier Trust. 

The role of the Independent member is to provide the Safety Committee and the Movement with knowledge and experience for making key decisions. The role is pro bono, but reasonable expense will be paid in accordance with The Scout Association (TSA)’s Expenses Policy. The appointed candidate should expect to spend the equivalent of a day per quarter on The Scout Association’s work after the induction phase - this is based on preparation for and attendance at the scheduled Safety Committee meetings (four in each year, with the intention that two are held online and two face to face).

The Safety Committee reports directly to the Board of Trustees which has overall legal responsibility for TSA. The committee is Chaired by an external appointee who is a Trustee of the board. The safety committee comprises independent members with Health & Safety expertise across a range of sectors and members from the movement. The purpose of the committee is to hold to account those with responsibility for delivery of Health & Safety across Scouting.

Main responsibilities

The remit of the Committee is to support the Board of Trustees to fulfil its responsibilities in relation to Safety by: 

1. providing vision and direction for consideration and endorsement by the Board (as required), by identifying and contributing to the development of safety policies, procedures and guidance; 

2. ensuring that youth members, adult volunteers, parents and staff are engaged in contributing to the development of safety policies; 

3. developing and overseeing a performance framework to ensure that safety policies, procedures and practice are monitored to provide assurance to the Board (relating to members, staff and service users) and use this management information to inform and drive improvements; monitoring the local and national implementation of safety policies and procedures to ensure practice is effective and consistently applied; 

4. ensuring that appropriate connections are made with other areas of the Association’s work that may have an impact on safety (for example Adult Training by using incident data to highlight areas of success or concern); 

5. ensuring that members receive appropriate support and communication to aid understanding of their responsibilities to enable Safe Scouting; 

6. leading the process for Fatal Accident and/or Near Miss inquiries from commissioning through to completion; 

7. reviewing and overseeing actions from inquiry reports (this should be in conjunction with the respective staff functions, particularly where there is specific policy, procedure and/or practice changes that need to be recommended for consideration by the Strategy and Delivery Committee and/or Board (as required); 

8. identifying possible areas of development for the Association’s safety activities, taking into account relevant national agendas and learning from reviews whether this be external or internal to the Association. 

The person

Past or present membership of The Scout Association would be an advantage but is not an essential requirement.

What is essential is a commitment to the vision and values of Scouting and the ability to challenge the Association’s policies and practices positively.

We welcome applications from individuals with experience in a wide range of sectors, not just those from traditionally high-hazard industries. We are committed to diversity and actively seeking applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, in particular, Black, Asian and ethnic minority communities.

Skills

Primary Technical Skills (Core)

1. Competence: Experience of application of safety principles, regulations, and best practices within hazardous environments.

2. Legal Compliance: Clear understanding of legal obligations related to health and safety in the workplace and how this translates across to Scouting to assure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

3. Application of Health and Safety Regulations: Experience of applying health and safety regulations and standards to ensure compliance. This should be combined with an understanding and ability to identify relevant health and safety regulations and standards applicable to the volunteering sector.

4. Risk Assessment and Audit and Assurance: Experience of identifying potential hazards, assessment, developing strategies to mitigate risk and audit and assurance in a work environment, including risk assessment methodologies and strategies.

Analytical Skills (Essential)

5. Analytical Skills: Capacity to analyse data related to safety performance, incident reports, and trends to identify areas for improvement.

6. Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify safety issues, evaluate alternative solutions, and implement effective corrective actions.

7. Continuous Learning and Professional Development: Commitment to staying updated on industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in safety management.

Enabling Skills (Desirable)

8. Management Skills: Experience of leading safety initiatives and managing safety teams to influence organisational safety culture to prioritise safety – demonstrating an understanding of business operations and aligning safety practices with organisational goals.

9. Communication and Influencing Skills: Experience of effectively conveying safety protocols, policies, and procedures to employees to influence behaviour, management, and regulatory authorities, showing the ability to lead by example and inspire others to prioritise safety.

10.  Interpersonal Skills: Understands the need for building positive relationships with stakeholders, including volunteers and employees, management, regulatory agencies, and community members to improve safety culture.

Secondary Technical Skills (Desirable)

11.  Safety Training and Education: Experience of developing and or delivering effective safety training programmes to employees at all levels within an organization.

12.  Accident Investigation: Skill in investigating workplace accidents and incidents to determine root causes and prevent future occurrences.

13.  Emergency Preparedness and Response: Knowledge of emergency procedures and the ability to develop and implement emergency response plans.

Experience

• Experience of hazardous environments
• Experience of working in safety as a safety practitioner/holds a safety qualification
• Experience of leadership to achieve safety culture change within a complex organisation
• Expertise welcomed in mental health/wellbeing, human factors or occupational health
• Expertise welcomed in the application of strategic health protection principles (e.g. public health, food safety, and other health related safety issues)
• Experience from an activity-based sector (e.g. outdoor and adventurous activities) welcomed
• Experience of working or volunteering with charitable or youth organisations welcomed
• An understanding of governance structures and the role of boards and their sub-committees would be an advantage with experience of providing strategic advice and guidance at this level

We are seeking to appoint a voluntary Trustee for our charity who will also take up the role of Company Secretary.

As Company Secretary, you will:

• Liaise with and support the chair and other trustees in organising meetings and taking minutes.
• Ensure the trustees are aware of their legal and regulatory responsibilities.
• Maintain the register of members, trustees, directors, and secretaries.
• Prepare and file annual returns and other statutory documents with Companies House and the charity regulator.
• Help us maintain compliance with charity regulations and governance standards.

We're looking for someone who is:

• Well-organised.
• An excellent communicator.
• Passionate about our mission.
• Committed to upholding the highest standards of governance

About Maidstone Homeless Care:

Maidstone Homeless Care is a well-established charity supporting homeless and vulnerable people in the Maidstone area . We run an active day centre, busy food bank and a small residential unit supporting homeless people. 

We have one formal evening meeting each month . The role of trustee is a voluntary role and consistent support is available from the trustee group as well as appropriate training.

If you're looking for a rewarding volunteer opportunity where you can use your skills to support a vital cause, we'd love to hear from you.

ABOUT SPRINGBOARD

Springboard Youth Academy supports refugee and asylum-seeking young people who have recently arrived in the UK to help them succeed in the classroom and beyond. By combining participatory learning, life skills and holistic support into action-packed weekend, half-term and summer programming, we work to bridge the gap in support for young people left behind by the mainstream school system.

As educators and youth workers with years of experience working to offset the challenges these young people face, we launched a programme that helps young people develop their English language and self-advocacy skills whilst addressing their social and wellbeing needs, preparing them for mainstream education and helping them rebuild their lives in the UK.

We do this by providing interactive and engaging programming that combines English learning, life skills and practical and emotional strategies for young people on their journey to independence and adulthood. 

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

As Springboard’s Youth Academy’s activities and ambitions continue to grow, we are seeking a Secretary to join our existing Board of Trustees. 

We’re looking for people who share our love of high quality and participatory education, as well as our commitment to supporting and platforming displaced young people. We're keen to meet people who can bring skills, knowledge and both professional and lived experience that will help us continue to refine our delivery and grow. 

We are committed to nurturing a board that is representative, diverse and inclusive. We are interested to hear from individuals with experience in governance, as well as those new to Trustee positions. We are particularly encouraging applications from those with personal experience of forced migration and Leaving Care. 

Responsibilities of the Secretary include:

• Organising meetings
• Taking minutes and summarising actions for a team
• Contributing to Charity Commission reporting
• Preparing papers for board meetings
• Convening the Chair and Director to develop meeting agendas
• Assisting with planning Springboard’s annual Away Day 

Qualities: 

• Strategic thinking
• Excellent communication skills
• Confidence and a willingness to speak their mind and ask challenging questions
• Teamwork and collaboration skills
• Understanding of safeguarding and confidentiality
• Understanding of the wider political landcape, abolitionist perspectives and commitment to challenging the hostile environment
• Independent judgment
• Commitment to making meetings inclusive and welcoming to Trustees with all levels of experience
• Advocacy and networking skills to help us build new relationships
• Willingness to offer expertise, skills and personal insight to support us
• Passion for championing work that centres newly arrived young people

TIME COMMITMENT

In line with all charities, Trustees are unpaid volunteers. Trustees must be able to commit to attending quarterly Board meetings and making time to read paperwork in advance of Board meetings. As a small charity, our resources are limited and Trustees are also asked to actively contribute their skills in relevant areas. As a guideline, Trustees must be prepared to offer a minimum of two hours per month to the charity. 

As Secretary, you will be required to spend approximately 1-2 hours prior to each quarterly meeting supporting with preparation. We also require new Trustees to spend one day on site during one of our programmes to get a feel for the work, as well as undertake Trustee and Safeguarding training, within the first three months of starting the role. Board meetings are currently held virtually, and, where possible, are arranged at least two months ahead. On occasion, Trustees will be required to respond by email or phone in relation to issues that arise outside of Board meetings. Travel costs will be covered if they are a barrier. 

Join us as Dog A.I.D.'s new Honorary Secretary and you would be joining the Board at an exciting time as we have launched the charity’s Strategic Plan with a new CEO supported by a small but strong team, which we will be building further this year. As Honorary Secretary you would be using your skills and experience to support the leadership and strategic direction of our charity as we look to achieve ambitious strategic growth targets over the coming years, becoming a larger, more robust charity with increased profile and reach.

Dog A.I.D. empowers physically disabled people by coaching them to train their own pet dog to become an accredited Assistance Dog. By focusing on the existing pet/owner bond, outcomes for our clients include:

 · increased independence and self-confidence

· improved mental well-being

· reduction in social isolation

· reduced reliance on family members and/or carers.

· increased opportunities, with many of our clients being able to return to work or education, supported by their accredited Assistance Dog.

We are looking for an active and well-organised Secretary who can provide support for our governance functions. You will be required to attend and minute online quarterly Board meetings and other ad-hoc meetings and strategic discussions.

At Home-Start Birmingham Central and South-West we are seeking a trustee to contribute their expertise and experience to act as Treasurer to the Scheme. Working with the Scheme Manager to oversee the financial management of the Scheme, you will ensure proper financial recording and effective financial procedures are in place. You will also monitor and report on the financial health of the Scheme and oversee the production of financial reports/returns, accounts and audits.

As a Trustee with Treasury focus, you will liaise with trustees and relevant staff, in particular, the Scheme Manager, to oversee the financial viability of the Scheme, make fellow trustees aware of their financial obligations and take a lead in interpreting financial data to them. The role will also be responsible for:

· Ongoing reporting of the Scheme's financial position at Trustee meetings;

· Ensuring expenditure is in line with grant criteria, in liaison with the Scheme Manager;

· Monitoring levels of restricted and unrestricted reserves, in liaison with the Scheme Manager;

· Overseeing the production of an annual budget, in liaison with the Scheme Manager;

· Ensuring proper record keeping, in liaison with the Scheme Manager;

· Ensuring effective financial procedures/controls are in place, in liaison with the Scheme Manager; and appraising the financial viability of plans/proposals.

You will also play a vital role in developing our overall Scheme strategy and ensuring the ongoing good governance of the Scheme.

The Housing and Welfare team is a fast-paced team which works to make sure that all of our clients have safe and comfortable accommodation and are able to access any benefits to which they are entitled. People seeking asylum are restricted in the benefits they can access, if any, and their legal status determines whether or not they can engage in employment and what statutory accommodation is available for them, so the Housing and Welfare team is vital in helping HBF’s clients to navigate this system. People recently granted refugee status and those who have experienced exploitation are also at high risk of destitution, homelessness and unsuitable accommodation.

As a very busy team, our casework volunteers are invaluable, supporting the staff team on anything from liaising with statutory bodies and voluntary agencies, to drafting grant applications for individual welfare needs. To be able to meet the enormous demand for welfare and housing support, we ideally need to have volunteer support throughout the week.

Main tasks and activities

· Assisting clients to access asylum support, community care, housing, mainstream benefits, charitable support (etc.), within the remit of prevention of homelessness and destitution;

· Maintaining contact with clients within the remit of prevention of homelessness and destitution;

· Liaising with statutory bodies (Asylum Support, DWP, local authorities), solicitors and voluntary agencies to ensure client needs are met;

· Referring clients internally and externally as appropriate for specialist help with issues that fall outside the remit of the housing and welfare casework service, including health/therapeutic services, referrals to immigration/housing/community care solicitors;

· Maintaining accurate and timely client records and follow-up work;

· Other administrative duties as required, including database management and filing.

Skills and experience needed

· Understanding of, and commitment to, the objectives of the Helen Bamber Foundation;

· A demonstrable empathy for our vulnerable clients, including people seeking asylum, refugees and survivors of torture and trafficking;

· Some knowledge of the challenges facing vulnerable clients including people seeking asylum, refugees and survivors of torture, trafficking;

· Some experience in a casework and/or advice role;

· Some knowledge of the rights and entitlements of people seeking asylum and refugees;

· Some knowledge of mainstream benefits, housing, social care;

· Ability to keep up to date with legislation, case law, policies and procedures relating to welfare, housing and immigration;

· Punctual, reliable and self-motivated;

· Able to commit regularly (ideally same day each week)

· Awareness of confidentiality/data protection;

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills;

· Excellent organisational skills and ability to manage own time and workload, and to prioritise a range of competing demands;

· Excellent IT skills including the use of databases, email, word processing;

· Flexibility and willingness to undertake other duties as required.

What you will get out of the role:

· A better understanding of UK processes and systems which concern people seeking asylum and refugees (including asylum support, homelessness, welfare benefits, local authority support etc.) and what support is available;

· Increased confidence in working on a one-to-one basis with clients;

· Stronger administrative skills;

· Ability to process large amounts of data and prioritise or categorise it;

· An ability to multi-task between competing priorities;

· Experience of working with a multi-disciplinary team in a Human Rights charity.

Equal Opportunities

The Helen Bamber Foundation and Asylum Aid is an equal opportunities and Living Wage employer. We are committed to attracting and recruiting diverse candidates as we are keen to make sure that our staff, trustees, volunteers and ambassadors reflect the communities we serve and the wider community we work in at every level within the organisation.  We particularly welcome applications from those with migrant and refugee backgrounds and those with lived experience of the UK’s immigration systems.

To apply, please attach you CV and cover letter. Applications without a cover letter will, unfortunately, not be considered.

Due to capacity constraints, we will only respond to applicants who are being invited to interview. 

Please note, a three-month probation period is in place across all HBF voluntary roles.

Successful candidates will be offered the position subject to a DBS check.

About us:

Do you have a passion for financial capability and significant professional experience in Audit & Risk Management?

At The London Foundation for Banking & Finance (LFBF), our story began in 1879 when a group of visionary bank workers set out to elevate professional standards and leadership in the industry. Over the past 145 years, we became a recognised leader in financial services education, offering industry-leading qualifications and setting the gold standard for professional competency.

In 2023 we entered an exciting new chapter as an independent charity, revitalising and refocusing our mission to improve financial capability and empower professionals in the sector.

Our charitable objective is the advancement of knowledge and education in financial services, and to carry out research and publish useful results for the benefit of the public. In doing so, we seek to improve levels of financial literacy and skills, as well as support those working within or considering a career in the financial services industry.

Our objective is just as relevant, perhaps even more so, today as it has been in our long history. If you're inspired to make a real impact and contribute to the advancement of financial knowledge for the benefit of society, we want to hear from you.

About the role:

The Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee will provide leadership to help ensure that the charity’s external and internal (where applicable) audit functions are operating efficiently and effectively, to ensure that the risk management process adopted by the charity enables the identification of key risks as well as the internal controls to mitigate these risks; and the charity maintains adequate and effective financial controls and processes.

The Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee works in close co-operation with, and provides support and advice to, the CEO, Director of Finance and Chair of the Board of Trustees.  The primary responsibilities of the Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee are as follows:

• To be a member of the main Board of Trustees of the charity.
• To promote and oversee the highest standards of governance within the Audit & Risk Committee and the London Foundation for Banking & Finance.
• Together with the CEO and Director of Finance, set an agenda for the Audit & Risk Committee which takes full account of the issues facing the London Foundation for Banking & Finance and the concerns of Board members.
• Chair the Audit & Risk Committee and lead any discussions on agenda items.
• Ensure compliance with the terms of reference and delegation of authority of the Audit & Risk Committee.
• Guide and advise the Board of Trustees in the approval of the annual report and accounts and an appropriate risk management framework.
• Understand the accounting procedures, key internal controls and risk management in order to assure the Board that LFBF’s financial integrity is sound.
• Take a lead role in the assessment, timely selection and recommendation of the appointment or reappointment of external auditors to the Board.
• Agree with the Director of Finance, a reporting format for the Board, ensuring that the objectivity and independence of the Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee is not compromised.
• Ensure that an update report of each Audit & Risk Committee meeting is presented to the Board.
• Ensure that the accepted recommendations of audit reports are implemented.
• With the Director of Finance meet the external auditor at least once per year.
• Provide support and direction to Audit & Risk Committee members to ensure their contribution is relevant and effective
• Attend and participate in Board meetings and attend relevant LFBF events.

You will have:

• Previous experience as a member of an Audit & Risk Committee, ideally at Chair or Vice Chair level.
• A relevant accounting qualification (CIMA, ACCA, CGMA, ICAEW, CIPFA or similar).
• Enthusiasm for education.
• Integrity, probity and high ethical standards.
• Ability and willingness to challenge and probe.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with an inquiring mind and ability to listen to the views of others, question intelligently and debate and challenge constructively.
• Understanding of the need to balance conflicting factors and make objective decisions.
• Excellent analytical skills and the ability to interrogate and interpret complex information.
• Experience of audit and risk management frameworks.
• Recent and relevant experience of charity finance.
• Understanding of legal and financial guidelines set out in current legislation and charity law.
• Act as an ambassador for LFBF.

Further details including the anticipated time commitment for this role can be found within the Recruitment pack. To access the Recruitment pack, click on Quick Apply. 

Chair of the Charitable Trust Board

Amnesty International UK

Lead With Purpose. Chair the Board of One of the World's Most Recognised Human Rights Movements.

Amnesty International UK is seeking a visionary, inclusive and values-driven Chair to lead the Charitable Trust Board at a pivotal moment of change and opportunity.

With nearly half a million supporters across the UK, the mission is to stand up for humanity and human rights. The Charitable Trust plays a vital role in funding Amnesty's work globally and in the UK - supporting individuals, communities, and movements where justice, fairness, and freedom are at stake.

As Chair, you will provide strategic leadership to the Board, oversee key governance responsibilities, and guide the Trust through an exciting period of transition - including responsible investment, growing the grant making impact, and advancing digital and cultural transformation.

About you:

• Proven governance or board leadership experience (e.g. Chair, Vice Chair, Trustee)
• Strong understanding of charity governance, risk, and compliance
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and chairing skills
• The ability to lead with curiosity, compassion and strategic clarity
• A deep personal commitment to human rights, anti-racism, equity and inclusion
• Familiarity with ethical investment, grant making, digital transformation, or complex organisational change would be highly beneficial.
• Lived experience of injustice or marginalisation, and younger voices in leadership, are especially welcomed.

Practicalities:

UK-wide (with London-based meetings)
Voluntary, with expenses covered
Approx. 15-20 days/year
3 years (renewable once)

Join the Conversation

We're hosting a live Q&A Webinar on Monday 28th April 2025 at 6:30 pm where they will share further insights and answer any additional questions you may have. In the first instance, please send your CV to and we will forward you the recruitment pack as well as the link to register to attend this webinar.

Timeline:

Closing date: 5pm 23^rd May 2025

First Interviews: w/c 30^th June

Final Interviews: w/c 7^th July

This is your opportunity to lead with integrity, shape the future of human rights work, and ensure Amnesty International UK is governed with accountability, vision, and courage.

Swansea Community Workshops

The Board of Trustees are looking to recruit a knowledgeable and experienced individual for the voluntary role of Secretary (Board of Trustees). The main activity at Swansea Community Workshops (SCW) is to provide facilities for hobbies, recreation, and leisure time occupation in a socially interactive and practical environment, where there are skills sharing, learning of new skills, and helping community-based projects. As we are a charity, these facilities are for public benefit, specifically targeting socially excluded members of the local community in Swansea.

Role Overview

Title: Secretary (Voluntary) Reports to: Board of Trustees.

Hours: 3-6 hours per month as minimum. Attendance to monthly sub-committee meetings and bi-monthly Board of Trustee meetings is expected.

Role Summary

The Secretary is responsible for the recording and documentation of all charity and Trustee meetings.

The below Role Description and Person Specification should be considered in addition the SCW’s standard Trustee Role Description and Person Specification, which is available separately to this document.

Role and Responsibilities

Overall 

• Leading the charity to enable it to fulfil its purpose.
• To ensure an effective relationship between:
• the charity and the staff/volunteers
• the charity and the external stakeholders/community
• Acting as a spokesperson and figurehead as appropriate.
• To supervise and support the Centre Manager.

Specifically 

• Support the Chair or Vice-Chair in the planning and preparation of the charity meetings and the AGM, as appropriate.
• In charity meetings, ensure that:
• Decisions, actions, and deliberations are adequately minuted.
• Meeting minutes are distributed to all members of the Board promptly after the meeting takes place.

Person Specification

Personal Qualities 

• Friendly and approachable 
• Clear communication skills – both written and verbal. 
• Good attention to detail 
• Happy to volunteer on evenings and weekends when required. 
• Enthusiasm or interest in craft activities 

Education, Experience and Knowledge 

• Secondary education required as minimum. 
• Knowledge and experience of charity law, good governance, and operation relevant to voluntary and community organisations. 

Skills 

Essential 

• Good listening, writing, and typing skills. 
• Knowledge of appropriate software including: Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook, Microsoft PowerPoint and Adobe Acrobat 
• Excellent customer service skills. 
• Excellent organisation skills. 

Desirable 

• Knowledge of specific software and systems, such as WordPress, Skedda. 
• Clean and valid UK driving license, personal vehicle, and insurance. 
• Basic Welsh language skills. 

Additional Information

Key Dates 

September 2024 - This is an ongoing recruitment with no fixed deadline for registering your interest. 

Swansea Community Workshops

The Board of Trustees are looking to recruit a knowledgeable and experienced individual for the voluntary role of Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees. The main activity at Swansea Community Workshops (SCW) is to provide facilities for hobbies, recreation, and leisure time occupation in a socially interactive and practical environment, where there are skills sharing, learning of new skills, and helping community-based projects. As we are a charity, these facilities are for public benefit, specifically targeting socially excluded members of the local community in Swansea.

Role Overview

Title: Vice-Chair (Voluntary) Reports to: Board of Trustees.

Hours: 6-10 hours per month as minimum. Attendance to monthly sub-committee meetings and bimonthly Board of Trustee meetings is expected.

Role Summary

The Vice-Chair shares responsibility with, and in the absence of, the Chair for board management, support to individual trustees and support to the Centre Manager, facilitating scrutiny of SCW’s strategic direction, values, policies, and operational efficiency. The Vice-Chair also plays an active role in representing the organisation to a range of internal and external stakeholders.

The below Role Description and Person Specification should be considered in addition the SCW’s standard Trustee Role Description and Person Specification, which is available separately to this document.

Role and Responsibilities

Overall 

• Support the Chair in leading the charity to enable it to fulfil its purpose.
• To ensure an effective relationship between:
• the charity and the staff/volunteers
• the charity and the external stakeholders/community
• Acting as a spokesperson and figurehead as appropriate and in the absence of the Chair.
• To supervise and support the Centre Manager as appropriate and in the absence of the Chair..

Specifically 

• Support charity meetings and the AGM with others as appropriate.
• In absence of the Chair, to Chair charity meetings ensuring:
• A balance is struck between time-keeping and space for discussions.
• Business is dealt with and decisions made.
• Decisions, actions, and deliberations are adequately minuted.
• The implementation of decisions is clearly assigned and monitored.
• Ensure adequate support and supervision arrangements are made for the Centre Manager and any other staff/volunteers directly managed or reporting to the charity.
• Ensure that a successor is found before the term of office finishes.

Person Specification

Personal Qualities 

• Friendly and approachable 
• Clear communication skills – both written and verbal. 
• Good attention to detail 
• Happy to volunteer on evenings and weekends when required. 
• Enthusiasm or interest in craft activities 

Education, Experience and Knowledge 

• Secondary education required as minimum. 
• Knowledge and experience of charity law, good governance, and operation relevant to voluntary and community organisations. 
• Knowledge of project management and budgeting/forecasting. 

Skills 

Essential 

• Effective leadership skills. 
• Good delegation skills. 
• Good negotiation, influencing, and meditation skills. 
• Knowledge of appropriate software including: Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook, Microsoft PowerPoint and Adobe Acrobat 
• Excellent customer service skills. 
• Excellent organisation skills. 

Desirable 

• Knowledge of specific software and systems, such as WordPress, Skedda. 
• Clean and valid UK driving license, personal vehicle, and insurance. 
• Basic Welsh language skills. 

Additional Information

Key Dates 

September 2024 - This is an ongoing recruitment with no fixed deadline for registering your interest. 

Buckinghamshire Disability Service (BuDS) is a leading disability charity operating across England.. The role of Co-Treasurer will be pivotal for the charity as it moves forward from a county to a national charity.

What will you be doing?

BuDS is an independent pan-disability organisation which is not tied to Government, NHS or council contracts. Our visionary aim is to abolish disability by building a world which is Fair4All, free of the barriers which disable people. We are led by disabled people and committed to the social model of disability.

We have decided to recruit Co-Treasurers because we recognise that the role will be easier to manage if divided between two individuals.The Co-Treasurers will be Trustees of BuDS and will need to embody our values and ethos. BuDS values diversity and inclusion and encourages everyone who meets the needs of the role to apply, regardless of their background or circumstances.

What Does the Role Entail? 

The role of Co-Treasurer is expected to involve a time commitment of around 2-3 hours per week, a combined total of 4-6 hours between the two post-holders. BuDS works remotely and flexibly using Microsoft Teams, so much of the work can be done at your own pace at times which suit you best. Meetings are kept to a minimum as all the Trustees are busy people. 

Working closely with the Co-Chairs and Co-Secretaries, and split between the two Co Treasurers, the five key responsibilities will be: 

1. The charity’s financial health and managing financial risks or hazards
2. Supporting grant or contract applications and funding proposals 
3. Supervising financial admin and ensuring best practice and compliance
4. Supporting the move to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation
5. Curating the Annual Accounts

What are we looking for?

These are the skills and experience we think are needed for this role, divided between the two Co-Treasurers. We are keen to develop people’s knowledge and skills through training and mentoring. 

Essential: 

• Strategic budgeting and forecasting 
• Microsoft Office 365 applications for remote working 
• A flexible, positive, problem-solving and organised approach to tasks 
• Commitment to the social model of disability 
• Lives in England 

Desirable: 

• Accountancy qualifications
• Charity finances and reporting and the SORP 
• Knowledge about Charitable Incorporated Organisations
• Lived experience as a disabled person or someone with a close personal connection

What difference will you make?

Our Trustees’ lived and professional experience of disability will help keep us on the right path as we grow. Trustees also have a key role in ensuring that our Values permeate the organisation at all levels, including within the Board itself.

Change and growth is a challenging time, and the continuing strategic and oversight role of Trustees will be critical to BuDS’ continuing success, with the officers (Co-Chairs, Co-Secretaries & Co-Treasurers) playing a pivotal role. The decisions to which you’ll be asked to contribute will be important