Trustee volunteer roles

Join 198 CAL as a Trustee – Help Shape Our Future

198 Contemporary Arts and Learning (198 CAL) is seeking passionate and experienced Trustees with fundraising and finance expertise to help us navigate today’s challenging funding landscape and build a stable, sustainable future.

This is an exciting time to join our team, following the acquisition and expansion of our new building. We are looking for committed individuals who share our vision and can contribute their skills to strengthen our organisation and make a real difference in people’s lives.

What’s Involved?

• Attend quarterly online Board meetings and one in-person strategy workshop per year.
• Participate in sub-committees and contribute remotely.
• This is a voluntary role, with reasonable expenses covered.

If you have the skills and dedication to support 198 CAL’s mission, we’d love to hear from you!

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Are you willing to give your time and expertise to support those in food poverty in N22 and surrounding areas?

Bounds Green Food Bank has been in existence since 2020, operating as an independent charity since September 2023.  Our Board of 5 Trustees seek to recruit additional people to add to our team.

We are particularly interested in people who have skills in the areas of fundraising, communication and organisational development – however, we also welcome applications from those with a genuine interest and the ability to contribute to our strategy and future direction.

Hours: 1-3 hours a week, to find around your schedule. Includes 2-hour monthly meetings (online).

Location: Remote with occasional meetings in N22, London.

About Bounds Green Food Bank: 

Open since June 2020, we serve over 1,500 children and adults in the community. We are committed to improving lives by providing food and essential household items to build a healthy, hunger-free tomorrow. We strive to promote social inclusion by supporting people who find themselves in a crisis situation where they need assistance to feed themselves and their families.

The role: 

• As trustees, you must:

1. always act in the best interests of the charity – you must not let your personal interests, views or prejudices affect your conduct as a trustee.

2. act reasonably and responsibly in all matters relating to the charity – act with as much care as if you were dealing with your own affairs, taking advice if you need it.

3. only use the charity’s income and property for the purposes set out in its governing document.

4. make decisions in line with good practice and the rules set by the charity’s governing document.

Person specification: 

• Understand and support the purpose of BGFB as a community led organisation whose primary aim is to prevent/relieve poverty.

• Either have lived experience, or understand the reasons for food poverty and why BGFB is an important asset to our community. 

• Can work collaboratively with others in a team, using their skills to make decisions in the best interests of BGFB, holding responsibility and accountability individually and jointly. 

• Can demonstrate awareness and understanding of the legal responsibilities of being a Trustee, and best practice in charity governance.

• Must be able to obtain a DBS, be able to attend required training and meetings (usually twice per month), and have not been disqualified to stand as a Trustee/Director.

Experience required: 

• We are particularly interested in people with expertise in fundraising and communication. However, we would also like to hear from anyone who has skills and experience they can use to help us achieve our strategic goals. The list below are possible areas but should not be considered as finite:

1. Community organising. 

2. Safeguarding/health and safety. 

3. Food distribution. 

4. Human resources/legal.

• Experience and knowledge of volunteer-led organisations would be helpful but is not essential.

Please get in touch if you have any questions/would like to find out more!

Location: Hybrid (primarily remote, with at least one-in person meeting/ year)

Make a Difference as a Trustee for Jerry Green Dog Rescue

Last year, Jerry Green Dog Rescue rehomed nearly 500 dogs, and provided support to many more in the community. We are proud to be the exemplar of the highest standard of dog welfare in rescue services, achieving 100% in our most recent Association of Dog and Cat Home assessment. We have a proud history and an ambitious strategy and are now looking for more trustees to support us on the next stage of our development.

We are seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to join our Board of Trustees. As a trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the strategic direction of our charity, ensuring we continue to make a lasting impact on dog welfare.

This is an exciting time to join our organisation. In 2024, we agreed an ambitious new five-year strategy that will further strengthen our ability to support dogs in need. To help us achieve our goals, we are looking for additional Board members with specific expertise to guide and support our work.

Who we’re looking for

We welcome applications from individuals who are enthusiastic, committed, and passionate about dog welfare. Whether you are an experienced trustee or looking to take on your first board role, we can provide the support you need to succeed.

We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in the following areas:

• Treasurer: A qualified accountant providing expert guidance to the Board in financial matters.

• Land & Property: Expertise in land ownership, property development, or land surveying to advise on strategic decisions regarding our land assets.

• Retail: Experience in retail, ideally charity retail and expansion, to support our Head of Retail in growing our retail operations.

• Fundraising: A fundraising expert to support our Head of Fundraising and Marketing, with a particular focus on AI innovation, social platforms, and emerging technologies.

• Legal: A qualified lawyer or solicitor.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Helping to shape the strategic direction of the charity.

• Providing guidance and oversight including in your area of expertise.

• Ensuring the charity operates in line with its mission, values, and legal responsibilities.

• Supporting and challenging the executive team to drive continuous improvement.

• Attending Board meetings (hybrid, with one in-person meeting per year).

Why Join Us?

• Play a key role in a respected charity that is making a real difference in dog welfare.

• Use your expertise to support a cause you’re passionate about.

• Work alongside a dedicated team in a hybrid role that fits around your existing commitments.

We are looking for Trustees interested in Disabled People's Organisations and Independent Living, who have skills relevant to Board governance.

The Lothian Centre for Inclusive Living (LCiL) is a person-led not-for-profit organisation. We work with disabled people regardless of their impairments, people with long-term conditions and older people, parents and carers. We support people in Edinburgh, West Lothian, East Lothian and Midlothian.

LCiL support Independent Living. Independent Living means all disabled people having the same freedom, choice, dignity, and control as other citizens at home, at work, and in the community. It does not mean living by yourself or fending for yourself. It means rights to practical assistance and support to participate in society and live an ordinary life.

The Opportunity

LCiL is looking to recruit up to four new board members. You would be joining the organisation at a crucial and exciting time. After some staffing issues and dealing with the loss of our much-loved Chair in early January, the organisation has now settled under the leadership of its former CEO who has returned in an interim capacity. One of her primary tasks is to recruit a permanent Chief Executive with guidance from the Board. Thus, she is also supporting the growth of this new team of Board members alongside our existing Directors. LCiL is a vibrant Disabled People’s Organisation, and as such we are looking for individuals with experience of disability or with a strong interest in Independent Living for Disabled People. Additionally, you would bring relevant professional skills to the role.

We are currently looking for individuals with experience in business development, customer care, volunteer support, communications (digital), Human Resources (HR), deputy chair/convenor, board Secretary, Company Secretarial matters, governance, finance, policy and fundraising. However, we are happy to discuss any other experience and skills you feel would contribute to LCiL’s success.

Please refer to the Board Information Pack for further information.

Application process

To apply, please send a letter of interest (2 sides of one A4 page) , or a 5 minute video, explaining:

Why you would like to become a Trustee of LCiL?

What you can offer to the organisation?

How our organisation could help you in your role?

You may also wish to attach/send your CV.

Application deadline

We looking forward to receiving your application, please send it by 12 noon on Tuesday 22 April 2025.

After this point letters of interest will be reviewed by the Board and the interim CEO. If selected, you will be invited to an informal interview, most likely online, with one or several members of the Board and the Interim CEO. After the interview, if both you and the Board are happy for you to join the Board, we will offer you a position on a trial basis.

Special Notice: We are disability confident employer and as such we encourage everyone to share any support requirements with our recruitment team as we are always willing to assist with all information at our disposal. This can be done by emailing us.

A company Limited by Guarantee.  Registered in Scotland 129392.  Charity No SC/017954

Our Trustees play a vital role in making sure that The Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity.

 They also ensure that The Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the exclusive team to enable The Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our charitable purpose:

To promote humane behaviour towards reptiles and amphibians by

providing appropriate care, protection, treatment and security for reptiles

which need care and attention by reason of sickness, maltreatment, poor

circumstances or Ill usage and to educate the public in matters pertaining

to reptile and amphibian welfare in general and the prevention of cruelty and suffering among reptiles.

All Trustees of The Sussex Reptile Centre are required to:

· Ensure that the organisation pursues its stated charitable objects as defined in the Governing Document, establishing a clear vision, set of values and strategy and ensuring that there is a common understanding of these by trustees, staff and associated personnel.

· Ensure that operational plans and budgets support the vision and strategy.

· Ensure that the Charity complies with the Governing Document and any relevant legislation and/or regulations. Such legislation includes:

-Animal Welfare act 2006

-Charities Act 2011

In addition to this, the trustees shall ensure that collaboration with the local authority is sought to obtain any appropriate licensing required under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 including any future changes requiring specific licensing for animal rescue centres.

· Support and provide advice on The Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre ’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

· Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

· Oversee The Sussex Reptile Rescue’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

· Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

· Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

· Review and approve The Sussex Reptile Rescue’s financial statements.

· Provide support and challenge to The Sussex Reptile Rescue’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

· Keep abreast of changes in The Sussex Reptile Rescue operating environment.

· Contribute to regular reviews of [charity name]’s own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

· Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect The Sussex Reptile Rescue interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.

· Contribute to the broader promotion of [charity name]’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

4.What we are looking for

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

5.Personal skills and qualities

· Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interest of the charity.

· Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.

· Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussions

· A strong personal commitment to reptile and animal welfare

· Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

· Willingness to lead according to our values of educating, rescuing and rehoming sick, injured and unwanted reptiles within the county of Sussex and surrounding areas.

6.Qualifications & Experience

We are inclusive on the Trustees and welcome applications from anyone who is interested who has experience with animals and reptiles, but also need individuals with specific experience and qualifications to join our trustees.

· Accounting and tax

· Charity Law

· PR & Marketing

· Animal Welfare

· Fundraising

· Management

Join Our Board and Change Young Lives Across South London

Palace for Life Foundation, the official charity of Crystal Palace F.C., is seeking up to 3 new Trustees to help us expand our impact and change even more young lives across south London through the power of sport. Each Trustee will bring their own area of expertise to our Board, complementing our existing strengths and adding significant value to our organisation. We are particularly keen to hear from passionate individuals who have experience and skills in one or more of the following areas:

• High-Net-Worth (HNW) Fundraising
• Corporate Fundraising
• Employability Programmes
• Charitable Grant Funding (especially from public sector sources)
• Schools and Education
• Safeguarding
• Facilities Development and Management
• Youth Voice

Successful candidates will share our passion for using sport and the Palace brand to inspire young people, helping them lead healthier lives and achieve brighter futures. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and identities, recognising the value that diverse perspectives bring to our Board.

Trustee Obligations:

• Attend 4 face-to-face Board meetings per year.
• Provide strategic oversight, expertise, and guidance to the charity.
• Represent and champion the Foundation in the wider community.
• Conduct regular meetings with staff counterpart/s.
• Take responsibility for matters relating to designated areas of the organisation.

This is a voluntary position and is not remunerated. The deadline for applications is 1st May 2025. The expected time commitment is approximately 1 day per month. The term length is 3 years, with potential to extend up to 9 years.

If you have the skills, passion, and commitment to help us grow and transform young lives, we would love to hear from you. Together, let's harness the power of Palace to make an even greater difference in our community.

The Oaklea Group, which helps people of all ages to learn, develop and thrive is looking for up to three new trustees. Working across the North of England, the Group’s purpose is to give vulnerable people the opportunity to live and work as independently as possible within their community.

We pride ourselves in providing support for people and communities in the kindest possible way. 

We are seeking to appoint 2-3 additional Trustees. We are particularly keen to hear from people with senior experience of:

· Strategic planning/Change management

· Organisational development and growth

· Income generation/fundraising

· Knowledge of Marketing and/or PR campaign development

· Working with CQC and/or to delivered person centred health and social care

· Governance of a Charity/CiC Group

If you are looking to give something back to the community and to share your skills and experience, this opportunity could be perfect for you. We are particularly keen to broaden and deepen the diversity of our Board and to ensure we have members from right across the North of England.

Why now?

The current Board of Trustees is working with the new Group CEO and wider Executive Team to set the strategic direction of the Group. Our current priorities include working with commissioners, partner organisations, funders, donors and others to build sustainability, deliver growth and build brand recognition.

The commitment:

· The Board meets four-five times a year in person.

· Sub-committee meetings are generally held via Zoom and take place 2 – 5 times per year.

· Additional strategy development days may also be planned as we work to plan, deliver and evaluate our next chapter.

· Currently all meetings happen in the mornings, Monday – Friday, although this is subject to change.

· Training is provided and, where appropriate, expenses will be covered. Lunch is commonly provided during longer meetings.

How to apply:

If you think you have the skills, experience energy and enthusiasm we need, we would love to hear from you.

 For an informal discussion please contact our HR Departmentwho will arrange a time for you to have an informal discussion with the Group Chair or CEO.

Closing date: 18th April 2025

Join the Board of The Abbey Centre in the heart of Westminster and help us grow to make a real impact on local lives.

Applications close Tuesday 27th May.

Who we are

Located in the heart of historic Westminster, The Abbey Centre manages a vibrant community hub buzzing with a diverse range of activities and services aimed at addressing local community needs.

When many people think of Westminster, their minds often turn to government and wealth. However, Westminster as a community also faces high levels of deprivation, with neighbourhoods ranked among the top 10% of England’s most deprived areas.

We exist to support local residents and have proudly done so for over 70 years. Since 1991, we have operated a busy and vibrant community centre, providing a range of activities for people of all ages, from after-school clubs to programmes for older people. We also run a successful community food pantry, café, and catering operation.

We are ambitious about doing even more for local people and are embarking on a period of growth after developing a new theory of change and securing investment to enhance several aspects of our building.

About the role

This is your chance to transform a vital community hub in the heart of Westminster while applying your commercial acumen and legal knowledge.

We are looking for a dynamic Trustee to join our Board and help drive our community mission forward. As we expand our services and strengthen our financial foundation, your strategic vision will be instrumental in helping us navigate growth opportunities and ensure our long-term sustainability. Hence, we are looking for a Trustee with a business mindset. We are not looking for pro bono legal advice. We are looking for someone who can utilise their legal mind alongside their enterprise-focused and business-oriented experience. We are also interested in whether our new Trustee has any HR expertise.

You’ll join a passionate team dedicated to empowering local residents through education, wellbeing programs, and community spaces, while bringing your professional expertise to the table. Your commercial mindset will help us identify new revenue streams and partnerships that align with our values and mission.

If you’re someone who thrives at the intersection of purpose and strategy, who can balance community needs with sound business decisions, and who wants to contribute to a 75-year legacy of positive community impact, we need your voice at our Board table.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close Tuesday 27th May. 

Fundraising Trustee Role Description:

Overview

Our charitable trust provides grants to charitable organisations to support impactful projects benefitting communities in Westminster. We are seeking an individual with fundraising experience to join the Board of Trustees. 

Key Responsibilities 

· Provide advice on fundraising strategies, opportunities, and best practices to help increase the Trust’s income and grow its impact.

· Identify potential opportunities for donor engagement, partnerships, and alternative income streams.

· Act as an ambassador for the Trust to promote its work.  

· Provide feedback on grant applications, supporting fellow trustees in making informed decisions about which bids to fund.

· Attend and actively contribute to 3-4 trustee meetings per year, held mostly in the evening (with the option to attend remotely for some meetings).

Skills and Experience

· Proven expertise in fundraising and donor engagement, ideally within the charitable sector (essential)

· A good understanding of the challenges and opportunities for smaller charities and community-based organisations (desirable)

· Knowledge of Westminster (desirable)

Application Process 

If you are interested in this role, please submit your CV and a brief statement outlining your relevant experience and what you hope to contribute.

We are recruiting on a rolling basis, and this advertisement will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.

Additional Information

· Reasonable expenses will be covered.

· All individuals must meet the qualifications set by Charity Commission rules.

· We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from underrepresented groups. 

Join Our Board – Make a Lasting Impact!

As part of our ongoing commitment to strong and effective governance, we are actively seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join our Board of Trustees. This is an exciting opportunity to play a vital role in shaping our organisation’s future and making a meaningful difference in the communities we serve.

We are particularly looking for individuals who can:
✅ Help address the current challenges in social housing
✅ Provide continuity in financial expertise to support sustainable growth
✅ Strengthen our governance, regulation compliance and safeguarding knowledge and practices to protect those we serve

By joining our welcoming and inclusive Board, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals, influence key decisions, and contribute to a cause that truly matters.

Our Trustee application pack is now available on our website, and we are actively in the process sharing this opportunity across our social media channels, including LinkedIn.

Together, we can create positive change. Thank you for your support!

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

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

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

The successful candidate with possess the following personal attributes:

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

What difference will you make?

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

Duties and Responsibilities

As a trustee, you will:

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

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Join the Board of Trustees at Shine Lincolnshire!

Are you passionate about improving mental health and supporting your local community?   Shine Lincolnshire, a leading mental health and well-being charity, is looking for dynamic individuals to join our Board of Trustees and help us shape the future of our work.

Who We Are

At Shine Lincolnshire, we empower individuals to achieve mental wellness by connecting them with vital support services, providing education, and fostering resilience. Our mission is to create a mentally healthier Lincolnshire, and we need your skills to make this vision a reality.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking enthusiastic and skilled professionals with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Information Technology (IT): Help us leverage technology to streamline our operations and enhance our digital outreach.
• Finance: Use your expertise to ensure strong financial governance, sustainability, and strategic resource management.

Whether you’re an experienced trustee or new to charity governance, your commitment, ideas, and professional skills will help us grow and achieve greater impact.

What’s Involved

As a Trustee, you’ll:

• Attend Bi-monthly, in person,  board meetings.
• Provide strategic oversight and contribute to our decision-making processes.
• Act as an ambassador for Shine Lincolnshire within your networks.

This is a voluntary role, but the rewards are immense, knowing you’re making a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Apply Now

If you’re ready to help Shine Lincolnshire in supporting health and wellbeing, we’d love to hear from you!

Together, we can make a difference in Lincolnshire.

Alpha Academies Trust seeks two Trustees to help guide their strategic vision. This is an opportunity to contribute to the long-term success of Alpha's academies.

Applications close: 9 a.m. Monday 26th May 2025

Location: Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire (hybrid or remote is available)

Time commitment: 4 board meetings per year

About Alpha Academies Trust

We are an ambitious and forward-thinking education provider dedicated to delivering a first-class education for every child. Established to create a network of primary and secondary academies in North Staffordshire, our mission is to overcome inequality and ensure that all students, regardless of background, have access to high-quality education and life-changing opportunities.

About the roles

We are committed to delivering a first-class education that overcomes inequality. To support our mission, you will work with the board to shape the strategic direction of the Trust, ensuring strong governance, financial sustainability and high educational standards.

You will work closely with fellow Trustees, the CEO and school leaders to provide oversight and challenge, helping to improve outcomes for the 4,300 students across our six academies.

Key responsibilities include contributing to strategic decision-making, ensuring educational and financial performance accountability and supporting the executive team in delivering transformational education.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking Trustees who share the same passion for working with young people, value the impact a great education has on transforming life chances and the social mobility for young people living in disadvantaged communities; and have the energy and enthusiasm for working with a committed and dedicated team of trustees and staff to support our ongoing growth and success.

Send & Inclusion Trustee

We are looking for a senior leader with SEND & inclusion experience within an education setting, such as a headteacher, school improvement specialist, or academic with a track record of driving high standards. Experience in curriculum development, assessment and school leadership would be highly beneficial. Your expertise will support our efforts to enhance teaching quality and student outcomes across our academies.

Legal Trustee

We seek a legal professional with expertise in governance, compliance, or education law. Your knowledge will help ensure that the Trust meets its legal and regulatory responsibilities, mitigating risks and supporting effective decision-making. Experience in HR law, charity law, or contracts law would be advantageous.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from individuals who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

If you are passionate about making a difference in education and have the skills to support our growth and success, we would love to hear from you.

Peridot Partners and Alpha Academies Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 26th May 2025.

Dear Prospective Trustee

Thank you for your interest in Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML). This pack sets out more information about the charity, the board, the role of a trustee, and how to apply.

We are excited about the future and are looking for energetic, talented and committed individuals to help support the charity as trustees to continue its incredible work for the people of Merton and Lambeth.

What we do

CAML is one of the busiest advice charities in London.  We support individuals and families who live, work or study primarily in the London Boroughs of Merton and Lambeth and also elsewhere (dependent on service).  We also work to raise awareness and understanding of the challenging issues affecting individuals and our communities.

We were one of the first Citizens Advice services to open our doors over 85 years ago. We have had an extremely busy few years, with individuals and families increasingly seeking our support with the cost of living crisis.  Our support and services are as important today as they were when our work began.

We are part of the national Citizens Advice network of over 240 local charities that deliver advice across the country.

In FY 23/24, we supported over 25,000 individuals.  Our information, support and advice services are provided via telephone, online, video conferencing and face-to-face.  We provide face-to-face support from two CAML offices and multiple outreach venues in local communities.  Our aim is to empower people to better help themselves, but we are always here with further support if needed. 

CAML in 2025

CAML is at an important point in its history. Demand for our services continues to accelerate as high levels of hardship become an established reality for many people living in our boroughs.  The two boroughs we serve contain pockets of wealth and affluence, but also feature areas of significant poverty and deprivation where our services are most depended upon.

At the same time, similar to many charities, we face funding challenges – not least given the majority of our funds come from our local authorities. Our current turnover is over £1.2m a year. Like others, CAML faces funding challenges often related to changes in central government policies and local government financial challenges, with a need to look at new ways of diversifying income streams.

The organisation has a strong foundation from which to deliver in this difficult environment – particularly with a team that is committed to our clients and expert in giving quality advice. We also have positive working relationships with our funders, councils and partners, and a strong local reputation.

Our leadership

The operational leadership and management of CAML is carried out by our CEO, Simon Shimmens, with three senior managers and a team of around 40 staff and 20 volunteers. Short biographies of our existing trustees are available on our website.

The role of the Board

Each trustee has a responsibility to contribute to discharging the Board’s responsibilities. We do this by:

● Regularly preparing for, attending and participating in meetings

● Understanding the business of CAML

● Contributing to setting policy and strategic direction, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance

● Monitoring our services, ensuring compliance with our governing documents and policies and monitoring maintenance of Citizens Advice standards

● Monitoring the charity’s financial position and ensuring it operates within its means and delivers on its objectives with clear lines of accountability for day-to-day financial management

● Supporting the charity’s development through participation in agreed projects

● Actively seeking to further CAML’s strategic objectives and acting in its best interest at all times

Above all we are looking for people with strategic vision and independent judgement who together can support the charity and its executive team. As trustees we are visible to our staff and volunteers, engaging and recognising the excellent work they do. Each trustee is expected to spend time with service delivery staff and volunteers, ideally at least once a year. 

You will be a genuine team player, able to support colleagues, input constructively and positively to discussions and to support and uphold collective decisions. 

As a trustee you will support the charity’s values and objectives and will act as a positive and genuine advocate promoting the work of the charity within your personal networks and to the wider world. 

The commitment we need

Each trustee attends quarterly Board meetings and is a member of one of the delegated authority sub-committees – Finance and People – which also meet once a quarter.

While the precise nature will differ month-to-month, this is likely to average at eight to ten hours a month. This allows for board and committee meetings, reading papers in advance of these, ad-hoc actions and discussions, and visiting CAML’s services.

Board meetings are currently held in person in our Mitcham Office, with sub-committee meetings held remotely. Across the Board, we attend key events such as Volunteers’ Week and charity events/activities.

Particular skills/experiences we’re seeking

We are looking to recruit two new trustees to join our strong and dynamic Board.

We would particularly welcome applications from those with skills and experiences to help complement the current Board. Our priority recruitment areas are:

●HR: We are committed to ensuring the highest standards of governance in policies and practice related to employee relations, recruitment, retention, reward and recognition as well as staff and trustee training and development. We are seeking a trustee with senior HR experience to support the strategic oversight of our People approach.

●Accountancy: Financial oversight is an integral part of a well-functioning trustee Board. We are looking to further bolster this expertise within the Board to provide support for our Treasurer if required.

●Pensions: CAML has a legacy Defined Benefit pension scheme (closed to new entrants) and a Defined Contribution scheme. We are looking for an individual with actuarial or pension trustee skills to advise the Board with regard to our pension schemes, and whether we should be looking to make any changes.

●Legal: We are looking to further expand our legal expertise on the Board. We particularly welcome interest from individuals with experience in charity law however all applicants with legal experience are welcomed.

In addition to these skills, we would welcome applications from candidates with previous trustee experience and/or applicants who may be open to taking on the role of Vice-Chair (further information can be provided on this if requested).

The benefits of being a trustee with CAML

Although the role of a trustee is unpaid (reasonable out of pocket expenses are reimbursed), there are many reasons to join us, including:

● Being a trustee is one of the most powerful ways in which you can contribute to your local community and to a cause you care about.

● Corporations of all sizes take voluntary and community enriching activities seriously with trusteeship considered an effective method of professional development and community engagement.

● Being a trustee is a fantastic way of developing your strategic experience and oversight, giving you the opportunity to develop your critical thinking, problem solving and analytical skills.

● Being a trustee can open up your professional network.

How to apply

Follow the link to our website and complete the relevant documents at the bottom of the advert.

We are recruiting on a rolling basis and are considering applications as and when we receive them. This recruitment remains live until 30th June 2025.

All applications are considered by a trustee panel, with shortlisted candidates then invited to an interview, to take place within a month of receiving their application. 

We are registered with the Information Commissioner's Office and will process your personal data in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation and Data Protection Act 2018. Please refer to our online Privacy Policy for more information on how your personal data will be processed and stored.