Volunteer Roles

What will you be doing?

As the Chair of the Board, you will lead the Board of Trustees providing visionary leadership and strategic guidance to the Board and Chief Executive, ensuring that the charity’s Ambition and Mission are effectively implemented through the strategy. 

You will chair and facilitate Board meetings ensuring effective governance and a culture of transparency, accountability, collaboration and open communication, seeking different views and opinions, to drive forward the strategic direction of the charity. 

To find out more about the role, please request a copy of the candidate pack.

What are we looking for?

Our new Chair of Trustees will need to have a deep commitment to our mission, values and work and will be ambitious in wanting to make a measurable difference in the lives of carers.

You will be a visionary leader with an ability to think strategically, to see the big picture and contribute to longer term planning and  have a strong understanding of good governance and experience of effective chairing of a multi-disciplinary committee or board.

Before you apply

Interviews to take place on 16 July 2024

If you wish to have an informal conversation with the current Chair, Peter Davis or Vice Chair, Vicki Wells, about this role please contact us via Reach, to arrange a chat.

If you wish to apply, please submit a CV and supporting statement (maximum two sides of A4) that outlines your suitability for the role against the criteria provided in the person specification, including your interest and motivation in applying for this position.

Please send your CV and supporting statement via Reach by 8 July 2024.

Do you have some van driving experience?

Many people struggle to enjoy cycling, and some families often find the cost of adapted bikes mean that they cannot share fun times together.

Parkride is a fun and flexible inclusive cycling project using a range of adapted and standard bikes that provides anyone, regardless of age, ability or need, with the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors through cycling.

We require a volunteer van driver to help us deliver our custom-made bikes and trikes to locations such as parks and community centers around the West Midlands.

We’ve got the van; we just need you!

What would I be doing?

· You will be a vital link between us and the families we support, helping us to get the team and bikes to where they’re needed for arranged sessions.

· You’ll be the friendly face of Parkride, interacting with the families and ensuring the bikes are kept safe and secure whilst the team are out riding.

· Working with staff to load/unload the van before and after sessions.

What do I need?

· Minimum age 25

· Experience of driving a large van with a suitable driving licence

· A full and clean driving licence (held for a minimum of 5 years)

· Some lifting will be required and so a basic level of fitness is needed.

· Being approachable and friendly with good communication skills

· Accepting of others who might be different to you and the ability to work as part of a diverse team

· A willingness to learn and work within guidelines set out by Midland Mencap

· Honesty, integrity and trustworthy

· Good time management skills, reliability

· An enhanced DBS check will be required by all successful applicants.

When and where do you need me?

· The van is based at our head office in Woodgate Valley – B32 3BZ.

· We have several parkride sessions running throughout the week including evenings and weekends. Sessions vary from 2-4 hours (plus travel).

· We run sessions throughout the Midlands, including Birmingham (all areas), Dudley, Sandwell, Coventry, and Sutton Coldfield. You can choose which sessions you wish to attend.

· All sessions are weather dependent; however, we only cancel sessions in extreme weather. We would advise having a warm waterproof coat and suitable shoes.

What’s in it for me?

As one of our valued volunteers, Midland Mencap will offer you:

· The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities and their family carers

· Improved physical and mental wellbeing from keeping active

· An induction and settling in period

· Any training and development that is needed

· The chance to develop your skills and gain experience

· The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team

· Support within your role

· Agreed out-of-pocket travel expenses

· Lots of appreciation for your amazing contribution

Do you love Cycling?

Could you help someone else to enjoy cycling?

Purpose of the role.

Bike Buddies provide support and motivation to help people to participate in outdoor cycling. Volunteers support cyclists to achieve their fitness goals and enjoy cycling in our community.

Our Bike Buddies are great ambassadors for cycling, sharing their expertise of local routes and giving others the confidence to get around by bike.

We have people from many different backgrounds wanting support with their cycling for many reasons.  

For example:

· Coming back to cycling after time off

· Disability or ill health

· Finding quiet roads and cycle paths around the neighbourhood

· Building up confidence on busy roads

· Sharing experiences of things like cycling at night or what clothes to wear

· Checking bikes together before a ride

If you feel confident cycling on the road or in a park with someone else, and are wanting to give back to others, this is the role for you.

What would I be doing?

You’ll need to find out what they want to do and where they want to go. Some people want to explore quiet streets locally or plan a longer journey. You may ride to the park or show them local routes – quiet ways, new cycle lanes and off-road paths are popular.

They may want to try out junctions or crossing busy roads – think about how to ride those safely. You may support a person at one of our pre-arranged Parkride cycle meetings and help them to develop the skills and confidence to cycle safely and independently.

What do I need?

This role will require:

· A roadworthy bike and riding equipment.

· Experience of regular cycling

· Some experience of cycle maintenance is ideal

·       A cycling competence session with parkride staff

· Friendly, calm, and patient

· A good listener & happy to chat

· Accepting of people who may be different to you

· Willing to learn and act within guidelines set out by Midland Mencap

· Good time management skills, reliability

· An enhanced DBS check will be required by all successful applicants.

When and where do you need me?

Either at organised events or 1-2-1 within your local area.

Ideally you can meet once or twice a month for approx. 2 hours.

We have parkride sessions running throughout the week including evenings and weekends.

What’s in it for me?

As one of our valued volunteers, Midland Mencap will offer you:

• The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people with disabilities and their family carers

• An induction and settling in period

• Any training and development that is needed

• The chance to develop your skills and gain experience

• The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team

• Support within your role

• Any out-of-pocket travel expenses

• Lots of appreciation for your amazing contribution

• Positive wellbeing from doing something great

• Improve career opportunities by adding your volunteer role to a CV

Do you enjoy being creative ?

Could you spare a few hours to help others enjoy art and craft sessions?

Purpose of the role

People with a learning disability or additional needs are often isolated and excluded from mainstream leisure and social activities. We believe that EVERYONE has the right to have fun and feel safe.

Our fun activity groups give people with additional needs the chance to make friends, enjoy social time together and try out a variety of activities.  

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers for our friendly arts and crafts groups in Weoley Castle. You will be encouraging our citizens to take part and ensure everyone has a great time. You can also use your skills to deliver a creative session if you wish.

This is a great opportunity to volunteer in a friendly, person-centred team, providing fun activities for people with learning disabilities.

What would I be doing?

· Helping people to take part in various arts and crafts activities such as card making, model making, painting, and other creative groups

· Encouraging people to feel part of the group and take part in the activities.

· Helping to set up equipment and tidy away at the end of the session.

· Helping to maintain a safe and welcoming environment.

What do I need?

· An interest in helping people, being approachable and friendly

· Any creative skills or interests would be amazing, but not essential.

· Good communication skills

· Accepting of others who might be different to you

· The ability to work as part of a diverse team

· A willingness to learn and work within guidelines set out by Midland Mencap

· Honesty, integrity and trustworthy

· Good time management skills, reliability

· An enhanced DBS check will be required by all successful applicants.

Where and when do you need me?

· We produce a weekly timetable with activities each day

· Ideally you can attend once per week for 1-3 hours

· Weoley Castle Community Hub, Bottetourt Rd, Birmingham B29 5TE

What’s in it for me?

As one of our valued volunteers, Midland Mencap will offer you:

· The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities and their family carers

· Improved health and wellbeing from doing positive activities

· A volunteering preparation session

· An induction and settling in period and any training and development that is needed

· The chance to develop your skills and gain experience

· The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team

· Any out-of-pocket travel expenses

· Lots of appreciation for your amazing contribution

Volunteering for Sense

Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.  Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.

What your role will involve

There are a variety of tasks that you can get involved with in the shop, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated goods for sale
• Creating eye catching window and in-shop displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, tidy, clean and organised
• Processing sales and serving on the till
• Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives
• Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community
• Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers
• Following new health, safety and social distancing measures to ensure the safety of everyone

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Motivated and hardworking
• Reliable, flexible and willing to do a variety of shop tasks
• A team player
• Friendly and helpful
• Passionate about customer service and enjoy interacting with people
• Respectful of others and their diversity
• Interested in supporting the work of Sense and want to make a difference to people who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
• Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
• A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
• The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind

About Sense

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

We include. We collaborate. We find a way. We challenge. We celebrate.

Volunteering for Sense

Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.  Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.

What your role will involve

There are a variety of tasks that you can get involved with in the shop, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated goods for sale
• Creating eye catching window and in-shop displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, tidy, clean and organised
• Processing sales and serving on the till
• Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives
• Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community
• Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers
• Following new health, safety and social distancing measures to ensure the safety of everyone

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Motivated and hardworking
• Reliable, flexible and willing to do a variety of shop tasks
• A team player
• Friendly and helpful
• Passionate about customer service and enjoy interacting with people
• Respectful of others and their diversity
• Interested in supporting the work of Sense and want to make a difference to people who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
• Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
• A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
• The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind

About Sense

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

We include. We collaborate. We find a way. We challenge. We celebrate.

Join UWSU and Shape the Future of Student Engagement 

About UWSU 

The University of Westminster Students' Union (UWSU) is a dynamic and vibrant membership charity, dedicated to enhancing the student experience at the University of Westminster.

At the heart of UWSU is a belief that every student should feel a sense of belonging. UWSU is not just a students’ union; it's a community. One that champions student voice, ensuring they are heard at the highest decision-making levels. Through a range of activities, services, and initiatives, UWSU strives to create an environment where students can celebrate their identities, shape their university journey and connect with their peers. 

From offering financial accessibility in sports and societies to designing student-centric spaces and providing an independent advice service, UWSU is always at the forefront of student wellbeing and engagement. 

We are delighted to be inviting applications for candidates to fill 2 Trustee positions with expertise in charity governance/legal/complaints, and marketing/PR. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Provide strategic oversight in governance/legal or marketing/PR. 

• Ask questions and provide challenge and support to ensure we’re operating effectively as a charity. 

• Challenge and guide our elected officers and Senior Leaders. 

• Build strong relationships within the Board and the wider UWSU community. 

• Ensure the Board works together with officers and staff to prioritise students' belonging, wellbeing, and success in everything we do. 

Why Join UWSU as a Trustee? 

• Influence & Impact: Play a pivotal role in shaping our strategy and the future of student experience at Westminster. 

• Community & Collaboration: Be part of a vibrant community and team, celebrating our collective successes. 

• Recognition & Growth: With an engagement score that surpasses sector averages and awards to prove it, be part of leading a charity that's setting new standards. 

Who Are We Looking For? 

• People with the skills, experience and capability to oversee and support our work around governance/legal or marketing/PR at a strategic level. 

• People who resonate with our values and are eager to make a tangible difference. 

• Collaborative team players who can commit to collective leadership and can build and nurture strong relationships. 

Our Commitment to Diversifying our Board 

In order for us to be able to make sure every student is able to celebrate who they are, shape their university experience, and feel connected to a community, we need to continue to innovate and make sure we champion diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in everything that we do. This means having a commitment to supporting a diverse and inclusive Trustee Board. 

We would particularly welcome applications from Black and Asian candidates, those who identify as women or non-binary, and disabled candidates, in order to improve representation of these groups on our Board. 

Join Us on This Exciting Journey 

We truly believe that your expertise, paired with our passion and dedication to student success, will work together to make UWSU a trailblazing students' union. If you're as enthusiastic about our ambitious future as we are, we can’t wait to hear from you. 

Be a part of UWSU's promising future. 

How to apply 

Click 'apply' to visit our website to download the candidate pack and for more details on how to apply.

If you have any queries or would like to arrange an informal discussion about the role, please contact Nida Ashraf at Atkinson HR.

Key Dates 

Closing date: Tuesday 16th July 2024, 12noon 

Interviews: w/c Monday 29th July 2024 

As a Volunteer Fundraising Assistant, you will play an important role in giving those who have supported the charity the recognition they deserve, and helping the team to organise events for fundraisers looking to take on a challenge to raise money for Candlelighters!

Location

Woodhouse Square, Leeds, LS3 1AD 

Time commitment

Approximately once a week.

Key Activities 

• Writing thank you letters, emails, and sending certificates.
• Responding to supporter enquiries.
• Providing administrative support & helping prepare resources, merchandise & equipment for events.
• Answering the phone, transferring calls and taking messages.
• Updating supporter database.
• Processing mailings (including mail merge) and dealing with returns.
• Franking letters/parcels & arranging courier companies for large deliveries.
• Assisting the Fundraising and Finance Teams with other activities as required

We are looking for a volunteer who has: 

• Strong administrative skills
• Strong IT skills, including the ability to use Microsoft Office and databases
• Experience of communicating in a professional capacity via telephone, email and in person.
• Strong attention to detail

This role is subject to a DBS check. 

Support and Benefits 

It’s vital that our volunteers feel rewarded for their amazing efforts so we want to match your goals, aspirations, availability and everything else with the right opportunity for you. Here are a few examples of what you will receive as a volunteer:

• Thorough induction & training to give you the confidence to perform your role well and to the best of your ability 
• Opportunity to develop new and existing skills to help you beyond your involvement with Candlelighters 
• Ongoing support from the Fundraising and HR teams 
• Certain expenses to be reimbursed as agreed with your Volunteer Supervisor, in accordance with our Expenses policy 
• Regular reviews with your Volunteer Supervisor to help you develop in your role 
• Satisfaction in knowing you are making a valuable contribution to supporting children and families affected by childhood cancer 
• We can be a reference once you’ve volunteered for three months 
• Access to the mental health hotline 
• Charity Worker Discount card 
• Access to The Company Shop 

Candlelighters offer a variety of support groups and events for families affected by childhood cancer. We’re looking for a friendly and attentive volunteer to help the Family Support Team to set up and manage each event to ensure it runs smoothly and successfully for families.

Location

Across Yorkshire (most groups are at The Square, 8 Woodhouse Square, Leeds, LS3 1AD) 

Time commitment

Approximately five hours per month, depending on the number of events you sign up for.

Activities will vary but may include: 

• Helping to set up prior to the event (arranging furniture, putting up decorations etc …) 
• Putting out food and refreshments 
• Meeting and greeting
• Keeping a record of attendance 
• Making hot and cold drinks
• Cleaning and tidying up
• Serving lunches and refreshments 
• Taking photos 
• Organising or assisting with games and activities 
• Engaging with family members and helping them to feel involved 
• Supervising children 
• Cleaning and tidying up at the end of the event 
• Assisting the team with any other tasks and activities 

We are looking for a volunteer who: 

• Has experience of working with children or families in a professional context 
• Has knowledge of safeguarding procedures and safer working practices 
• Is confident, friendly and approachable 
• Is experienced in working as part of a team
• Can work well and remain calm under pressure 
• Is proactive and able to use own initiative 
• Can move furniture (tables and chairs) and boxes

This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check. 

Support and Benefits 

It’s vital that our volunteers feel rewarded for their amazing efforts so we want to match your goals, aspirations, availability and everything else with the right opportunity for you. Here are a few examples of what you will receive as a volunteer:

• Thorough induction & training to give you the confidence to perform your role well and to the best of your ability 
• Opportunity to develop new and existing skills to help you beyond your involvement with Candlelighters 
• Ongoing support from the Family Support and HR teams 
• Certain expenses to be reimbursed as agreed with your Volunteer Supervisor, in accordance with our Expenses policy 
• Regular reviews with your Volunteer Supervisor to help you develop in your role 
• Satisfaction in knowing you are making a valuable contribution to supporting children and families affected by childhood cancer 
• We can be a reference once you’ve volunteered for three months 
• Access to the mental health hotline 
• Charity Worker Discount card 
• Access to The Company Shop 

Our Charity Champions are passionate individuals who are committed to supporting PKS. You will work alongside the PKS Team to support the charity, raising money in your area, identify new fundraising opportunities and raise awareness of PKS and their Services.

Charity Champions represent PKS in their local area. There are various ways to do this, and the role is flexible, so you are free to pick and choose which activities appeal to you. 

Here are some examples of activities Charity Champions do:

· Attending cheque presentation events as a representative of PKS

· Attending community events as a representative of PKS

· Attending organised walking, running, and cycling events to cheer on people taking part for PKS.

· Organising your own fundraising activities e.g. bucket collections, cake sales or raffles

· Supporting PKS fundraising and/or awareness events e.g. bucket collections, festivals ro regional shows etc

· Providing information in your local area about the support PKS provides e.g. putting information leaflets in local GP surgeries, supermarkets or posters on community notice boards

· Holding awareness stands at community events.

· Taking part in or encouraging others to get involved in fundraising events throughout the year

· Supporting social media campaigns by sharing content with your network

· Delivering talks about the work of the charity and the importance of fundraising

· Promoting PKS within your own network and encouraging more people to fundraise for us

About Us:

IAM RoadSmart is a national road safety charity. Founded in 1956, our mission promotes being a force for good with skills development and education at the core of what we do, teaching post licence holders (drivers and riders) new skills to create fulfilling and safe journeys on the road.

Our community is formed of over 70,000 members nationally, 164 groups, and 5,000 volunteers who help deliver our courses. Our groups, all run by volunteers, enable members to share ideas and contribute to the important work IAM RoadSmart does in developing and promoting innovative road safety strategies.

Our next Chair:

IAM RoadSmart is on an exciting journey of transformation that draws on its heritage of educating and upskilling drivers and riders for almost 70 years. 

Established as a traditional membership body, the charity is now on a significant journey of change which will help challenge perceptions to bring road safety to the top of everyone's agenda, and we need a Chair who will support us on this journey. 

The role is an important volunteer role; it will hold responsibility for leading the Board of Trustees and for holding the CEO and senior team to account, ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of the charity, to help futureproof it and to continue making safer drivers and rider on road. 

The successful applicant will be required to have regular check-ins with the CEO and be required to support IAM RoadSmart national community events from time to time, with expectations to provide marketing input and be led by the team to help with community engagement.

Requirements:

• Demonstrate a strong and visible passion and commitment to the charity, its strategic objectives and cause.
• Personal gravitas to lead a significant national organisation.
• Exhibit strong inter-personal and relationship building abilities and be comfortable in an ambassadorial role.
• Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation
• Successful record of achievement through their career
• Experience of charity governance and working with or as part of a Board of Trustees
• Strong leadership skills, ability to motivate staff and volunteers and bring people together.
• Fiscal management expertise and a broad understanding of charity finance issues
• Good understanding of charity governance issues

Time commitment: 

Board meetings happen 5 times per year at our Welwyn Garden City head office. As a national charity, the role of Chair of IAM RoadSmart will be required to attend a variety of events and key stakeholder meetings, and is highly encouraged to visit local branches of IAM RoadSmart. Expected time commitment is 2-3 days per month.

Eastside People is supporting IAM RoadSmart in the recruitment for this role. To apply please submit your CV and Cover Letter. 

Before you make an application, please download and read the IAM Roadsmart Candidate Information Pack.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential. Please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustments so that we can help with making the application process work for you.

The closing date for this role is Friday 23rd August. 

We are recuiting volunteers for our exciting new project Skill Share in Newport , South Wales!! 

Do you know anyone or anyone you know have a skill to share with others in your local community to offer a 'one off' fun enjoyable workshop. e.g Creative sessions, gardening,sewing,cooking,exercise , sportor share knowledge around a topic you are interested in ?

I'ts a great chance to use your skills and interests to benefit others in your local community.

We are looking forward to hearing from you.

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Fundraising Volunteer for the Yeovil and Sherborne Group. As our Fundraising Volunteer you’ll support your Group Coordinator to organise local fundraising activities and events throughout the year.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your organisation, communication and team working skills.Most importantly you’ll inspire your local community to raise funds that help make sure no one has to face MS alone.

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the area the group to carry out this role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

Job title Chair of the board of trustees

Appointment typePart time & voluntary

Appointment term 5 years

Time commitment approx 25 days per annum

About Brightside

Brightside is on a mission to help young people make confident and informed decisions about their future. For over 20 years, we have used technology to connect young people facing barriers with inspiring mentors. We deliver online mentoring programmes in collaboration with schools, universities, businesses, and charities to provide young people with access to networks, online career information and high-quality mentoring. Find out more by reading our latest impact report.

Our ambitious goal is to increase the number of young people we work with each year to 30,000 over the next five years. We are now seeking an effective, compassionate, and inclusive Chair of the board to help us achieve our ambition.

Our values

We have a successful track record in attracting brilliant and mission-driven people to work with us to grow our impact with young people. We're excited to offer the opportunity for someone to join our board in the position of Chair to support us to be even more ambitious.

We are a fast-moving charity, and we pride ourselves on our friendly, professional and supportive culture. We embrace new ideas and celebrate the talent and contribution of all team members. As an organisation, we have five values that we commit to as individuals and as a team:

1. We are ambitious; we strive for positive and lasting impact.

2. We foster creativity and new ideas, so that our work evolves as we learn.

3. We ground our work in collaboration.

4. We celebrate individual strengths and empower people to fulfil their potential - our team is our greatest asset.

5. We are committed to quality in everything we do.

Brightside is committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community where everyone can be themselves and succeed in the workplace and beyond. Our culture is inclusive to staff and volunteers from all backgrounds, and we provide flexible policies to support their differing needs.

About the role

The chair of the board of trustees (“the Chair”) leads the board’s activities and supports the day-to-day running of the organisation by acting as a sounding board for the senior leadership team. The Chair helps to develop the strategy of the organisation, ensures appropriate governance structures are in place to support the safe, successful delivery of operations together with the safeguarding and wellbeing of staff. The Chair is responsible for the smooth running of the board including the recruitment of new trustees, managing trustee meetings, and acts as a role model in line with our core values.

Key responsibilities

· Provide effective, compassionate, and inclusive leadership of the board

· Ensure high-quality quarterly board meetings are held and recorded

· Line manage the Chief Executive (generally through monthly 1:1 virtual meetings), providing support and constructive challenge to them and their senior leadership team

· Work closely with the Treasurer (likely through monthly 1:1 virtual meetings) to maintain a clear understanding of the organisation’s financial health ensuring that assets are managed appropriately and robust governance practices are in place

· Ensure trustees comply with their duties and the charity is properly governed

· Ensure an appropriate, effective, and representative board of trustees is in place

· Act as a link between the board of trustees and staff

· Work with the Chairs of the subcommittees to ensure delivery of key responsibilities and support to the senior leadership team

· Act as an ambassador for Brightside, promoting its reputation, helping to secure valuable platforms and audiences

What we’re looking for

The successful candidate will ideally be a strategic leader, passionate about creating positive futures for young people, and with experience of charity governance.

Key to success in the role is the following:

· Experience in a leadership role

· Knowledge and experience of charity governance

· Excellent communication skills in writing, meetings, and the public forum

· The ability to engage multiple audiences

· Commercial acumen

· Diplomacy with the ability to lead discussions and turn them into clear actions

· Demonstrable experience of leading change and driving growth

· Demonstrable experience of managing diverse opinions

· Experience of successfully developing and implementing an organisational strategy

· Experience of line management

· Passionate about social equity and the power of mentoring

· Committed to helping young people succeed

Desirable:

· Understanding of the social mobility sector and related geo-political climate

· Understanding or experience of digital interventions

· Widely networked in a sector relevant to our work

· Experience of charity fundraising

· Lived experience related to our mission

It’s an exciting time to join us. We have innovations in our technology launching in the coming twelve months that will open up new opportunities as we continue to see social mobility play an important role in cross-party political priorities. We are looking for someone to leverage these opportunities, and help Brightside achieve its potential so, in turn, thousands of young people can achieve theirs.

 

To apply 

Please submit your CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for the role and expressing your interest.

Deadline: 11.59 on Friday 23 August 2024.

Brightside will be conducting a blind recruitment process where names and genders are removed from the applications before being reviewed for shortlisting.