Volunteering officer volunteer roles in croydon, surrey

New Beginnings Kwa Ground (NBKG)

NBKG is an organisation that is integrating mental health into substance abuse prevention.

New Beginnings Kwa Ground (NBKG) is dedicated to tackling critical social and environmental challenges that affect Kenyan youth, particularly in underserved communities. Our work focuses on mental health, substance abuse prevention, and social well-being, ensuring that young people have the necessary support to build healthier, more fulfilling lives.

NBKG’s approach goes beyond drug prevention we tackle the root causes of substance abuse while empowering youth with the skills, support, and resources needed to thrive. Through school programs, community outreach, mental health services, and economic empowerment, we are creating a generation of resilient, informed, and self-sufficient young people in Kenya.

Grants & Partnerships Lead

Reports to: Founder & CEO

About the Role:
NBKG is seeking a proactive and passionate Grants & Partnerships Lead to grow our impact by securing funding and forging meaningful collaborations. You'll lead grant writing, manage donor relations, and build strategic partnerships to support the expansion of the Kujali mental health and drug prevention program for youth across Kenya.

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify and apply for grants from local and international donors.
• Develop and manage funding proposals, budgets, and reports.
• Build partnerships with NGOs, government, research institutions, and corporates.
• Support resource mobilization strategy and sustainability planning.

Ideal Candidate:

• 3+ years in fundraising, grants management, or nonprofit development.
• Excellent proposal writing and communication skills.
• Strong relationship-building mindset.
• Deep passion for youth mental health and social impact.

Weekly Time Commitment

4-6 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

6+ months

We are looking for a passionate individual with skills and expertise in Finance/Treasury.

We will welcome applications from anyone who is keen to transform lives and join us on this exciting journey with us. You don’t need prior experience of sitting on a Board, a dance background or specific qualifications to become a Trustee. What matters most is your passion for supporting people with learning disabilities, your commitment to building a more equitable society and your willingness to contribute to our work, our vision and our future success.

Trustees play a crucial role in shaping what we do, helping us stay clear on our purpose and offering ideas that guide our organisation as we grow. We’re looking for Trustees who can bring fresh perspectives and valuable insights from their lived and professional experiences. We want our Board to reflect the diversity of our work, our participants, and our supporters.

We are based in Lancashire, with national and international reach, and we welcome applications for remote Trustees. We currently have Trustees based in Portugal and the Netherlands.

The role of Trustee is a volunteer role and is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable expenses for travel may be claimed.

The role requires attendance & contribution at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and four Board meetings per year (plus any required preparation and pre-reading). Quarterly Board Meetings take place mostly online and periodically in person at a North West location.

There will also be potential additional engagement in strategy work and sub working groups throughout the year and occasional representation of the charity at various events with key stakeholders.

About IHF
The International Humanity Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to educating and empowering underserved children in Kenya, Indonesia, and Thailand. We believe in transparency, equal opportunity, and self-sufficiency.

Role Summary
We’re seeking experienced Fundraising Volunteers (remote) with a proven track record—at least 3 years of successful fundraising or grant writing. Your efforts will directly support our global programs and mission.

Responsibilities

Identify and pursue fundraising/grant opportunities

Craft compelling proposals and campaigns

Engage donors and support long-term funding strategies

 Work with and lead our fundraising team 

 Coordinating our At Home volunteers and Global Leadership Development candidates

Requirements

3+ years fundraising experience

Proven fundraising success

Strong writing and communication skills

Self-motivated, reliable, and results-driven

What You Gain
Strategic involvement in meaningful NGO initiatives

Opportunity to expand your global portfolio and build international credibility

Access to leadership roles and professional growth within a purpose-driven organization

A platform to make measurable, lasting impact in the lives of children and communities
Reports To:

Global Outreach Coordinator

Director of Fundraising Initiatives

About Bank.Green

Since the Paris Agreement, global banks have poured a staggering $6.9t into the fossil fuel industry. At Bank.Green, our mission is to lower this vast carbon footprint via technology and consumer action. We empower bank customers with the tools and insights they need to influence their banks towards sustainable lending, or switch to greener alternatives. To date, our bank-checking tool has been used over 500,000 times by bank customers worldwide, while we have shifted a at least £40m towards bank who are financing a greener future. Through transparency, engagement, and innovation, we aim to redefine the role of banks in the fight against climate change.

Role Overview

As our fundraising specialist, you'll play a pivotal role in garnering the resources that drive our mission forward. Success in this position means effectively tapping into funding opportunities and strengthening our engagement with donors and supporters. Through this role, you will gain significant experience about the entire fundraising process, both for nonprofits and private entities, as well as learn about the world of sustainable finance and how technology can positively contribute to it.

Commitment

• This role is currently volunteer-based.
• We are seeking a commitment of 5-10 hours per week.
• We are looking for somebody to come on long-term, but are open to shorter-term applicants.

Key Responsibilities

• Vet new funding opportunities for suitability using our CRM and provided training resources.
• Apply for existing funding opportunities from foundations and/or investors.
• Assist in grant-writing and the grant application process.
• Collaborate on developing and executing crowdfunding initiatives.
• Occasionally draft compelling fundraising emails for our newsletter subscribers, articulating our mission and needs.

Desired Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team.
• Proactive initiative in a remote work environment.
• Passion for environmental issues.
• Experience or willingness to learn about grant applications, crowdfunding strategies, and donor communications.

Volunteer Benefits

As a volunteer-driven organisation, we are very focused on making all of our opportunities as valuable as possible for our volunteers. In this spirit, we will offer you:

• Opportunities to gain insights into sustainable banking practices and advancements in environmental advocacy through continuous learning.
• The chance to network with other sustainability professionals and advocates, enhancing your professional connections.
• Valuable experience in a critical climate-focused role, which will enhance your resume and skill set.
• Recognition for positive performance with supportive references and recommendations for your future career growth.
• A significant role in driving impactful changes in the banking sector to accelerate a sustainable future.

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

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

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

What does the role involve?

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

What skills, knowledge and experience are we looking for?

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

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

How to apply

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

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

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

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

We look forward to hearing from you!

About Roots Academy

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

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

Role Summary

As a Notion Specialist, you will play a key role in helping volunteers and teams effectively utilise Notion for their work. Your expertise will ensure that teams can optimise workflows, manage information efficiently, and collaborate seamlessly within the platform. You will provide training, manage permissions, and support teams in structuring Notion workspaces tailored to their needs.

Key tasks

1. Training & Support
   • Conduct training sessions for volunteers on how to use Notion.
   • Develop and maintain training materials (e.g., guides, videos, FAQs) to support ongoing learning.
   • Provide one-on-one or group support to answer Notion-related queries.
2. Workspace Optimisation
   • Help teams structure their Notion workspaces to suit their workflows and case scenarios.
   • Assist in building and refining dashboards, databases, templates, and automations.
   • Provide recommendations on best practices for using Notion efficiently.
3. Permissions & Access Management
   • Set up and manage permissions to ensure appropriate access levels for different roles.
   • Regularly review and update access permissions to maintain security and efficiency.
4. Process Improvement & Documentation
   • Identify opportunities to improve organisational efficiency using Notion.
   • Document standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices within Notion.
   • Support teams in integrating Notion with other tools where relevant.
5. Ongoing Support & Troubleshooting
   • Act as the go-to person for troubleshooting Notion-related issues.
   • Stay updated on new Notion features and advise the team on potential improvements.
   • Gather feedback from users to continuously enhance Notion use across the organisation.

What we’re looking for

• Strong experience using Notion, with the ability to teach others effectively.
• Understanding of database structures, workflows, and automations within Notion.
• Excellent communication and training skills.
• Ability to troubleshoot and provide creative solutions to Notion-related challenges.
• Organised, proactive, and able to work independently.
• Experience with integrating Notion with other tools (desirable but not essential).

What we have to offer

• Be part of a dedicated team of 90+ volunteers across the UK.
• Contribute to a growing organisation that educates and empowers the Muslim community.
• Access to in-house tarbiyah sessions to develop your deen.
• Receive continuous rewards for facilitating Islamic education through Roots Academy.

Please note: This is an unpaid volunteer position. Volunteers can claim expenses for food, travel, and equipment in line with the Expenses Policy.

At the Mental Health Foundation, we are preparing to strengthen our Board with several new Trustee appointments. These are voluntary positions which will bring you a rewarding experience and an opportunity to help the Foundation deliver its mission. The roles are part-time, with attendance required at various meetings throughout the year.

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

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

What does the role involve?

• To contribute to the Foundation’s Board and one or more of our committees, helping the Foundation to fulfil its objectives in line with charity law, company law and other relevant legislation.
• To uphold the Foundation’s values and be an ambassador for the Foundation.
• Take part in Board and Committee meetings.

What skills, knowledge and experience are we looking for?

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

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

How to apply

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

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

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

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

We look forward to hearing from you!

Gingerbread is the charity for single parents. We challenge discrimination, and campaign against the inequalities single parents face. We are seeking a Treasurer to join our Board. This is an exciting opportunity to join a passionate and inclusive organisation making a real difference to single-parent families across England and Wales.

What will you be doing?

Our Board combines their skills and experience to provide stewardship to Gingerbread and its staff.

The role of Treasurer is to enable the board to maintain an overview of Gingerbread’s affairs, ensure its financial viability and ensure that proper financial records and procedures are maintained.

Trustees generally meet for full Board meetings a minimum of five times a year. Each of these meetings is two hours long. Trustees would need to allow for preparation time ahead of these meetings. We estimate there would be 2 hours of work a month outside of Board meetings.

What are we looking for?

The Treasurer should have the following qualities: 

· A commitment to Gingerbread’s work and mission

· Financial qualifications and experience 

· Some experience of charity finance, fundraising and pension schemes 

· The skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences 

· Being prepared to make unpopular recommendations to the board 

· A willingness to be available to staff and trustees for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis

Gingerbread wishes to actively encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, including underrepresented communities and single parents. Previous Trustee experience is not essential. Full training and induction will be provided.

What difference will you make?

There are over 2 million single parents in England and Wales. Although the majority of them are working, they’re twice as likely to live in poverty as couple parents. And too many single parents experience loneliness, worry and the impact of negative stereotypes in the media and wider society.

As Treasurer, you will join us in leading the fight to create a society where all single parents and their children can thrive.

As you’d expect, we’re a family-friendly charity. We offer a supportive team culture and good work-life balance, while delivering impressive results.

2025 is a pivotal time for our small, family centred Charity as we move into our 22nd year. This year our Board will be defining our new mission and preparing for implementation. We're seeking new trustees to join us to contribute to our new mission and define the Charity's direction as we conclude our first mission in late 2025.

The Muscle Help Foundation (MHF) is a small multi-award winning, family-centred charity, delivering both in-person and virtual interventions and experiences in the UK - these moments-in-time are called Muscle Dreams, designed specifically for children & young people (8-28yrs) with the muscle wasting disease, Muscular Dystrophy (MD).

MHF’s impact is felt by beneficiaries and their families across the UK – from improved confidence, greater self-esteem, and an increased sense of hopefulness to a powerful shared identity that connects families, giving a platform to share knowledge, memories and establish lasting friendships.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

We are looking for Trustees who have a passion to take the charity forward, to grow impact, to leave a personal legacy and to feel the sense of personal fulfilment from the time they volunteer.

AS A TRUSTEE, YOU WILL

• Have an opportunity to help improve the lives of children, young people and their families
• Contribute to the governance of our small, well respected, national charity
• Have strategic responsibility for a specific skill area
• Act as an advocate/champion in promoting the charity's work across your network
• Receive induction, support and training
• Bring your lived experience, in using and further developing your skills for the benefit of others
• Be a part of the team that will help the charity achieve its overarching 657 Muscle Dream mission

REQUIREMENTS + KEY CRITERIA

Commitment to the charity’s values, bags of enthusiasm, an understanding and passion for our work, great comms skills and a real desire to want to make a difference to the lives of our vulnerable community. You may have experience of living with muscular dystrophy, other disabilities or life limiting conditions, but this is not essential.

MAIN BOARD MEETINGS + EXPENSES

Trustee Board meetings take place virtually. They are usually 2hrs. Over and above this time commitment, trustees on average, depending on their role, may give additional time in being directly involved in occasional ad projects – MHF Trustees ‘own’ a ‘bucket’, in other words, an area of responsibility like HR, Fundraising, Safeguarding, Marketing, Finance, Digital, Risk or Campaign Management that allows an individual to bring their skills, experience and talents to the charity. Reasonable expenses will be covered.

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR – PERSON SPECIFICATION

• Absolute belief in the cause
• Desire to learn the trustee role, previous governance expertise is an advantage
• Excellent communicators with great listening, responding and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to both empower and challenge supportively.
• Strong commitment to equality, and an understanding of disability and how for example this may impact on the quality of life and life choices for disabled people and their families.
• Commitment and time to dedicate to the role and responsibilities of being a Trustee.
• Commitment to the charity’s vision, mission and values.
• Strong desire to make a difference to the lives of our vulnerable beneficiary community.
• Understanding of the context/environment in which the charity works - it is estimated that some 96% of MHF's beneficiaries are those with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), the most severe variant of muscular dystrophy - it is life limiting.
• Understanding the importance of ensuring public confidence and trust in the charity.
• Collaborative working (part of a team), using sound independent judgement and collective decision making.
• The capacity to grasp issues outside ones personal experience.
• The ability to think creatively both in terms of high level strategy and development.
• Commitment to equality and diversity with other trustees, staff, beneficiaries and other stakeholders.

WHAT DIFFERENCE WILL YOU MAKE?

To provide strategic leadership in line with our values and goals. Trustees will use their knowledge, skills, passion and experience to ensure that the charity achieves its objectives – as a Trustee, you will represent the interests of all stakeholders and act as an ambassador. 

AN AMAZING OPPORTUNITY TO BRING YOUR UNIQUE SELF

As an MHF Trustee, this is an exciting opportunity to bring your unique skill set to help the strategic progression of the charity in reaching its overarching goal to deliver 657 Muscle Dream interventions, that's one experience for every muscle in the human body, cherished moments-in-time that truly changes lives and give hope, and beyond as we reach this goal.

IN RETURN FOR YOUR COMMITMENT

• You will have an opportunity to help improve the lives of children, young people and their families
• Be part of a team all supporting the charity and rowing in the same direction
• Contribute to the governance of a national charity, that's worked tirelessly over the past 20 years
• Have your voice heard and listened to
• Attend events, meet beneficiaries & families and directly witness the impact of the charity’s work
• Have strategic responsibility for a skill area such as: HR, Fundraising, Corporate Partnerships etc
• Network with other like-minded individuals with common values
• Receive induction, support and training
• And much more…

INCLUSION - PROUD OF OUR BOARD DIVERSITY

Our greatest strength as a board and as an charity is in our community's diversity. We are particularly interested in hearing from applicants with diverse skills and experiences that reflect the diversity of our beneficiaries and welcome applications from first time Trustees.

This is a dynamic and evolving charity with a high profile locally. We anticipate continuing to evolve rapidly and therefore the contribution of individual trustees in shaping our next phase is key. Every new idea can make a difference.

What will you be doing?

The trustees' role is to provide guidance, governance and strategic direction. We have small paid staff (including a full-time CEO) who co-ordinate a large cohort (~150) of volunteers.

The commitment for a trustee is 6 meetings (early evening) per year plus an annual away-day. Periodically trustees will also be needed for other duties - eg interviewing potential employees.

Our funding comes from a variety of sources: local council, National Lottery and other major funders as well as many local people and businesses.

We our looking to boost our Trustee capacity with a need for both "general" trustees and in particular people with financial knowledge able in due course to take on the role of treasurer. Other specific skills desired are: HR, knowledge/experience in the homeless sector, property management.

Whilst we welcome people of all faiths and none, the charity has its roots in local Christian churches and we particularly welcome interest from people active in their local churches.

What are we looking for?

We are looking to add more than one trustee. 

We are particularly interested in people with: financial expertise, experience in the homelessness sector, experience in property management, HR. 

However what is needed above all is people with vision and commitment to what we do as an organisation and a lack of experience in those areas is not a bar to application.

Though we welcome people of all faiths and none as users of our service, the organisation has its roots in local Christian churches and we especially welcome expressions of interest from people active in their local church.

What difference will you make?

This is a small charity which has grown quickly from a traditional volunteer-only, seasonal night shelter, to something much bigger.

It's clear that what we do makes a huge difference to our guests and everything the trustees do is built around doing what will best benefit them.

We anticipate continuing to evolve rapidly and therefore the contribution of individual trustees in shaping our next phase is key. Every new idea can make a difference.

About us

With our community work spanning more than three decades, Brentford FC Community Sports Trust has established itself as a pioneering organisation for the local community. It uses the power of sport to educate, motivate and inspire people from all backgrounds.

We are at a very exciting time of the Trust's development. 2025 celebrates 20 years as a Trust during which time we have expanded the way in which we engage with our surrounding communities with the aim of improving access and opportunity to physical activity, coaching, education, mentoring and employment. Our Community Hub model is proving to be a success in increasing activity and with the advent of a new stadium and Premier League status we have seized the opportunity to be creative in the way we invest in people and places.

Chair opportunity

Our current Chair is planning to retire in September 2025, after 20 highly successful years of dedicated service. We are now seeking to appoint a new Chair to lead the charity and ensure it continues to deliver substantial social impact.

We are looking for an experienced leader who understands good governance and enjoys working in a collaborative and inclusive way. Our new Chair should be positive, resilient, determined and someone who listens and learns from others within and beyond BFCCST.  A genuine commitment and empathy towards the needs of the communities that the Trust serves is key.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to become Chair of what can only be described as an extraordinary Trust and help to deliver the new strategy, using the Power of Sport to positively impact the lives of our community.

How to apply

Eastside People is supporting Brentford FC Community Sports Trust in recruiting for this role. Please ensure you read the candidate information pack before applying.

Please apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter in Word doc. format. Please use the cover letter (max 2 pages) as an opportunity to add to the information you have shared in your CV and ensure that you cover the following:

• Why is the BFCCST’s work important to you and how can you contribute to the Trust as our Chair?
• What experience can you demonstrate of bringing strategic thinking to a purpose-led environment focused on creating social impact?
• How would you go about ensuring that our many stakeholders are heard and represented at Board level?

The closing date for applications is Monday 28th April. Longlisting interviews with Eastside People will take place shortly after and shortlisted candidates will have an interview with the panel at BFCCST during the week beginning 12th May.

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

Brentford FC Community Sports Trust is fully committed to equality of opportunity and diversity to ensure that we reflect the full breadth of the people we aim to support. We work within an increasingly diverse area, and it is important that the Board is representative of the communities that we serve. We would particularly welcome applications from women and people from an ethnic minority background who are currently under-represented on the Board and warmly welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

We are looking for two dedicated Lay Trustees who will join our Board to support the strategic direction of the charity. We are member-led, funded by our universities and together with students we strive to create a world class student experience for all.

Introduction

Thank you for your interest in our Lay Trustee roles here at Falmouth and Exeter Students’ Union (The SU); based in beautiful Cornwall. We're very pleased to announce the opening of applications for our esteemed Board of Trustees. We are very proud of what we do, and we are looking for two dedicated Lay Trustees who will join our Board to support the strategic direction of the charity. You will need to share the values of the SU and commitment to achieve our priorities, working collaboratively to help take us to the next level. We are a member-led charity, funded by our universities and together with students we strive to create a world class student experience for all.

Our membership comprises of students studying with both Falmouth University and the University of Exeter (Cornwall) which creates a unique and special experience of which we love to be a key part of.

The role of Lay Trustee provides an opportunity to support our President Trustees and Student Trustees, foster a culture of student leadership and deliver a student focused service.

You will be taking up the role at a critical and exciting time, as we are undertaking two crucial pieces of work: finalising our new 2025-2028 strategic plan, and beginning the quintennial review of our Constitution.  If you are excited at the prospect of contributing to the growth and development of the SU, then we eagerly anticipate the possibility of working alongside you to shape the future of our organisation.

We are especially keen to hear from applicants with experience in Finance, Higher Education, Human Resources, Charity or Employment Law.

About Us

We’re an autonomous organisation and we’re funded by the University of Exeter and Falmouth University. Acting independently ensures that we remain entirely focused on our students with one purpose in mind: to improve their student experience.

As a registered charity (1193045), our charitable purpose is the advancement of education, and our funds can for used for this charitable purpose only. This means that as a not-for-profit organisation: any income we gain goes straight back into providing services for students.

We are a member-led democratic organisation; our students are at the heart of everything we do. Our members views, opinions and experiences regarding students’ lives influence decision makers operating at every level, helping to shape the wider student experience and we enjoy positive collaborative relationships with both universities. Students have the power to shape what the Union does through our Annual Student Members’ Meetings and referenda, and they lead our Student Forum, which determine our Union priorities.

We are proud of the range of opportunities and services that we provide to students, which includes student led societies and sports clubs, volunteering opportunities, professional independent specialist advice, academic representation, and democratic activities. We also help students to organise a wide range of events and activities specifically for their fellow students.

Our Board

Our board is unique in the charity sector. We have a young and dynamic board; two thirds of the trustees are either recent or current students at the universities resulting in a purposefully high turnover of trustees. The charity is based in a complex, ever-changing Higher Education sector, working closely with two very different universities.

We have three sets of Trustees:

• Four President Trustees: a President and Vice President from each university, elected by cross-campus ballot. These are student leaders who have either just finished their degree or take a sabbatical to take up this role, in which they are also a full-time employee. Term: one year, maximum of two terms.

• Four Student Trustees: two from each university, appointed via the Appointments Committee. These are current students who offer direct insight into university life. Term: two years, maximum of two terms.

• Four Lay Trustees: appointed via the Appointments Committee. These trustees offer expertise, continuity, and insight. They are experienced, skilled members who enjoy being part of a dynamic board and supporting the younger trustees. Term: three years, maximum of three terms.

The Chair of the Board will always be a President Trustee, and the Deputy Chair will always be a Lay Trustee. Any Trustee can chair one of our three sub-committees: Finance, Appointments, Remuneration and Human Resources.

Why Should You Become a Trustee?

Being a Trustee is a valuable and rewarding experience. You’ll get to make a lasting difference to the lives of our students, and influence how the Union is run. You will use your skills, knowledge, and experience to support the Board in reaching sound decisions. You will be involved in leading discussions, making collective decisions, and identifying key issues. You’ll have the opportunity to mentor and support our President and Student Trustees. As a Lay Trustee, you are eligible to become Deputy Chair of the Board, or Chair of one of the sub-committees.

You will receive comprehensive induction training, and further training relevant to your role as a Chair or member of a sub-committee.

Job Description

We’re looking for someone to work collectively with our board of trustees to provide support and strategic direction to our Students’ Union.

Remuneration: Lay Trustees are voluntary, unpaid roles. However, all reasonable out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed, such as travel costs to board meetings.

Hours: Hours can vary however typically each year:

• Four Board of Trustees meetings – each meeting is around three hours long conducted online.

• Additional two (eight for Finance) sub-committees meetings conducted online – each meeting is around 45 minutes.

• There are usually one or two in-person events per year including a Board of Trustees meeting – each event is usually a day and/or an evening event. These are delivered in Cornwall (expenses paid).

Term of office: three years, up to three terms.

Location: Homebased with one or two in-person events in Cornwall per year.

Role Purpose

The Trustees are ultimately responsible, individually and collectively, for all activity within the SU. The Board is legally responsible for our staff, finances, risk management and reputation. The Board is responsible for setting the vision and values of the organisation and for ensuring the delivery of organisational purpose. The Trustees ensure development of and agree a long-term strategy. They approve and monitor plans to deliver the strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

• To ensure The SU acts in accordance with its charitable purpose, constitution and other governing documents and relevant legislation while remaining true to its Mission, Vision and Values.

• To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees role by determining the Students’ Union strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.

• Ensure The SU uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects/purpose.

• Act as guardians of The SU’s assets and ensure the financial stability of the organisation.

• Prepare for Board meetings by reading through materials and Board papers beforehand, scrutinising information and be able to discuss issues.

• Take advice on matters on which you are not competent to decide.

• Provide support to President Trustees and Student Trustees.

• Take part in Board Reviews and Skills Audits each year.

• Use personal skills and experience to ensure the Union is well-run and efficient

• Seek external professional advice where there may be material risk to the Union or where the Trustees may be in breach of their duties or at any other appropriate moment.

• Add value to the Trustee Board and the Union through generating ideas, challenging the status quo, broadening thinking and supporting and promoting innovation and creativity.

• Abide by the Union Trustee Code of Conduct.

CRITERIA

All Trustees must display the following characteristics

Commitment to and passion for The SU.

Willingness and reliability to devote the necessary time and effort.

Strategic vision.

Good, independent judgment.

Ability to think creatively.

An understanding of and commitment to the values and principles of student representation and democracy.

Willingness to speak their mind.

Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.

Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.

Responsible, especially when handling sensitive and confidential information.

A commitment to act in accordance with the Nolan principles for ethical conduct in public service.

We are looking for individuals who have skills, knowledge or experience in one or more of these sectors

Finance

Higher Education

Human Resources

Charity or Employment Law

How To Apply

Please visit the role posting on our website for further details on how to apply. We require the completion of a Person Details form, and Skills Audit spreadsheets, along with your CV and covering letter. The deadline for applications is 09:00 on Friday 16 May. Interviews will take place online via MS Teams on Wednesday 21 May, an additional slot is also available on Thursday 22 May if this is not convenient.

You must be available to attend Trustee Training on Friday 20 June, and Board of Trustees on Wednesday 25 June (as an observer), both online via MS Teams. Your term of office will start on Tuesday 1 July.

Eligibility

There are strict conditions placed on charity Trustees by law and all applicants must declare that they are eligible to become a charity Trustee. You will not be eligible if:

• You are on the Sex Offenders’ Register

• You have any unspent conviction for an offence involving:

o deception or dishonesty

o terrorist offences

o money laundering

o bribery

o misconduct in public office, perjury, perverting the course of justice

o contravention of certain preventative Orders of the Charity Commission (Section 77 of the Charities Act 2011)

o attempting, aiding or abetting the above offences

• You have any designation under specific anti-terrorist legislation

• You have been convicted of contempt of court

• You have been removed from:

o trusteeship, or as an officer, agent or employee of a charity by the Court or the Commission for misconduct or mismanagement

o a position of management or control of a charity in Scotland for mismanagement or misconduct

• You have been found guilty by the High court of disobeying a Commission order or direction

• You have an undischarged bankruptcy

• You have a composition or arrangement with creditors which includes an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA) and is currently on the Insolvency Service Register

As part of the recruitment process, we will ask you to sign a declaration that you are legally entitled to become a Trustee and commit the required time.

Data Protection

We’re committed to data protection and it’s important to know what’s happening with your data when you apply for a role. That means we’ll only use the information you supply for the purposes of progressing your application (or to fulfil legal or regulatory requirements if necessary) and we’ll never share your information with any third parties for marketing purposes or store it outside of the European Economic Area.

Equal Opportunities

We’re committed to ensuring our workforce accurately reflects the diversity of the world we live in. We positively encourage applications from all individuals irrespective of their gender, age, home country, ethnic background, sexuality, religious beliefs or disability. All candidates will be treated equally and all appointments made on merit.

We’re looking for a new fundraising volunteer and/or director! Are you passionate about securing funds for grassroot organisations?

This opportunity involves overseeing Fuel Poverty Action’s fundraising plans and strategy, reaching out to donors and promoting our vital campaigns through grant bids to help end fuel poverty in the UK. 

This role would require an average of 16-20 hrs per month and can be done remotely. We are also open to you joining FPA’s board of directors, subject to capacity and experience. 

This offers a chance to directly contribute to tackling fuel poverty and ensuring access to affordable energy for all whilst strategizing and learning alongside great activists. If you're eager to contribute, we’d love to hear from you!

Tasks:

• Organise and manage our fundraising planning and pipeline

• Reach out to potential donors and help build relationships

• Lead on grant applications

• Work closely with the team to develop new fundraising strategies

• Contribute ideas and experience to FPA campaigns

Closing date for applications:  April 20th 2025

We Stand is recruiting a volunteer Board Secretary to start as soon as possible. This role can be a pure Board Secretary role or there is opportunity to join the Board as a trustee in conjunction, if this is preferred. 

About We Stand

We Stand is the only national charity that specialises in helping non-abusing parents and carers to protect and support their sexually abused children.

Our Mission is to provide support in a non - judgmental environment for non abusing parents and carers of sexually abused children. 

Our Services help families at a time of extreme trauma caused by child sexual abuse – providing emotional and practical support to young victims, siblings and non-abusing parents/carers so that they can move on positively with their lives together. 

About the role

We Stand is run by a Board made up of volunteer Trustees. We are seeking a committed and passionate individual, to ensure the board operates efficiently, complies with regulations and facilitating effective corporate governance by:

• Planning Board and sub-committee meetings. This includes organising and coordinating meetings, preparing agenda and distributing any meeting materials. 
• Maintaining records of board proceedings, decisions and actions
• Ensuring Board compliance
• Following up on actions
• Maintaining good relations with the the Board, CEO and staff members

Previous board secretary experience is not required and we are interested in someone with strong organisation, written and spoken communication skills. 

If you are interested in applying, please send your CV, together with a short cover letter stating why you are interested and detailing any relevant experience you bring, by Saturday 26 April. Interviews will likely be held between 6-14 May, but there is flexibility with these dates. 

There is also the option to join the Board as a Trustee alongside the Board Secretary role. Please indicate whether you are interested in taking up this opportunity in your cover letter.