Volunteering Officer Volunteer Roles in Manchester

PMH is seeking a new Chair of the Board of Trustees with a passion for empowering parents to support their children through the challenges of mental health.

The Organisation
PMH is one of the few charities in the UK that specifically helps parents who are supporting a child with mental health challenges and whose needs and impact for positive change are all too often overlooked. In most cases support is focused on the child and parents are left isolated, unaware of what the best approach is and have to try and cope on their own. The impact on families can be devastating. Friendships, social activities, work, school and family relationships can be disrupted. All energy is focused on the one child with their siblings often feeling neglected. For parents, realising that their child is struggling with their mental health, that they might be experiencing anxiety and depression, be suicidal, self-harming or have an eating disorder, is incredibly difficult to come to terms with and accept and they feel totally out of control. They often blame themselves for the struggles their child is enduring. It is the start of an emotional roller coaster, with many finding it hard to cope having nobody to turn to for help and support. 

Person Specification:
Preferred:
•  Lived experience of parenting a child with poor mental health
•  Technology, digital, and/or online community experience

Essential:
•  A passion for the aims of Parenting Mental Health and the energy and skill to balance connection to the founding principles with a sustainable, impactful future focused approach
•  Belief in the power of the parent to effect change in their family
•  Commitment to lived experience working and to developing deeper knowledge, process, and potential of our volunteers
•  Collaborative in approach
•  A proven track record of leadership in either the voluntary, public or commercial sectors
•  Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation
•  Successful track record of achievement through their career
•  Experience of charity governance and working with or as part of a Board of Trustees

Further Information
For comprehensive information about Parenting Mental Health, the role responsibilities and the person we are looking for, please download the Candidate Information Document.

Trustee – Join our Board!  

Are you looking for a new challenge? Are you passionate about work that directly impacts families? If so, join this friendly and ambitious board and make a difference to those affected by chronic granulomatous disorder. 

About the Role 

Being a Trustee for the CGD Society means you will use your skills and experience to support our charity, ensure we are achieving our aims and we are working towards our goals and mission. All Trustees are jointly responsible for any decisions made as well as defining and overseeing our strategy.

You will work closely with our dedicated staff to ensure the organisation operates effectively, efficiently and economically, with a culture that is positive, and focused on the needs of those it serves. 

As well as attending Board meetings, Trustees are encouraged to join a subcommittee and use their skills to assist our staff and maximise effort in a specific area. Our current subcommittees cover Governance, Finance, Fundraising, Community and Medical. 

To learn more about the CGD Society and understand the role and responsibilities of a Trustee in more detail, please read our attached recruitment pack. 

About You 

We are seeking individuals who are collaborative, self-motivated and passionate about work that makes a difference. Those seeking a new challenge and enjoy innovative problem-solving will flourish in this role.

Our Trustees bring a range of skills and expertise to the charity. Right now, we are ideally seeking individuals with the following backgrounds:  

• Lived experience with CGD or a rare disease 

• Finance, Governance and Legal expertise, preferably within a charitable context, to provide essential guidance.

• Fundraising proficiency, including grant writing abilities and corporate to enhance income diversification.

• Proficiency in Information Technology, digital platforms, and digital marketing

• Representation from the healthcare sector ideally in Rare Disease to enrich our understanding of healthcare delivery in the UK.

• Marketing, Digital and IT to maximize the utilization of our assets. 

Whilst these skills are desirable, we would like to hear from anyone who is interested in this role. A successful Trustee will be able to draw on a diverse range of technical and soft skills as well as their knowledge and passion.

Benefits

As well as supporting the charity and members of the CGD community, we will provide you with opportunities to grow and develop. For example:

• Develop new professional and personal skills: Our current Board of Trustees have learnt skills such as strategic thinking, using data, problem solving and charity governance. Many of our Trustees remarked that it was valuable to be pushed out of their comfort zone and how this has built their confidence.

• A rare opportunity to work alongside, and learn from, a variety of individuals from a range of backgrounds: This includes those working in healthcare, finance, technology, as well as those from different walks of life and individuals who have been personally affected by CGD. 

• Take on a new challenge: There are a number of challenges facing small charities as well as the wider rare diseases community, for example fundraising during a cost-of-living crisis and connecting with our members after the pandemic. Considering new and innovative approaches to these issues is crucial. 

• A selfless and rewarding role: Given the under-represented nature of rare diseases, as well as the challenges surrounding research, diagnosis and treatment, the work of charities like the CGD Society is crucial. We can sometimes be a family’s only support network during these difficult times, giving a sense of purpose and value to all that we do. You will feel the warmth and gratitude from our community for your work with us.

How to Apply 

Please send your CV with a covering letter describing your reasons and motivation for applying, through the Quick Apply portal. We will get back to you within a few days to agree the next steps. 

Reports to: Chief Development Officer

We are looking for a highly motivated and experienced Head of Fundraising to lead the Fundraising department of Youth Advantage UK. The Head of Fundraising will be responsible for managing all fundraising initiatives and functions of the charity, including strategy development, donor engagement, and team leadership. This position requires a dynamic leader who can inspire and support the Fundraising team, ensure the charity complies with relevant laws and regulations, and drive the development of innovative fundraising strategies to secure long-term sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

● Manage the Fundraising Team: Provide leadership to the fundraising team, including managing the fundraising manager and other team members.

● Develop Fundraising Strategies: Create and implement effective fundraising strategies to achieve financial targets and align with organisational goals.

● Ensure Compliance: Maintain adherence to regulations, policies, processes, and legislations, including data protection and the Charity Governance Code.

● Strengthen Donor Relationships: Cultivate relationships with individual donors, corporate sponsors, trusts, and foundations to secure sustainable funding.

● Innovate Income Streams: Identify and develop new income streams, including digital fundraising, legacy giving, and strategic partnerships.

● Monitor Performance: Track fundraising metrics and provide reports to the Chief Development Officer.

● Promote Organisational Values: Ensure the charity’s values, mission, and approach are reflected in all fundraising activities.

● Foster Partnerships: Build and maintain collaborative relationships with other organisations to enhance fundraising opportunities and resources.

Ideal Candidate:

● Experience: At least six months in a senior fundraising role with proven success in meeting and exceeding income targets.

● Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and team management abilities to inspire and develop fundraising staff.

● Strategic Thinking: Ability to design and implement innovative fundraising strategies.

● Communication Skills: Exceptional communication skills to engage donors, partners, and internal stakeholders effectively.

● Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with fundraising tools, CRM systems, and data analytics.

● Commitment to Inclusion: Understanding and experience in embedding diversity, equality, and inclusion within fundraising practices.

● Passion for Youth Development: Genuine enthusiasm for supporting young people and advancing the mission of Youth Advantage UK.

Day-to-day Tasks:

● Managing the fundraising team, including sharing best practices and meeting professional standards.

● Leading the execution of fundraising campaigns and initiatives to achieve financial goals.

● Building and maintaining relationships with donors and partners.

● Ensuring compliance with fundraising regulations and ethical standards.

● Developing donor engagement plans to nurture long-term relationships.

● Tracking progress against financial targets and reporting to senior leadership.

● Representing Youth Advantage UK at fundraising events and meetings.

Short-term Tasks:

● Recruiting and onboarding new members of the fundraising team.

● Conducting donor prospecting and research to identify new opportunities.

● Updating and improving fundraising materials, including donor communications.

● Reviewing and streamlining internal fundraising processes for efficiency.

● Creating a roadmap for the upcoming year’s fundraising strategy.

Why Join Youth Advantage UK?

Youth Advantage UK is a research led organsation that aims to further the rights of young people between 11 and 25 years old across the UK through policy work and projects. As the Head of Fundraising, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation's growth and making a tangible impact on the lives of young people. You’ll work with a passionate and dedicated team, contribute to meaningful projects, and develop strategies to ensure the sustainability of our mission. We are committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment where all volunteers are valued and encouraged to grow both personally and professionally.

Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You will give talks in person or virtually, sharing your own story to improve understanding of sight loss to local service providers and community groups. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to improve accessibility and inclusivity, creating a world without barriers. What you’ll be doing: • Giving talks to groups of people to raise awareness of sight loss in your local community by sharing your story to audiences, for example, local businesses, community and voluntary groups. • Delivering Talks to raise awareness of RNIB services as a trusted source of support for blind and partially sighted people • Representing RNIB as an Ambassador for the Community Connection service What you’ll gain from the role: • An opportunity to give something back. • A chance to build a strong community. • A sense of achievement through the difference you make. • A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people • An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies. In return for donating your time we will provide: • A supportive route to building your confidence in presenting and sharing your story with an audience. • A rewarding experience. • A great Induction and training

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• • Lived experience of issues affecting blind and partially sighted people • Be comfortable speaking to different audiences to share your story, or a willingness to try with our support. • Able to communicate effectively. • Have an outgoing, friendly approach to meeting new people.

This is a fantastic role to get involved locally and be at the forefront of solutions to help save nature in the Exeter area.

Join us as the volunteer leader of the RSPB Exeter & District Local Group and lead a group of enthusiastic members who are passionate about supporting the RSPB and exploring local wildlife. The group runs a full programme of activities, from outdoor walks and indoor talks to fundraising events. As the group leader, you will primarily lead the group and oversee the programme. You will be part of a friendly and helpful committee that share the same vision of bringing members closer to nature. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to use your leadership skills to make a valuable contribution to the work of the RSPB.

If you want to have an informal chat about the role, please ask for Richard, the current group leader. We’d love to hear from you.

The Organisation
PMH is one of the few charities in the UK that specifically helps parents who are supporting a child with mental health challenges and whose needs and impact for positive change are all too often overlooked. In most cases support is focused on the child and parents are left isolated, unaware of what the best approach is and have to try and cope on their own. The impact on families can be devastating. Friendships, social activities, work, school and family relationships can be disrupted. All energy is focused on the one child with their siblings often feeling neglected. For parents, realising that their child is struggling with their mental health, that they might be experiencing anxiety and depression, be suicidal, self-harming or have an eating disorder, is incredibly difficult to come to terms with and accept and they feel totally out of control. They often blame themselves for the struggles their child is enduring. It is the start of an emotional roller coaster, with many finding it hard to cope having nobody to turn to for help and support. 

To find out more about the work PMH do, visit the website.

Person Specification:
Preferred:
•  Lived experience of parenting a child with poor mental health
•  Technology, digital, and/or online community experience

Essential:
•  A passion for the aims of Parenting Mental Health and the energy and skill to balance connection to the founding principles with a sustainable, impactful future focused approach
•  Belief in the power of the parent to effect change in their family
•  Commitment to lived experience working and to developing deeper knowledge, process, and potential of our volunteers
•  Collaborative in approach
•  A proven track record of leadership in either the voluntary, public or commercial sectors
•  Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation
•  Successful track record of achievement through their career
•  Experience of charity governance and working with or as part of a Board of Trustees

Further Information
For comprehensive information about Parenting Mental Health, the role responsibilities and the person we are looking for, please download the Candidate Information Document.

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

•    An up-to-date CV
•    A supporting statement of no more than 2 sides of A4, detailing why you would like to be considered, your relevant experience and expertise and what you think you can bring to the role.

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

All applications should be emailed to Trustees Unlimited.

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

Closing date for applications: Monday 20th January 2025 
Interview with Parenting Mental Health: 30th / 31st January 2025 

We look forward to receiving your application. 

The Trustee Chairperson will provide strategic leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring the charity’s mission is fulfilled. The Chairperson will be pivotal in steering the organisation towards achieving its goals while maintaining its Christian ethos. This role requires a blend of strategic vision, leadership, and a deep commitment to Christian values.

Girls Brigade is a prominent Christian charity committed to, help children and young people to grow as followers of Jesus through providing weekly activities to support their physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. 

Are you passionate about using your skills and expertise to help support and develop a UK-wide relationships and sex education charity?

Sexpression:UK provides high quality, comprehensive relationships and sex education workshops to young people between the ages of 11-18 in schools and youth groups. We operate across the UK through our unique network of affiliated branches and volunteers based at universities and students’ unions in 18 towns and cities.

You will have strong empathy with our mission to educate and empower young people to make individual, informed decisions about their bodies and their health. You will be committed to using your expertise to contribute to the future development of the charity and ensuring high quality governance of the organisation.

We are looking for an individual with financial experience to join our board of trustees.This is an exciting time to join our charity with the opportunity to contribute to a unique youth-led charity playing a leading role in some of today’s biggest issues.

Lead the Future of Education in Africa | Trustee

Hope Africa Trust seeks a visionary and passionate leader to support our Board of Trustees and guide the organisation in its mission to transform education across the African continent.

Certainly! Here's an attempt at a more compelling job description for the Chair of the Board of Trustees at Hope Africa Trust, focusing on attracting top talent:

About Hope Africa Trust:

Hope Africa Trust is a pioneering organization dedicated to revolutionising education in Africa. We are driven by an unwavering belief in the transformative power of education to unlock human potential and build a brighter future for all African children. We are not just building schools; we are cultivating a generation of empowered learners, critical thinkers, and global citizens.

Mission:

To provide a world-class education for every African child, fostering an environment of excellence, equity, and opportunity.

Role Purpose:

As Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will be the visionary leader who sets the strategic direction for Hope Africa Trust. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of education in Africa, ensuring the organization achieves its ambitious goals, and maximizing its impact on the lives of countless children.

Key Responsibilities:

• Champion Transformative Education: Support the Board in developing and implementing a bold and innovative vision for education in Africa.
• Drive Strategic Growth: Oversee the CEO and senior leadership team in the execution of the organisation's strategic plan, ensuring financial sustainability and operational excellence.
• Cultivate High-Impact Partnerships: Build and nurture strategic relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, government officials, academic institutions, and community leaders.
• Foster a Culture of Excellence: Inspire and lead a high-performing Board of Trustees, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Advocate for Change: Be a passionate advocate for quality education in Africa, raising awareness and mobilising support for the organisation's work.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Proven track record of successful leadership in the non-profit, education, or a related sector.
• Deep understanding of educational challenges and opportunities in Africa.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in fundraising and resource development.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• A demonstrated commitment to social justice and a passion for improving the lives of children

Branch Trustee (General Role)
This is an exciting opportunity to be a hands-on trustee at branch level, helping to promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty, reach out to more supporters, and influence how we do things. With your support and expertise, we will achieve so much!

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person who could devote the time to volunteer with us as one of our Trustees. As a Trustee of the Branch, you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long terms aims.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).
•  In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Support Specialist write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support local initiatives.
•  Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with experience and skills in any of the following areas:

•  Marketing communication including social media, PR, website;
•  Fundraising including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications;
•  Local community and supporter relationships;
• Hands-on experience in growing charities; and/or
•  Are or have been part of the groups and communities we would like to attract.

Alongside the relevant experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee

- We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything you need to carry out the role.
- Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
- The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
- The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
- A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

How to find out more about being a Branch Trustee
 
You will be joining a small team of experienced trustees who will offer you all the support you need. The position is to be home based, but you need to live in the Branch Area LU1-LU7 or MK45 postcode area.
We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch.

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and depending on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

Altus Education Partnership is seeking two educationalists with specialisms in primary and secondary (including post-16) education to join the board of Trustees. The candidate/s should have a strong understanding of school improvement, and an understanding of the latest Ofsted framework would be an advantage. The Trust welcomes applications from all backgrounds but would particularly welcome applications from those from traditionally under-represented backgrounds.

Trust Board meetings are held four times a year on a Wednesday, typically 5pm-7pm. Meetings are held in-person at the Trust’s Headquarters in Rochdale centre, although the option to join remotely can be facilitated in exceptional circumstances. Occasionally meetings will be held at one of the schools to align with Trustee site visits. The Trust board also have the following committees:

• Finance & Resources (x3 meetings per year)
• Audit & Risk (x3 meetings per year)
• Education Standards (x5 meetings per year)

It is expected that the new Trustee will bring their expertise to the Education Standards committee. The new Trustee would not be expected to Chair the committee.

A full induction programme with meetings with the CEO, CFO and Chair of the Board along with a full training package will be available online and via local providers for the new Trustees joining the board. Successful applicants will also receive access to Governors for Schools ‘The First 100 Days as a Trustee’ eLearning, devised in partnership with CST.

About Altus Education Partnership

Altus Education Partnership is a four school Trust based in Rochdale (two secondary schools, one primary and Rochdale Sixth Form College). The Trust aims to build a family of inclusive academies from early years to 18 in Rochdale and its surrounds, with the memorandum between Rochdale Sixth Form College and Hopwood Hall College forming the cornerstone of the Trust’s strategy. The Trust has an ‘all-through’ strategy, with the vision of there being one 'level three' provider (Rochdale Sixth Form College) with a number of secondary and primary schools operating as main feeder schools. The Trust has formed an eligibility criteria to assess schools waiting to the join the Trust against and are mindful that educational and economic efficiency remain a priority. 
 
The Trust has a commitment to working with Rochdale schools, regularly working with local schools in various supporting capacities. The Trust is due to expand to five schools in 2025 with an Outstanding primary school joining, and a further two schools in current talks about joining Altus. Altus also enjoy good relationships with Rochdale Local Authority. 
 
Current priorities for the Trust include focused support for it’s secondary schools, one of which is currently graded ‘Requires Improvement’ by Ofsted and another is overdue it’s inspection and both schools serve areas of considerable deprivation. The Trust has a dedicated school improvement team to provide additional support alongside the Education and Standards Committee. 

What difference will you make? What’s in it for the volunteer?

Volunteering on an academy trust board is deeply rewarding and impacts the lives of hundreds, even thousands, of young people. Academy trusts support schools to give children a better future. For young people to have the best possible opportunities in later life, it’s vital we have individuals with the right expertise leading schools and holding executive teams accountable. Becoming a Trustee is a fantastic opportunity to give back to communities by strengthening education.

Becoming a Trustee is also an opportunity for you to build your experience in strategic decision-making at senior level or demonstrate your ability to perform in a non-executive position as part of a portfolio career. 

All roles are volunteer/pro bono in nature.

Governing boards should represent the communities they serve, as well as wider society. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds to apply to ensure academy trust boards are diverse in background, skillset, and thought.

Diversity is a powerful instrument for effective governance. Trustees are required to make choices that impact the daily lives of students, from school finance all the way through to staff recruitment and pupil admissions. We believe that true representation at board level enables all students to fulfil their potential.

Further Information

We strongly recommend that you review information about the trust both via their website, and also on Companies House, Get Information About Schools and the Schools Financial Benchmarking Service.

For essential reading, please visit the resources for academy trustees section of Governors for Schools website, where you will find the Academy Trust Governance Guide, Academy Trust Handbook and the free eLearning, ‘Becoming a Trustee’.

Hours: We aim to be transparent about the time commitment required for this role. While we strive to balance the needs of the organization with respect for your time, we anticipate an average of 6 full days per year, in addition to a minimum of 4-6 hours per month. This includes attending key meetings, participating in essential activities, and contributing to ongoing projects. We expect in-person attendance at quarterly Board meetings whenever feasible.

Pay: Unpaid Volunteer role (reasonable expenses will be reimbursed for Board related work)

Duration: 3 years with possible extension.

Location: In-person meetings held in Manchester, UK

Are you passionate about using your networking skills and philanthropic interests to support an international health NGO and charity?

UK-Med is a frontline medical aid charity. Born of the NHS, we’ve been working for over 30 years

towards a world where everyone has the healthcare they need when crises or disasters hit.

UK-Med invites applications to join our Board of Trustees from well-connected individuals with a track record of securing significant gifts for charities from individuals or corporations.

The ideal candidate will have demonstrable experience in networking and fostering partnerships with corporate and individual donors, trusts, fundraisers and other stakeholders. They will play a pivotal role in supporting our small but growing fundraising team to develop and deliver the UK-Med fundraising strategy and supporting fundraising efforts through networking, soliciting gifts and championing the work of the charity at events and meetings.

You will be passionate about what we do and committed to using your experience and expertise to contribute to the strategic development and good governance of the charity.

How to apply

We strongly recommend that you read the Candidate Information Pack –Trustees - November 2024before applying for this role.

To apply, please submit a current CV and a supporting letter (2 pages) through our online jobs portal.

Please apply below, as soon as possible and no later than Monday 20 Janaury 2025

UK-Med is committed to safeguarding of our personnel and beneficiaries and has a zero-tolerance approach to sexual exploitation and abuse. We conduct thorough vetting before any appointment is confirmed.

UK-Med is committed to the principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion. We strive to provide an inclusive and supportive environment where employees feel respected and supported to be able to fulfil their potential.

Role Description: Trustee
To be a Trustee of an organisation is an exciting and fulfilling role and the most effective Boards are ones which benefit from individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds, experiences and skill sets.

The role of a Trustee is to ensure that GFS fulfils its duty to its beneficiaries and delivers on our vision, mission and values.

Key Responsibilities
The statutory duties of a trustee are:
• To ensure the organisation complies with its governing document (articles of association).
• To ensure that the organisation pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document.
• To ensure the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives - the charity must not spend money on activities which are not included in its own objectives.
• To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees’ role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation.
• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• To ensure the financial stability of the organisation.
• To protect and ensure the proper investment of the organisation’s funds.
• To appoint the Chief Executive and monitor their performance.
• In addition, with other trustees, to hold the charity “in trust” for current and future beneficiaries by:
• Ensuring that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.
• Being responsible for the performance of the charity and for its behaviour; ensuring that the charity complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.
• Taking care of the charity’s assets.

The Board of Trustees are jointly and severally responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health, the impact of its activities and developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines.

Beyond the statutory duties of GFS, we ask that our trustees take a supporting role within the organisation to help drive the delivery of the strategy and support the team. This could include activities such as chairing committees/working groups, mentoring members of the team or actively supporting meetings with potential funders for example.

Personal Qualities & Skills
• A commitment to the mission, vision and values of GFS
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the role of Trustee
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team and willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis.
• Integrity and a willingness to speak their mind • Good, independent judgement and strategic vision.
• An ability to think creatively
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• An understanding of the respective roles of the Chair, Trustees and Chief Executive.

Overview 

Thank you so much for your interest in this important role. WaterHarvest has a small UK team of three part-time home-based staff – CEO, Operations Manager and Fundraising Manager (we will be recruiting for a second fundraising role shortly). In Uganda we employ a local engineer to support delivery of our programme, liaising with our local partner (MADLACC) and a regional building contractor team.

Our new CEO joined in March 2024 and has led the development of a new three-year strategy approved by the Board focusing on the expansion of our existing programmes in Africa.

Our current Chair, Neil Mehta is stepping down after nine years of wonderful service. Neil has overseen a long term pivot of our focus to delivering water harvesting programmes in Africa. We are focused on growing in an ambitious, yet sustainable manner, as climate change brings a renewed focus on the need for sustainable solutions for clean water.

We are looking for an experienced Trustee who can appreciate our significant legacy but help us move forward to support delivery of our new strategy. Ideally, we are seeking someone living in/near London to meet with our CEO and funders.

Remit & time commitment

• The Chair is responsible for holding the Board and CEO to account for the charity’s mission and vision, providing inclusive leadership to the Board, ensuring each Trustee fulfils their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity. 
• Legally, all members of the Board share collective responsibility for providing oversight, governance and leadership. In addition to the standard Trustee remit, the Chair has a specific role with principal responsibilities outlined on the next page.
• The Board meets formally via Zoom for half a day (usually on a Tuesday  morning), four times per year. Additional informal calls/meetings are held with Trustees on an ad-hoc as needed basis.
• The Chair and CEO hold a fortnightly Zoom catch-up call and aim to meet face to face on a quarterly basis.

Chair Responsibilities

Board leadership

• Provide leadership to the WaterHarvest Board to operate within its charitable objectives and fulfil its legal duties and governance responsibilities. Facilitate the Board’s regular review of major risks and associated opportunities, managing and mitigating the risks.
• Closely monitor the financial health of WaterHarvest.
• Inspire & motivate other Board members and lead on the induction of new Trustees ensuring external Trustee training is provided as needed.

Governance

• To guide Board actions concerning organisational priorities and governance concerns and help the Board reach sound decisions.
• Ensure that all governance arrangements are compliant with Charity Commission regulations.
• In consultation with other Trustees, lead the appointment of new Board members to fill identified skills gaps and monitor the effectiveness of all Board members. 
• Sign on behalf of the Board, the Annual Report and Financial Statements and other financial and legal documentation, in accordance with Board resolutions.
• Visit our overseas programmes in Uganda and Ghana on annual/biannual basis to meet with our local delivery partners and to review impact.

External Relations

• Act as an ambassador/spokesperson for WaterHarvest alongside the CEO when appropriate, representing the charity at external functions, meetings and events.
• Safeguard the good name and reputation of WaterHarvest.

Efficiency and effectiveness

• Chair meetings of the Board of Trustees effectively and efficiently, bringing impartiality and objectivity to the decision-making process.
• Lead the Trustees to be fully engaged so that decisions are taken in the best, long-term interests of the charity and that the Board takes collective ownership of these decisions.
• With the CEO, agree the agenda ahead of Board meetings & approve draft minutes prior to circulation to the full Board. Take the lead on ensuring decisions taken at Board meetings are implemented.

Relationship with the CEO and team 

• Act as a critical friend to the CEO, providing support when needed to deliver WaterHarvest’s new strategy.
• Ensure regular contact with the CEO and develop/maintain an open and supportive relationship within which each can speak openly about concerns, worries and challenges.

Conduct regular meetings (in person or by Zoom etc) and an annual appraisal for the CEO in consultation with other Trustees.

About you

Experience

Essential:

• Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation, including significant line management experience.
• Long term experience of being a Charity Trustee.
• Experience of external representation, delivering presentations and managing stakeholders.
• Significant experience of chairing formal meetings.
• Excellent relationship skills, even in a virtual environment.

Desirable:

• Strong budgetary/financial skills.
• Direct experience of raising income within a charity setting.
• Experience of working directly for a charity.
• Experience of delivering programmes/working with colleagues in Africa.

Knowledge

Essential:

• Broad knowledge & understanding of the charitable sector and current issues affecting it.
• Strong leadership skills, ability to motivate other Board members and the staff team. 
• Excellent understanding of the Charities Act, Fundraising Code of Practice, Data Protection Act and other relevant legislation and guidance.

Desirable:

• Digital/virtual fundraising expertise.

Skills & attributes

Essential:

• Demonstrate a deep concern for those impacted by water shortage and a genuine commitment to our vision and strategic objectives.
• Exhibit strong inter-personal and relationship building abilities.
• Have tact and diplomacy, with the ability to listen and engage effectively.
• Ability to commit time to conduct the role well, including attending and preparing for Board meetings and other events/meetings.

Desirable:

• Of African heritage and/or with connections to the communities we serve in Ghana and Uganda.
• Living in/near to London to meet with CEO and funders.

How to apply

We are a small but very impactful charity that has been focused on harvesting rainwater in remote communities for almost 40 years. 

This role offers an opportunity to make a real difference in a range of areas such as improving health, reducing poverty, building climate change resilience and increasing the attendance of girls at school. 

Please note, as is standard with Charity Trustees this role is offered on a voluntary and unremunerated basis. In accordance with our Articles of Association, each trustee should commit to serving an initial three-year term, with an expectation of a further three-year term.

To apply, please submit your CV and a short a cover letter (no longer than one side of A4) outlining how your meet the requirements detailed in the Person Specification by noon on Friday 31st January 2025. Interviews will be held in February 2025.

Thank you again for your interest, we hope 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.