Volunteering projects volunteer volunteer roles in lewisham, london
Abianda works with young women and girls affected by criminal exploitation and violence, associated with ‘gangs’ and county lines. Our vision is that young women and girls are free from oppression and harm caused by criminal exploitation and violence.
Abianda’s Board of Trustees is a group of highly experienced and skilled women. We work hard to ensure that the organisational culture is echoed in the behaviour and functions of the Board. Our Trustee group is high functioning, collaborative, and rigorous. They hold the CEO and organisation to account and provide essential scrutiny, with warmth, humour and compassion, and with an expectation of very high standards - always with a focus on the needs of girls and young women.
As a Trustee coming on board with the Abianda team, we want to see that you are willing to enter into collaborative spaces with young women, learn from them, implement their ideas and support a culture where their expertise is celebrated and prioritised.
We are looking for candidates with specific specialisms in:
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People and HR
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Safeguarding
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Board Secretariat responsibilities
We're also interested in hearing from candidates who have expertise in:
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Sector Specialism (including criminal exploitation, policing and crime, VAWG, health and social care, education, local and national policy)
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Policy and Public Affairs
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Organisational Development
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Income Generation
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Marketing and Communications
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Governance
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Digital Transformation
Please note
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Due to the work we do, Abianda's roles are subject to an Occupational Requirement on the grounds of the protected characteristic of sex. We are a women’s-only employer, and as such, this position is exempt under Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010. For the avoidance of doubt, all women including trans women are welcome to apply for and hold such roles, as are non-binary people if the applicant believes that their lived experience aligns with that of women and girls.
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We are particularly keen to attract Trustees with lived experience of the issues we address and the challenges facing young women and girls, either directly or through communities and relationships.
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All applicants are requested to complete a criminal record self-disclosure form at interview stage. We value the lived experience of our applicants and all disclosures will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
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We have a specific focus on ensuring diversity of voice on our Board and representation across all intersections of identity. As such, we are particularly keen to hear from Disabled people, Black and people of the Global Majority, people from the LGBTQ+ community and people from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds.
To apply please submit your CV and a supporting statement (max. 1,000 words) detailing what you would bring to the role and how you meet the skills and experiences listed in the person specification via CharityJob.
If you would prefer, you can also submit your application via video or voice recording (no longer than 5 minutes) or PowerPoint presentation (no more than 10 slides) to tallulah[at]abianda[dot]com
Please also download and complete our equal opportunities form (this is optional).
Abianda is a Disability Confident employer. We endeavour to offer an interview to all disabled candidates who demonstrate that they meet essential criteria via their application.
Non Charity Employer
6 - 10
Our mission is to support young women harmed by criminal exploitation and violence to develop independence and agency.
Thank you!
The Organisation:
Founded in 1868, the Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) is the oldest charity dedicated to the Commonwealth. The RCS is a network of organisations and individuals across more than 70 countries in the Commonwealth and beyond who promote the value and the values of the Commonwealth.
His Majesty The King is the Patron of the Royal Commonwealth Society, and Her Majesty The Queen is the Vice-Patron.
The King succeeded The late Queen Elizabeth II, who had been Patron since 1952 when she was also Head of the Commonwealth. Queen Camilla had previously been our inaugural Vice-Patron since 2018.
The Honorary Vice-President is the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.
The Royal Commonwealth Society is governed by an experienced Council
comprising the Executive Chair and Trustees.
The offices are in Guildhall, London, with team members based in Canada, Malta, Nigeria, the Solomon Islands, South Africa, and Sri Lanka.
In addition to branches, the Royal Commonwealth Society has an active network of over 450 Associate Fellows. Formerly Queen’s Young Leaders and other outstanding young people from all 56 Commonwealth countries, the Associate Fellows are reappointed annually based on their contributions to their respective Working Groups.
To find out more about the Royal Commonwealth Society, visit the website.
The Role:
To get the most out of being on the RCS’s Council, we are looking for those who have a passion for our aims and can commit to the time and effort required. Our trustees need strategic vision, independent judgement, and an ability to work effectively and actively as part of a small but dedicated charitable organisation. We are seeking an experienced Chair who can lead the Council in a collegiate and effective manner to deliver the most impact for the citizens of the Commonwealth.
To fulfil the duties of this role, we are looking for someone who has considerable board experience and a commitment to charitable endeavours. A background in the Commonwealth is not required. We are especially keen to hear from people from a wide range of backgrounds.
- Oversee the Council and the Society’s strategy and direction
- Management of finances of the Society
- Lead fundraising efforts
- Responsible for the governance of the Society
- Maintain relationships with external stakeholders
Person Specification:
- Chair experience would be highly desirable
- Board experience would be required
- Trustee experience of charitable organisations would be desirable
- High-level professional experience
- Interest in the voluntary sector and its contribution to society
- Commitment to good governance
- Strong interpersonal skills and a collegiate approach
- An interest in global affairs and an international outlook
- Experience of working with stakeholders and doing so with professionalism and discretion
- Confidence in being the high profile representative of a significant institution
Further Information:
For comprehensive information about the Royal Commonwealth Society, the role responsibilities and the person we are looking for, please download the Candidate Information Document.
How to Apply:
If you are passionate about joining the Royal Commonwealth Society and believe you have the skills and experience we are looking for, please apply with the following:
- An up-to-date 2 page CV
- A supporting statement of no more than 1 side of A4, detailing why you would like to be considered, your relevant experience and expertise and what you think you can bring to the role.
- 3 referees’ contact emails and telephone numbers.
All applications are being handled by our recruitment partner, Trustees Unlimited (part of the Russam group).
All applications should be sent to Trustees Unlimited.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Melissa Baxter, Managing Partner - Charities.
Closing date for applications: Monday 5th May 2025
Interviews with Royal Commonwealth Society: Monday 19th May [online] and Tuesday 27th May 2025 [in person, at the Guildhall].
The role commences on 1st June 2025.
Please confirm the above dates are suitable in your covering letter. Please also highlight any potential conflicts of interest. References and other checks will be conducted.
Thank you!
We are looking for two new trustees who can bring expertise from the philanthropic and talent management spheres, respectively.
The Organisation:
Founded in 1868, the Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS) is the oldest charity dedicated to the Commonwealth. The RCS is a network of organisations and individuals across more than 70 countries in the Commonwealth and beyond who promote the value and the values of the Commonwealth. His Majesty The King is the Patron of the Royal Commonwealth Society, and Her Majesty The Queen is the Vice-Patron. The King succeeded The late Queen Elizabeth II, who had been Patron since 1952 when she was also Head of the Commonwealth. Queen Camilla had previously been our inaugural Vice-Patron since 2018. The Honorary Vice-President is the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. The Royal Commonwealth Society is governed by an experienced Council comprising the Executive Chair and Trustees.
The offices are in Guildhall, London, with team members based in Canada, Malta, Nigeria, the Solomon Islands, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. In addition to branches, the Royal Commonwealth Society has an active network of over 450 Associate Fellows. Formerly Queen’s Young Leaders and other outstanding young people from all 56 Commonwealth countries, the Associate Fellows are reappointed annually based on their contributions to their respective Working Groups.
The Role:
To get the most out of being on the RCS’s Council, we are looking for those
who have a passion for our aims and can commit to the time and effort
required. Our trustees need strategic vision, independent judgement, and an
ability to work effectively and actively as part of a small but dedicated charitable
organisation.
To fulfil the duties of this role, we are looking for someone who has
considerable experience in philanthropy or talent and human resource
management. A background in the Commonwealth is not required. We are
especially keen to hear from people from a wide range of backgrounds.
- Active and committed Member of the Council to give input into the Society’s strategy and direction
- Management of finances of the Society
- Contribute to fundraising efforts
- Responsible for the governance of the Society
- Serve as a representative of a significant charitable institution
Person Specification:
- Background or experience in philanthropy or talent/people management
- Board/trustee experience would be desirable but not required
- High-level professional experience
- Interest in the voluntary sector and its contribution to society
- Interest in global affairs and an international outlook
- Commitment to good governance
- Strong interpersonal skills and a collegiate approach
Thank you!
Safeguarding Lead Trustee
Location: London (Hybrid)
Remuneration: This is an unremunerated role. However, expenses such as childcare, care for other dependants, and travel will be covered to support attendance at board meetings.
Our client is a registered Charity Incorporated Organisation that aims to support and invest in young people (predominantly 18-25 years old) through their adolescent years which can be difficult because of both personal circumstances and the injustices in society. They fund work nationally, as well as having a specific focus on several counties in the South East of England. The grants they make total c. £3 million per year.
The Trust has evolved a lot over the years and is very much values driven around their mission “to bring lasting change to the lives of young people; investing in them as powerful forces for change and acting upon their right to be heard in pursuit of a fair and just society.” They really want to be a foundation that listens well and gives young people power to change and improve society whilst staying responsible, trusting and progressive. They do this primarily by providing grants to organisations working with young people, influencing youth policy alongside them and investing directly in young changemakers.
The Trust is looking for a new Safeguarding Lead Trustee to join their inclusive, inspiring and professional Board. You will be the champion for safeguarding throughout the organisation and Board and will bring excellent experience around safeguarding young people, with support from the Safeguarding Committee. Our client encourages applications from younger candidates for those who feel they have similar and relevant experience even though this may be your first time board/trustee role.
Most importantly, this individual will be motivated to live the Trust’s values and share their vision of a world where all young people have hope, access to the support they need, a stake in society and influence over their futures. Our client are committed to centering the voices of those they seek to serve. Their board and staff team have relevant lived and learnt experiences to help us fulfil their mission. They listen to the communities they seek to serve both directly and broadly to have as accurate of an understanding as possible about the issues that those they’re here to serve are facing.
For further details about this exciting opportunity, please refer to the full appointment brief attached below. To apply, please click ‘Redirect to Recruiter’.
Deadline for applications: 18th May
Interviews with client: w/c 26th May or 2nd June
Thank you!
Vice Chair
Location: London (Hybrid)
Remuneration: This is an unremunerated role. However, expenses such as childcare, care for other dependants, and travel will be covered to support attendance at board meetings.
Our client is a registered Charity Incorporated Organisation that aims to support and invest in young people (predominantly 18-25 years old) through their adolescent years which can be difficult because of both personal circumstances and the injustices in society. They fund work nationally, as well as having a specific focus on several counties in the South East of England. The grants they make total c. £3 million per year.
The Trust has evolved a lot over the years and is very much values driven around their mission “to bring lasting change to the lives of young people; investing in them as powerful forces for change and acting upon their right to be heard in pursuit of a fair and just society.” They really want to be a foundation that listens well and gives young people power to change and improve society whilst staying responsible, trusting and progressive. They do this primarily by providing grants to organisations working with young people, influencing youth policy alongside them and investing directly in young changemakers.
Our client is looking for a new Vice Chair to join their inclusive, inspiring and professional Board. The Vice Chair will provide support to the current Chair and additional leadership to the Board. You will bring experience of working with young people or within/around youth led organisations. This individual will be able to be an effective ambassador and will bring an understanding of boards and charity governance, ideally though a previous board role or experience in an aligned role. The Trust provides training and ongoing support, and they looking for someone committed both to the role and to continuous learning.
Most importantly, this individual will be motivated to live the Trust’s values and share their vision of a world where all young people have hope, access to the support they need, a stake in society and influence over their futures. They are committed to centering the voices of those thet seek to serve. The board and staff team have relevant lived and learnt experiences to help us fulfil the Trust’s mission. They listen to the communities they seek to serve both directly and broadly to have as accurate of an understanding as possible about the issues that those they’re here to serve are facing. Our client encourages applications from younger candidates and for those who may not have previously held a Chair or Vice Chair role.
For further details about this exciting opportunity, please refer to the full appointment brief attached below. To apply, please click ‘Redirect to Recruiter’
Deadline for applications: 18th May
Interviews with client: w/c 26th May or 2nd June