We are looking for a new Chair to succeed Anne Heal who has been a fantastic ambassador and chair for Volunteering Matters over the past 9 years. Our new Chair will build on this work and guide the Council (Board) and the organisation through the next stage of its development.


Like many charities right now, Volunteering Matters is working through a challenging period, navigating the balance of delivering great projects in a difficult economic landscape, whilst working in and alongside communities experiencing complex adversities and requiring innovative place-based solutions.

We are looking for a Chair with the confidence, skills, experience and collaborative approach to provide leadership and challenge through this time, working closely with the Board and Executive Leadership Team, to continue to bring success through our fantastic work with communities whilst providing stability to the organisation and our people.

  • Support the CEO working to a plan to ensure the long-term viability of the Charity
  • Remain calm and productive through times of uncertainty and unforeseen changes
  • Bring the Board together to work collaboratively and proactively through shared working practices
  • Work closely with Board members and the Executive team to ensure sufficient rigour in governance, regularly monitoring the health of the organisation and challenging where necessary.

At Volunteering Matters, we turn local knowledge into action by working to build stronger communities through the power of volunteering. We bring people together to overcome adversity, tackle isolation, improve physical and mental health, develop skills, and ensure young people can lead change.

Our unique approach involves developing programmes in local areas, designed by communities, for communities. We believe in the power, local knowledge, and energy of communities to improve themselves from within. With nearly 60 years of experience, we support people facing diverse life challenges, from financial wellbeing to loneliness, and barriers to education and employment.

Our projects range from mentoring schemes and social groups to community drivers and youth-led awareness campaigns. All our projects are firmly place-based, harnessing the power of local volunteers to make a tangible difference in their communities. By working with people, not on their behalf, and in partnership with local entities, we ensure that our initiatives are relevant, impactful, and sustainable.

We pride ourselves on our values-based approach, which shapes how we work together and treat those we serve. Our commitment to respect, trust, and compassion is reflected in every aspect of our operations.

Empowering: Supporting our team and communities to make change happen by sharing skills, knowledge, and time.

Inclusive: Actively removing barriers and providing equality of opportunities for everyone. Bringing people together to create new relationships and opportunities.

Compassionate: Putting people at the heart of everything we do. Listening, caring, and valuing our team and communities.

Positive: Embracing the potential in our team, communities, and new ideas. Being curious and spotting new solutions while having fun along the way.

If you are ready to make a difference and lead an organisation committed to empowering communities, we want to hear from you.

Please send a covering letter and CV to: join@volunteeringmatters.org.uk by Wednesday 31 July 2024.

Join us in making a positive impact and help us build stronger communities for all.


The role of the Chair is to provide leadership and constructive challenge to the whole Council of Trustees, the Chief Executive and Executive Leadership team.


To apply or if you have any questions.

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