Volunteer role - Trustee / Chair

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of people with refugee status and those seeking asylum here in south west London? Consider joining our team at Refugee Action Kingston. We are always looking for dedicated individuals who share our values. We are a small, friendly team, driven by a passion to create positive and lasting change in our community.

Overview

Refugee Action Kingston (RAK), a very active forward-looking Kingston charity, helps refugees and people seeking asylum to access essential services, including immigration and welfare advice, English classes, counselling and support into employment, volunteering and training.

We are seeking to recruit two trustees, including a chair of trustees. We are interested in individuals who have managed public or voluntary sector organisations, ideally with first-hand experience of displacement or migration to the UK.

Experience of fundraising is not essential but highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities

Lead or contribute to:

● Regular trustee board meetings and key activities, including recruitment of trustees.

● Development and implementation of a strategic plan for RAK.

● Governance of the organisation to ensure it meets the legal and regulatory requirements.

● Monitoring operational performance and implementation of a continuous improvement programme.

● Oversight of financial performance and fundraising strategy to ensure long-term sustainability of RAK

● Promotion of relationships with key stakeholders, including funding bodies, suppliers, and contractors.

Desirable

● Good understanding of issues and challenges faced by refugees and people seeking asylum in Kingston.

● Leadership qualities, including critical thinking and decision making.

● Experience of financial management and fundraising.

● Operational management experience gained in the commercial or voluntary sector.

● Experience of principles and practices of governance in a commercial or voluntary organisation.

Core beliefs

● Social justice and inclusion: a commitment to promoting social justice and equity for all individuals, regardless of religion, culture, or background.

● Respect for diversity: valuing and respecting diverse backgrounds, experiences, and beliefs, and fostering teamwork through inclusivity.

● Responsibility and impact: using time and resources efficiently and responsibly to maximise the impact of our services for clients.

Please note that although this is a voluntary role, it requires a significant commitment of time and effort. We seek individuals who are dedicated to contributing meaningfully and who are open to learning in areas where they may lack experience.

To apply, please submit your CV along with a personal statement of no more than 300 words that outlines your interest in joining our board of trustees to: mark.greaves@refugeeactionkingston.org.uk.

Closing date: 15 January 2024 Interviews are expected to be held in late January 2025.

*Please note, The office will be closed from 12.30 on 24 December, reopening on 2 January. A member of the team will be monitoring phone calls and emails on 30th and 31st December.