Chair of Trustees
Volunteer role | Bristol & South Gloucestershire
Carers Support is looking for a new Chair of Trustees to lead our Board and support the next stage of our development. This is an important voluntary role for someone with strong board or senior governance experience who wants to make a real difference to unpaid carers.
About Carers Support
We are an independent charity supporting thousands of unpaid carers of all ages across Bristol and South Gloucestershire. We provide advice, information, practical help, emotional support, training, young carers services and more.
Our vision is that all carers are recognised, valued and supported. We work closely with the NHS, local authorities and voluntary organisations, and hold the Trusted Charity quality mark.
About the role
As Chair of Trustees, you will:
• Lead the Board and help set the charity’s strategic direction
• Support and work closely with the Chief Executive
• Make sure the Board fulfils its legal and governance duties
• Encourage a positive, open and inclusive Board culture
• Ensure meetings are well-run and support good discussion and decision-making
• Help the charity respond to the needs and views of unpaid carers
• Ensure risks, finances and performance are monitored effectively
You do not need previous chairing experience. We are looking for someone with solid board or committee experience who can guide a group and support strong governance.
What we’re looking for
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and lived experiences.
We are looking for someone who can bring:
• Board, governance or senior decision-making experience
• Calm, confident leadership and good people skills
• The ability to facilitate effective meetings or a willingness to learn
• Sound judgement and the confidence to ask questions
• A commitment to improving the lives of unpaid carers
• Time to prepare for and attend meetings
Time commitment
• 4 board meetings per year (2 hours each)
• Regular meetings with the Chief Executive
• Occasional committee meetings, events or development sessions
• Additional committee meetings, events or development sessions, as required
What you’ll gain
• A meaningful leadership opportunity with social impact
• Strategic experience in a respected local charity
• Supportive induction, training and ongoing guidance
• A warm and collaborative Board environment