Trustee – EDI & Safeguarding Portfolio

What will you be doing?

The EDI & Safeguarding Trustee will provide strategic leadership of this portfolio at Board level, ensuring effective oversight of safeguarding risks, policies and compliance. The role will embed EDI principles into governance, strategy and Board decision-making, while acting as a critical friend through informed challenge and guidance. You will oversee the development and regular review of safeguarding and inclusion frameworks, ensure robust reporting, escalation and assurance mechanisms are in place, and support the creation of an inclusive, respectful and safe environment for volunteers, adopters and the wider community. As a Trustee, you will also be expected to understand and uphold the legal duties and responsibilities of charity trustees, considering the governance, regulatory and reputational implications of Board decisions.

What are we looking for?

We are seeking a trustee with demonstrable experience in Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) and Safeguarding, gained in a professional, voluntary or governance setting. You will bring a strong understanding of safeguarding frameworks, inclusion principles and their practical application within organisations.

We are particularly interested in individuals who can operate at a strategic level, providing oversight, challenge and guidance to a Board, rather than purely operational delivery. Experience of working within regulated environments or alongside governance structures would be highly beneficial.

You will be confident in advising on policy, risk and compliance matters, and able to support the Board in embedding inclusive practices and maintaining robust safeguarding standards.

An understanding of the legal duties and responsibilities of trustees, or a willingness to develop this quickly, is essential.

What difference will you make?

This is an opportunity to shape the ethical and cultural foundations of the organisation at Board level, with scope to influence wider Board development and governance maturity, ensuring that inclusivity and safeguarding are integral to how we operate and deliver impact.

Before you apply

Once applications have been received and shortlisted, candidates will be invited to an informal conversation with the Chair. Subject to this, suitable candidates will be progressed to a panel interview. Following a successful outcome, there may be an opportunity to be co-opted onto the Board at the next meeting, following an initial observation.