Chair of Trustees

Chair of Trustees - Volunteer

Approx. 8 hours per month - Flexible working hours - Founding Governance Role - Hybrid/Remote

This is an exciting opportunity to help shape and establish Women's Health Access, a newly founded charity focussing on supporting women through gynaecology services in England and Wales. Our mission is to make it easier for women to access the right care at the right time by providing education, support and independent guidance to allow women to advocate for themselves. In time, we will provide financial support for women impacted by waiting lists and we will work with employers to develop a "Women's Health Friendly" employer accreditation. We will collect data, produce reports and work closely with governing bodies to improve care for women and close treatment and diagnosis gaps.

As we prepare to launch Women's Health Access, we are seeking a dedicated and passionate Chair of Trustees to join our founding Board. You will help guide, govern and influence the creation of this new and important service.

We welcome applications from people who are underrepresented in leadership, and we particularly value intersectional perspectives.

Purpose:

  • To lead the board, ensure it functions effectively and set the tone for the charity’s culture and governance.

  • You will provide strategic oversight and ensure Women's Health Access always acts in the best interest of people using the service

  • You will use your skills, networks and experience to help the charity achieve its mission

Responsibilities:

  • Work with the Founder to set board agendas and ensure timely, high-quality information is available.

  • Chair board meetings in a way that encourages inclusive, balanced discussion and clear decision-making.

  • Ensure the board regularly reviews its own performance, skills mix and effectiveness.

  • Act as line manager or key contact for the Founder, providing support and challenge between board meetings.

  • Represent the charity at key external events and in high-level relationships (for example with major funders or partners).

  • Help resolve any significant issues between trustees or between board and staff.

  • You will contribute to a clear vision, mission and strategy. Ensure these are reviewed regularly and that performance is monitored.

  • Ensure the charity complies with its governing document and charity law.

  • Safeguard the charity’s assets, including its reputation, and ensure proper financial controls and risk management are in place.

  • Prepare for and attend board meetings and contribute thoughtfully. Vote on all board decisions.

  • Exercise the CIO’s powers to manage its affairs (subject to the constitution).

  • Declare any conflicts of interest and follow the charity’s policies on confidentiality and conduct.

Person Specification (Essential):

  • Previous experience of chairing meetings and leading boards or senior teams.

  • Strong facilitation skills and ability to handle complex or sensitive discussions.

  • High level of credibility and confidence in external representation.

  • Comfortable operating at a strategic level.

  • Commitment to the mission of improving women’s health and reducing inequalities in access to care.

  • Ability to commit to an estimated 8 hours per month, 4 board meetings per year and occasional events.

  • Understanding of, or willingness to learn about, the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.

  • Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

  • Strategic and analytical thinking skills; ability to see the bigger picture and to ask constructive, challenging questions.

  • Integrity, independence of mind and willingness to speak up where needed.

  • Ability to work collaboratively as part of a diverse board and to listen to different viewpoints.

Person Specification (Desired):

  • Previous experience as a trustee, governor, non-executive director or senior manager.

Additional Information:

  • Term of office is 3 years, renewal once

  • Must be eligible to serve as a charity trustee under UK law.

  • Willing to undertake any appropriate checks, such as DBS

If you'd like to establish the foundations of a new charity, please send your CV and a supporting letter to amelia@womenshealthaccess.com

For more information or if you have any questions please email amelia@womenshealthaccess.com