Volunteer Trustee for environmental charity

What will you be doing?

About CPRE London As part of the national network of CPRE, the Countryside Charity, CPRE London campaigns to save and promote green spaces in Greater London. Our vision is "a city with a network of green spaces which are accessible to all, rich in nature and playing a crucial role in responding to the climate emergency." England’s leading countryside charity comprises a National Office and 42 local CPREs, each operating as a distinct charity. At a national level, CPRE campaigns for a beautiful and thriving countryside that is valued, enjoyed and accessible to everyone.  At CPRE London our focus in 2024 is on 3 key projects:

Creating an M25 of trees around the capital Establishing 10 New Parks Expanding and strengthening London Friends of Green Space Network and GoParks London

These are in addition to our core case work supporting local campaigners stand up to threats to local green spaces and the environmental, health and well-being benefits these bring. More details about CPRE’s work is on our website: https://www.cprelondon.org.uk/  Role of Trustee The Trustee board is the principle governing body of CPRE London and is collectively responsible for the leadership and direction of the charity. As a Trustee your role includes:

Developing and overseeing implementation of our strategic plan to help us to deliver our vision. Offering independence, external perspective, skills and challenge Mentoring and supporting the staff and volunteers.

Although keen to appoint dedicated Trustees offering a breadth of skills who share our aims, the Trustee board have identified some areas where specific knowledge and experience would be welcomed to complement the existing team: A.     Knowledge of the planning system / planning law / planning organisation B.     Technical knowledge of ecology / horticulture / forestry  C.    Communications, including social media D.    Experience with an environmental organisation or charity. To best represent London’s diverse community on our Boards of Trustees and ensure all residents benefit from our green space advocacy, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. 

What are we looking for?

In addition to the specific knowledge and experience mentioned above, our expectations of all our Trustees would be:

A commitment to CPRE policies, campaigns and initiatives An understanding of, or interest in, the charity sector Some experience of working in a strategic way - paid or voluntary Independent judgement and a creative approach to problem solving Excellent communication skills and ability to demonstrate tact and diplomacy Capacity and willingness to demonstrate commitment to CPRE London, including its vision and mission, and an awareness of (or willingness to learn about) the issues concerned with safeguarding green spaces in London Experience and understanding of the legal duties and responsibilities of charity trustees - or a willingness to learn.

This role is for candidates with an interest in a range of issues around the natural environment, who want to be part of an organisation that campaigns for the sustainable use of land, to protect and enhance the environment and quality of life in London.  Please see the attached for our general expectations required for the role of Trustee.

What difference will you make?

Opportunity to contribute to our new strategic plan and help steer the direction of CPRE London for the next 5 years. Your chance to influence through teamwork: working with the Director, staff, and other trustees to ensure that the charity’s strategy is achieved and modified as necessary to embrace new ideas or changes in circumstances; optional involvement with our team of dedicated volunteers.   Commitment: Typically, 1-2 days a month with other trustees and staff in support of charity and its key objectives, either at the office or remotely. There are 4 Board meetings a year at our London office, from 18.30 and generally finishing by 20.30, plus an Away Day meeting in the Greater London area. Trustees are appointed for a 3-year term, which can be extended for a further 3 years.