Volunteer Safeguarding Trustee

What will you be doing?

In your role, you will collaborate closely with the staff team, working in tandem with the rest of the board to ensure we foster an open, caring, and diligent culture with trauma-informed and asset-based approaches at their heart. THE ROLE Strategic Oversight of Safeguarding:

Ensure that safeguarding policies and procedures are in place, up-to-date, and implemented effectively across every aspect of OSH’s work. Monitor and review OSH’s safeguarding policies and training materials, ensuring they comply with legal obligations and best practices. Chair the Safeguarding Working Group, which meets twice a year. Ad-hoc advice to staff with safeguarding responsibilities during events.

Monitoring and Reporting:

Oversee the management of safeguarding incidents, ensuring they are handled in line with OSH’s safeguarding policy Provide support to the CEO and Safeguarding Lead to ensure any safeguarding concerns are properly escalated, investigated, and reported to the relevant authorities. Ensure the Board is regularly updated on safeguarding issues and risks, both internally and sector-wide.

Governance and Compliance:

Ensure OSH meets its statutory responsibilities for safeguarding and child protection. Act as the Board’s safeguarding expert, advising on all safeguarding-related matters, including risk management. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding legislation and best practices to ensure OSH’s compliance. Oversee the mitigation of risks that could affect the charity's operations, reputation, or financial stability.

Other trustee responsibilities:

Collaborate closely with the CEO and Programme Manager in their roles as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Deputy DSL, offering mentorship, support, and constructive feedback. Contribute to the development and execution of the charity's strategic plan. Monitor progress towards strategic goals and adapt strategies as needed. Act as a passionate advocate for OSH, representing our mission and values to external stakeholders. Cultivate and nurture relationships with partners, donors, and the wider community. Leverage your network to advance the charity's interests and fundraising efforts.

What are we looking for?

Skills, experiences & qualities

Experience in safeguarding or child protection, particularly within local authorities, youth services, or organisations working with vulnerable people. A strong understanding of safeguarding policies, procedures, and practices, ideally in a context involving young people and vulnerable individuals. An understanding of the unique challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers. Knowledge of relevant legislation and statutory responsibilities for safeguarding in the UK. Experience working with diverse communities and an understanding of the importance of cultural sensitivity in safeguarding practices. Previous trustee experience is desirable, but not essential. Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to undergo a DBS check).

General trustee experiences and qualities

Proven leadership experience A comprehensive understanding of governance principles and best practices. Being approachable and proactive, with exceptional communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills. Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member and leader. Wholehearted commitment to Our Second Home’s mission and values. Ability to allocate the necessary time and dedication to fulfil the role's responsibilities.

What difference will you make?

In 2024 alone, we ran residential and day programmes for 196 young people aged 14-25. These include children and adults who are vulnerable because of their status and/or trauma. Your expertise and leadership will help us create a safe, supportive environment where young people can rebuild their confidence, connect with others, and develop their leadership skills. By guiding our safeguarding policies and providing oversight, you’ll directly contribute to the life-changing experiences OSH provides, from our residential trips to leadership training and youth clubs. If you are passionate about creating a safer, fairer world for young people, this role is your chance to lead that change.