Volunteer Chair Position for a Child Mental Health Charity

What will you be doing?

KidsAid is a child-centred charity based in Northampton, supporting children across the county and expanding into surrounding areas. Our Vision A world where every child affected by trauma has access to the time, resources, and care they need to thrive. Our Mission We provide tailored, evidence-based therapies that create lasting, positive change for children, young people, and families facing mental health challenges and adverse life experiences. Our Values

Commitment – We are dedicated to our mission to create lasting, positive change.   Accountability – We act with integrity and take responsibility for our actions. Respect – We nurture an inclusive environment where every individual is valued. Empathy – We promote kindness, compassion, and understanding.

Our Work KidsAid delivers long-term, evidence-based therapies at an affordable cost, ensuring families who lack access to other services or financial means can still receive vital support. Our three-pronged approach provides:

Therapeutic support for the individual child. Guidance and assistance for parents and caregivers. Specialist support for professionals working with children.

Looking Ahead KidsAid is committed to championing best practices in early childhood development, mental health support, and family well-being. Since our small beginnings 18 years ago, we have built a strong reputation for delivering meaningful and lasting outcomes for the children we support. In 2024-25, we:

Provided therapeutic support to 495 children, young people and families. Delivered 4, 434 hours of therapy. Expanded into Peterborough, increasing our reach by 40%.

This rapid growth has strengthened our financial position, but further investment is needed to expand our team, enhance governance, and improve systems and procedures to sustain our progress. Amid economic uncertainty and growing challenges in the charity sector, we remain committed to securing long-term funding, enhancing business development, and maintaining strong financial management—ensuring we can continue transforming young lives.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for a Chair with the following qualities.

Demonstrated expertise in charity governance, with direct experience of working with or serving as part of a Board of Trustees.  Proven leadership experience, ideally at a board or senior management level.  Strong understanding of governance principles, charity law, and regulatory frameworks relevant to non-profit organisations.  Experience in chairing meetings, ensuring effective decision-making and engagement.  Track record in strategic planning, risk management, and leading organisational change.  In-depth knowledge of the charity sector, including key challenges and opportunities for non-profits.  Proven ability to engage and collaborate with individuals at all levels, both within and outside of an organisation. Willingness to dedicate the necessary time and energy to fulfill the responsibilities of the role effectively.

Person specification for Trustee.

A commitment to the organisation. A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. Strategic vision. Good, independent judgement. An ability to think creatively. A willingness to speak their mind. An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship An ability to work effectively as a member of a team. A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

What difference will you make?

Make a Lasting Impact with KidsAid If you're passionate about making a meaningful, long-term difference in society, KidsAid is the charity for you! Your Role as Chair Your expertise will be pivotal in promoting a culture of excellence, continuous improvement, and effective risk management. With your support, we can reach even more children, young people, and families in need. Time Commitment

The board meets in person in Northampton six times a year. To maintain a strong and cohesive team, we prioritise in-person collaboration, while our bi-monthly subcommittees meet online. Expect to dedicate up to three hours per week, including time for meeting with the CEO, reading reports, and preparing for Board meetings.

Join Us We warmly invite you to apply to become a KidsAid Trustee. We take pride in our positive and collaborative culture, and your expertise and dedication will be highly valued. If you’d like to explore this opportunity further, our CEO and current Chair would be delighted to connect with you.