Organisation Name:
Older Citizens Advocacy york
Organisation's Cause(s):
Mentoring & Advocacy
Location of voluntary activity:
15 Priory Street, York YO1 6ET
When are volunteers needed: N.A
Type of Voluntary Activity:
Trusteeship / Committees
Role description:
Help shape the future of a charity that gives older people in York a voice.
Older Citizens Advocacy York (OCAY) provides free, independent advocacy for over 50s, helping people access support, understand their options and have their wishes heard.
As a trustee, you will help guide the charity’s direction and ensure its resources are used effectively. Working alongside fellow trustees and the Charity Director, you will:
Shape OCAY’s strategy, priorities and plans.
Review performance, finances and risks.
Support and constructively challenge the charity’s leadership.
Help ensure OCAY meets its charitable objectives and responsibilities.
Contribute your knowledge and experience to decisions, fundraising and organisational development.
Protect OCAY’s values, independence and reputation.
This is an ongoing voluntary role, with approximately six evening board meetings each year in York. Trustees also read papers beforehand and contribute to occasional working groups and activities between meetings.
Skills and behaviours needed for the role:
We are looking for people who care about older people’s rights and are willing to contribute their time, judgement and experience.
You should bring:
Integrity, reliability and a commitment to OCAY’s purpose.
Sound judgement and the ability to consider the charity’s longer-term needs.
Confidence to ask questions, express your views and challenge constructively.
The ability to listen, work respectfully with others and take collective responsibility.
Willingness to understand trustee responsibilities, prepare for meetings and follow through on commitments.
Respect for confidentiality and openness about conflicts of interest.
Experience in finance, fundraising, advocacy, law, HR, communications, marketing or strategic planning would be useful. Relevant experience can come from employment, volunteering or lived experience of issues affecting older people.
Will there be a DBS check? Yes
Driving Licence required? No
Volunteer's own vehicle required? No
Suitable for:
Skilled Volunteer
What will the volunteer gain/benefit from:
You will gain practical experience of charity governance, strategic planning, financial oversight and collective decision-making, while helping shape a service that makes a direct difference to older people’s lives.
OCAY provides a structured induction, supported by the Chair, Charity Director, a mentor and fellow trustees. You will learn about advocacy, the charity’s work and York’s voluntary sector, with opportunities to identify and develop your own skills.
The role offers the chance to use your experience, build confidence in board discussions and work with people who share a commitment to fairness and independence for older people.
How to get involved:
Please email your CV and a short supporting statement to Wayne Dawson, Charity Director, at [email protected]. Tell us why you would like to become an OCAY trustee and how your skills and experience match the role.
Informal conversations are welcome before applying. Email Wayne or call 01904 676200 to find out more.
Web link: Click here
Closing date: 31-07-2027