Trustee

Description:

Lightyear Foundation, a UK-based charity committed to breaking down barriers for disabled and neurodivergent children and young people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), is seeking a Trustee to join its board. This is a part-time, voluntary role ideal for individuals who are passionate about inclusion, equality, and empowering underrepresented voices in education and technology.

As a Trustee, you will be instrumental in shaping the strategic direction, governance, and long-term impact of the charity. The role involves attending approximately 8–10 meetings per year, with all meetings being remote or held in accessible venues that support virtual participation. The trustee term is 3 years, renewable up to a maximum of 6 years.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Help define and safeguard the charity’s mission and values; monitor performance against strategic goals.

• Legal and Financial Oversight: Ensure compliance with governing documents, charity regulations, and monitor financial health including budgeting and fundraising.

• Risk and Governance: Oversee policies on safeguarding, data protection, equality, and operational risks.

• Accountability & Representation: Act as a public ambassador; ensure transparent, ethical decision-making aligned with the Charity Governance Code.

• Champion Inclusion: Embed equality, diversity, and accessibility into all aspects of governance and operations. Ensure young people’s voices, especially those with disabilities or neurodivergence, are central to decision-making.

Candidate Profile:

We particularly encourage applications from:

• Disabled or neurodivergent individuals.

• People from ethnically or racially minoritized backgrounds.

• Those with lived experience of educational or STEM-related inequality.

Essential Qualities:

• Passionate about Lightyear Foundation’s mission and inclusion.

• Willing to learn, collaborate, and contribute constructively.

• Committed to confidentiality and collective board responsibility.

Desirable (but not required):

• Experience in governance, STEM, safeguarding, fundraising, education, disability rights, or charity operations.

• Previous community leadership or board experience.

• Lived experience of disability or neurodivergence.

Support and Accessibility:

• Full induction and welcome materials.

• Optional mentoring, especially for first-time trustees.

• Accessibility accommodations (assistive tech, alternative formats, BSL interpretation).

• Reimbursement for reasonable travel or access costs.

Legal Requirements:

Applicants must be:

• Aged 18 or over.

• Not disqualified under charity law (e.g., not bankrupt or convicted of certain criminal offenses).

• Willing to complete a basic DBS check if required.