At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Board of Trustees and shape WECIL's future for Disability Equality.
- Company: WECIL, a leading Disabled People's Organisation in the UK.
- Benefits: Gain leadership experience, network with passionate individuals, and make a real impact.
- Other info: Voluntary role with flexible hours and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Be a voice for Disabled people and drive meaningful change in society.
- Qualifications: Must be a Disabled person with a passion for social justice and collaboration.
WECIL (West of England Centre for Inclusive Living) is one of the UK's largest Disabled People's Organisations (DPOs), led by and for Disabled people. For more than 30 years, we have worked to advance Disability Equality, Independent Living, and the rights of Disabled people across Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset, and South Gloucestershire.
Rooted in the Social Model of Disability, we believe Disabled people are the experts in their own lives. Through advice, advocacy, support services and systems change, we support thousands of Disabled people and their families each year to live independently, exercise choice and control, and participate fully in their communities.
As Chair, you will provide strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring WECIL remains focused on its mission, values and long-term sustainability. Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer, you will support and challenge the organisation to deliver meaningful impact while maintaining high standards of governance and accountability.
We are looking for a collaborative and inspiring leader with a strong commitment to Disability Equality and social justice. You may already have experience chairing a board or committee, or you may be ready to take on your first Chair role. What matters most is your ability to bring people together, facilitate effective decision-making, and provide strategic oversight in a values-led environment.
As a Disabled People's Organisation, WECIL is governed by Disabled people. The Chair of the Board of Trustees must therefore be a Disabled person who is passionate about championing the voices, rights and aspirations of Disabled people.
This is an exciting opportunity to help lead an influential organisation and contribute to creating a more inclusive society for Disabled people locally, regionally and nationally.
To apply, please submit your CV and complete the application form, including responses to the following three questions:
- Why are you interested in becoming Chair of WECIL, and how do your personal values align with our mission and values?
- What skills, knowledge, experience and achievements make you a strong candidate for this role?
- What do you believe are the biggest barriers to Disability Equality today, and what role should a Disabled People’s Organisation such as WECIL play in addressing them?
For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Matilda at matilda@atkinsonhrconsulting.co.uk
Key Dates:
- Closing Date: Midday on Monday 27 July 2026
- Shortlisting: 27 July 2026
- Interviews: TBC in August 2026 at The Vassall Centre, Gill Ave, Fishponds, Bristol, BS16 2QQ
- Board Appointment: October 2026
Chair Of The Board Of Trustees At WECIL (West of England Centre for Inclusive Living) in Bristol employer: Atkinson HR
WECIL (West of England Centre for Inclusive Living) is an exceptional employer dedicated to advancing Disability Equality and supporting Disabled people in their quest for independence and inclusion. With a strong commitment to social justice, WECIL fosters a collaborative and values-led work culture that empowers its Board members to make a meaningful impact in the community. Located in Bristol, this role offers unique opportunities for personal growth and the chance to lead an influential organisation at the forefront of change for Disabled individuals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chair Of The Board Of Trustees At WECIL (West of England Centre for Inclusive Living) in Bristol
✨Get Involved with Local Causes
Start connecting with local nonprofits or social impact projects in your area. Attend their events, offer to help out with community initiatives, or just drop by to chat about their mission. This way, you’ll not only learn about the work they do but also make meaningful connections that could lead to volunteer opportunities.
✨Leverage Social Media for Social Impact
Platforms like Twitter and Instagram are goldmines for discovering volunteer opportunities in the nonprofit sector. Follow organisations you’re passionate about, engage with their posts, and keep an eye out for their volunteer calls. It’s a great way to show your interest and dedication!
✨Utilise Volunteer Matching Platforms
Sites like VolunteerMatch or local community boards are perfect for finding short-term and long-term volunteer roles. These platforms can connect you with causes that align with your passions and skills, and often allow you to browse opportunities tailored to your interests.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you spot an organisation you like, don't hesitate to visit their website and check out their volunteer section. Many nonprofits have dedicated pages for volunteers where you can apply directly – and we’ve found that this route often leads to quicker responses and more personalised interactions!
We think you need these skills to ace Chair Of The Board Of Trustees At WECIL (West of England Centre for Inclusive Living) in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Share Your Passion for Social Impact:When you're applying for a volunteer role at a nonprofit like Atkinson HR, don’t just list your skills. Show us why you're passionate about social impact! Use your cover letter to tell a story about what drives you and how you've been involved in similar initiatives. Personal connections to the cause can really make your application stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any previous volunteer work or projects that demonstrate your commitment to social impact. Whether it’s fundraising, community outreach, or project management, detail your contributions and the results achieved. This kind of experience is invaluable in the nonprofit sector and can help us see your potential!
Get Creative with Your CV:In the world of nonprofits, a standard CV might not cut it. Consider using a more creative format that showcases your personality while maintaining professionalism. Use headings like 'Community Engagement' or 'Social Impact Projects' to highlight your experiences related to the role. Remember, we want to see what makes you unique!
Keep It Community-Focused:Make sure your application emphasises collaboration and community. Volunteer roles are about working well with others and contributing collectively towards a common goal. In your cover letter, mention any teamwork experiences or community projects you've been part of, and how you contributed to their success. This shows that you’re ready to jump into the collaborative spirit here at Atkinson HR.
How to prepare for a job interview at Atkinson HR
✨Know Your Passion
Dive deep into the mission of Atkinson HR and understand the issues they tackle. When they ask about your motivation to volunteer, share specific experiences that link your passion to their cause—whether it’s local community work or a broader social impact.
✨Bring Your Skills to the Table
Highlight any relevant skills that can aid in their projects, such as fundraising, project management, or community organising. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve used these skills in past volunteer roles or relevant experiences.
✨Get Ready for Scenario Questions
In non-profit interviews, especially for volunteer roles, you might get scenario-based questions. Think about times when you've encountered challenges in team work or community engagement, and how you resolved them—this shows your problem-solving abilities.
✨Show Your Commitment
Since this is a volunteer role, they’ll likely want to see your commitment to the cause over an extended period. Be ready to discuss how much time you can dedicate, any special skills you can bring, and your eagerness to learn and grow with the organisation—this excites them to have you on board!
