At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Board to shape strategies and influence change in domestic abuse response.
- Company: A leading charity dedicated to ending domestic abuse and supporting victims.
- Benefits: Make a real impact, network with senior policing professionals, and contribute to meaningful change.
- Other info: Diverse candidates encouraged; hybrid role with opportunities for collaboration.
- Why this job: Use your policing expertise to drive strategic decisions and improve outcomes for survivors.
- Qualifications: Senior policing experience, strategic insight, and commitment to ending domestic abuse.
Our Trustees champion our charity through strategy, communications and fundraising. We seek a Trustee with senior policing experience who shares our values—Brave, Rigorous, Human and Inclusive—and welcome diverse candidates to broaden Board experience and represent underheard voices.
The insights, experience and networks that this Trustee brings will strengthen our ability to work effectively with policing partners across the UK. Their contribution will help ensure that our strategic decisions are informed by a current understanding of policing, safeguarding, public protection and criminal justice systems. As an organisation committed to transforming the response to domestic abuse, we work closely with police forces, government departments, local partnerships and frontline services. Having senior policing expertise at Board level will help us challenge and support ourselves to maximise our impact, identify opportunities for collaboration and influence, and remain responsive to changes within the sector. Ultimately, this Trustee’s contribution will help us strengthen our partnerships, extend our reach and improve outcomes for victims and survivors of domestic abuse.
Their experience will support our mission to ensure that people receive the right help at the right time, that perpetrators are challenged to change, and that systems work more effectively together to keep families safe.
What are we looking for?
- We are looking for an individual with significant strategic-level experience within policing, particularly in the areas of domestic abuse, safeguarding, public protection or wider criminal justice systems.
- Ideally, candidates will have held a senior leadership role within policing (Chief Inspector or above) and will bring a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing policing today.
- Extensive knowledge and experience of policing, particularly in relation to domestic abuse, safeguarding and public protection.
- Experience of working strategically within the criminal justice system and of influencing policy, practice or organisational change.
- Strong networks and credibility within senior policing circles, with the ability to build relationships and open doors for the charity where appropriate.
- A clear understanding of partnership working across public, voluntary and statutory sectors.
- Good judgement, strategic thinking and the ability to contribute constructively to Board-level discussions and decision-making.
- An understanding of good governance and the responsibilities of charity trustees.
- Previous trustee experience is welcome but not essential.
Most importantly, we are looking for someone who is deeply committed to ending domestic abuse and improving outcomes for victims, survivors and their families. They will share our values of being Brave, Rigorous, Human and Inclusive and will be prepared to use their expertise, insight and influence to help further our mission. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds and are committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive Board. We particularly encourage applications from candidates whose perspectives and experiences will broaden and strengthen the diversity of voices represented within our governance.
What will you be doing?
We are seeking a Trustee with senior policing experience to join our Board at a pivotal time. From September 2026, policing expertise will no longer be represented on our Board, creating an important opportunity for a new Trustee to help shape our strategic thinking and strengthen our influence across policing, public protection and the wider criminal justice system.
Our Board brings together a diverse range of experience from across the voluntary, public and private sectors and is united by a commitment to ending domestic abuse. As we continue to grow our impact and influence, we are looking for a trustee who can provide strategic insight into current and emerging challenges within policing and help ensure our work remains relevant, effective and impactful.
The successful Trustee will support the Board in understanding developments within policing and public protection, contribute to strategic discussions around the charity’s work with statutory partners, and help strengthen relationships across senior policing networks. They will act as a trusted advisor and critical friend, bringing an understanding of how policing can work most effectively to improve outcomes for victims, survivors and families affected by domestic abuse.
The Trustee will be expected to contribute fully to Board discussions and may also serve on one of the Board’s sub-committees, depending on their interests and availability. This is an exciting opportunity to influence the future direction of a leading national charity and help drive lasting change across systems that support and protect people experiencing domestic abuse. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to bring their expertise to conversations that shape policy, practice and partnership working across the UK, helping to create safer futures for thousands of adults and children every year.
Policing Trustee - Volunteer employer: SAFELIVES
SafeLives is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the fight against domestic abuse. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, our work culture fosters collaboration and innovation among passionate individuals dedicated to transforming lives. As a Trustee, you will not only contribute to strategic development but also benefit from professional growth opportunities while working alongside a supportive leadership team in a dynamic charity environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policing Trustee - Volunteer
✨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 Policing Trustee - Volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Share Your Passion for Social Impact:When you're applying for a volunteer role at a nonprofit like SAFELIVES, 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 SAFELIVES.
How to prepare for a job interview at SAFELIVES
✨Know Your Passion
Dive deep into the mission of SAFELIVES 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!
