At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Board of Trustees to support and improve the lives of beneficiaries with disabilities.
- Company: The Thalidomide Trust, dedicated to empowering individuals affected by thalidomide.
- Benefits: Voluntary role with reimbursed expenses and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working with opportunities to connect and collaborate in London.
- Why this job: Use your legal expertise to advocate for a remarkable community and shape their future.
- Qualifications: Qualified barrister or solicitor with 15+ years of legal experience and empathy.
The Thalidomide Trust is a unique organisation supporting beneficiaries, now all in their 60s, born with disabilities as a result of their mother taking the drug, thalidomide, during pregnancy. They are a remarkable group of people, who have achieved a great deal despite often living with extreme levels of disability, including limb damage, hearing and visual impairment, brain and sensory impairment and damage to internal organs. Our beneficiaries have very complex and varied needs which are increasing as they age. We have gained an in-depth understanding of their evolving needs through our high level of contact with beneficiaries and our structured programme of three-yearly Holistic Needs Assessments (HNAs).
We are seeking a qualified barrister or solicitor with at least 15 years post qualification legal experience to join our Board of Trustees as a Legal Trustee, bringing sound legal judgement, empathy and a strong commitment to improving the lives of our beneficiaries.
You will bring:
- Understanding of Court of Protection issues and challenges.
- Experience of working with older people, disabled people or people with a cognitive impairment.
- Warmth, empathy and a non-judgmental approach.
- Well-developed interpersonal skills and an ability to develop positive relationships with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds.
- Judicial Experience is desirable.
Why join us?
This is a voluntary role, but reasonable expenses incurred will be reimbursed. You should also be willing and able to devote approximately 15 – 20 days (plus travel time) per annum to the Trust – and specifically be available to attend three full day board meetings and one morning virtual meeting.
Interested? If you have the skills, experience, and motivation to help shape the future of the Trust, we would love to hear from you.
More information:
- No contact from agencies or media sales.
- We particularly welcome applications from the BAME community and people living with disabilities.
- You can find out more about us by visiting www.thalidomidetrust.org.
Person specification and application form: www.thalidomidetrust.org/about-us/trust-vacancies/trustee-vacancies
If you would like to discuss the role further, please contact Katy Singh, Chief Executive on 01480 474 074.
Application deadline: Wednesday 30 September 2026 at 9am
Date for Interview: Wednesday 14 October 2026 (Central London)
* Following a restructuring exercise in January 2018, your formal title will be a Director of the Thalidomide Trust Company. However, you will operate as a charitable Trustee and will be governed by the Charity Commission.
Legal Trustee in London employer: The Thalidomide Trust
The Thalidomide Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of beneficiaries who have faced significant challenges. With a strong commitment to empathy and understanding, the organisation fosters a supportive work culture that values diverse perspectives and encourages personal growth. By joining our Board of Trustees as a Legal Trustee, you will not only contribute your legal expertise but also be part of a compassionate community focused on improving the quality of life for those we serve.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Trustee in London
✨Get Involved with Local Legal Aid Groups
Reach out to local legal aid organisations or pro bono clinics in your area. Volunteering here not only sharpens your legal skills but also opens doors to networking with established professionals in the legal field.
✨Join Law Student Societies or Organisations
If you’re still at university, join student societies or law-related clubs. They often have events and workshops that can connect you with potential mentors and help you get noticed by firms looking for volunteering support.
✨Utilise Online Legal Platforms
Participate in legal forums and online platforms like LinkedIn groups focused on law services. Share your insights and engage with others to boost your visibility and potentially catch the eye of volunteer opportunities.
✨Take Advantage of Law Fairs and Networking Events
Keep an eye out for law fairs and networking events in your area. This is a great way to meet representatives from firms like The Thalidomide Trust, and it shows your commitment to getting involved, even in a volunteer capacity.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Trustee in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Legal Knowledge:In the legal field, it’s super important to highlight your understanding of the law and any relevant coursework or projects you’ve been involved in. We suggest tailoring your CV to showcase your legal studies, internships, or even relevant extra-curricular activities that scream you're passionate about law – it really helps you stand out!
References Matter:For a volunteer role, having strong references can really boost your application. Include contacts from professors or previous employers in the legal sector who can vouch for your skills and dedication. We want to see who believes in you and supports your journey in law!
Express Your Motivation Clearly:Since this is a volunteer position, your motivation is key. Use your cover letter to explain why you want to volunteer at The Thalidomide Trust specifically and what you hope to learn. We want to know what drives you and how you can contribute to the team while gaining valuable experience!
Polish Up That CV Format:Keep your CV concise and reader-friendly since legal professionals often appreciate clarity. Use bullet points to outline your experiences, focusing on those that relate to legal skills like research, writing, or communication - these are essential in the legal field. Don't forget to keep it to one page if possible!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Thalidomide Trust
✨Showcase Your Legal Knowledge
Brush up on the fundamentals of law that are relevant to The Thalidomide Trust. As a volunteer in the legal sector, they’ll be looking for your understanding of key concepts, so don’t shy away from discussing areas like contract law or ethics in your conversations.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Service
Volunteering in law services shows a dedication to helping others. Bring up previous experiences or motivations that led you to apply for this role at The Thalidomide Trust. They’ll want to see that you’re in it for more than just the experience!
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Expect some hypothetical legal scenarios during your interview. Prepare to discuss how you would approach specific cases or serve clients based on your knowledge of the legal process and ethical considerations. It’s a chance to show how you think on your feet!
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
As a volunteer, you’ll likely be working closely with solicitors and other volunteers. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others in previous roles or projects, showing that you can fit into the team culture at The Thalidomide Trust and help create a positive impact.
