We are looking for our next Chair of the Board of Trustees. This is a part-time, voluntary role.

About Equilore

Equilore is a charitable organisation founded in 2017 with the vision to support people with their mental health who have got stuck in the traditional system of support.

Equilore became a registered charity in 2020 (registration 1190998) offering Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) and we have grown in our service provision ever since.

In Equine Facilitated Psychotherapy (EFP) we work with our horses to gain insight in how we perceive, behave and interact with the world around us. Horses don’t judge. They care about your presence, your intentions and your ability to be and connect with them.

Role Overview

The Chair of the Board of Trustees is responsible for leading the Board in ensuring that Equilore fulfils its charitable objectives and complies with all legal and regulatory obligations. The Chair acts as a key ambassador and strategic leader for the charity, working collaboratively with trustees, staff, and stakeholders to ensure good governance and effective oversight.

The Chair facilitates inclusive and effective board meetings, supports and appraises the performance of fellow trustees, and ensures that the Board as a whole operates efficiently and with integrity.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Governance

• Provide leadership to the Board of Trustees, enabling it to fulfil its responsibilities for the governance and strategic direction of the charity.
• Chair board meetings and the Annual General Meeting (AGM), ensuring meetings are productive, inclusive, and conducted in line with the charity’s constitution.
• Ensure that trustees receive appropriate support, training, and information to carry out their duties effectively.
• Monitor the performance of the Board and its members and lead on trustee recruitment, succession planning, and development.

Strategy & Oversight

• Work closely with fellow trustees and operational leads to develop, implement, and review the charity’s strategic plans.
• Ensure robust governance systems and risk management procedures are in place and reviewed regularly.
• Promote a culture of openness, transparency, and accountability across the organisation.

External Representation & Advocacy

• Act as an ambassador for Equilore, building relationships with stakeholders, funders, and the wider community.
• Represent the charity at public events, meetings, and with partners when required.
• Support fundraising and advocacy efforts where appropriate.

Support & Supervision

• Line-manage or support the Chief Executive (or equivalent operational lead), where applicable.
• Provide constructive feedback and support to trustees and the executive team.
• Collaborate with the Treasurer, Secretary, and other trustees to ensure the charity meets its objectives efficiently and ethically.

Person Specification

Essential

• Proven leadership experience, preferably at board or senior management level.
• Strong understanding of governance and the role of trustees in a charity.
• Ability to chair meetings effectively and foster collaborative decision-making.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to see the big picture and support long-term planning.
• A genuine commitment to Equilore’s values and mission.
  

Desirable

• Previous experience as a charity trustee or chair.
• Knowledge of the voluntary/community sector or lived experience relevant to Equilore’s work.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and/or public speaking.
• Awareness of charity finance, fundraising, and legal frameworks.

Time Commitment

Estimated 6–10 hours per month, with occasional additional commitments for public representation and events.

Support & Benefits

• Induction and ongoing support.
• Opportunity to gain experience in charity governance.

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience to board@equilore.co.uk, or submit the application form below.