Legal Trustee

• Street Paws is the charity standing up for people and pets facing homelessness, we believe in a future where homelessness never separates people and their pets, because for them a pet is a lifeline not a luxury.

Street Paws stands up for people facing homelessness because, for them a pet is a lifeline, not a luxury. We challenge the misconception that having a pet should ever be a barrier to a secure home. That is why, in partnership with Local Authorities, hostels and support services, we provide accessible veterinary care, training and advocacy – breaking down the barriers and opening doors to make pet friendly support the norm, not the exception.

Trustees play a large and responsible role in safeguarding the Charity through strategic governance and responsible decision making and as the charity grows, so does our reliance on them. We are seeking committed, forward-thinking and highly skilled individuals to join our Board of Trustees and are specifically looking for volunteers who: Have a strong legal background who has support legal research and analysis, draft documents and provide policy guidance. As Street Paws is a charity that supports those experiencing homelessness with pets, we are especially keen for another Trustee with a lived experience to join the team.

Main responsibilities of the Trustees:

• Act in the best interests of Street Paws, ensuring good governance and ethical stewardship of resources and ensure that Street Paws complies with its legal obligations.
• Ensure that Street Paws pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document.
• Attend and contribute to quarterly Board meetings (minimum 4 per year), plus occasional sub-committee or working group meetings as required.
• Engage actively in discussions, offering insight and strategic direction whilst providing constructive challenge based on your expertise.
• Support the Board of Trustees with defining Street Paws Goals, setting targets and evaluating performance
• Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion across all digital initiatives and within the wider organisation.
• Abide by all legal and regulatory duties as a charity trustee, including the Charity Commission’s guidance.
• Undertake relevant training and professional development offered by Street Paws.
• Ensuring the financial stability and sustainability of Street Paws.
• Safeguarding the good name and values of Street Paws.

Time commitment

• Approximately 6–12 days per year, including Board meetings, preparation, and ad hoc advice or support. Trustees are asked to support the charity in their specific area of expertise.
• Flexible attendance at events, workshops, or training as appropriate.
• Board meetings last approximately two hours every Quarter.
• Board meetings are by Teams, although we do try to meet face to face once a year for the AGM and Board meeting.

How to apply

• Please send a CV and a brief covering letter outlining your relevant experience, your motivation for applying, and how you could contribute to the work and growth of Street Paws.
• Applications should be made via email to Michelle Southern OBE Chief Executive at michelle@streetpaws.org.uk
• Shortlisted applicants will be invited to meet with current trustees and senior staff for an informal interview. 

Skills

Person Specification

• Strategic vision and good, independent judgement.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship

Desirable:

• Knowledge and experience of the charity sector.
• Proven expertise in specific skills area, ideally at management level.
• Demonstrable ability to devise and implement strategies aligned with organisational goals.
• Experience with transformation, implementing new systems, and leading change management.
• Excellent communication skills, able to translate information for non-specialists.