Who we are
GrandFriends is a joined-up solution to the Loneliness Health Crisis in the UK. Since 2022 we have been rolling out our innovative programmes to create intergenerational connections in Bath. We recruit Elders (people of retirement age) to volunteer as ‘GrandFriends’ to give their time and company to children and young people, particularly those who don’t otherwise spend regular rewarding time with Elders.
The role
Who are we looking for?
We warmly welcome applications from individuals from all professional backgrounds and lived experiences who can bring fresh perspectives and commitment to our mission.
We are particularly interested in hearing from people with expertise and interest in one or more of the following:
· Charity governance, compliance and best practice
· Financial stewardship
· Scaling-up in the charity or business sectors
· Healthy aging and age positive policy and practice
– Children and Young People’s wellbeing and opportunities
· The loneliness health crisis
· Community cohesion
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people of all generations, backgrounds and perspectives.
The role could suit retired professionals and would also be a good first experience for a junior Trustee who is a student or early in their career.
What will we ask from you?
This is a voluntary position for an initial term of 3 years. Reasonable travel and other expenses incurred in carrying out the role will be reimbursed.
We ask all Trustees to complete the short Charity Commission training for Trustees and to review the training at the start of each board term.
We hold 3 evening Board meetings a year in Bath and while Trustees are encouraged to attend in person if possible virtual attendance is available for some meetings. It is crucial that the Trustees have the time and capacity to digest the Board papers and prepare in advance of each meeting.
We will ask for your ad hoc advice and support to the team to meet the vision and mission of the charity to a maximum of three times per annum.
We ask each Trustee to attend at least one of the two annual social events we hold to celebrate the volunteers in Bath, plus to attend at least one programme session per year to see the GrandFriends in action.
How to apply
For further information or an informal discussion please contact Lavinia Thomas Buhagiar, Executive Director on lavinia@grandfriends.uk or 01225 967 680. Or send your CV together with a covering letter outlining your interest in the our work and the role, and the skills and experience you would bring to lavinia@grandfriends.uk by 5pm on 22nd October 2026.
Supporting document(s)
- trustees-recruitment-notice-september-2026.pdf - Download
