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About the organisation
Our Mission and Strategy
Mission
Founded in 2011 by Sophie Hayes, a British woman trafficked into sexual exploitation overseas, Sophie Hayes Foundation’s work has always been centred around sustainable freedom. Sustainable freedom means freedom from exploitation, slavery, and trafficking; and freedom to look to the future with renewed confidence, rebuilt skills, and a sense of purpose for survivors.
Whilst our mission of sustainable freedom has continued over the last 15 years, forms of exploitation, as well as the landscape of support to survivors of exploitation, has changed beyond recognition. To adapt and respond to this, our new clearly defined and executed mission, coupled with enhanced brand awareness, and with survivor voice at its heart, will enable us to raise awareness, provide leadership, and develop the conversation on modern slavery and human trafficking in the UK.
Freedom from modern slavery, and human trafficking must be achieved through creating a community of survivors whose voices are amplified to challenge assumptions about slavery and trafficking and to work with policymakers and businesses to understand and tackle root causes of the exploitation of vulnerabilities.
We will build on our core strengths to consolidate, expand, and diversify our funding streams for the immediate benefit of our services and the long-term stability and growth of our organisation, opening up and seizing opportunities and partnerships which arise, to expand and improve our support to survivors.
Our strategy will bring stability and transformation, will be created through collaboration and inspirational leadership, will provide foundational support to survivors and empower them as actors for change.
About the role
ABOUT THE ROLE
The people that we work with come from all over the world and have a wide variety of beliefs, experiences, and backgrounds. We are committed to sharing in and reflecting this rich diversity amongst our staff, volunteers and trustees and would strongly encourage applicants from minority and under-represented groups, and from those with lived experience. We are committed to inclusion and diversity and to building a culture where everyone is appreciated for the unique person they are.
The role
As a trustee of SHF, you will work collectively with fellow board members to provide financial insight, effective governance, oversight and strategic support to support good Board decision-making.
You will work with the Chair, CEO, finance team/advisers and the Risk and Finance Committee. Day-to-day financial management remains with the Executive Team.
Core financial responsibilities
Planning and advisory
Ensure budgets and forecasts are prepared and presented to the Board.
Advise the Board on the financial implications of strategic plans.
Advise the CEO and executive team as needed.
Oversight
Chair the Risk and Finance Committee, ensuring effective financial and risk oversight.
Reporting
Ensure annual financial statements meet accounting, regulatory and statutory requirements.
How you can contribute
- Help the Board scrutinise budgets, forecasts, management accounts and strategic financial choices.
- Oversee cash flow, reserves, financial controls, risk, statutory accounts and regulatory requirements.
- Strengthen financial confidence across the Board and Executive, including around fundraising and income diversification.
- Contribute more broadly to strategy, governance and organisational development.
- Charity or not-for-profit finance experience would be helpful but is not essential.
Trustee responsibilities
As a trustee of SHF, you will work collectively with fellow Board members to provide effective governance, oversight and strategic support.
Financial stewardship and risk management
Oversee financial health, sustainability, risks, internal controls and protection of assets.
Upholding SHF’s mission and values
Support SHF’s purpose, vision, goals and charitable objects.
Promote survivor-centred practice, inclusion and safeguarding.
Governance, compliance and ethical oversight
Ensure SHF complies with its constitution, charity law and relevant regulations.
Strategic support and constructive challenge
Provide strategic guidance, support and constructive challenge to the Executive and Board.
Safeguarding, culture and psychological safety
Promote a safe, transparent and inclusive culture where concerns can be raised.
Board participation and collaboration.
Use your skills, experience and networks to strengthen Board effectiveness, working collaboratively and respectfully.
Advocacy and external engagement
Act as an ambassador for SHF and help to raise its profile and advocate for survivors of modern slavery.
Our ideal candidate
Person specification
- Commitment to SHF’s mission, values, survivor-centred practice, safeguarding and inclusion.
- Understanding of, or willingness to learn about, the modern slavery sector.
- Strong independent judgement and balanced, ethical decision-making.
- Ability to work collaboratively, think strategically and engage constructively with complexity.
- Willingness to devote the necessary time, preparation and engagement to the role.
What’s in it for you
As a trustee of the Sophie Hayes Foundation, you will be part of a small team of volunteers who are collectively responsible for developing and guiding the strategic direction of the organisation and ensure that we continue to support and advocate for survivors of modern slavery.
You can find our full impact report for 2025 on our website, but some highlights:
- 237 women supported through our Employability Programme
- 91 women supported through our Conversational English for Independence programme
- 179 women engaged in our survivor network CREW - Creative, Resilient, Empowered , Women
- 83% of participants reported increased confidence
- 91% women reported an increase of knowledge on their workplace rights
- 90% reported an increased sense of community
As trustee, you will contribute meaningfully to that impact, have opportunities to meet our participants at events thorughout the year, including our annual Graduation ceremony, and develop networks.
Apply for the role
Please provide a short cover note setting out your motivations for volunteering for the organisation, any relevant skills/experience and why you think you might be a suitable candidate.
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