Trustee role - LEAH Learn English At Home

LEAH is a West London charity that helps empower people whose first language is not English to communicate independently. Our staff and volunteers help beneficiaries feel resilient, develop a sense of belonging, and become equipped with the skills to contribute to their communities.

We are seeking two Trustees to join a highly collaborative Board that is committed to making a difference to ethnic minority adults and their families.

LEAH was established over 40 years ago. In 2024, at the request of another charity, we took responsibility for services previously provided in Merton. Over 100 volunteers currently support more than 600 beneficiaries each year, traditionally through one to one mentoring or small group sessions. We provide regular training and support for our volunteers, many of whom have been with LEAH for several years.

More recently, we have expanded our provision to include classes, which in Merton are delivered by qualified ESOL tutors. Like many charities, LEAH is operating in a more challenging funding environment. The organisation is currently going through a period of change to manage costs and simplify internal processes. Our commitment to beneficiaries remains unchanged and, subject to continued funding, we aim to maintain all current services.

As a result of these changes, the Board is working more closely with the staff team, and we expect this to continue until the end of the year. We are committed to ensuring that LEAH continues to thrive and delivers high quality services to its beneficiaries.

Time commitment

Approximately 1.5 days per month, including attending meetings, responding to emails and reading papers between meetings. Trustees should also be willing, where possible, to attend occasional events involving volunteers, beneficiaries and potential funders.

How to apply

Please send your CV and a brief covering letter explaining your interest in the role to Sharon Landa, Chair, at slanda@leah.org.uk.

Our website is: https://learnenglishathome.org.uk/

If you would like an informal discussion before applying, please contact Sharon by email.

Deadline for applications: 6 May 2026.

What skills do I need?

Who we are looking for:

We particularly welcome applicants who have:

• Lived experience of English as a second language

• Good commercial or organisational common sense

• The potential to become an officer or committee chair

LEAH provides services in the London boroughs of Merton, Kingston, Richmond and Hounslow. We welcome applications from across London, or surrounding areas, from people who are able to attend occasional in person meetings in Kingston.

Training will be offered to those who are new to trusteeship, to support the transition into the role. An induction and onboarding process is offered to all new Trustees. Our current Trustees bring a wide range of skills, experience and backgrounds, including legal, financial, education, marketing and commercial expertise.

Desirable skills and experience

• Leadership qualities, including critical thinking and sound decision making

• Experience of fundraising or working with grant making bodies

• A good understanding of the challenges facing asylum seekers and refugees

When do I need to be available?

	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Details

Approximately 1.5 days per month, including attending meetings, responding to emails and reading papers between meetings. Trustees should also be willing, where possible, to attend occasional events involving volunteers, beneficiaries and potential funders.

Where does this role take place?