Volunteer – My Sight Finance Lead

At MySight York, we are a hard working, independent, member‑led charity supporting more than 1,700 local people with sight loss. Our services enable people to make confident choices about all aspects of their lives.

We are seeking to recruit a Finance Lead to complement the skills of our existing board of Trustees and to build and grow the charity to meet increasing need. We are committed to diversity and welcome applications from individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and under‑represented groups.

Finance Lead’s Role

• To work with staff to ensure that appropriate up to date accounts are kept – accounts are produced using Xero. Bookkeeping is done by MySight York staff and Garbutt & Elliott staff and monthly reports produced.
• To provide financial reports to the Executive Committee, to enable appropriate decisions to be made, i.e. agree budgets and report against them.
• To advise the Executive Committee on matters of investment and Charity accounting practices.
• To work with our accountants, Garbutt & Elliott, to enable the year end accounts to be compiled and independently examined, in accordance with Charity Commission requirements.
• To attend the Annual General Meeting and answer questions (if any) related to the accounts.
• To be an authorised signatory for the organisations bank accounts and monitor appropriate cashflow.

Required Experience

• Ability to work with the Chief Executive and other staff and trustees to develop appropriate systems, processes and procedures.
• The ability to understand MySight York accounts prepared on an accrual’s basis, including restricted and unrestricted accounts.
• Experience of producing accounts and managing cashflow.
• Preparation of reports for Executive Committee use to aid decision making.
• An interest in income generation and/or fundraising.

We are seeking someone who brings fresh ideas, sound financial judgement, and a clear, constructive perspective to support effective decision‑making across the charity.

The appointed Finance lead will demonstrate;

• Commitment to the vision, ethos and values of MySight York
• A willingness to meet the minimum time requirement (bi- monthly meetings, attendance at AGM and any other appropriate meetings and training)
• Conscientious working and strong attention to detail
• Strategic vision and good, independent judgement
• An ability to think creatively and a willingness to speak your mind
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to make decisions for the good of MySight York
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of being a trustee
• Commitment to follow MySight York’s policies, procedures and training requirements

Why Join MySight York?

MySight York is a charity on the rise. We’re proud to have won the Accelerating Impact Award at the 2025 Visionary Awards. With new support from the National Lottery Community Fund, we’re launching Digital Vision – an initiative helping people stay confident and connected through technology after sight loss.

Recent achievements include gaining national recognition for our Community Connect project, which has strengthened inclusion across the city through partnerships ranging from university sports clubs to Trans Pennine Express. We also worked with the National Trust’s Treasurer’s House to develop tailored sensory tours for visitors with sight loss. Joining us means being part of this exciting momentum and helping shape what comes next.

Training and Support
All volunteers will receive training on supporting people with visual impairments and complete an online safeguarding course. As an organisation we will continue to support you with ongoing learning opportunities throughout the year.

Commitment

We expect Trustees to join and actively contribute to meetings which take place every two months (Hybrid: York or online). We ask that you can commit to volunteering 4-6 hours per month. Travel expenses may be claimed.

Insurance

Volunteers are insured under MySight York’s Employer Liability insurance and for Personal Accident. (Volunteers over 70 will have a reduced level of Personal Accident insurance).

How to Apply

Even if you have not previously served on a board, please be assured that we value your skills, perspective, and willingness to contribute. We will provide guidance and support as you become familiar with your responsibilities.

MySight York is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.

A copy of MySight York’s equal opportunities policy is available upon request.