Chair of Trustees at Different Planet Arts

Different Planet Arts (DPA) is a multidisciplinary arts charity based in Lewes, working.

We create sensory theatre, sensory-friendly cinema and inclusive play skills training for children and young people with complex disabilities and their families - work designed so a child with profound and multiple disabilities, their siblings and their parents can share the same experience together.

We have been working since 2010 and have been a registered charity since 2018. Close to 10,000 people have taken part in a DPA project.

In 2022 we won the Children & Young People Now Award in the Play category, and our Artistic Director was nominated as an East Sussex Woman of the Year in 2024.

HOW TO APPLY: Email nyawa@differentplanetarts.org.uk for an application pack. Send a CV and cover letter outlining any relevant leadership and voluntary experience for the role.

Contact: Nyawa Bottomley
Email: nyawa@differentplanetarts.org.uk
Telephone: 07711 717634

What does the opportunity involve doing?

Board Leadership & Governance: Plan and run effective trustee meetings, make sure decisions are carried out, and ensure the charity complies with legal and regulatory standards.

Strategy & Planning: Guide the board in service of the core mission, long-term strategic direction, and annual objectives.

Support for Staff/Leadership: Act as a main point of contact, supervisor, and "critical friend" to the charity’s senior staff.

Ambassador & Advocate: Represent the charity to external stakeholders, funders, and the local community to build public trust and support.

Board Development: Lead the recruitment, induction, and performance review of new and existing trustees.

Operational Availability: Remain responsive between meetings to advise or authorize urgent actions, as small charities often require extra day-to-day flexibility

TIME COMMITMENT

Estimated at 4hrs per month or the equivalent.
Attending 4 Board meetings a year.
Monthly scheduled meeting with the CEO with flexibility to respond swiftly to the occasional ad hoc issue.
Attending an annual half day strategy session.

TERMS OF SERVICE:
1-3 year term in office, with re-election every 3 years
This is a voluntary position.

What induction, training and support is offered?

Our new Chair will shadow the outgoing Chair for several months before taking over the role and working with DPA’s Artistic Director on our strategy for the years ahead.

What skills or qualities are needed?

Inclusive Leadership: Strong ability to motivate volunteers and foster an inclusive, collaborative team environment.

Communication: Excellent interpersonal, listening, and diplomatic skills.

Commitment: Passion for the charity's cause and the time required to prepare for meetings and support staff.

Governance Understanding: A solid grasp of charity finance, legal duties, and regulatory compliance.

Experience of multidisciplinary and/or community arts.

A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

More info
Date added

10th September 2026

Organisation

Different Planet Arts

Location

Can be done at home

Deadline for applications

2 Oct 2026

Categories

Children/families Disabled people

Activities

Being a committee member/trustee

Disabled access?

Yes

Expenses paid?

Yes

Childcare available?

No

Contact name

Nyawa Bottomley

Phone number

07711717634

More info »

https://differentplanetarts.org.uk