Trustee

HERON Thames is seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to join our board of trustees. As a trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the direction and sustainability of our charity, which supports women recovering from breast cancer through rowing and exercise-based programs on the Thames.

About HERON Thames

Regular physical activity significantly reduces breast cancer treatment side effects and lower the risk of recurrence and mortality by up to 42%. It can also protect against chronic conditions like heart disease and type II diabetes, which are more common after breast cancer. Rowing offers a unique recovery path, combining low-impact, full-body exercise with the calming rhythm of the water. HERON Thames supports women at every stage—whether they're facing a new diagnosis, undergoing treatment, or recovering afterward. Our mission is to help members learn a new sport tailored to their needs, restoring confidence, and regaining control.

HERON Thames (Health Exercise and Recovery On Thames) is the UK’s first rowing club specifically designed for women recovering from breast cancer although we have many friend clubs across the USA who have successfully run similar clubs for many years. 

Heron thames will provide a supportive, nature-based environment to help our members regain strength, manage treatment side effects, and improve their body image. Our mission extends beyond the physical, aiming to foster emotional resilience and raise awareness of the role of exercise in recovery.

Volunteer with us as a Trustee 

Can you help us bring our start-up charity to life?

Trustees at HERON Thames will provide governance, strategic leadership, and enthusiasm to guide our charity’s growth and impact. As a trustee, you will play a key role in ensuring we achieve our mission to support women recovering from breast cancer through rowing and exercise-based programs.

We want to assemble a board to be composed of individuals from diverse backgrounds, bringing a wealth of perspectives and skills. Some trustees are in full-time employment, others work part-time or are retired. Currently this charity is family run but we want to diversify our board and collective experience.

Who are we looking for?

Heron Thames is seeking to recruit two new Trustees to its Board. One with the knowledge, skills and experience to become the Treasurer; and another with a non-specific background, though experience in fields of finance or legal services or time spent working in the charity sector with knowledge of HR, fundraising or a medical background would be advantageous. 

Trustee roles are voluntary and unpaid, but they offer the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of women navigating their recovery journey.

Why join become a Trustee at Heron Thames?

You’ll have the opportunity to guide the strategic direction of Heron Thames as we launch our exercise program in early March. You will bring your unique skills and knowledge to discussions. You will play a vital role in improving the lives of the club members.

Time Commitment 

Board meetings are held quarterly, with occasional additional meetings or contributions as needed. Trustees are expected to serve a minimum term of one year, with the option to extend beyond that. While meetings can be attended digitally, we ask that trustees who are able to attend in-person meetings at the boat club next to Chiswick Bridge, where most of our activities take place.

If you’re eager to help Heron Thames create a safe and supportive space for women reclaiming their health through rowing, we’d love to hear from you!