Recognition

Honorary roles

We offer honorary appointments to recognise exceptional contributions and to invite valued perspectives in a way that is advisory, supportive, and clearly separate from governance.

Honorary roles

Honorary appointments are ceremonial and advisory. They offer public recognition and a meaningful connection to the organisation, including opportunities to contribute ideas and provide informed guidance, without taking on the legal responsibilities or operational duties of a Director.

Why we use honorary roles

  • acknowledge outstanding service, support, or expertise
  • involve respected voices in a way that remains flexible and proportionate
  • build goodwill and strengthen our wider community
  • provide a clear, dignified alternative where a formal governance role is not appropriate or desired

What honorary roles can include

  • being listed on our website and in official communications
  • invitations to selected events and briefings
  • opportunities to contribute advice, introductions, and feedback
  • advising, where appropriate, on potential grants, funding opportunities, or awards, without any approval or decision-making authority
  • participating in, or helping to form, advisory committees or working groups, with clearly defined scopes and no governance or fiduciary responsibilities
  • occasional participation in panels, launches, campaigns, or community activity
  • acting as an ambassador for our aims, by mutual agreement

What honorary roles do not include

  • are not Directorships or trustee roles
  • do not carry voting rights at Board level, unless separately agreed and formally appointed
  • do not involve day-to-day management, decision-making authority, or oversight duties
  • do not create employment, consultancy, or agency arrangements

Types of honorary appointment

Honorary Member

A mark of appreciation for sustained support, service, volunteering, or advocacy.

Honorary Advisor

A recognised subject-matter supporter who provides occasional guidance or insight.

Honorary Patron (optional)

A high-profile champion who lends their name and public support to help raise awareness.

Honorary Ambassador (optional)

Someone who actively promotes our work within their networks and may support specific campaigns or initiatives.

How appointments work

  • awarded by invitation, following an internal review
  • confirmed in writing, setting out the title, purpose, duration, and expectations
  • time-limited or subject to periodic review
  • straightforward to step down from at any time, by either party

Governance and good practice

  • we publish a simple honorary roles policy setting out purpose, scope, and expectations
  • we offer a light-touch annual Honorary Briefing, normally held online, to share updates, maintain engagement, and invite ideas and feedback

This approach allows us to recognise contribution appropriately while maintaining clear boundaries, good governance, and a positive experience for everyone involved.