Voluntary Board Member Opportunities

Breaking Through

About Us

Breaking Through is a small charity with a big national impact. For 26 years, we have strengthened the people who support Ireland’s most vulnerable — including frontline workers, aftercare professionals, youth workers, mental health practitioners and community organisations.

Our work is delivered by a dedicated staff team of five, supported by a voluntary eight ‑member Board.

We coordinate suicide prevention and self‑harm awareness training as part of national strategy to reduce suicide in Ireland called  Connecting for Life across various HSE areas, and we also  manage the Irish Aftercare Network, which connects over 700 professionals supporting young people leaving State care.

Breaking Through is recognised nationally for its strong governance, professionalism, and consistent delivery of high-quality training and support services. As a small but high‑performing charity, we deliver work of national significance,

About the Role

We are seeking a committed and values‑driven Voluntary Board Member to join our Board of Directors.

This is a meaningful opportunity to help shape the future of a charity that quietly but effectively influences change at a national level.

As a Board Member, you will:
• Provide strategic guidance and oversight
• Support good governance and organisational development
• Contribute your expertise to help strengthen supports for frontline workers
• Champion better outcomes for care‑experienced young people
• Work collaboratively with a passionate National Director, small staff team and engaged Board

Skills & Experience Sought

We welcome expressions of interest from individuals with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Governance or charity leadership
• Finance or accounting
• Social care or aftercare
• Mental health, suicide prevention or wellbeing
 

Time Commitment

The Board meets approximately five times per year, with occasional sub‑group meetings depending on your area of contribution.

Of the five Board meetings, two are held in person and three take place online.

Meetings are friendly, well‑structured, efficient and supportive, with a strong emphasis on collaboration, good governance and shared purpose.

Why Join Breaking Through?

• Make a genuine impact on national policy and practice
• Support those working with Ireland’s most vulnerable young people
• Join a warm, professional and highly committed Board
• Contribute your skills to a small charity achieving remarkable national reach
• Be part of positive, values‑driven change
• Join an organisation recognised for strong governance, national collaboration and meaningful impact

How to Apply

We would be delighted to hear from you.
To express interest or request more information, please contact us via Boardmatch or reach out directly to the National Director.