For 28 years, The Red Hen Project has been working quietly but powerfully alongside families in Cambridge providing long-term, one-to-one support for children and their families, tailored to whatever challenges they are facing.
Now, the charity is looking to strengthen its Board of Trustees, offering an opportunity for individuals to play a direct role in shaping the future of this work.
A charity rooted in community
The Red Hen Project supports primary-aged children and their families, often at moments when life feels particularly difficult. That might mean helping a child who is struggling to attend school, supporting parents dealing with housing or financial pressure, or simply being a consistent, trusted presence in a family's life.
What sets the organisation apart is its commitment to doing this work in a deeply personal way. Family workers build relationships over time, working in homes, schools and community settings, and adapting support to each family’s circumstances rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution.
Alongside this one-to-one work, the charity runs a range of group activities, from drop-ins and parenting courses to workshops and holiday trips, helping to reduce isolation and build stronger community connections.
Why trustees matter
Like many charities, The Red Hen Project relies on a committed Board of Trustees to guide its strategic direction, ensure good governance and help the organisation grow sustainably. Trustees bring a mix of professional expertise and lived experience, reflecting the diversity of the community the charity serves.
It’s a role that goes beyond oversight. Trustees help shape decisions about funding, partnerships and long-term impact, while supporting the leadership team to navigate an increasingly challenging funding landscape.
For those working in Cambridge’s business and professional sectors, it’s also a chance to apply skills in a different context and contribute to something tangible at a local level.
Making a difference close to home
In a city often associated with innovation and prosperity, it can be easy to overlook the very real challenges faced by many families. The Red Hen Project works in areas where housing pressures and inequality can have a direct impact on children’s wellbeing and ability to learn.
By supporting families early and consistently, the charity helps to improve school attendance, strengthen relationships and build confidence, creating more stable foundations for children as they grow.
An opportunity to get involved
Becoming a trustee is an opportunity to contribute to that impact in a meaningful way. Whether bringing experience in sales, marketing, HR, fundraising, strategy or simply a strong connection to the local business community, new trustees can play a key role in ensuring the charity continues to thrive.
For anyone interested in using their skills to support children and families in Cambridge, this is a chance to be part of something grounded, practical and genuinely life changing.
For more information visit https://redhenproject.org/trustee/. To express interest please email Hannah Pillar at [email protected]
