Why you should become a trustee
Here’s why we think you should consider a trustee role.
Charity trustees are (in most cases) volunteers who share ultimate responsibility for governing a charity and directing how it is managed and run.
A great trustee is committed to the charity’s objectives and prepared to give the time and energy agreed to the role. They are prepared to challenge, raise questions and hold the leadership to account. They are open to consider different perspectives and opinions. They are curious, asking questions, identifying opportunities and challenges and they are proactive in their approach.
For charities to make their biggest impact they need great governance. The role of a charity board is to provide oversight, direction, accountability and guidance from a range of skills, experiences and insights. Boards should typically have between 5 to 12 trustees, allowing a breadth of individual contributions to create a strong team. From risk, finance, marketing, PR, HR marketing, fundraising and lived experience, there is a board role well-suited for each of us.
It’s a great opportunity to develop your skills and knowledge. Whatever your background, the right trustee role will allow you to share your strengths. In the meantime, it offers insight into how an organisation operates. You can learn a great deal from the rest of the board and they will also benefit from your questions, gaining clarity or considering innovative ideas or opportunities to refine operations through your fresh perspective.
You can make an important contribution to society. By choosing a charity with objectives you’re passionate about you can make a real impact to a cause important to you.
The time commitment is generally manageable. While some people find it difficult to commit to regular weekly volunteering, most boards meet around 6 times a year, usually for around 2 hours. Some charities may ask for additional service in sub committees or volunteer support. While it is advised to have at least one face to face meeting per year, many charities offer online board attendance. While each role is different, it can generally offer a low-time-commitment, high-impact opportunity to serve.
It can build your network. By working with intention and impact with a small group of people with diverse backgrounds and the same charitable goal, you can build positive relationships that are supportive, motivating and inspiring.
It can be hugely rewarding. Seeing the charity’s impact, knowing you’ve contributed to it, using your skills, developing news ones and building new, meaningful relationships can be a great personal investment, resulting in greater confidence, better mental health and improved career prospects.
If you’re ready to explore trustee opportunites:
• reach out to your networks, letting them know your skills and areas of interest. You might find some really helpful introductions.
• check out relevant charity websites for vacancies to apply for. You can also get in touch to express your interest.
• check out trustee vacancy boards onljne such as Reach Volunteering, Getting on Board or local infrastructure organisations such as VONNE.
