From 9th November, we’re celebrating national Trustees’ Week – an opportunity to recognise the thousands of people across the country who give their time, skills and experience to help charities make a difference.
Here at Citizens Advice Diss, Thetford & District, we want to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to our Board of Trustees. Their commitment, knowledge and hard work help make our charity what it is, ensuring we can continue to provide vital advice and support to people in our local communities.
Our trustees give their time on a voluntary basis, taking on an important role behind the scenes. They help guide the charity, make important decisions and ensure we stay focused on our purpose.
But what exactly is a trustee, and could you become one?
What is a charity trustee?
Trustees are the people responsible for leading a charity and making sure it is run effectively and in the best interests of the people it exists to help.
You might also hear trustees called directors, board members, governors or committee members. Whatever the title, they share the responsibility of making sure the charity achieves what it was set up to do.
What do trustees actually do?
Being a trustee is about working together as a team to help a charity thrive. Trustees meet regularly to discuss plans, consider challenges and make decisions about the organisation’s future.
Their responsibilities include making sure the charity:
- Has clear priorities, plans and objectives
- Stays true to its mission and values
- Secures funding and spends its money responsibly
- Operates effectively and makes the best use of its resources
- Follows the laws and regulations that apply to charities
It’s a role that carries responsibility, but it is also a rewarding opportunity to help shape something that makes a real difference.
Why become a trustee?
Trusteeship offers a fantastic opportunity to turn your interests and passions into positive action. It’s a chance to use what you know, learn new things and make a lasting difference to a cause you care about.
Becoming a trustee can help you:
- Make a difference – Play an important role in an organisation that supports people and strengthens local communities.
- Put your skills to good use – Share your knowledge, experience and ideas to help a charity move forward.
- Learn something new – Develop skills in leadership, problem-solving, teamwork and decision-making.
- Meet new people – Build relationships and expand your professional and personal networks.
- Find a sense of purpose – Be part of something meaningful and see how your contribution helps others.
Who can become a trustee?
The answer might surprise you – almost anyone!
One of the biggest misconceptions about being a charity trustee is that you need specialist qualifications, extensive business experience or years of experience working for a charity, but that’s simply not true.
Charities benefit from having boards made up of people with different skills, backgrounds, perspectives and life experiences. You might have experience in finance, HR, IT, business, communications or fundraising. Equally, your experience of working with people, solving problems, managing projects or being part of your local community could be just as valuable.
It’s about bringing different strengths together, sharing ideas and being willing to learn.
There are some legal rules about who can act as a charity trustee, and certain circumstances can disqualify someone from taking on the role. You can find out more in this government guidance.
Could you help shape the future of your Citizens Advice Diss, Thetford & District?
If you’d like to explore more what being a trustee involves, we’d love to hear from you.
Pop into one of our offices for a chat or visit our volunteering page to register your interest.
