Organisation Name:
York Down Syndrome Support Group
Organisation's Cause(s):
Carers
Children / Young People / Families
Disability Services
Education & Learning
Health
Local Community
Location of voluntary activity:
City of York and the area 25 miles around it
When are volunteers needed: In total approx. 5 -10 hours per month broken down as follows:
- Attendance and prep for monthly Trustee meetings (approx. 2-3 hours)
- Liaison with Trustees (approx. 1-2 hours)
- Attend key YDSSG events and represent the Charity at events/meetings with key stakeholders. This will vary according to the activity of the group and outside events, but we would not expect it to take more than 2 – 5 additional hours per month
Type of Voluntary Activity:
Strategy Development & Business Planning
Trusteeship / Committees
Role description:
Overall
• Lead the Committee of Trustees to ensure that all the organisation’s activities enable it to meet the charities objectives and responsibilities.
• To ensure an effective relationship between:
o the Trustees and the wider group
o the Trustees and external stakeholders/community
• Act as a spokesperson and figurehead
• Increase the profile of the Charity in the local community exploring networking opportunities and possible nominated charity opportunities.
• To supervise, support and co-ordinate the trustees engaged in delivering the day to day work of the group
• Be an ambassador for the charity, raising the profile of the charity in the local community and especially on special occasions such as World Down Syndrome Day on 21st March
Specifically
• Plan and prepare the Trustee committee meetings and the AGM with other Trustees and charity staff as appropriate.
• To oversee and sign off the annual report of the Charity ensuring that the report to the Charity Commission is submitted on time
• Chair Trustee committee meetings ensuring:
o A balance is struck between time-keeping and space for discussions.
o Business is dealt with and decisions made.
o Decisions, actions and deliberations are adequately minuted.
o The implementation of decisions is clearly assigned and monitored.
• Chair appointment panels for any key paid staff within the charity
• Ensure adequate support/supervision arrangements are made for Staff and volunteers who undertake work on behalf the group who are directly managed or report to the Trustees
• To lead investigation of any complaint concerning the organisation (unless it involves the chair specifically)
• Support the Trustees to find a successor and do a full hand over of responsibilities
Skills and behaviours needed for the role:
• A proven leader, who is comfortable and willing to lead the organisation.
• Possession of tact, diplomacy and powers of persuasion.
• A good listener who has empathy and understanding
• Understanding and knowledge about the lives of those who have learning disabilities.
Will there be a DBS check? Yes
Driving Licence required? No
Volunteer's own vehicle required? No
Suitable for:
Ongoing Volunteering
Skilled Volunteer
What will the volunteer gain/benefit from:
Work with children and young people who in general have positive mindsets and are usually enthusiastic about living life to the full.
Work with families who are passionate and determined to do the best for their families and those around them.
Work with a Trustees who are keen to welcome fresh eyes and supportive leadership
Work and networking opportunities with professionals in the health, education and social care sectors
Networking with other similar charitable groups - both locally and nationally
How to get involved:
Please express interest by getting in touch with the charity by email (contact@ydssg.org) or phone 0300 102 0321
Web link: Click here
Closing date: 30-06-2024