Have you ever thought about becoming a charity trustee but weren’t sure what it involved, or whether you’d have the right experience?
You might be surprised by just how much you could bring to the role.
As part of Trustees’ Week (9-13 November), we’re encouraging people across York and North Yorkshire to consider how their skills, knowledge and experiences could help local charities and community organisations.
What does a trustee actually do?
Trustees are volunteers who help lead a charity, making sure it is well run, follows its purpose and plans for the future. Depending on the organisation, this might involve:
- Helping shape the charity’s plans and priorities.
- Making important decisions about its future.
- Overseeing finances and ensuring resources are used responsibly.
- Supporting good governance and legal compliance.
- Working with fellow trustees to help the organisation achieve its goals.
While trustees have important legal responsibilities, the role can look quite different depending on the size and needs of the charity.
Do I need special qualifications?
Not necessarily!
Charities benefit from having people with different skills, experiences and perspectives on their boards.
Your experience might come from employment, volunteering, education, caring responsibilities, community involvement or your own lived experience.
You don’t need to have been a trustee before, and many organisations offer induction, training and support to help new board members understand their responsibilities.
What’s important is being willing to learn, ask questions, work with others and contribute to a cause you care about.
Why become a trustee?
There are plenty of reasons to get involved. Alongside making a positive difference to an organisation and the people it supports, the role can offer opportunities to:
- Develop leadership and decision-making skills.
- Gain experience of how charities operate.
- Meet new people and build connections.
- Share your knowledge and learn from others.
- Support an issue or cause that’s important to you.
It’s also an opportunity to bring a different perspective to the table and help charities make decisions that reflect the communities they serve.
Find a trustee opportunity in York
If you’re interested in taking the next step, York Volunteer Centre, part of York CVS, can help you explore volunteering opportunities with local organisations.
There are trustee vacancies advertised on our website, with charities looking for people who can bring a variety of skills, knowledge and experience.
You can explore the opportunities, find out more about individual roles and contact organisations that interest you.