As Trustees’ Week (9–13 November) comes to a close, we’re celebrating the people who give their time, skills and experience to help charities and community organisations thrive.
Across York, trustees play an important role in supporting the organisations that make a difference in our communities. From small local grassroots groups to larger national charities, they help guide decisions, shape future plans and make sure organisations stay focused on their purpose.
Much of their work happens behind the scenes, but their contribution is essential. Trustees help charities make important decisions, oversee resources and ensure organisations can continue delivering the services and support that communities rely on.
A huge thank you to York’s charity trustees!
This Trustees’ Week, we’d like to say a huge THANK YOU to all the charity trustees across York for the time, knowledge and commitment they bring to their organisations.
Whether you’ve been involved for many years or have recently joined a board, your contributions help strengthen our local voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector.
At York CVS, we’re also incredibly grateful to our own Board of Trustees, whose guidance and support help us continue our work with charities, community groups and volunteers across the city.
Helpful resources for current trustees
Being a trustee comes with important responsibilities, but there is plenty of guidance available to help you feel informed and supported in your role.
We’ve brought together five useful resources covering governance, decision-making, digital skills and communications.
1. How to support trustees with digital decision-making – Charity Digital
Digital tools and technology are increasingly important to how charities operate. This resource explores how trustees can be supported to make informed decisions about digital priorities and developments.
Read the Charity Digital guidance
2. The value of comms at the top table – CharityComms
Effective communications are an important part of a charity’s success. This resource explores the value of bringing communications expertise and perspectives into board-level discussions and strategic decisions.
3. Making decisions as a board – NCVO
Good decision-making is central to effective charity governance. NCVO’s guidance offers practical advice to help boards approach decisions thoughtfully, work collaboratively and fulfil their responsibilities.
4. The essential trustee: What you need to know, what you need to do – Charity Commission
This essential guidance explains the key duties and responsibilities of charity trustees, including managing resources responsibly, acting in the charity’s best interests and ensuring it fulfils its purpose.
Read the Charity Commission guidance
5. Five-minute guides for charity trustees – Charity Commission
Short on time? The Charity Commission’s five-minute guides provide accessible introductions to important topics, helping trustees understand their responsibilities and find further guidance when needed.
Thinking about becoming a trustee?
If Trustees’ Week has encouraged you to consider getting involved, there are plenty of opportunities to put your skills and experiences to good use.
Through York Volunteer Centre, part of York CVS, you can explore trustee vacancies with local charities and community organisations looking for people with different backgrounds, knowledge and perspectives.
Explore volunteering opportunities through York CVS
Thank you for everything you do
As Trustees’ Week 2026 draws to a close, we want to recognise everyone who volunteers their time to help lead and support charities across York.
Your dedication, knowledge and commitment help make our communities stronger, and we are grateful for everything you contribute.