A charity trustee is a volunteer who is responsible for leading and governing a charity. Trustees are also known as board members, directors, governors, or committee members.
Trustees are legally responsible for ensuring that a charity is run to achieve its charitable purposes and benefit the public. They make decisions on behalf of the charity and are required to act collectively. Their role and duties are outlined in the charity’s governing document.
Being a trustee is a great way to give back or contribute to the causes you care about in your community, as well as getting to use and improve your strategic and leadership skills. Here, Peter Neal, founder of Experience Bank Group, shares some information on trustee positions and what you as a candidate should consider before becoming a trustee.
“Did you know that according to the Charity Commission there are 1 million trustees in the UK and around 100,000 further vacancies for trustees – the North East has a plethora of worthy causes and charities, all of which need a steady and dedicated board to steer their strategy.
“Anyone 18 or over can become a trustee, and boards thrive when they have a diversity of age, skills, ethnicity, knowledge and experience. It is, however, generally found that those later in their career bring the ability to commit more time, bring more experience and have a willingness to be accountable for the financial health of a charity. It is a big responsibility not only making decisions, but also ensuring that governance and policies are in place and that the charity is complying with all legal requirements.
“The average time given by trustees is 30 hours a year, but many charities require more, and some less! And of those who are currently trustees, a massive 96% said they had learnt new skills and 84% said it made them happy through purpose. If there’s no other reason why, that one reason there sings why becoming a trustee is a great thing!
“So, armed with that knowledge, you decide that being a trustee could be for you, what do you need to know?
“First and foremost, you need to do your research on any charity that appeals to you. Speak to the recruiter and or the organisation, and do your own diligence. Research their financial and compliance history on the Register of Charities, which will give you a steer on any potential problems and its current performance. Speak to current trustees, staff and if possible, the charity’s beneficiaries.
“If there are financial concerns then make sure you understand the structure and any possible personal financial liabilities you may be exposing yourself to. Most charities fall into one of four structures. A Charitable Incorporated Organisation and a Charitable Company Limited by Guarantee bring additional protection from liability compared to Unincorporated Associations and Trusts.
“You should always receive an induction pack and a clear process of appointment. Within that pack, there should be a copy of the charity’s governance policy, annual reports and accounts, current Budget and management accounts, an introduction to your fellow trustees, a risk register, board meeting minutes for the previous year and any strategic plans already in place.
“Make sure your eyes are fully open and be prepared to spend time on pre board meeting preparation, attending meetings, attending events, being visible to the operational team, attending other meetings such as planning, extraordinary board meetings and AGMs.
“If all of this entices you, then you can get in touch with me for an initial informal conversation. You can also visit a number of resources to see in more depth what the role entails – The Charity Commission booklet: The Essential Trustee, or the NVCO website.”
You can contact Peter on peter@theexperiencebank.co.uk