A long thread on what I have learnt recently on diversity & inclusion on Boards:
The very concept of a Board is elitist & exclusive from the offset. Like a giant no entry sign for most people.
I'm sad & cross with myself that my privilege has meant I haven't seen that

Joining a Board when I was 26 was a sign of my privilege but also about the person who gave me a leg up. Thank you @KateBrattFarrar @LeedsWomensAid
Being on a Board shaped the direction of my career & gave me the experience to help to get me the job I do today.

And so whilst I think I'm not too shabby at supporting my team to develop.. I have been rubbish at seeing the massive opportunity to do this at Board level!
+ that our Board role descriptions & person specs were full of stupid businessy, strategy jargon.

So no surprise why very few people apply AND that the demographics of the average charity Board stays the same.
And that people do not think that doing it is for them, or that they will feel welcome, be meaningfully included or listened to.

Which is not to say that I don't greatly value the brilliant people I have on my Board. They are fabulous & we are very lucky to have them.
But we are taking a new approach to Board recruitment, Induction and training.
Because there is SO MUCH amazing talent out there

So many of these people already give so much to their community.
But there is also huge potential! People who just need a bit of a different route, a vote of confidence, a leg up, a genuine open door. And for us to reach out in a different way.

It is our duty to find & nurture that talent for our staff teams AND our Boards, & to build the trust. Because trust & confidence does not happen over night.
I'm annoyed with myself that I've not done better so far but I will do better now AND the learning continues!

Thank you to those who are helping me & my organisation learn. You know who you are and I'm very grateful for your patience, insight & expertise.