Read on Twitter
Today marks the end of 6 years as a trustee at the incomparable @SwitchboardLGBT – and I thought I’d thread together my thoughts for those considering taking up #charity trusteeship… THREAD
2/ First, yes, you're ‘qualified’. @ChtyCommission found reasons for becoming a #trustee inc using your skills & wanting to ‘give back’. These suggest a certain age/exp. Charities need younger trustees, it’s valid to use the role to grow your skills. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/taken-on-trust-awareness-and-effectiveness-of-charity-trustees-in-england-and-wales
3/ Don’t stress over what your ‘contribution’ might be - if you’re just asking lots and lots of questions, you’re doing enough! In my experience, it helps to ask the 'stupid question' - the course of a discussion can be changed by the right question.
4/ The word is dull beyond measure, but take the time to understand what ‘governance’ actually means. Memorise the mission statement & objectives and use it as your yard stick in every decision. Have a dedicated notebook and scrawl it across the cover https://knowhow.ncvo.org.uk/governance
5/ Read everything you’re sent ahead of time! I know, I know, who has the time!? You don’t have to understand everything – you can discuss at the meetings – but when you get the agenda, scrutinise it wearing the hats of trustee, staff, volunteer, service user, & supporter
6/ Bring me solutions, not problems! The most frustrating board dynamic is when discussion gets bogged down in identifying problems rather than offering solutions. Even the seed of something is worth sharing. https://www.briantracy.com/blog/personal-success/10-step-process-to-solve-any-problem-critical-thinking/
7/ Don’t take on too much. @ChtyCommission found on average trustees devote nearly 5 hours per week to the role – it’s not easy and it’s made doubly hard when you overextend yourself. Support each other and share the load.
8/ Test drive the organisation first. Consider becoming a volunteer for a year first to see whether the charity and its area of work is for you. Speak to former trustees and to the Chair before applying to get a better understanding of the expectations and workload.
9/ Know when it’s time to go. I served six years as a trustee – I probably should have left after four. It’s hard, you’re a team and you’ve poured yourself into the work. Each year reassess your capacity and your enthusiasm - it can be a draining task. https://www.charityconnect.co.uk/post/when-should-trustees-resign/373
10/ Ready to apply? Take a look at @charityjob, @ReachVolunteer & @DoitUK for some vacancies, or if there’s an organisation you’re already eyeing up, introduce yourself and ask when they might be recruiting. Check out #trusteesweek for more https://trusteesweek.org/find/
