How trustees can make a difference in changing times
#TrusteesWeek (7-11 November 2022) is an annual event which puts the spotlight on the great work that trustees do by giving their skills and experience for free to help run a not-for-profit organisation. They help make the organisation stronger, more resilient and can make a real difference not just to the organisation but also to its beneficiaries.
The week also highlights the wide range of trustee and Board volunteer opportunities which are available covering all causes. While some roles may need specific skills such as HR or finance, many organisations are looking for lived experience, enthusiasm and drive. Your background or skillset could be exactly what a charity needs.
The theme for this year’s Trustee Week is ‘Making a difference in changing times’ and acknowledges the challenging times that not-for-profit organisations are operating in as demand for their services grows. Below we have picked out resources for individuals who already volunteer on a Board to help them in their current roles, for a collective board of trustees wanting to evolve, or for someone who is thinking of becoming a trustee but wants to know what is involved and how to take the next steps.
Do you currently volunteer on a Board or management committee? Find out about free training and advice
Boards and management committees are asked to advise and make decisions on the running of their not-for-profit organisation. At Community Impact Bucks, we advise Buckinghamshire charities, community groups and social enterprises on a range of trustee-related issues. Below you will find some handpicked resources and upcoming training which answer some commonly-asked questions:
- What is the best way to recruit new trustees?
Strong boards require trustees with a mix of skills, experience and characteristics but how do you find the ideal people and get them on board? The developing and advertising your trustee roles page pulls together a variety of resources to help you identify the skills and trustee roles that will make a difference to your organisation and the best ways for you to advertise them to find the right person.
If you are part of a charity or community group and would like further advice on managing and recruiting trustees, send us your details by filling in our Request Support form and one of the team will get in touch.
- Where can I find answers to common issues facing Boards?
On Tuesday 8th November (6-7pm), we are hosting a trustee roundtable to discuss issues such as when you can pay Board members, how to recruit young people on to your Board and why diverse Boards are so important. Join our essential Q&A trustee roundtable to discuss these issues and more, plus take up the opportunity to meet other trustees and share knowledge. Find out more on our Training and workshop webpage.
- How can my Board work more effectively?
We frequently hear from trustees who are having trouble resolving disputes with other board members or the CEO. There are personalities to manage, sensitive issues to be negotiated, spats to be resolved.
On Thursday 10th November (6-7pm) we are running an interactive workshop – Managing Board dynamics effectively – which will look at how you can build your relationships with fellow board members (and charity staff), what to do when things go wrong and tips on how you can make your board as effective as can be. Led by an experienced HR consultant and coach, you will find out how to identify conflict, how to establish working relationships and what to do when things go wrong. Book your free place via our Training and workshops page.
- How good is my organisation’s governance?
The Community Impact Bucks Healthcheck Tool is a free online tool which is quick, easy to use, and gives a snapshot of priorities for your organisation.
It is split into six sections focusing on the core areas of running and developing your organisation, and can be used to identify areas where you’re doing well, check where you can improve and monitor your progress over time. The tool covers governance, trustees, finance and funding, planning and development, marketing and communications, and recruitment and training. You can access the online Healthcheck Tool on our website.
Get involved in the week
We would love to help spread the word about your organisation during Trustees’ Week (7-11 November 2022) – mention us in your social media posts and we will share your news, including trustee recruitment, through our networks (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram , Linkedin).
Are you considering Board volunteering? Find out how to get answers to your questions
Many people decide to become a trustee to be able to give back to their communities, or a charity or cause close to their hearts. It can be extremely rewarding to be able to help an organisation directly and see first-hand the positive impact on the organisation, its services and its beneficiaries. It is also a great opportunity to learn new and useful skills in the role, helping to build a CV or support a career change.
- Essential reads for new or potential trustees
To help you make an informed decision on becoming a Board volunteer, go to our Trustee and Board Volunteering webpage which gives details on what is involved – from time commitment to responsibilities – and how to find out about trustee vacancies.
- Be inspired
Several Board volunteers have shared their stories with us including advice they would give to anyone thinking about helping a not-for-profit organisation in this way:
- Neil, Management Consultant and Trustee at CPRE Bucks
- Lesley Davies, People Director and Trustee at Community Impact Bucks
- Rosalind Parke, Senior Executive and Trustee at Bucks Mind
- Tori, Director of Marketing & Admissions and Vice-Chair of Bucks Mind
- Jade Clarke, Teenage Trustee at Aylesbury Youth Action
To be kept up to date with all Trustees’ Week news, visit www.trusteesweek.org.
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