Become a Trustee
Charity Trustees play a very important role in making sure that the charity is run in the interests of the people it is there to support - those with a diagnosis of young onset dementia and their families. The Trustees strategically oversee the governance and strategic management of the organisation.
Younger People With Dementia CIO advertises periodically for new Trustees to add to their breadth of experience, bring fresh thinking and ideas into the charity and ensure that we are working at the very forefront of our game. So would being a part of a unique, dynamic and forward thinking charity be for you?
What is a Trustee?
Our Trustees ensure the charity has a clear strategy, and that its work and goals are in line with its vision. A Trustee's role in a charity is to make sure that all decisions put the needs of the beneficiaries first.
They safeguard the charity’s assets - both physical assets, including property, and intangible ones, such as its reputation. They make sure these are used well and that the charity is run sustainably. They ensure that the team are implementing the charity’s strategies and ensuring that the various activities are handled efficiently and appropriately to ensure maximum benefit to our service users, and that we are effectively performing as we should to complete our contractual work.
The Trustees don’t usually handle the day-to-day running of the charity but delegate this to the staff, led by the Director. Instead, they play the role of a ‘critical friend’ to the employees by giving support and by challenging them – in a supportive way - to help them run the charity effectively. However, in certain circumstances, Trustees may take hands-on roles too.
Our Trustee Board aims to meet bi-monthly, although “catch up” meetings may be had more regularly if circumstances require. As with many boards, we have sub-committees that focus on particular areas of work or projects. Where they have relevant expertise, Trustees may be expected to get involved with one or more sub-committees, as well as having a good understanding of the charity’s work overall.
Why become a Trustee?
Being a Trustee can be very rewarding. As a Trustee, you have the chance to support and shape the work and strategic direction of the charity, and you can make a significant difference to a cause that matters to you.
You may choose to get involved with us because your life has been touched by young onset dementia.
Being a Trustee offers the opportunity for professional development. It can let you gain experience of strategy and leadership, and boost your CV. It will give you the experience of being a non-executive director, such as setting a strategic vision, influencing and negotiating, and managing risk. If you already have significant experience in these areas, it can be stimulating to use it in a different and potentially challenging context. As a Trustee, you are part of a team and will have the opportunity to apply your unique skills and experience while sharing with and learning from others. Working closely with a passionate team of people who have different perspectives is often one of the most enjoyable aspects of the role.
What time will I be expected to spend on YPWD matters?
Well, that depends upon how much time you wish to give! As a guideline we would expect you to volunteer 1-2 days per month.
Finance
The role, being a voluntary one, is unpaid but any relevant expenses that may be incurred in the line of duty will be reimbursed.
How do I become one of your Trustees?
So…. interested in finding out more? Drop a mail expressing your interest, with some explanatory notes about your background, to contact@ypwd.info and we’ll get back to you.