Trustee

Are you ready to make a lasting impact on families affected by childhood cancer in Yorkshire? Candlelighters, a charity that provides vital financial, emotional, and practical support to over 150 new families each year, is seeking an Independent Trustee to join our Board and help guide our work.
Term: 3 Years  
Time Commitment: There are a minimum of three scheduled meetings across the year, in person in Leeds or via Microsoft Teams, with extra time needed for preparation.  We have an annual Board Away Day in November. There are opportunities to join sub-committees - Finance and Audit, Family Support, Research, Nominations and Remunerations. 

Why Join Our Board?
As an Independent Trustee, you will bring fresh perspectives and help shape our future. We are particularly looking for expertise in Law/Legal, Health and Safety, and Safeguarding.

No prior board or trustee experience? No problem! We offer comprehensive training and are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive Board. We encourage applications from women, young people, people of colour, and other underrepresented communities.

The Statutory Duties of a Trustee 

• To ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations 

• To ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document 

• To ensure the organisation uses its resources in pursuance of its objects: the organisation must not spend money on activities which are not included in its own objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are 

• To give firm strategic direction to Candlelighters, setting policy, defining goals and evaluating performance against agreed targets 

• To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation 

• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation 

• To ensure the financial stability of the organisation 

• To protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity’s funds. 

You will also be expected to: 

• Scrutinise board papers thoroughly. 

• Lead and contribute to discussions on key issues. 

• Provide guidance on new initiatives. 

• Apply any special expertise you bring to help the Board make informed decisions. 

This role requires an enhanced DBS check and a ‘Fit and Proper’ person declaration.

We are looking for someone who:

• Is committed to the purpose and strategic objectives of Candlelighters
• Understands or has experience working with diverse communities
• Is approachable, engaged, and ready to offer sound, independent judgment

Join us in making a lasting impact on the lives of families affected by childhood cancer. Your skills and insights could be exactly what we need to help guide our mission forward!