Volunteer Roles

About Cruse

Cruse is Britain’s oldest and largest bereavement charity. In the Midlands, Cruse brings together more than 500 volunteers to helped support bereaved people, through a mix of individual and group sessions.

Cruse volunteers all pass through the same training process. Some volunteers are trained or trainee counsellors, whilst others have bereavement experience or put their listening skills to practice in helping people through their grief journey.

Cruse Worcestershire

The well-established Cruse branch of Worcestershire is seeking a Volunteer Chair. This active branch has 30 volunteers and can be supporting approximately 100 bereaved people at any one time. The volunteer team predominantly support service users via phone or Zoom, but does have outposts across the area. The team meet for regular forums and also hold in-person meetings, to socialise and cover learning topics specific to the work.

The role

The branch is looking for a Volunteer Chair. This role of Chair will be stimulating and call on your strategic and interpersonal skills.

It provides an opportunity to work alongside an experienced and diverse team of volunteers and staff in a rapidly changing environment to make a real difference to the people of Worcestershire.

The Chair provides a focal point for the branch, representing the volunteers and delivering a sense of cohesion to the volunteer group, championing their priorities and supporting key activities like learning, social events and fundraising.

The role is not remunerated. However, reasonable expenses incurred in carrying out the role will be repaid.

Time Commitment

· The Branch Forum meets approximately 8 times a year for 1.5 hours in the evening (7pm – 8.30pm).

· Monthly operations-focused meetings with the volunteer administrators/part-time staff approx. every 6 weeks.

· Ad hoc communication outside of formal meetings.

· Attendance of Cruse national meetings based on interest/focus

· 3 in-person group social/learning events each year

What are we looking for?

The new Chair will bring their passion and commitment to the bereaved people of Worcestershire. Your skills and experience will help us to empower our volunteers to continue to provide excellent support for grieving people

We are interested in an individual who brings the following:

· Ideally the Chair will be local and have networks in Worcestershire.

· Strong leadership skills and ability to motivate a team.

· Have some experience of personal loss.

· Strong inter-personal, networking and relationship building abilities.

· Previous Board experience, either within a charity or in a corporate setting.

We warmly welcome candidates from a range of cultures, backgrounds, contexts, ages and experience. We strongly value the contribution that people with these characteristics will bring to our branch discussions.

What difference will you make?

The role of the Chair is key to ensuring that Cruse continues to thrive, meeting the needs of bereaved people in Worcestershire. We are a truly positive and diverse organisation that welcomes all people.

By providing your energy, enthusiasm and experience, you can help Cruse reach more people and do so in a way which is sustainable.

Could you help us support people in need?  Great opportunity to join our volunteer team!  

We’d like to be more representative of the people we serve and are looking for Trustee Volunteers for around 2-3 hours per month - in person, hybrid or online.

We need people from all walks of life - people with experience of homelessness, disability or debt, people from a wide variety of ethnic groups, females, younger people and anyone with an understanding of the challenges faced by marginalised communities.

You don't need experience, but you will need a passion for helping others. Training and expenses will be provided.

Volunteering with us gives you excellent transferable skills for your CV, as well as social opportunities and a chance to give back to the community as part of our friendly team.

GeoTrees EU addresses the urgent deforestation crisis by connecting individuals globally with transparent, scientifically guided tree-planting initiatives, ensuring accountability through geolocation tracking. Trees are vital for the survival of the world’s ecosystems. They clean the air we breathe by capturing excess carbon dioxide (CO₂) and releasing oxygen.  Trees provide a habitat for wildlife and thus, save the variety of life on earth. However, deforestation is happening every day in front of our eyes. 15 billion trees are cut down every year. There’s no time to wait!

Reforestation is a long game. Planting a tree today, individuals can make a contribution for generations to come. Geotrees supports local and indigenous people as much as possible. At the same time, their goal is not just planting any tree anywhere, but planting in the way that biodiversity is taken into account. Your action today will have a huge impact for decades to come.

 

• They are looking for a Fundraising Specialist VOLUNTEER to develop and implement a fundraising strategy for our initiatives. We are looking for individuals with a background in creating successful campaigns for our venture.

• -Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy. -Identify and engage potential donors and sponsors. -Design and manage fundraising campaigns. -Create fundraising materials and messaging. -Monitor and report on fundraising activities and outcomes.

• Volunteer 2-3 hours per week remotely for 3-5 months ��

Men Who Talk is a UK registered charity, running weekly online peer-to-peer support groups for men aged 18+ across the UK. The groups take places between 7:00 - 8:30pm during week nights.

Our groups are supportive spaces for men aged 18+ to come and talk openly about what's on their mind. All groups are free to attend and follow the evidence based model of peer support. 

Volunteers are required to be online from 6:45pm to 8:45pm, and are required to facilitate around 1 group per month. Volunteers are asked to commit to an a minimum of 6 months of volunteering in the initial stage. 

All groups are facilitated by 2 facilitators, and follow a semi-structured pattern.

We are looking for passionate men with some experience of groups facilitating or working in mental health settings to come join us as facilitators. Experience in using online platforms such as zoom is essential. 

A degree in psychology is preferred but not an essential requirement.

Why Join MWT? 

Men Who Talk is an exciting, fast growing charity, creating new spaces for men to talk openly about what's on their mind. 

We have a diverse team full of talented and passionate individuals who are committed to changing the face of mens mental health across the UK. 

As well as the opportunity to join the organisation at an exciting stage of it's development, volunteers also have the opportunity to develop their own skills and have regular chances to feed into the creative and strategic development of the organisation. 

PLEASE NOTE: We are only able to accept applications from individuals who already have the right to live and work in the UK. 

Do you want to help us end the abuse of animals raised for food? In this flexible role, you will create change for animals by attending in-person events and taking campaign actions from home at a time that works for you. 

Why join us? We exist to end the abuse of animals raised for food. We work specifically on corporate focused campaigns demanding better welfare practices for chickens. This flexible and rewarding role is perfect for those looking to make a difference for farmed animals but without the strict time commitment. There are no set hours, you can get involved whenever you are free. Whether you're a student, retired, working full time, or somewhere in between - we would love to welcome you.

As a Campaign Volunteer, you will help us drive change for farmed animals by: 

• Joining us for in-person events locally, and nationally (this may include peaceful protests, public outreach and informal meet-ups). All relevant expenses will be paid.

• Taking part in campaign actions from home including writing emails and letters, making phone calls and social media actions

• Connecting with your MP to campaign for change

• And more! 

Gain fantastic transferable experience and build your advocacy skills in this flexible and rewarding role. You will be working directly with THL UK staff members who will steward and support you throughout your time with us. You will also have access to exclusive training opportunities to further your animal advocacy development, as well as a full onboarding process to get you started.

Our team is based all over the UK, so we’re set up to provide you with a great experience no matter where you’re based. We cover expenses to join us at in-person events, so you can be based anywhere and still get involved. No prior experience is required, we’ll give you everything you need. There is no set time commitment, but roughly 2-4 hours a month is average for this role, depending on how much you choose to get involved with.

Everything you do in support of our campaigns will help to reduce the suffering of animals who are on factory farms right now. Want to get involved? Apply today!

Disclaimer:

The Humane League UK is committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive team. We are an equal opportunities organisation and welcome volunteer applications from all people, regardless of their race, sex, age, religion, disability, neurodiversity, orientation, gender identity or expression. We particularly encourage those currently under-represented in the animal movement to join our team – individuals who are Black, Indigenous or People of the Global Majority, a person who is differently abled, and people who are LGBTQIA+.

We endeavour to make all our events and activities as inclusive as possible, with accessibility at the forefront of our minds - not as an afterthought.

If you prefer to apply in another way, or you have alternative requirements you’d like to discuss, don’t hesitate to contact us - please find our email address on the Role Profile document below.

Do you want to help us end the abuse of animals raised for food? In this flexible role, you will create change for animals by attending in-person events and taking campaign actions from home at a time that works for you. 

Why join us? We exist to end the abuse of animals raised for food. We work specifically on corporate focused campaigns demanding better welfare practices for chickens. This flexible and rewarding role is perfect for those looking to make a difference for farmed animals but without the strict time commitment. There are no set hours, you can get involved whenever you are free. Whether you're a student, retired, working full time, or somewhere in between - we would love to welcome you.

As a Campaign Volunteer, you will help us drive change for farmed animals by: 

• Joining us for in-person events locally, and nationally (this may include peaceful protests, public outreach and informal meet-ups). All relevant expenses will be paid.

• Taking part in campaign actions from home including writing emails and letters, making phone calls and social media actions

• Connecting with your MP to campaign for change

• And more! 

Gain fantastic transferable experience and build your advocacy skills in this flexible and rewarding role. You will be working directly with THL UK staff members who will steward and support you throughout your time with us. You will also have access to exclusive training opportunities to further your animal advocacy development, as well as a full onboarding process to get you started.

Our team is based all over the UK, so we’re set up to provide you with a great experience no matter where you’re based. We cover expenses to join us at in-person events, so you can be based anywhere and still get involved. No prior experience is required, we’ll give you everything you need. There is no set time commitment, but roughly 2-4 hours a month is average for this role, depending on how much you choose to get involved with.

Everything you do in support of our campaigns will help to reduce the suffering of animals who are on factory farms right now. Want to get involved? Apply today!

Disclaimer:

The Humane League UK is committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive team. We are an equal opportunities organisation and welcome volunteer applications from all people, regardless of their race, sex, age, religion, disability, neurodiversity, orientation, gender identity or expression. We particularly encourage those currently under-represented in the animal movement to join our team – individuals who are Black, Indigenous or People of the Global Majority, a person who is differently abled, and people who are LGBTQIA+.

We endeavour to make all our events and activities as inclusive as possible, with accessibility at the forefront of our minds - not as an afterthought.

If you prefer to apply in another way, or you have alternative requirements you’d like to discuss, don’t hesitate to contact us - please find our email address on the Role Profile document below.

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Health and Safety Volunteer for the Tees and Esk Group. As a Health and Safety Volunteer you’ll make sure all local group members are aware of their health and safety responsibilities. You’ll help them understand and follow guidelines and procedures to coordinate safe activities.

In this role you’ll gain knowledge of Health and Safety legislation, as well as develop your organisation, admin and communication skills. Most importantly you’ll help your local group make sure all their activities are safe for every member of your local MS community. 

Time commitment

We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers.

You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the local area the group to carry out this role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

Do you love music ?

Are you a "people person"?

Our organised music and dance groups give people with additional needs the chance to make friends, enjoy social time together and try out a variety of activities.  These fun and friendly groups also help to improve physical health and mental wellbeing.

We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers for our amazing music, drama and dance groups in Weoley Castle. You will be encouraging our citizens to take part and ensure everyone has a great time.

You DON'T need to be a good singer or a great mover - just a friendly person :-)

What would I be doing?

Helping people to take part in various activities, including singing, dancing, creative music sessions and drama.

Encouraging people to feel part of the group and take part in the activities.

Helping to set up equipment and tidy away at the end of the session.

Helping to maintain a safe and welcoming environment.

What do I need?

· An interest in helping people, being approachable and friendly

· Any performance skills or interests would be amazing, but not essential.

· Good communication skills

· Accepting of others who might be different to you

· The ability to work as part of a diverse team

· A willingness to learn and work within guidelines set out by Midland Mencap

· Honesty, integrity and trustworthy

· Good time management skills, reliability

· An enhanced DBS check will be required by all successful applicants.

Where and when do you need me?

· We produce a weekly timetable with activities each day

· Weoley Castle Community Hub, Bottetourt Rd, Birmingham B29 5TE

What’s in it for me?

As one of our valued volunteers, Midland Mencap will offer you:

· The opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities and their family carers

· Improved health and wellbeing from doing positive activities

· A volunteering preparation session

· An induction and settling in period and any training and development that is needed

· The chance to develop your skills and gain experience

· The opportunity to meet new people and be part of a diverse team

· Any out-of-pocket travel expenses

· Lots of appreciation for your amazing contribution

Chair

Type: Voluntary Position

Location: Falkirk

Closing Date: Friday 16th August

Falkirk and District Association for Mental Health, known locally as Falkirk’s Mental Health Association or FDAMH for those facing mental health challenges in the community, promotes positive wellbeing through a range of services, training, and education. They assist individuals on their unique journey of recovery, focusing on self-discovery and personal growth.

As advocates for change, FDAMH works tirelessly to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues, prevent deterioration in wellbeing, and provide essential support, education, and training. The team at FDAMH is diverse, bringing together a wide range of skills, experiences, and backgrounds, all united by a shared commitment to making a positive impact in the community. Their services, including one-to-one support, groupwork, and training, are available to individuals aged 13 and above across Falkirk and its district areas. Through a holistic approach, FDAMH ensures tailored support is provided at the right time, empowering individuals on their journey to recovery and wellbeing.

FDAMH is currently seeking a new Chair to join their Board at an exciting time of growth and development, coinciding with the development of their new Strategic Plan for the next three years. This role presents a significant opportunity to contribute to shape the future of the organisation.

The Role of Chair:

The Chair will hold the Board and Senior Leadership Team accountable for FDAMH’s mission and vision, providing inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees. They will ensure each trustee fulfils their governance responsibilities effectively, supporting and occasionally challenging the Chief Executive Officer to ensure effective compliance and operations of the organisation. The Chair will be a strong and visible ambassador of the charity, working closely with the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team.

The ideal candidate will have senior strategic leadership experience within an organisation, preferably in the third sector, with a proven track record of success. Experience in charity governance and with Boards of Trustees is essential. You will demonstrate a strong passion for and commitment to FDAMH’s mission and objectives, possessing the personal gravitas to lead a significant charity within the local community. Strong leadership, motivational, and collaborative skills are crucial, alongside excellent interpersonal and relationship-building abilities. A broad understanding of the third sector and its current challenges is also required.

We encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds who possess the necessary skills and attributes for the role of Chair. Board meetings are bi-monthly, typically held on Wednesdays from 6pm to 8:30pm.

How to Apply:

Please contatc us to request an information pack, full job description and person specification.

Closing Date: Midday, Friday 16th August

This search is being conducted exclusively for FDAMH by BTA (Bruce Tait Associates). Our leadership team have all worked in the voluntary sector and we use this experience to match organisations and individuals to create great appointments.

GeoTrees EU addresses the urgent deforestation crisis by connecting individuals globally with transparent, scientifically guided tree-planting initiatives, ensuring accountability through geolocation tracking. Trees are vital for the survival of the world’s ecosystems. They clean the air we breathe by capturing excess carbon dioxide (CO₂) and releasing oxygen.  Trees provide a habitat for wildlife and thus, save the variety of life on earth. However, deforestation is happening every day in front of our eyes. 15 billion trees are cut down every year. There’s no time to wait!

Reforestation is a long game. Planting a tree today, individuals can make a contribution for generations to come. Geotrees supports local and indigenous people as much as possible. At the same time, their goal is not just planting any tree anywhere, but planting in the way that biodiversity is taken into account. Your action today will have a huge impact for decades to come.

• They are looking for a SMM Specialist VOLUNTEER to develop and implement a social media strategy for their initiatives. They are looking for individuals with a background in creating successful digital campaigns for our venture.

• -Develop and execute a comprehensive social media strategy. -Design and manage digital marketing campaigns across various social media platforms. -Create engaging content and messaging for social media channels. -Monitor and report on social media activities and campaign outcomes.

• Volunteer 7-9 hours per week remotely for 6 months ��

GeoTrees EU addresses the urgent deforestation crisis by connecting individuals globally with transparent, scientifically guided tree-planting initiatives, ensuring accountability through geolocation tracking. Trees are vital for the survival of the world’s ecosystems. They clean the air we breathe by capturing excess carbon dioxide (CO₂) and releasing oxygen.  Trees provide a habitat for wildlife and thus, save the variety of life on earth. However, deforestation is happening every day in front of our eyes. 15 billion trees are cut down every year. There’s no time to wait!

Reforestation is a long game. Planting a tree today, individuals can make a contribution for generations to come. Geotrees supports local and indigenous people as much as possible. At the same time, their goal is not just planting any tree anywhere, but planting in the way that biodiversity is taken into account. Your action today will have a huge impact for decades to come.

• They are looking for a Legal Expert VOLUNTEER to provide legal guidance for our initiatives. We are looking for an advisor with a background in reviewing and managing legal documents for our venture.

• -Check and review current agreements. -Review and provide feedback on legal documents. -Offer guidance on legal aspects relevant to our operations in Europe and beyond. -Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

• Volunteer 2-3 hours per week remotely for 3-5 months ��

GeoTrees EU addresses the urgent deforestation crisis by connecting individuals globally with transparent, scientifically guided tree-planting initiatives, ensuring accountability through geolocation tracking. Trees are vital for the survival of the world’s ecosystems. They clean the air we breathe by capturing excess carbon dioxide (CO₂) and releasing oxygen.  Trees provide a habitat for wildlife and thus, save the variety of life on earth. However, deforestation is happening every day in front of our eyes. 15 billion trees are cut down every year. There’s no time to wait!

Reforestation is a long game. Planting a tree today, individuals can make a contribution for generations to come. Geotrees supports local and indigenous people as much as possible. At the same time, their goal is not just planting any tree anywhere, but planting in the way that biodiversity is taken into account. Your action today will have a huge impact for decades to come.

• They are looking for a Marketing Specialist VOLUNTEER to develop and implement a marketing strategy for our initiatives. They are looking for individuals with a background in creating successful marketing campaigns for their venture.

• -Develop and execute a comprehensive marketing strategy. -Design and manage marketing campaigns across various channels. -Create marketing materials and messaging. -Monitor and report on marketing activities and outcomes.

• Volunteer 4-6 hours per week remotely for 6 months ��

Do you want to help us end the abuse of animals raised for food? In this flexible role, you will create change for animals by attending in-person events and taking campaign actions from home at a time that works for you. 

Why join us? We exist to end the abuse of animals raised for food. We work specifically on corporate focused campaigns demanding better welfare practices for chickens. This flexible and rewarding role is perfect for those looking to make a difference for farmed animals but without the strict time commitment. There are no set hours, you can get involved whenever you are free. Whether you're a student, retired, working full time, or somewhere in between - we would love to welcome you.

As a Campaign Volunteer, you will help us drive change for farmed animals by: 

• Joining us for in-person events locally, and nationally (this may include peaceful protests, public outreach and informal meet-ups). All relevant expenses will be paid.

• Taking part in campaign actions from home including writing emails and letters, making phone calls and social media actions

• Connecting with your MP to campaign for change

• And more! 

Gain fantastic transferable experience and build your advocacy skills in this flexible and rewarding role. You will be working directly with THL UK staff members who will steward and support you throughout your time with us. You will also have access to exclusive training opportunities to further your animal advocacy development, as well as a full onboarding process to get you started.

Our team is based all over the UK, so we’re set up to provide you with a great experience no matter where you’re based. We cover expenses to join us at in-person events, so you can be based anywhere and still get involved. No prior experience is required, we’ll give you everything you need. There is no set time commitment, but roughly 2-4 hours a month is average for this role, depending on how much you choose to get involved with.

Everything you do in support of our campaigns will help to reduce the suffering of animals who are on factory farms right now. Want to get involved? Apply today!

Disclaimer:

The Humane League UK is committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive team. We are an equal opportunities organisation and welcome volunteer applications from all people, regardless of their race, sex, age, religion, disability, neurodiversity, orientation, gender identity or expression. We particularly encourage those currently under-represented in the animal movement to join our team – individuals who are Black, Indigenous or People of the Global Majority, a person who is differently abled, and people who are LGBTQIA+.

We endeavour to make all our events and activities as inclusive as possible, with accessibility at the forefront of our minds - not as an afterthought.

If you prefer to apply in another way, or you have alternative requirements you’d like to discuss, don’t hesitate to contact us - please find our email address on the Role Profile document below.

Becoming a Trustee for Herts Musical Memories

Herts Musical Memories are celebrating there 8th Year of becoming a charity and we are now at last, beginning to recover from the Pandemic. We urgently need to expand our board to ensure that the charity continues to grow – the following provides some background to our work and lays out what it means to become a trustee.

Herts Musical Memories purposes are:

• To facilitate structured group sessions designed around the principles of music therapy and group singing for people with dementia and their carers.

Herts Musical Memories objectives are:

• To provide activities for people with dementia and their carers that help stimulate memories

• To provide activities that incorporate social interaction and peer support for people with dementia and their carers

• To reduce feelings of isolation for families coping with dementia and to provide access to artistic and social stimulation

What Herts Musical Memories values are:

Health, wellbeing and equality will be at the core of all Herts Musical Memories activities relating to service users, staff and volunteers and the wider public.

In relation to our service users Herts Musical Memories will actively promote equality for people with dementia.  To free them from fear and isolation and to use our services to demonstrate to the wider public that people with dementia still have a place in society and should be treated with dignity and respect.

The Singing Sessions:

‘Thank you for Bringing the sunshine into my Mum’s week.’  Carer

Herts Musical Memories provides stimulating social activities involving music, seated movement and singing for people with dementia and their carers.  The charity runs 9  groups in 4 weekly blocks across Hertfordshire with an admin and song preparation session every 5th week.  There is an average of 25 people per session with sometimes over 30 people attending.  The sessions last 90 minutes with time set aside for socialising and light refreshments. 

Most of the participants are dealing with the impact of an early diagnosis and are usually accompanied by a family member, usually a spouse.  People who live alone often come with a professional carer.

Sessions are held at fixed dates and times in community centres or church halls. The venues are chosen carefully for ease of access, to be on regular bus routes, good parking and for having good facilities. This does mean that, sometimes the venue can be expensive, but the venue plays an important part in making the sessions a positive experience.

The sessions are structured to include a range of activities that are repeated each week providing the service users with a routine that becomes familiar with regular attendance.  Songs are chosen from popular music from the 1950s going up to the 1970s. The sessions will include; songs that require movement, singing rounds where people get a chance to sing in harmony, rhythm exercises using percussion instruments and exercises in dexterity using bean bags.

The service users are taught new songs – incredibly due to the way the human brain remembers music, people with dementia can cope with this and actively enjoy learning new things – this increases their confidence and boosts their self-esteem.

The sessions are delivered by a professional group leader with the support of volunteers. 

Finances:

Herts Musical Memories has no formal funding – we raise a contribution through fees which are £6 per session, we raise up to £10,000 per year through events held on our behalf another £5,000 through donations and the rest we have to fundraise for.  To run the charity effectively we need to raise just over £10,000 per group.  To help us achieve this we have developed a 5 year fundraising strategy.  Our goals are to achieve enough funding to recruit a part time administrator, create a reserve of 6 months running costs ensuring a sustainable future.

‘I’d like to thank you, you make me feel so happy’ - guest

What Does it Involve to Become a Trustee

Trustees share formal responsibility for the charity and must act in its best interests, regardless of how they're elected or appointed. Some trustees may take on specific roles on the board, such as chair, vice-chair, secretary and treasurer.

Herts Musical Memories meets 4 times per year mainly on Zoom but with some face to face in West Hertfordshire.  If a trustee has particular expertise in finance, fundraising, HR we do occasionally hold one on one sub meetings with the CEO.  No experience is necessary as there is plenty of training available – it is a commitment but it is a rewarding commitment.  Becoming a trustee is about taking on a position where you can make a real difference to the people who live in your local community.

Top five traits of a good trustee

· A good trustee is ready for a challenge – running a small charity is always a challenge and supporting the CEO in facing those challenges is a vital role of a trustee.  Whether it be support, advice or helping to access the necessary expertise that can support the charities development

· They are open and listen to many voices – there are many people prepared to offer advice and many voices to be heard, from the team running the charity to the beneficiaries.  Listening and understanding enables a trustee to offer advice and help the charity seek solutions that will improve and enable it to reach its goals.

· Trustees are team players – running a charity is a team effort which is relevant from the Board through to the beneficiaries by working together as a team a charity is more likely to prosper and grow.

· Trustees have expert knowledge – this expert knowledge can be in training, marketing, fundraising, HR, Law or it could be in a first hand knowledge of the charities services and the impact it has on families and the ability to use that understanding to enhance the charities service for people living with dementia.

· They exercise good judgement and care – this is essential, working with vulnerable adults comes with a lot of responsibility. We need to be sure we work within the parameters of Charity Commission’s guidelines to ensure good practice which protects all involved from the  trustees, staff and beneficiaries.

A good trustee also knows what they are doing within the framework of their role. At a basic level, they should understand and know how to act as described by The Charity Commission.  The regulator’s ‘The essential trustee’ guidance sets out six main duties:

· Ensuring that the charity is working for the benefit of the public

· Compliance with the law

· Acting in the best interests of the charity

· Ensuring accountability

· Financial responsibility

· Acting with reasonable care and skill

It may seem overwhelming to become a trustee but it is, as mentioned so rewarding and the satisfaction, that as a trustee you are truly making a positive difference to people lives.

 Please note Herts Musical Memories is based in Bushey, Hertfordshire (Hence why this is the position location listed), however meetings with trustees are typically held in locations within West Hertfordshire or remotely via Zoom.