Volunteer Trustee

Location: Clay Cross, Chesterfield
Status: Volunteer
Start Date: ASAP
Time Commitment: Equivalent to about two days per month, including quarterly Board meetings, quarterly sub-committee meetings, one away day annually, and the Annual General Meeting. 

Application Deadline: Rolling

Can you help us change lives?

We are looking for volunteers to join our Board of Trustees to help lead the charity and support our management team in developing our services and securing the vital resources we need to meet demand. Join us in continuing to make a real difference in the lives of the people in North East Derbyshire and Bolsover Districts.

About Us:

For almost 50 years, Citizens Advice North East Derbyshire has been a cornerstone of support for residents in North East Derbyshire and Bolsover Districts, providing free, independent, and impartial advice. We take immense pride in our longstanding dedication to our local community. Together with other Derbyshire Citizens Advice services, we have set national benchmarks through innovative partnerships with Derbyshire Public Health and GP surgeries, delivering crucial advice in diverse settings such as GP surgeries, food banks, and community venues.

At the heart of our operations lies our robust telephone advice service, which serves as the backbone of our organisation. This service not only provides immediate support to individuals who may face barriers accessing physical locations but also fuels our broader initiatives and outreach programs. It ensures that every member of our community can access the essential guidance they need, regardless of their circumstances. In addition, we offer advice via email to enhance accessibility and reach in a digital age, accommodating diverse needs and preferences.

With an annual income of approximately £800,000, we sustain a team of 27 dedicated staff members and are supported by incredible 20 volunteers. In recent years, we have expanded our services to include more telephone and digital advice provisions, maintaining exceptional standards of advice and garnering valuable client feedback.

As part of the national Citizens Advice network, we leverage a trusted, nationally recognised brand. Our research and evidence play a pivotal role in advocating for policy changes and improving practices that directly impact the lives of our clients. Grounded in local insights yet connected to a broad network of support and knowledge, we remain steadfast in addressing the unique challenges facing our community.

About the Role:

As a Trustee, you will also serve as a Director of our limited company, playing a crucial role in ensuring the continued provision of high-quality services to our clients. You will work collaboratively with fellow Trustees to make informed decisions, attend board meetings, liaise with staff, review board papers, and provide guidance on our services.

Our Board of Trustees is essential in maintaining smooth and effective operations, campaigning for policy changes, securing resources, and upholding high standards. Join us at an exciting time of growth and be part of a team dedicated to making a real difference in our community.

You will play a vital role in providing strategic leadership and ensuring the charity operates effectively and meets its objectives. This includes:

• Strategic Leadership: Collaborate with the Chair, CEO, and fellow Trustees to promote our vision, mission, and values.

• Policy and Strategy Development: Work with the Board to set policy, strategy, and targets.

• Compliance and Performance: Ensure the charity complies with all statutory requirements and evaluates internal performance.

• Stakeholder Communication: Communicate the work of the Board to internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Attend and offer strategic input into Board meetings and other events.

• Support and advise staff and fellow Trustees, especially in areas of your professional expertise.

• Inspire staff, volunteers, and external stakeholders through the promotion of our vision, mission, and values.

Person Specification:

• A commitment to our mission, aims, and ethos, along with a willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.

• Ideally experience of a governance role within a charitable, commercial, or public organisation.

• A desire to make a difference for people at moments of challenge in their lives.

• Ability to explain information in an accessible way to fellow Trustees, staff, volunteers, and external stakeholders.

• Good, independent judgement and an ability to think creatively.

• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.

• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and responsibilities of trusteeship / company director.

Embracing Diversity and Inclusion:

At Citizens Advice North East Derbyshire, we are committed to providing a diverse and inclusive environment. We believe that a diverse Board of Trustees, reflective of the communities we serve, enriches our perspective and enhances our ability to provide high-quality services.

We particularly welcome applications from women, people with disabilities, and individuals from racially minoritised groups. Your unique experiences and viewpoints are invaluable in helping us understand and address the diverse needs of our clients. We also highly value lived experiences with issues such as previous financial insecurity/debt, housing instability, relationship breakdowns, discrimination, unemployment, mental health challenges, and other forms of social disadvantage, as they provide crucial insights into the challenges our clients face.

While we prioritise applications from individuals who meet these preferences, we also encourage anyone who shares our commitment to supporting our community to apply. Your passion for our mission and dedication to making a difference are what matter most. We value diversity in all its forms and believe in creating a supportive environment where everyone can contribute effectively.

We aim to ensure that all voices are heard and valued, and we are dedicated to promoting equality and diversity at every level of our organisation. Join us and contribute to a team that is passionate about making a positive impact in our community through inclusive and equitable practices.

What You Will Gain:

• Job Satisfaction: Make a tangible difference in your community by helping individuals in crisis and supporting them through challenging times.

• Community Impact: Play a critical role in shaping local advice and advocacy services, ensuring they meet the needs of our community effectively.

• Valuable Experience: Enhance your governance, strategic planning, and leadership skills, which are highly transferable to various professional settings.

• Personal Growth: Gain insight into the issues facing local communities and develop a deeper understanding of social justice and advocacy.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with a diverse group of passionate and committed individuals, expanding your professional and personal network.

• Professional Development: Access to induction, training, and ongoing support from experienced Trustees and staff to help you grow in your role.

Practical Considerations:

• Meetings: Attend approximately 10 meetings per year that are a mixture of evening and daytime.

• Induction and Training: Provided, with support from experienced Trustees and staff.

• Expenses: Covered.

• Requirements: DBS check for certain roles, references and secure computer access and a smartphone.

Apply now and make a difference!