Trustee

Who is YANA

YANA is a rural mental health charity, operating in East Anglia, to improve mental health in agriculture and rural businesses. We do this with a small team of paid staff and volunteers through providing:

• Providing a confidential helpline and funded counselling
• Investing in mental health training (2-day, half day & 1.5 hr options)
• Building awareness and understanding of mental health through talks, events, & resources
• Distributing our national suicide prevention resource '7 Tractor Facts to Save a Life'

How the board operates

The Board meets four times a year. Meetings take place in person and are currently held in an accessible location. Meetings usually take place in the daytime.

There is an annual half day strategy session which is usually combined with a board meeting around September.

It is expected that trustees come to meetings prepared and having read papers, which are circulated one week prior to the meeting.

There may be occasional other events trustees are invited to be part of as an advocate for the charity.

Trustees are encouraged to claim reasonable expenses, such as mileage, which is paid at 0.45p per mile.

You can find more information on the Register of Charities, YANA – 1190443

Terms of appointment

Terms of office

• Trustees will serve a three-year term to be eligible for re-appointment at the end of each term for a maximum of two additional terms.
• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Time commitment

• Attending 4 Board meetings annually. Currently meetings are held in person.
• Attending a half day annual strategy meeting, with an option to attend training dependent upon the needs of the trustee.
• On average you are likely to spend 4-6 hours on YANA business.

Please read the full recruitment pack for an outline of what the role involves.

What we are looking for

Individuals willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role and the work of YANA, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

You do not need previous governance experience – we are able to provide a full induction and training for the right person.

Personal skills and qualities

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
• A strong personal commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.
• Willingness to lead according to our values of Integrity, Trust, Commitment and People Matter.
• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Specific skills and experience in Legal, Mental Health, Agriculture, Charity Sector, Helplines are particularly sought.

The application process

To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) demonstrating your interest in the role and how your skills and experience match our requirements.