At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and represent the interests of members in Wales on the national Board of Trustees.
- Company: Shine is a charity focused on supporting individuals with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, network with professionals, and contribute to meaningful change in your community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing leadership skills and understanding charity governance.
- Qualifications: Understanding of Welsh life, health and social care challenges, and commitment to charity values.
- Other info: This is a volunteer position requiring up to 6 days a year, with travel expenses covered.
Join us for an exciting volunteer opportunity to make a difference.
As a volunteer Trustee with an understanding of Welsh life and knowledge of the health and social care challenges in Wales, you will represent the interest of our members in Wales on Shine's national Board of Trustees, also ensuring that the collective responsibility for the charity's governance is maintained.
The statutory duties of all trustees are:
- To ensure that the charity complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
- To ensure that the charity pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
- To ensure the charity uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives.
- To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees’ role in giving firm strategic direction to the charity, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
- To safeguard the good name and values of the charity.
- To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the charity.
- To ensure the financial stability of the charity.
- To protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity's funds.
In addition to the above statutory duties, a Trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve:
- Promoting the interests of the charity at all opportunities.
- Providing guidance on new initiatives.
- Other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise.
Ideally, the lead Trustee for Wales will contribute one or several of the following aspects of knowledge, skills and influence to further our work in Wales:
- An understanding of Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, or disability in general.
- An understanding of Wales’ strategy and policies that shape the health, social care and/or education agendas in Wales.
- An insight into the structure and practices of the Local Health Boards and Local Authorities.
- Knowledge of charity governance and management.
- A network of contacts to increase our reach across services in Wales.
- A network of contacts to increase our potential for income generation.
Essential for all Trustees
- Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship and adhering to Nolan's seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
- Commitment to the charity's objects, aims and values and willingness to devote time to carry out responsibilities.
- Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity's objects and aims.
- Good, independent judgement, political impartiality and the ability to think creatively in the context of the charity and external environment.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to respect the confidences of colleagues.
- Balancing tact and diplomacy with a willingness to challenge and constructively criticise.
Desirable for all Trustees
- To have spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus or direct knowledge of the conditions through personal or professional connections (and/or disability in general) and an understanding of the impact of the conditions on people's lives.
- Prior experience of committee/trustee work.
- Knowledge of the type of work undertaken by the charity.
- A wider involvement with the voluntary sector.
- Experience in chairing meetings and committee work.
- Leadership skills exercised through a period of change.
Time Commitment
Up to 6 days a year, which includes 4 days for Committee meetings. These dates will be planned well in advance. Board meetings usually take place in Shine's Head Office in Peterborough. Travel expenses and subsistence will be paid in accordance with Shine's travel and subsistence policy. Phone calls or meetings with the Chief Executive, who is based in South Wales. Location can be flexible. There will also be opportunities to attend Shine Cymru events. This is a non-paid position.
For a discussion about the volunteer trustee role:
Please contact Kate Steele, CEO at Shine on 07767 376384 or email kate.steele@shinecharity.org.uk
To apply:
Please submit a CV and covering letter to Steve Ellen, Director of Finance at steve.ellen@shinecharity.org.uk
Lead Trustee – Wales (volunteer) employer: SHINE Charity
Contact Detail:
SHINE Charity Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Trustee – Wales (volunteer)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with individuals in the charity sector, especially those involved with health and social care in Wales. Attend local events or forums to meet potential contacts who can provide insights or even recommend you for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the current challenges and policies affecting health and social care in Wales. This knowledge will not only help you in discussions but also demonstrate your commitment and understanding of the issues at hand.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider volunteering for other roles within charities that focus on disability or health issues. This experience can enhance your understanding of charity governance and management, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your vision for the charity and how you can contribute strategically. Think about specific initiatives or improvements you could propose based on your expertise and network in Wales.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Trustee – Wales (volunteer)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Lead Trustee role. Familiarise yourself with the charity's mission and how your skills can contribute to their objectives.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience in your CV that aligns with the role. Emphasise any previous trustee or committee work, as well as your understanding of health and social care challenges in Wales.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the charity's mission and detail how your specific skills and experiences make you a suitable candidate. Be sure to mention any personal connections to spina bifida or hydrocephalus if applicable.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you send your application to the correct person, Steve Ellen, and include both your CV and cover letter. Double-check the email address and format your documents professionally before sending.
How to prepare for a job interview at SHINE Charity
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the statutory duties and responsibilities of a Trustee. Familiarise yourself with Shine's mission and how your skills can contribute to their goals in Wales.
✨Showcase Your Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss any previous experience you have in governance, charity work, or related fields. Highlight any specific knowledge about health and social care challenges in Wales that could benefit the board.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment
Express your dedication to the charity's aims and values. Be ready to explain why you want to volunteer as a Trustee and how you plan to devote your time effectively to fulfil your responsibilities.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This shows your interest in the role and helps you understand how you can make a meaningful impact on the charity's work in Wales.