At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Board of Trustees to support and improve the lives of beneficiaries with disabilities.
- Company: The Thalidomide Trust, dedicated to empowering individuals affected by thalidomide.
- Benefits: Voluntary role with reimbursement for reasonable expenses and a chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working with opportunities to connect and collaborate with diverse individuals.
- Why this job: Use your legal expertise to advocate for a remarkable community and shape their future.
- Qualifications: Qualified barrister or solicitor with 15+ years of legal experience and empathy.
The Thalidomide Trust is a unique organisation supporting beneficiaries, now all in their 60s, born with disabilities as a result of their mother taking the drug, thalidomide, during pregnancy. They are a remarkable group of people, who have achieved a great deal despite often living with extreme levels of disability, including limb damage, hearing and visual impairment, brain and sensory impairment and damage to internal organs. Our beneficiaries have very complex and varied needs which are increasing as they age. We have gained an in-depth understanding of their evolving needs through our high level of contact with beneficiaries and our structured programme of three-yearly Holistic Needs Assessments (HNAs).
We are seeking a qualified barrister or solicitor with at least 15 years post qualification legal experience to join our Board of Trustees as a Legal Trustee, bringing sound legal judgement, empathy and a strong commitment to improving the lives of our beneficiaries.
You will bring:
- Understanding of Court of Protection issues and challenges.
- Experience of working with older people, disabled people or people with a cognitive impairment.
- Warmth, empathy and a non-judgmental approach.
- Well-developed interpersonal skills and an ability to develop positive relationships with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds.
- Judicial Experience is desirable.
Why join us?
This is a voluntary role, but reasonable expenses incurred will be reimbursed. London / St Neots / Hybrid. You should also be willing and able to devote approximately 15 – 20 days (plus travel time) per annum to the Trust – and specifically be available to attend three full day board meetings and one morning virtual meeting.
Interested? If you have the skills, experience, and motivation to help shape the future of the Trust, we would love to hear from you.
Application deadline: Wednesday 30 September 2026 at 9am. Date for Interview: Wednesday 14 October 2026 (Central London).
Legal Trustee employer: The Thalidomide Trust
The Thalidomide Trust is an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of beneficiaries who have faced significant challenges. With a strong commitment to empathy and understanding, the organisation fosters a supportive work culture that values diverse perspectives and encourages personal growth. By joining our Board of Trustees as a Legal Trustee, you will not only contribute your legal expertise but also be part of a compassionate community focused on improving the quality of life for those we serve.
