Overview of the role:
From time-to-time, we recruit new trustees to sit on our board and support with developing the overall strategy and direction of the organisation. Becoming a Trustee for North Warwickshire Citizens Advice helps to provide excellent governance for our organisation. You will help improve the lives of North Warwikshire residents and bring your perspective and good judgement to our Trustee Board.
To volunteer as a member of the Board of Trustees, you must:
- Maintain an awareness of the business of North Warwickshire Citizens Advice
- Take responsibility for your own learning and development
- Regularly attend, prepare for and take a full part in Board meetings and participate in any others relevant and required for the Trustee role
- Actively contribute to setting policy and strategic direction, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance
- Monitor whether the service complies with its governing document, whether it meets Citizens Advice standards and how well the advice need of our local community are being met
- Monitor the financial position and ensure that we operate within our means and objects, and that there are clear lines of accountability for day-to-day financial management
- Support the development of North Warwickshire Citizens Advice through participation in agreed projects
- Actively always seek to further North Warwickshire Citizens Advice’s strategic objectives and act in our best interests
- Maintain confidentiality about any sensitive or confidential information received in the course of your duties as a trustee
- Engage with staff and volunteers at events and at fundraising events
What’s in it for you?
- make a real difference to people’s lives
- learn about a range of areas such as benefits, debt and housing, and how problems in these areas can affect clients
- build on valuable skills such as strategic direction and development, financial evaluation and governance.
- increase experience in the role of a trustee
- have a positive impact in your community and on broader society
What you need to have:
Each individual member of the trustee board brings skills and qualities to the board. You can add to the collective knowledge and experience by providing:
- Commitment and availability to attend trustee board meetings
- Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussions
- Willingness to gain knowledge of local needs and resources
- Commitment to the aims, principles and policies of the Citizens Advice service, including those relating to equal opportunities, independence, and research and campaigns
- Willingness and ability to act in the best interests of North Warwickshire Citizens Advice
- Ability to understand and accept responsibility and liabilities as trustees and employers
- Numeracy to the extent required to understand accounts with the support of a treasurer
- Willingness and ability to learn, and to develop and examine your own attitudes
- Ability to think creatively and strategically, and exercise good, independent judgement
- Ability to work effectively as a member of the team
How much time do you need to give?
Board meetings are once a quarter. Trustee Board members will also be required to attend further meetings around development of the organisation or training. On average our trustees commit a minimum of 10 hours per month.
What does the training look like?
On joining North Warwickshire Citizens Advice, you will receive a full induction and introduction into the service. On completion of this, you will receive comprehensive training on the systems and processes required within your role, and receive full support and guidance from the CEO and members of the Trustee board.