Have you ever thought about becoming a charity trustee but you aren’t sure what is involved?

Together Co’s Chair of Trustees Natalie Orringe and CEO April Baker talk about what this hugely rewarding voluntary role entails and the benefits of becoming a trustee.

Q: What does a trustee do?

A: Trustees are volunteers that are responsible for the general control and governance of a charity which ensures it is run as effectively as possible.

Q: What are the benefits? 

A: It’s an opportunity to make positive change in the world and offers the chance to gain important strategic experience that can help you apply for more senior job roles. You can also learn new skills, get training and make new connections.

Q: What does the role involve?

A: Being a trustee is a unique leadership position where you can have significant influence and impact on a cause that you are passionate about. 

You will work alongside fellow trustees with different skill sets, giving your time and expertise in a way that can help an organisation significantly. At Together Co, this works out at about a day a month of your time.

What we know

Natalie said: “As a trustee, you’ll have a key role in taking decisions about the future of Together Co.

“The skills and experience that you can bring to the Board will accelerate the organisation into the future, with the support of our exceptional staff team and volunteers.”

April, who is also a former charity trustee, said: “I did not feel I was ready to be a trustee. Looking at others who were on boards I felt I was too young, had not gained enough seniority and did not know what the role fully entailed. 

“I only decided to apply thanks to encouragement from a mentor, and I am glad I did as it was one of the greatest learning opportunities, much of which I felt contributed to giving me the confidence and broader skills to apply for the position of CEO at Together Co.

“If you share our passion for creating connections to change lives and would like to be part of a leading loneliness charity, please believe me when I say you have a lot to bring to this role and we welcome you to apply no matter what your background.”