Another newbie!

Tomorrow, all being well, I will become a real trustee!

I've done voluntary work at committee level for some years now, but without the legal status of trustee. I've also worked closely with charity trustees and boards in my day jobs. But this will be the first time I become legally responsible for the assets and performance of a charity - yikes!

So I thought I'd use this blog to record my thoughts and experiences along the journey, in the hope it may be of interest to others - whether thinking of becoming a trustee, someone new to the role, or a veteran trustee or chair who has forgotten what it's like for new recruits...

How did I come to this point? Last year I worked quite closely with a board of trustees, and this demystified the role and showed me that everyone has something to offer and there is a lot of support for those volunteering for the role. For myself, I feel I've come to a time in my life where I'm confident in what I can offer and not embarrassed about what I can't. So... I visited my local Volunteer Centre asking about local opportunities in my field of interest.

I followed up one lead, who were receptive, and kept my details as they expected vacancies on the board later that year. A few months later I was invited for interview, which was great fun as it was entirely on an area of my interst and with nothing to lose. A few days later I was really pleased to be offered a place on their board. Tomorrow is their AGM, and hopefully I will be voted in.

I'm a little surprised I've not been contacted by the Chair or any of the existing trustees following my interview a month ago (I was contacted with the offer by the senior staff member), but they are probably just very busy. And although right away I took to the two trustees who interviewed me, and am committed to their area of work, I also think now I probably should have attended one of their board meetings prior to commiting.

Anyway... will let you know how I get on! So far I've dropped in and met the really friendly and helpful staff, who gave me the key 'welcome' documents from the Charity Commission and from the organisation (annual report, bios, etc). That was great and gives me confidence that the place is organised and well run.

More later!

Anon