Trustee

Role Description and Person Specification

 

Role Title:                 Trustee (volunteer)

Reports to:               Chair of the Board & Chief Executive

Based at:                    Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent                                                       

Hours of work:          3-4 hours per month

Remuneration:          This is a voluntary position and no payment will be made to the post holder,

                                    other than genuine expenses, as set out in the volunteer policy

 

Overview

 

North Staffs Mind has been delivering mental health services to both adults and young people for almost 50 years. We have recently merged with Mid Cheshire Mind which will enable us to widen our reach across Staffordshire and Cheshire, ensuring we can provide support to even more people in need of our services.

 

We pride ourselves on our relaxed and friendly atmosphere and our commitment to delivering high quality, client focused, professional services that can adapt to meet the changing needs of the local community.

 

Time commitment

 

Typically Board meetings are held four times per year, plus additional time for our annual general meeting, sub-committee meetings, events, and occasional ad-hoc tasks. The role may require additional time commitment for reading papers, preparing for meetings, or representing the charity at external events.

 

Meetings are usually held in-person at an external local venue, with occasional opportunities for remote participation.

 

Role Purpose

 

As a Trustee, you will play a critical role in overseeing the strategic direction and governance of North Staffs Mind. Your responsibilities include ensuring the charity meets its objectives in supporting individuals with mental health challenges, maintaining financial stability, and complying with legal and regulatory requirements. Trustees act in the best interest of the charity, making decisions that align with its strategic plan, aims and values.

 

Key Responsibilities

 

Governance and strategic oversight:

·        Contribute to setting the charity’s strategic direction, ensuring that it remains focused on its mission; we won’t give up until everyone with a mental health problem gets support and respect.

·        Monitor the charity’s performance against its objectives, reviewing key performance indicators and assessing the impact of its activities.

·        Hold the Chief Executive and senior leadership team to account.

·        Ensure robust and effective governance policies and procedures are in place, regularly reviewed, and adhered to.

 

Financial Stewardship:

·        Oversee the financial health of North Staffs Mind, ensuring resources are used effectively and that the charity operates within its means.

·        Approve budgets, annual reports, and financial statements, ensuring transparency and accountability in all financial matters.

·        Ensure the charity has adequate risk management processes, including the identification and mitigation of financial risks.

 

Legal and Regulatory Compliance:

·        Ensure the charity complies with its governing document (articles of association), charity law, and other relevant legislation and regulations.

·        Keep abreast of changes in the legal and regulatory landscape that may affect the charity, ensuring that necessary adjustments are made.

 

Fundraising and Advocacy:

·        Support and participate in fundraising efforts, helping to secure resources necessary for the charity’s operations and growth.

·        Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work to external stakeholders, including donors, partners, and the wider community.

 

Human Resources and Staff Wellbeing:

·        Ensure the charity has appropriate policies in place for the recruitment, management, and development of staff and volunteers.

·        Uphold and champion a culture of inclusivity, respect, and wellbeing within the organization.

 

Risk Management:

·        Identify and evaluate risks to the charity’s operations and reputation, ensuring appropriate mitigation strategies are in place.

·        Through feedback from the risk subcommittee, have an oversight of North Staffs Mind’s risk register, ensuring you are aware of any emerging risks.

 

Collaboration and Teamwork:

·        Work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and the senior leadership team, fostering a culture of collective decision-making.

·        Participate in subcommittees or working groups as needed, contributing your expertise to specific areas of the charity’s work.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Person Specification

 

Essential

 

·        A commitment to North Staffs Mind’s aims and values, with a passion for supporting mental health.

·        Strategic vision and the ability to think creatively and critically about the charity’s future direction.

·        Strong understanding of governance, financial management, and legal responsibilities in a charitable context.

·        Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

·        Integrity, impartiality, and a commitment to transparency and accountability.

 

Desirable

 

·        Experience of working collaboratively with other agencies and organisations and with service users, their carers and families.

·        Previous experience serving on a board or in a governance role.

·        Knowledge of fundraising, marketing, or advocacy within the charitable sector.

·        Understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with mental health conditions and the systems designed to support them.

 

Benefits

 

·        Opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals affected by mental health issues.

·        Gain experience in governance and strategic leadership within the charity sector.

·        Network with like-minded individuals and professionals passionate about mental health.