Trustee - Fundraising Specialist

Vision Support is a regional sight loss charity supporting people to feel confident, capable and connected, while raising awareness of vision impairment across Cheshire, Halton, Flintshire, Wrexham, Conwy and Denbighshire. In 2026, we celebrate 150 years of impact.

 

Role Purpose

 

We are seeking an experienced Fundraising Specialist Trustee with marketing and communications insight to strengthen our fundraising performance, expand our reach, and support our long-term sustainability.

 

This role combines core Trustee responsibilities with specialist oversight of fundraising strategy, regulatory compliance, and strategic communications.

 

 

 

About Vision Support

 

We deliver evidence-based services across six local authority areas, working in close partnership with clinicians, commissioners and healthcare providers. With a strong governance foundation, ambitious growth plans, and annual income of £1.6m, we are focused on extending our reach and impact.

 

Core Trustee Responsibilities

·       Ensure the charity operates in line with its charitable objects and governing document

·       Contribute to strategy, performance monitoring and financial sustainability

·       Support and challenge the CEO and senior team constructively

·       Uphold the charity’s values, reputation and governance standards

·       Attend and contribute to quarterly Board meetings at our Chester office, and contribute to Board development

 

Fundraising Leadership

·       Lead Board-level oversight of fundraising strategy and performance

·       Review income streams, return on investment and effectiveness

·       Ensure compliance with fundraising regulation and best practice

·       Advise on fundraising trends, innovation and growth opportunities

·       Support major donor, corporate and grant-funding strategies

 

Communications & Engagement

·       Advise on communications strategy to grow reach and engagement

·       Support donor stewardship and supporter communications

·       Provide guidance on brand, messaging and digital channels

·       Contribute to reputation and crisis communications planning

 

Networking & Advocacy

·       Act as an ambassador for Vision Support

·       Promote the charity through professional and personal networks

·       Identify partnership, funding and collaboration opportunities

·       Support relationships with key stakeholders and influencers

 

 

Person Specification

 

Essential

·       Senior-level fundraising experience with a strong track record

·       Experience across multiple income streams

·       Strong knowledge of fundraising regulation and compliance

·       Communications and marketing expertise

·       Strategic mindset with the ability to evaluate and improve performance

 

Highly Desirable

·       Charity sector experience (health, disability or social care)

·       Knowledge of sight loss or disability issues

·       Experience of regional or multi-area fundraising

·       Major donor or corporate partnership experience

·       Relevant professional fundraising qualifications

 

Personal Qualities

·       Commitment to supporting people with sight loss

·       Collaborative, analytical and commercially aware

·       Strong interpersonal skills with the confidence to challenge constructively

·       Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

 

What We Offer

·       Opportunity to make a meaningful regional impact

·       Supportive, experienced Board and strong governance culture

·       Comprehensive induction, Trustee training and sector networking

·       Reasonable expenses reimbursed

 

Time Commitment

Approximately 4 hours per month, including:

·       Quarterly Board meetings

·       Preparation and paper review

·       Occasional advice, networking and annual Board away day

 

Term of Appointment

Initial 3-year term, renewable up to a maximum of 9 years in line with our governing document.

 

How to Apply

We welcome applications from individuals passionate about our cause and particularly encourage applicants with lived experience of sight loss and from diverse backgrounds.

 

Please submit:

·       A CV outlining relevant experience

·       A supporting statement (max. 2 pages) covering your motivation, relevant expertise, approach to the specialist Trustee role, and what you hope to contribute and gain

 

For an informal discussion, please contact:

Kate Hurst, Internal Operations Manager

 

We are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

 

Vision Support is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all service users.