Trustees’ Week is from 4th – 8th November, and is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of trustees across the UK.
Our Chair of Trustees, Rob Armstrong, shares his thoughts about being a Trustee for Supportability.
How did you become a Trustee for Supportability
I reached a point where my I realised that all my volunteering experience over the previous 20 years had been through a personal interest, either from sporting interests or my children.
I needed to spend some time helping an organisation where I had no personal connection for the benefit of others without necessarily getting a direct benefit myself. A more altruistic approach if you like.
Why did you choose Supportability in particular?
They support complex adults and children with disabilities. They really need our help to lead independent fulfilled lives. That has to be worth my time.
What’s the best thing about being a Trustee?
It’s about providing an independent objective viewpoint and supporting a committed leadership team who admit they do not always have all the answers, and need some help to achieve their strategic objectives and be sustainable in the long term.
What’s your top tip for someone interested in becoming a Trustee for a charity?
It was a terrifying proposition for me when I first visited Supportability. I was completely out of my comfort zone and did not think that my help (as a Chartered Accountant) would be useful to them. You really need to look beyond that. You are offering your time and expertise for free and whatever help you can give will be much appreciated. Do not hesitate. Do not think that you are not good enough. Just give it a try and you are unlikely to regret it.
Supportability are about to launch a recruitment campaign to attract new Trustees in the new calendar year. For an informal discussion please call 0161 432 1248 to speak to Geraint Hughes.
