With it being Trustees’ Week this week, 4-8 November, what better way to look at the positive impact trustees have on the charities they support than to speak to our very own Managing Director Emma Willder about her experience as a trustee and what advice she has for others.
Emma, how did you become a Trustee, and how did you choose a charity to work with?
If I’m completely honest, I became a trustee by accident! I was working with another charity, and one of the trustees at that charity asked if I’d be interested, and I said yes.
I didn’t necessarily pick Wood Street Mission, but having met with the CEO and chair and looking around the charity, it really struck a chord in me. My children have been very fortunate to grow up in a household that is not in poverty. Many children are not that fortunate through no fault of their own. So, the chance to give back and help improve the lives of children really means something to me.
Giving something back sounds like something you’re very passionate about.
It is! I was brought up in a household that always gave something back. My mum was involved with the Guides for many years, so I grew up with a volunteering mindset.
So, I think being involved in the charity sector and becoming a trustee feels natural.
Why do you believe it is so important for charities to have trustees?
Ultimately, charities can’t exist without trustees; they are a legal requirement for the charity to run.
However, trustees also bring so much more to the table.
Trustees bring skills, knowledge, and experience. They are there to give direction and strategic oversight.
In addition, having someone not involved in the day-to-day to have a view and provide a different perspective is always helpful.
I believe that trustees are fundamental to the charity sector because engaged and supportive trustees can make the difference between a successful charity and an unsuccessful one.
As a trustee, what has been your biggest learning curve?
For me, it’s been tricky to take the strategic overview, and not get involved in the nitty-gritty; that’s been my biggest learning. Taking a step back and knowing that I don’t have to be involved in everything because our charity managers and volunteers have good strategic direction to manage the day-to-day.
As part of trustees’ week, there is a focus on promoting why people should get involved and the benefits of becoming a trustee.
How does your work as a trustee impact your work at Beyond Profit?
I like to think I practice what I preach, and people can see this, and relationships are built on mutual respect. It’s also incredibly helpful to see things from both sides of the table supporting decision-making, communication with clients, and our services and how we can help further.
Is it important to connect with other trustees?
Yes! I can’t emphasise this enough. Being a trustee is a rewarding position, but there is also a lot to it, so connecting with others, sharing trustee experiences, and learning from each other are great opportunities to boost skills and learning.
What would you like to see from charities going forward?
Core funding…. charities need this more than ever because if the back-office functions aren’t funded properly, then the charity cannot deliver its charitable purpose, so the beneficiaries of the charity suffer.
Finally, what one piece of advice would you give to someone considering becoming a trustee?
Find a charity that resonates with you; you will be much more engaged and get that great feeling of accomplishment when you see how many people you support.
Trustees’ Week 2024
Trustees’ Week is a time for trustees throughout the UK to come together and shout about all their great work. To celebrate achievements, share experiences, and receive the recognition that is so widely deserved.
Connect with other trustees, find out how to become a trustee, and develop your skills throughout the week with a range of events, training, and guidance.
Recognising the one million trustees across the UK, Trustees’ Week highlights the work and commitment trustees bring to their charities, all to help them thrive.
Beyond Profit
Our team at Beyond Profit supports charities with finance and accountancy support – whether this involves QuickBooks training, bookkeeping, management accounts, or payroll, we can work as your complete outsourced finance function.
Providing trustees and charity managers with peace of mind that your accountancy function is in expert hands – book your FREE discovery call with us today and see how we can help you.
