Vice Chair of Trustees

Do you like the idea of being part of a successful, highly regarded and welcoming small charity supporting local families?  Come and join the trustee board of Home-Start Runnymede and Woking where you will be part of a great team of staff, volunteers and trustees.  

What is a trustee?

“Trustees have overall control of a charity and are responsible for making sure it’s doing what it was step up to do. They may be known by other titles, such as directors; board members; governors; committee members. Whatever they are called, trustees are the people who lead the charity and decide how it is run.” (The Charity Commission)

Don’t worry if you have never been a trustee before and are not familiar with the requirements of the role. No formal qualifications or trustee/ board experience are necessary, and we have a full training and induction programme that all new trustees undertake.  

“Even though I have spent my career working in the charity sector, I didn’t consider becoming a trustee for a long time as I thought I needed a background in finance or law. Then I saw an ad for Home-Start Runnymede and Woking for a Company Secretary to manage the administrative aspects of the board. I have a background in project management and am naturally very organised, so it was perfect for me! You might think you don’t have the right background or experience to be a trustee but we need a diverse range of people from all walks of life, so everyone has something to offer.”

-Gemma, current trustee and Company Secretary 

What are we looking for?

All our trustees are passionate about the work of Home-Start and any new board member must share that passion and the desire to make a difference to families with young children in Runnymede and Woking.  

Our current trustees board is made up of seven individuals with a wide range of skills and experience. We are always keen to diversify our board further and bring in fresh perspectives and ideas. We therefore particularly encourage you to apply if you can answer yes to one or more of the following:

-Are under the age of 40

-Reflect the diverse ethnic backgrounds within Woking and Runnymede

-Have ‘lived experience’ similar to those of the families we support

-Have a background in marketing or communications, particularly social media, or skills in these areas that could help us raise our profile further in the local community

-Have experience of corporate fundraising

What skills do I need?

We are looking for a Vice Chair who can support the Chair of Trustees in ensuring effective governance of the charity. On occasion this may involve deputising for the Chair with responsibilities including chairing board meetings, attending the local Surrey chairs meetings, and supporting the Scheme Director in meetings with funders and potential funders. 

What are the benefits?

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone to join a great team of people, all wanting to make life a little easier for local families. Over the last two or three years we have developed the range of services we offer to families in response to the need in the area - you could be part of the next stage of our journey.    

Whilst this is an unpaid position, you will receive full training and will be compensated for any expenses incurred. Whether you are at the start of your career, looking to progress, or wanting a fulfilling role in your retirement, becoming a trustee is a great way of utilising existing skills and experience – and gaining new ones