FAQs for Trustees

Volunteers

For all questions concerning what a trustee is, why people become trustees, who can be a trustee, the skills needed and the time comitment required see our Quick introduction to being a charity trustee.

Are there any legal issues I need to know about?

Being a charity trustee carries legal responsibilities which should be understood before taking up a position.

It is worth taking some time to understand these duties and to find out the specific situation at the organisation you are considering joining. If a charity is also a company limited by guarantee then the liabilities of a trustee, for example, are different.

Trustees are not expected to be experts in every area, even with the collective skills and experience of the Board overall. They are expected to use reasonable care in their role as trustees applying their skills and experience and involving professionals where needed. The Charity Commission can offer information and advice on both best practice and legal requirements.

The Charity Commission Trustee Duties at a Glance is your best starting points – sections D and E cover the basics.

How likely am I to find a role through TrusteeWorks?

We place over 1,000 volunteers every year so your chances of success are pretty high. However not all prospective trustees find a place through us. Sometimes they don’t choose to follow up on our suggestions. Sometimes, after they speak to the organisation, they feel they aren’t right for the place or vice versa. Prospective trustees may have to wait or try more than once before they find the right match.

What is the process that I will go through to find a trustee role?

To find a trustee role, you will need to go through the main registration and login process. To find out more, read our Guide to the Reach process.

How and when do I commit to an organisation?

Once you have expressed an interest in a role we will pass your details on the the organisation. They will contact you to arrange a meeting. You will want to meet up with a senior staff member and the Chair of the organisation and you will probably want to meet up with some of the other trustees as well. There may be a formal recruitment process or a series of informal meetings, this will depend on the organisation. There is no need to commit until you are happy that the organisation is right for you.