Talking to our trustees: Insights for Trustees’ Week

It feels great to support a charity in a way other than making a donation. We all have skills, experience and knowledge we can offer.

As Trustees’ Week kicks off, it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the individuals who play a vital role in shaping our Charity’s future. We spoke to a few of our trustees Gary, Gemma, Richard and Nick. Each of them brings a unique perspective and passion to their role, here they share their thoughts on what it means to serve as a trustee.

Gemma

Becoming a trustee was a natural fit for me, as my values aligned closely with the vision of ExtraCare. I first heard about the opportunity through an ex-colleague who sent me the job alert, mentioning it seemed like a perfect match for me. When I learned that the Charity focused on providing better lives for older people through care and lifestyle services, I felt my experience in the housing with care sector could really contribute.

What I’ve found most valuable in my role as a trustee is not only the chance to support a charity from a governance perspective but also the personal impact it has had on me. Although my day job is in the same sector, experiencing the different culture, aims and appetite of another charitable organisation is fascinating. It has broadened my horizons and enabled me to view strategic business challenges in a more agile, flexible way. This is helping me to be a good trustee, but also is supporting me to have a more open mind in my day job.

It feels great to support a charity in a way other than making a donation. We all have skills, experience and knowledge we can offer. Your question might spark new insight into a problem, or your experience might lend insight into a risk that others hadn’t considered before. It’s great for your career too, offering a professional setting where you can develop your governance skills.

My advice would be to take time to understand the organisation’s strategy and risks and get to grips with the financial model, even if you don’t have a head for numbers. Take opportunities to meet with employees and customers to experience the organisation from their perspective. You might have been recruited for your experience in a specific area and certainly you should offer your insights with that, but get curious about all areas because an informed view can be just as valuable.

Richard

A friend who knew I was interested in respecting the individuality of older people noticed an advert by ECCT for trustees in the Sunday Times and sent it to me. That’s how I became a trustee.

The most valuable aspect is using my skills to contribute to (in my view) desirable social outcomes.

Within the context of a discussion of an individual’s life choices, I would discuss the possibility of volunteering and becoming a trustee and assist them in investigating whether it might be appropriate to their specific circumstances. My advice for any new trustee is to understand the nature of the trust and use your skills to further its objectives including constructive challenge to others.

Gary

I became a trustee of the ExtraCare Charitable Trust due to my background and experience in strategy and digital transformation across various sectors, including retail, property, and education. My background in governance and commitment to improving people’s lives aligned well with the trust’s mission and values.

The most valuable aspect of being a trustee is the ability to contribute to meaningful change and positively impact the lives of older adults. Working collaboratively with a dedicated team to develop sustainable communities that offer necessary care, and an enjoyable lifestyle is deeply rewarding.

I would recommend becoming a trustee because it allows you to use your skills and experience to make a significant difference in people’s lives, particularly in supporting vulnerable communities. It also offers personal growth opportunities through engagement with diverse issues and the chance to work alongside passionate professionals.

My advice for new trustees is to actively engage with the organisation and its mission, ask questions, and seek to understand the challenges and opportunities faced by the trust. Building strong relationships with fellow trustees and staff, and continuously learning about the sector, will help you contribute effectively to the board.

Nick

I think retirement villages are a brilliant idea. I was inspired by ExtraCare’s mixed communities to become a trustee. The most valuable aspect for me is that you are making a difference to peoples lives. I’d recommend becoming a trustee as it’s the opportunity to give something back to create better lives for older people.

It’s also important to not be afraid to ask any questions. New trustees often ask the best questions as they aren’t part of the board’s “group think”.

A favourite quote of mine is “Beautiful young people are works of nature, but beautiful old people are works of art”. Eleanor Roosevelt

Find out more about our wider Trustee Team

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Talking to our trustees: Insights for Trustees’ Week

Gemma

Richard

Gary

Nick