What it means to be a charity trustee and how to find the right opportunity

Many people assume that becoming a trustee is only for those with board-level experience or a leadership background. Well, let’s dispel that myth now. In reality, charities are looking for people with a passion for a cause and a willingness to contribute and share the skills and perspectives they have gained through work, life and community involvement. The technical skills can be covered and learnt during induction and through training.

As someone who regularly supports charities with trustee recruitment and those that are looking for a trustee opportunity, I often meet people who are surprised to discover how much they already have to offer to a Trustee role.

What is a trustee?

Trustees are volunteers who have overall control of a charity and its governance. Collectively they a responsible for making sure the charity does what it was set up to do; achieving its charitable purpose, operating responsibly and planning effectively for the future.

Depending on the organisation, trustees may also be known as board members, governors, committee members or directors. Whatever the title, their role is to guide the organisation, oversee its direction and ensure it is run in the best interests of the organisation.

Why consider becoming a trustee?

When you are a business or an employee in a business, being a trustee can offer an alternative way to make a meaningful contribution while developing or sharing valuable skills and experience.

Benefits can include:

• Supporting a cause or community action you care about
• Sharing your skills, experience and knowledge to make a difference
• Developing leadership, governance and strategic thinking skills
• Gaining a different experience outside your usual sector or role
• Expanding your professional and personal networks
• Building a deeper understanding of the voluntary and community sector
• Giving something back to the local community
• Being part of positive change and helping organisations grow sustainably

The benefits of being a trustee are not just experienced by you and the charity – they also reach the people involved and the communities supported.

What do charities look for in a trustee?

Usually before recruiting trustees, organisations will review the skills and experiences already represented on the board and identify any gaps or needs.

Remember you don’t have to have board specific or technical expertise already. Organisations often look for people who:

• Are enthusiastic and committed to the organisations purpose, values and objectives
• Can think strategically and help plan for the future
• Communicate effectively and work collaboratively
• Are able to make collective decisions
• Bring independent judgment and fresh perspectives
• Are willing to ask questions and offer constructive challenge
• Understand the commitment and responsibility of being a trustee
• Are open to learning and developing their knowledge

They may also look for those with lived experiences.

Some charities are also looking for those with specific expertise in areas such as:

• Finance or accounting
• Fundraising and income generation
• Human resources or volunteer management
• Governance, compliance or risk management
• Digital and Technology – could be more of a need with the continued expansion and use of AI
• Marketing and communications
• Legal

How much time is involved?

A key consideration when thinking about offering your time as a trustee is whether you have enough time to be a trustee. It’s important to make sure you’re realistic about this.

The time involved depends on the organisation, but they should be outlining expectations before you apply. Typically, its:

• Around four board meetings year (one each quarter), with newer or growing organisations meeting more frequently
• Preparation before and in between meetings, such as reading papers and reviewing reports
• Availability of approximately half a day to one day per month on average

Some organisations have occasional involvement in subgroups or working groups covering areas such as inclusion, finance, communications or people management.

Many organisations consider flexible arrangements, including online or hybrid meetings, evening meeting times, making the role more accessible for people balancing work and other commitments.

Finding the right trustee opportunity for you

Choosing the right trustee role starts with understanding what matters to you.

Before beginning your search take some time to consider:

• What causes or issues are important to you?
• What motivates you to volunteer?
• What skills, knowledge or experiences would you like to contribute?
• What would you like to learn or gain from the experience?
• How much time can you realistically commit?

Remember, you don’t have to look for something directly linked to your profession. You may wish to explore a new area of interest, support a local cause or develop skills outside of your job.

It’s also important to remember that trustee recruitment works both ways. While charities are considering what you can bring to the role, you should also consider what the organisations can offer you.

Where can you find trustee opportunities?

There are a variety of ways to find trustee opportunities, including: 

• Community Works dedicated trustee webpage
• Digital platforms and social media, for example, LinkedIn 
• Specialist trustee recruitment websites such as Reach Volunteering
• Individual charity and community organisation websites
• Local networks and community contacts
• Notices and posters in community venues
• Articles in local community newsletters

Don’t be afraid to approach organisations directly if there is a cause you are passionate about. Even if they are not currently recruiting they be interested in hearing from potential future trustees.

What is Trustee Week

Trustee Week is held between 9 to 13 November 2026. It’s an annual celebration recognising the contribution of nearly one million charity trustees across the UK. It provides an opportunity to thank trustees for their time and skills they bring to charities. Find out more here

Importantly, organisations don’t wait to say thank you to trustees they look at ways of doing this throughout the year.

If being a trustee sounds like something you would like to explore, Community Works can help.

Our Volunteer Centre advertises a wide range of trustee and volunteering opportunities across Brighton, Hove, Adur and Worthing. We can also provide one-to-one support to help you identify opportunities that match your interests, skills and availability. Find the opportunity for you here.

Being a trustee is an opportunity to use your skills to support your local community and play a part in shaping the future of organisations making a difference every day. Most trustees we hear from say it’s a rewarding opportunity.

If you want to contribute to the Chamber blog, contact us on hannah@brightonchamber.co.uk