Trustees’ Week, 4-10 November, is the perfect opportunity to put the spotlight on the vital role that trustees play in the success of charities such as ours.
Did you know, there are nearly one million trustees in the UK, doing incredible work across the charity sector?
Trustees’ Week is a time to acknowledge and appreciate the contributions of trustees across the UK, who dedicate their time, skills, and expertise to helping charities achieve their missions.
At The Shrewsbury Ark, our trustees are at the heart of our work to support some of the most vulnerable members of our community, including those who are experiencing homelessness, poverty, and social isolation. Our seven trustees give their time voluntary, and their leadership, commitment, and guidance are key to ensuring we can provide a safe, welcoming space where individuals can access essential services and support, and gain the confidence to make positive changes in their lives.
During Trustees’ Week, we celebrate all the trustees of The Shrewsbury Ark, past and present, whose tireless efforts have significantly impacted the charity's operations and growth, and made it what it is today.
What do trustees do at The Shrewsbury Ark?
The Charity Commission describes a Trustees role as overseeing ‘overall control of a charity and are responsible for making sure it’s doing what it was set up to do.’
Being a Trustee is a long-term commitment and involves more than just showing up at monthly meetings! They work closely with staff and volunteers to ensure that we are fulfilling our mission effectively and sustainably.
Some of the key responsibilities of trustees include:
Provide leadership and governance: Trustees help ensure that The Shrewsbury Ark is run in line with its mission, values, and legal obligations. They provide strategic oversight, making sure that everything the charity does aligns with its core purpose—to help those in need in Shrewsbury and beyond.
Financial oversight: Trustees play a key role in ensuring that the charity remains financially stable. They work with staff to approve budgets, monitor spending, and ensure that funds are being used efficiently and effectively.
Supporting staff and volunteers: Trustees offer guidance and support to staff and volunteers, helping to create an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to make a difference. Their involvement provides a sense of stability and direction, particularly in times of change or challenge.
Championing the cause: Trustees are our ambassadors. They help raise awareness of the charity’s work and advocate for the needs of those who are marginalised. Through their networks, trustees can help to attract support, funding, partnerships, and resources, making it possible for the charity to continue its vital work in our community.
The Importance of diversity and fresh perspectives
Trustees bring a wide range of skills, backgrounds, and perspectives to The Shrewsbury Ark.
Our trustees have a wealth of experience in business, finance, buildings and maintenance, marketing, communications, fundraising and HR, and some are working full-time in their day jobs; this diversity in skills and experience is crucial in helping the charity navigate the complex social issues we face and ensure we’re taking the best approach to address local needs, while safeguarding our staff and our assets.
In addition, the charity sector is constantly evolving, and trustees play a key role in ensuring that The Shrewsbury Ark stays responsive to changes in society, policy, and funding. Fresh perspectives and innovative ideas from trustees can help us continue to deliver services that truly make a difference.
What our trustees have in common is a passion to help homeless and vulnerable people in our community, and enable them to make positive changes in their lives.
Trustee Week serves as a timely reminder of the dedication, hard work, and commitment that trustees embody. The Shrewsbury Ark is a testament to what can be achieved when individuals come together to help those in need.
Let us recognise and celebrate the integral role of charity trustees and the profound social impact they create in our communities. Together, we can work towards a brighter future for everyone—because everyone deserves a safe place to call home.
Join us in this celebration and consider how you can contribute, not just to us, but to other local organisations for the betterment of society. Whether through trusteeship, volunteering, donating or just spreading awareness, your involvement can make a difference.
Thank you to everyone who volunteers with us and supports us.
Everything we are able to do to support vulnerable people in our community is because of your generosity.
We NEVER charge for our day centre services and we are funded entirely by grants and donations.
Could you be an Ark Angel this Christmas, and help us bring some Christmas cheer to homeless and vulnerable people in our community?
If you are looking for a volunteer role, either at the day centre or at our shop, please get in touch.
And please do spread the word - us a shout out and follow us on social media: we’re active on X (formally known as Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.