Job Description

Trustee of The Disability Resource Centre

Main Duties:

To ensure that the charity applies its resources exclusively in furtherance of its objects, i.e. the charity must not spend money on activities, which are not included in its own objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are. To contribute actively to the board of Trustees' role of giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets. To safeguard the good name and values of the charity. To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the charity. To ensure the financial stability of the charity. To protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity's funds. To appoint and support the Chief Executive Officer and monitor their performance. In addition to the above statutory duties of all trustees, each trustee should use any specific knowledge or experience he or she may have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This will involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, and providing advice and guidance requested by the board on new initiatives or other issues relevant to the area of the charity's work in which the Trustee has special expertise.

Time Commitment and Support

Some current Trustees work full-time whilst others are retired so each Trustees ability to commit time to activities differs. Overall, the time commitment of a Trustee is around 1 day per month for attending meetings and reading papers in advance. However, Trustees will need to support both the strategic development and operational delivery of the DRC's charitable aims. This time commitment is harder to quantify as it depends on the activities required at any moment in time. The DRC are grateful for the time commitment given by Trustees and is respectful of other demands on Trustees' time. Ad Hoc time commitments are agreed with each Trustee as and when required with consideration given to deadlines for actions in line with a Trustees other commitment. The Board meets approximately every two months (6 meetings per year), typically afternoon or early evening, with a blend of in-person and online attendance.

Trustees are encouraged to join at least one subcommittee, such as:

Finance Committee (2 hour meeting every two months) Performance Committee (2 hour meeting every two months) Business Development Committee (Ad hoc - maximum 2 hour meeting every two months)
These committees typically meet every two months for 2-3 hours and provide recommendations to the Board of Trustees. You'll also need time to read sub-committee board papers, approximately 1 hour per meeting) in advance and may be invited to join short-term task groups. Induction and mentoring are provided to support you in your role.

What You'll Gain

Trustees often describe their role as enriching, empowering, and rewarding. As a DRC trustee, you can expect to gain:

Experience in charity governance and strategic decision-making The chance to make a lasting difference in the lives of others and contributing to a cause that matters Opportunities to develop your leadership, finance, or communication skills Connections to a diverse and supportive peer network

We are particularly interested in Trustees to fill the 2 following specialist roles

Trustee Role - Legal Lead

Purpose of the Role

To provide independent legal insight and risk awareness, ensuring DRC operates lawfully and ethically. The legal trustee advises on contracts, HR, safeguarding, governance and policy where needed. Working with CEO, Board, relevant subcommittees or working groups

Key Responsibilities

Advise on governance, employment or contractual issues as required Review and help develop organisational policies Support safeguarding and GDPR compliance Guide trustees on legal responsibilities and risk Signpost to legal resources or specialist advice where appropriate

Skills and Experience Needed

Qualified solicitor or experienced legal professional (any discipline) Experience of charity law, employment or contract law desirable Comfort reviewing policies and advising on best practice Analytical, balanced and calm approach to risk

Trustee Role: Finance

Purpose of the Role

To support strategic oversight of the charity's finances and ensure sound financial governance. To be a member of the Finance Committee and support financial planning, reporting and risk management. Working with CEO and Finance Officer, Finance Committee.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee the financial strategy, budgeting and financial sustainability of the charity Review management accounts and annual reports to the board Support the CEO and finance team in financial planning and compliance Ensure proper internal controls and risk management processes are in place Be an active member of the Finance Committee

Skills and Experience Needed

Understanding of charity finance and accounting principles Professional finance/accounting qualification desirable (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA) Confidence interpreting financial data and asking relevant questions Experience of charity sector finance or small business accounting is welcomed
Job Types: Zero hours contract, Volunteer

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Bedford MK45 1AH