Local MP Mims Davies has praised the work of charity trustees in Mid Sussex and is encouraging others to consider volunteering their time to become a local charity trustee. The MP’s comments came as part of Trustees’ Week, which celebrates the important work of charity trustees across the country and offers a range of training and events to help develop their skills.
There are 382 charities registered in Mid Sussex, as well as many others that are operating across the local area. They are all run by trustees, most of whom are volunteers, and who take responsibility for the charity’s crucial work. Without the hard work and dedication of trustees, charities would not be able to provide vital support to local communities.
Trustees’ Week is running from 7th to 11th November and provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the 700,000 trustees across England and Wales. The theme of this year’s Trustees’ Week is ‘making a difference in changing times’ – recognising that the positive impact trustees make is now as important as ever. The week offers trustees the opportunity to share their experiences and develop their skills through a wide range of events, training and guidance.
The campaign also encourages more people to consider trusteeship. The Commission says that younger people, women and people from diverse ethnic backgrounds are underrepresented on charity boards and that charities may therefore be losing out on their skills, talents, experiences and perspectives. The regulator wants a wider range of people to consider what they might be able to give to – and indeed gain from – trusteeship.
Mims Davies MP said: “I have been privileged to visit many outstanding charities in our local area, all of which rely on the dedication of volunteer trustees. I want to thank all those who are giving up their time to support our local charities and congratulate them on everything they are doing to help these great organisations thrive. Becoming a charity trustee is a fantastic way to give something back to our community and I would encourage others to consider getting involved in this way.”
Helen Stephenson, Chief Executive of the Charity Commission, said: “Trustees play a vital role in every community and across society. I’d like to extend the Charity Commission’s thanks to the trustees of Mid Sussex and encourage others in the area to consider taking up the role. Trusteeship is hugely valuable service, and it also brings great rewards for the individual, not least in terms of personal fulfilment and the leadership experience that trusteeship offers. During these challenging times we need more people from all walks of life to come forward and serve as trustees.”
To learn more about Trustees’ Week and trusteeship, visit www.trusteesweek.org.