What is a charity trustee?
Charity trustees are the people who are responsible for the overall running and management of a charity and oversee all the major decisions on behalf of that charity. They are voting members of the charity's governing body.

They set out the strategic direction of the charity and must feel confident that the charity is well managed and meeting its objectives.

Charity trustees are also responsible by law for the financial security and transparency of their charities.

For more information,  click here to request in information pack

What does it involve?
As a Relate Greater Manchester North trustee you can look forward to serving and forging links within your community and also participate in national consultative forums.

Experience
Trustee boards need people with a range of skills and experience. Some which may be particularly helpful include:

• management
• finance and business
• legal
• public relations
• information technology
• fundraising

We're looking for people who can:

• support Relate's mission to: Promote health, respect and justice in couple and family relationships
• communicate effectively
• feel comfortable with making policy decisions
• identify with the needs of people whose relationships are breaking down
• understand the benefits of Relate's work in education and training
• have a basic understanding of finances and how charities work
• work effectively in a team
• show leadership

Who's eligible?

There are some restrictions on who can become a trustee. Those that are barred by law include:

• people under the age of 18
• anyone who's been convicted of a crime which involves deception or dishonesty
• anyone who is officially bankrupt
• anyone who's previously been a trustee but has been removed by the Court of Commissioners
• anyone who has been disqualified from being a company director

Does it involve much time?

Trustees meet either once a month or once a quarter. A special management committee, comprising the chairman, centre manager and treasurer, meets monthly.

What additional skills does the Chair of the board of trustees need?

As a Chair of a Relate Board of Trustees you would need to demonstrate particular leadership and networking qualities. You would work closely with the Relate Centre Manager as line manager to them.

Is there a payment for trustees?

There is no remuneration for Relate trustees but expenses may be appropriate

For more information,  contact Relate Greater Manchester North