Trustee at Mind Brighton And Hove

What does the opportunity involve doing?

We are seeking general Trustees to complement the experience and expertise of our existing Board. As a Trustee of MiBH you will have a commitment to the Charity and ensure that it is effectively governed in line with our mission, vision and values. You will need to think strategically and creatively, communicate clearly and be able to exercise independent judgement.

We really welcome applications from people with lived experience of mental health issues. We are committed to diversifying the membership of our Board of Trustees and particularly keen to receive applications from people from racialised communities

As part of the Board, you will determine the strategy and development of Mind in Brighton and Hove, safeguard and promote the values of the organisation, be effective, responsible and accountable as a Trustee and contribute to the Board functioning effectively.

Trustee roles require an estimated commitment equivalent to approx.1 day per month, which includes preparation for and attendance at Board meetings, held early evenings during the week, every 2 months and our AGM.

This is a voluntary role with essential travel expenses reimbursed by Mind in Brighton and Hove.

What induction, training and support is offered?

• We estimate that Trustees will need to commit the equivalent of around 1 day per month - this includes preparing for and attending Board and/or subcommittee meetings, reading policies and papers, receiving updates and responding to emails, engaging in learning and development opportunities, and attending events where applicable
• Board and Subcommittee meetings currently take place every 2 months on weekdays, early evening for up to 2 hours, usually in-person at our offices in Central Brighton.
• Trustees may also be asked to be a member of a subcommittee of the Board of Trustees, relevant to their skills and experience.
• Trustees will be expected to familiarise themselves with the work of MiBH through reading regular updates, attending meetings/events and visiting projects where appropriate.
• Trustees are also expected to occasionally attend relevant learning and development and networking events, e.g. webinars, training sessions, national Mind meetings, strategy planning events etc.
• There is an expectation that trustees attend planned induction sessions and do not miss more than one consecutive meeting and no more than 2 meetings a year.

What skills or qualities are needed?

Qualities of a Trustee:
• A commitment to the organisation, its aims, objectives, mission and values
• Ability to take a strategic view and make appropriate judgements in the best interests of the organisation
• A commitment to understanding the legal responsibilities and devoting the time necessary to fulfil the role of a Trustee
• Excellent reflective skills on own performance and the ability to work as part of a team including supporting and respecting the contribution of other Trustees, staff, volunteers and people using MiBH services
• Excellent communication skills and a willingness to share knowledge, skills and experience with other Trustees and the Management Team

Desirable experience:
• Prior experience of Trusteeship or Committee work
• Previous involvement in the charity/VCSE sector
• Lived experience of mental health issues/experience of using mental health services