Announcement: VODA's telephone number is changing on 17 November 2025. From this date, please call 0191 323 2040

Celebrating the Unsung Heroes Behind Local Charities

Volunteers Week Thank YOu

As we head into summer, we wanted to spread a short, good news story in this issue of our governance blog!

The Interim Chair of the Charity Commission, Mark Simms OBE, has recently released a statement on the Charity Commission Blog to say a big “Thank You” to all the trustees and other volunteers across England and Wales.

In his article, which you can read in full here, Mark points out that there are around 700,000 charity trustees who serve in the UK. While most are volunteers, their roles come with significant duties and responsibilities. These include setting strategic direction and overseeing resources. Significantly, trustees also ensure that charities are meeting their public benefit and doing so safely and lawfully.

Trustees come from all walks of life, and many bring with them expertise from differing backgrounds, whether that be finance, law, governance or lived experience. Trustees use these significant assets for the benefit of others, without pay and, as Mark says, ‘often with little recognition’.

To recognise the hard work and dedication of our Trustees, Mark has this message:

“As Chair of the Commission, I want to say clearly — your work is respected. It is essential to the integrity and strength of this sector.”

We couldn’t agree more. At VODA, we’d like to echo this message and say a heartfelt thank you to every trustee supporting charities and voluntary groups in North Tyneside. Your dedication and leadership are deeply appreciated.

If you would like further guidance on your role as a trustee or other related areas, then please contact VODA who can offer support, advice, and training to your VCSE group. Please contact our Core Services Team by telephone on 0191 323 2040 or by email on development@voda.org.uk.

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