Volunteers’ Week is a time to recognise the many different ways people give their time and experience to support their communities. While many volunteering roles are visible day to day, others take place behind the scenes, helping shape organisations and ensure they can continue their work.
Trustees are a vital part of this. They are volunteers who help guide charities, make decisions and support organisations to achieve their goals. Without them, many charities and community groups would simply not be able to operate.
Meet Si: Creativity, access and giving back
Si Beckwith is a comedian, writer and Managing Director of the not-for-profit comedy company Little Robots AIC. He is also a trustee at North Tyneside Art Studio and The Queen’s Hall in Hexham.
He is passionate about creativity and making sure the arts are accessible to everyone.
“I grew up working class, and I grew up poor, and the arts didn’t always feel like it was for me. That’s something that I try to change throughout my work and life.”
For Si, becoming a trustee is part of that wider commitment. It is about helping shape organisations so that more people can access opportunities that might not otherwise feel open to them.
What being a trustee really means
Trustees play an important strategic role, helping organisations make decisions, plan for the future and operate effectively.
As Si explains, it’s something you grow into over time.
“I think having that holistic view over the top is something that you don’t really understand until you start doing it.”
“Once you become a trustee, it’s something that you just learn by doing.”
Being part of those conversations helps you understand where your skills and experience fit, and how you can contribute.
Everyone has something to bring
One of the most important messages from Si’s experience is that trustee roles are open to more people than you might expect.
“Anybody can be a trustee… It’s volunteering to help an organisation.”
“Everybody brings a different voice to the table.”
It’s that mix of perspectives that helps organisations grow and better reflect their communities.
Watch Si’s story
Hear directly from Si about his experience as a trustee and what he has learned along the way.
Getting started
If you are interested in becoming a trustee, there is support available to help you get started.
- The free Good Governance course on the Elements Training Portal offers a short introduction to trustee roles and responsibilities.
- North Tyneside VCSE organisations can also access VODA’s Trustee Roles and Responsibilities training for more in-depth guidance.
- You can find further information in the Charity Commission guidance on being a trustee.
