Trustees

Stepping Stones DS is always on the look-out for new Trustees. We have a great board with people who are committed to furthering the work of the Charity. If you are interested in joining us, please find further information below.

Stepping Stones DS is governed by a board of around 9 trustees. The board has a Chair and a Vice-Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. It is not necessary to have a child with Down syndrome in order to become a Trustee.

The chief executive and operations/finance manager report to the board.

Trustees of Stepping Stones DS:

• ·         Work with fellow trustees to shape, drive and monitor the Charity’s strategy

• ·         Prepare for and participate fully in board meetings

• ·         Act reasonably in decision making and leadership of the organisation

• ·         Ensure the proper management and administration of the charity

• ·         Use any specific skills, knowledge or experience you have to help the board of trustees reach quick and sound decisions by leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise

• ·         Promote the work of the Charity externally

• ·         Manage risks with a considered, proportionate and balanced approach

• ·         Support the Charity’s Chief Executive

• ·         Trustees are responsible for the work that the Charity does and how it does it.

Trustees have a number of statutory duties, which are:

• To ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations
• To ensure that the charity pursues its objects as defined in its governing document
• To ensure the organisation uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects for the benefit of the public
• To contribute actively to the board of trustees' role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets
• To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation
• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation including having appropriate policies and procedures in place
• To ensure the financial stability of the organisation
• To protect and manage the assets of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity's funds
• To follow proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of the chief executive.

Skills

Essential 

• Is committed to the organisation and has sufficient time and willingness to contribute effectively to board proceedings
• Is able to work effectively as a member of a team
• Is willing to speak up and can remain independent of any influence from another organisation or individual
• Is able to make quick and sound decisions based on an analysis of information presented to them
• Has a passion for the social sector and social change

Desirable

To have strong skills, experience or knowledge in at least one of the following areas:

• Fundraising

• Contracts

• Influencing and stakeholder management

• HR

• Marketing

• Safeguarding

• Financial management

• Governance

All Trustee positions are subject to DBS and reference checks. All Trustees must be prepared to complete NSPCC online Introduction to Safeguarding course, or equivalent within three months of appointment.