As civil servants, we dedicate our careers to public service, working tirelessly to improve lives and strengthen communities across the UK. But did you know there's another way to show your impact – one that could enrich your career whilst making a profound difference to causes close to your heart?
This Trustees' Week, I want to share why I believe charity trusteeship represents a really rewarding opportunity, and why I'm encouraging every civil servant to consider taking on this crucial role.
Bringing your passions to life
We all believe in causes that matter to us personally – whether it's supporting vulnerable people to access services, protecting the local environment, promoting accessible education, improving people’s health or countless other worthy missions. Charity trusteeship offers the chance to channel your professional skills and personal passions into meaningful action.
My own experience of being a trustee of a health and education charity transformed my understanding of the health system and the importance of the education ecosystem to the delivery of health services. I also got to learn from some of the country’s greatest clinicians and health academics - I was definitely always the one in the room asking the novice questions!
Making a Difference
The charity sector is the backbone of so much positive change in our society, delivering essential services and support to those who need it most. As trustees, we help steer this vital work. Trustees are volunteers who play an essential role running charities. They make strategic decisions that shape how charities operate, ensuring resources are used effectively, and helping charities navigate challenges whilst maximising their impact.
Civil servants of ALL grades and professions bring unique value to trustee roles. Our experience in risk management, strategic thinking and public service delivery provides the kind of expertise that charity boards need. We understand how to work within legal parameters, engage with the public and deliver outcomes that matter.
Developing leadership skills and career prospects
Trusteeship isn't just about giving back – it's also about growing as a professional. The role offers unparalleled opportunities to develop crucial skills in leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making in contexts quite different from our day-to-day work. You might find yourself faced with complex strategic challenges, overseeing organisational change, or developing expertise in areas like fundraising, marketing, or building partnerships.
These experiences can broaden your perspective and enhance your ability to think creatively about solutions. They are directly transferable to your civil service career and can enable you to be a more rounded, effective leader – your grade is irrelevant to your ability to be a great trustee!
Expanding your network
Trusteeship connects you with inspiring people from different backgrounds – fellow trustees who might be business leaders, subject matter experts, or community advocates, as well as the dedicated staff and volunteers who deliver the charity's work. These connections often lead to lasting professional relationships and can open doors to new opportunities and insights.
Making it work alongside your civil service role
I know what you might be thinking: "This sounds wonderful, but where would I find the time?" The reality is that most trustee roles require a relatively modest time commitment – typically a few hours each month for board meetings, plus occasional additional work on specific projects or committees.
Taking the first step
If you're feeling inspired, there are some excellent resources available to help you get started:
- Sign up to our ‘Become a charity trustee’ webinar, bespoke for civil servants on 25th November at 11am. Click here to find out more.
- Read more information about the role, including case studies at the Trustees’ Week website, which includes links to platforms like Reach Volunteering to search for opportunities.
This Trustees' Week, I encourage you to take that first step towards discovering how trusteeship could transform both your career and the cause that your chosen charity benefits. See the difference you can make by finding out more and getting involved.
David Holdsworth, Chief Executive, Charity Commission
1 comment
Comment by Kevin Oliver posted on
Loads of good reasons to be a charity trustee. It's giving yourself to make society better and stronger. It's about helping those who need it. It's about developing yourself and doing things you never imagined that you were capable of. I have made friends with people I would never have met otherwise, and it's about giving both of yourself and to yourself. Don't hesitate, do it. You'll love yourself for it.