Recruiting Trustees

Looking for new trustees? 

Finding the right trustees can help your organisation thrive. New board members bring fresh perspectives, valuable skills and stronger connections with the communities you serve. 

Volunteer First helps charities and community organisations attract people who want to make a difference. 

 

Browse Trustee Opportunities

 

Why recruit through Volunteer First? 

Volunteer First helps organisations: 

  • Reach people interested in supporting local communities 
  • Recruit beyond existing networks 
  • Attract diverse skills and perspectives 
  • Strengthen governance and leadership 
  • Promote opportunities throughout Hampshire 

 

Start with your board 

Before recruiting, consider: 

  • Your organisation’s future plans 
  • Existing board strengths 
  • Skills gaps 
  • Diversity of perspectives 
  • Community representation 
  • Lived experience 

Effective boards combine professional expertise with community insight. 

 

Make your opportunity welcoming 

Look beyond your existing contacts and encourage applications from diverse backgrounds. 

Explain: 

  • What your organisation does 
  • What trustees do 
  • Skills and experience sought 
  • Time commitment 
  • Meeting arrangements 
  • Appointment length 
  • Expenses and accessibility support 
  • How to apply or ask questions 

Only ask for previous trustee experience where it is genuinely required. 

 

Check before appointing 

Follow your governing document and recruitment procedures. 

You should: 

  • Obtain a declaration confirming candidates are not disqualified 
  • Complete any appropriate checks 
  • Discuss conflicts of interest 
  • Follow DBS guidance where relevant 

 

Help new trustees settle in 

Provide: 

  • A structured induction 
  • Key documents and policies 
  • Information about trustee responsibilities 
  • Mentoring opportunities 
  • Ongoing training and support 

A positive induction helps trustees contribute more quickly and confidently. 

 

Different organisations, different responsibilities 

Legal duties vary according to organisational structure. 

A board member of a non-charitable organisation is not automatically a charity trustee. Directors of charitable companies have responsibilities under both charity and company law. 

Always ensure prospective board members understand their duties before appointment. 

 

Useful guidance 

  • https://www.ncvo.org.uk/help-and-guidance/governance/recruiting-inducting-and-supporting-trusteesNCVO: Recruiting, inducting and supporting trustees 

This page provides introductory guidance and should not be relied upon as legal advice. 

 

Share Your Trustee Opportunity 

Ready to recruit new trustees? 

Volunteer First can help you connect with people who want to use their skills, experience and passion to support local organisations. 

A well-promoted trustee opportunity can help you attract new perspectives, strengthen governance and increase your impact. 

Register a Trustee Role

 

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