Charity Trustee

South West Advocacy Network (SWAN) want to strengthen their Board of Trustees with up to 5 new Trustee appointments.

These are voluntary positions and provide opportunity to help SWAN to develop its strategic direction and sustain innovative services to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, primarily, but not solely, in counties across the South of England.

SWAN began life in Wiltshire and over the past 20 years has expanded into Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Bristol, and the Isle of Wight. We deliver high quality, independent advocacy services supporting a diverse range of vulnerable people.

We have developed a model of advocacy which ensures everyone, including the most marginalised, have the same rights and opportunities as their fellow citizens.

Our services are free at the point of delivery, confidential and non-judgemental.

We work with people from all walks of life and have already supported thousands of the most disadvantaged people to have their voice heard and their choices respected by those that are making decisions about their future.

Skills

We are looking for dynamic people to become trustees within our organisation, people who have the passion and drive to support SWAN and who can help us to ensure that the voices around our Board table reflect and understand the communities we work in.

We would encourage people from all sections of our communities to apply , but particularly Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic, disabled, and LGBTQ+ applicants because these groups are currently under-represented on our Board.

We are also happy to accept applications from people without prior Board experience but who can evidence their commitment to our values and ambitions and show a willingness to learn in the role.

The organisation is led and managed by the Chief Executive and the Executive Team who oversee the delivery of our services and the infrastructure that underpins them, and we believe that this, coupled with sound governance, will help us to achieve our vison and maximise our reach and impact.

We are looking for individuals who can demonstrate some of the following:

• Experiences that will bring different perspectives to our organisation i.e. being a member of , or working in, diverse or minority communities.

• Having direct experience of using advocacy or support services

• An understanding of, or interest in, the lives of vulnerable adults including those who have been victims of hate crime

• An understanding of, or interest in, the wider voluntary sector

• A commitment and willingness to improving the lives of vulnerable people

• Integrity, strategic vision and relationship building skills

• Governance, finance, and/or entrepreneurial experience

• Good communication skills and knowing how to work as part of a team

Time commitment averages 1-2 days a month, meeting locations are flexible and either face to face or virtual. Trustee expenses, including travel are paid.

Please note that for safeguarding purposes, all our roles require a current DBS check.