Across Dorset, more organisations are recognising the value of strong, diverse boards - and more professionals are stepping forward to become charity trustees. From arts and culture to health, education, environment and social care, trusteeship is increasingly seen not just as “giving back”, but as a meaningful two-way relationship that benefits individuals, businesses and communities alike.

But what does being a trustee actually involve, and why should Dorset companies and professionals consider it?

What Is a Trustee - and What Do They Do?

A trustee is a voluntary board member responsible for the strategic direction, governance and long-term sustainability of a charity or not-for-profit organisation.

Trustees do not run day-to-day operations. Instead, they:

• Set vision, mission and strategy
• Ensure financial oversight and legal compliance
• Support and challenge senior leadership
• Safeguard the organisation’s values and purpose
• Act in the best interests of beneficiaries

Most boards meet quarterly, with additional sub-committees (finance, people, audit, sustainability, etc.) depending on the organisation.

Why Dorset Companies Encourage Trusteeship

Many Dorset employers now actively support staff becoming trustees - and for good reason.

Benefits for Businesses

• Leadership development: Trustees gain strategic, financial and governance experience that feeds directly back into the workplace
• Stronger decision-making: Exposure to complex, high-stakes decisions in a different context sharpens judgement
• Enhanced reputation: Demonstrates commitment to community, ESG and social value
• Staff retention and wellbeing: Employees often report greater purpose and job satisfaction
• Local impact: Supporting Dorset-based charities strengthens the local economy and social fabric

For SMEs especially, trusteeship can be a powerful, cost-effective form of professional development.

Why Professionals Choose to Become Trustees

People step into trustee roles for many reasons:

• To use their skills for good
• To gain board-level experience
• To expand professional networks
• To explore new sectors or causes
• To reconnect with their local community
• To prepare for future non-executive or portfolio careers

For many, trusteeship becomes one of the most rewarding roles they hold - intellectually, emotionally and professionally.

Skills Charities Are Actively Looking For

You don’t need previous board experience to become a trustee. Many organisations value lived experience and transferable skills just as highly.

Highly Sought-After Skills

• Finance & accounting
• HR, people & culture
• Legal & governance
• Marketing, communications & digital
• Fundraising & commercial strategy
• Property, estates & facilities
• Sustainability & environmental expertise
• Education, health or social care experience
• Leadership, coaching & organisational development

Just as important are soft skills:

• Strategic thinking
• Good judgement
• Willingness to challenge constructively
• Emotional intelligence
• Integrity and accountability

How to Become a Trustee in Dorset

1. Decide What Matters to You

Choose a cause aligned with your values - arts, health, environment, youth, disability, heritage or social inclusion.

2. Be Honest About Time

Most roles require 10–20 days per year, including meetings, preparation and occasional events.

3. Look Locally

Dorset-based charities often value trustees with local knowledge and networks.

4. Search in the Right Places

• Charity Commission register
• Local charity websites
• Volunteer centres
• LinkedIn and professional networks
• Business and sector associations

5. Have the Conversation with Your Employer

Many companies are supportive once they understand the professional benefits.

Advantages of Being a Trustee

✔ Personal fulfilment and purpose
✔ Board-level strategic experience
✔ Skill development in governance and leadership
✔ Expanded professional networks
✔ Exposure to different sectors and challenges
✔ Opportunity to make a tangible difference

Challenges and Responsibilities

Trusteeship is rewarding, but it’s not without responsibility.

⚠ Legal duties and accountability
⚠ Complex financial or regulatory decisions
⚠ Balancing challenge with support
⚠ Time commitment alongside paid work
⚠ Emotional weight, particularly in frontline charities

Good charities provide strong induction, training and support - no trustee is expected to know everything.

What You Gain That You Can’t Learn Elsewhere

Many trustees say the biggest gains aren’t on their CV - they’re personal:

• Confidence at senior decision-making level
• Perspective beyond commercial targets
• Better listening and influencing skills
• A deeper understanding of governance and ethics
• Pride in contributing to something that lasts

Trusteeship often changes how people lead and how they see success.

A Growing Opportunity for Dorset

As Dorset organisations face increasing pressure - financial, social and environmental - strong governance matters more than ever.

Trustees bring independence, insight and stability. Professionals bring skills, networks and fresh thinking. When the match is right, both sides benefit.

For Dorset businesses and individuals alike, becoming a trustee isn’t just volunteering - it’s leadership with purpose.