Trustee Role Description (voluntary position)
The main duties of the Trustees
To ensure that Dads Rock:
Complies with its governing documents, including the Dads Rock Constitution and Policies.
Pursues its charitable objects as defined in its governing documents including the Dads Rock Constitution.
Applies its resources exclusively in furtherance of its objects, i.e. DR must not spend money on activities which are not included in its own objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are.
Has an effective and efficient administration.
Is financially stable.
Contribute actively to the role of Trustee by:
- Attending Board meetings and other meetings and events as determined by the Board;
- Giving firm strategic direction to the organisation;
- Setting and reviewing operational policy and practice;
- Defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
- Safeguard the good name and values of Dads Rock.
- Protect and manage the tangible assets (property etc.) of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of all funds.
- Support the Chair, Vice-Chair, Treasurer and staff of Dads Rock.
In addition to the above duties of all Trustees, each Trustee should use any specific knowledge or experience they may have to help the Board reach sound decisions. This will involve scrutinising Board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, and providing advice and guidance requested by the Board on new initiatives or other issues relevant to the area of work in which the Trustee has special expertise.
Person Specification:
Essential attributes
An interest in the ethos and aims of Dads Rock.
An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
Commitment to preparing for and attending Board meetings and other meetings and events.
Ability to maintain confidentiality on personal and sensitive information.
The ability to work as part of the team of Trustees in order to reach sound and fair decisions.
Ability to understand and analyse complex information, often presented in report form.
Ability to contribute to Dads Rock strategic planning process.
To be able to represent at least one key skill/knowledge area on the Board.
To ensure that you are not disqualified from being a trustee for any reason.
There is a requirement that Trustees will be part of the Protection of Vulnerable Groups scheme. Given the aims of the charity, we require trustees with experience of one or more of the following areas:
Third Sector
Finance
Fundraising
Fatherhood
Marketing and Communications (including digital)
Legal
Early Years
Healthcare (NHS)
Local Authority (i.e. Education and/or Social Work)
Social Enterprise
Human Resources
Desirable attributes
Qualifications and or membership of professional bodies related to your area of expertise. Previous experience of serving on a Board of Trustees or equivalent would also be beneficial.
Time commitment
You will be required to commit to serving on the Board for a minimum of two years.
Board Meetings take place approximately every quarter. Dates for the following calendar year are circulated prior to, and agreed at, the last meeting of the year.
In addition, you may be asked:
To represent Dads Rock at other internal and external events depending on your availability.
To participate in appropriate sub-committee groups – depending on your area of expertise and availability.
To attend any other meetings and events by agreement of the Board.
To attend the Annual General Meeting
To attend Special Members Meetings
Failure to attend three Board meetings in any twelve month period may result in the Chair asking the Trustee to stand down.
Trustee Induction includes
An induction meeting with the Chair and if desired to be peer supported by an existing Trustee.
Benefits of becoming a Trustee
The knowledge that you are playing a vital role in the running and development of Dads Rock; enabling the organisation to continue its work and make a difference to Scottish society. The opportunity to enhance your existing skills and knowledge relating to the development of an innovative and dynamic voluntary organisation. The ability to enhance your network and broaden your experience of the third sector.