What do our trustees do?

Our Trustees ensure the Association has a clear strategy, and that its work and goals are in line with its vision. They are the ‘guardians of purpose’, making sure that all decisions put the needs of the beneficiaries first. They safeguard the Association’s assets – both physical assets, including property, and intangible ones, such as its reputation – ensuring that they are used well and that the charity is run sustainably.

Trustees don’t usually do the day-to-day running of the charity – they delegate this to the staff, normally led by the Chief Executive. Instead, they play the role of ‘critical friend’ to the Chief Executive by giving support and by challenging – in a supportive way – to help them manage effectively. However, in smaller charities with limited staff, like the Liverpool Commonwealth Association, our Trustees usually take hands-on roles too.

Our Trustee board meets four to eight times a year. Our board has subcommittees that focus on particular areas of work or projects. Our Trustees are often expected to get involved with one or more sub-committees, as well as have a good understanding of the Association’s work overall.