Trustees play a vital role in charities and community organisations across Dorset, giving their time, skills and experience to help organisations thrive. This Trustees’ Week, we’re celebrating their contribution, and we’re also encouraging organisations to think about how well they support the people who take on these important roles.

Becoming a trustee is a significant commitment. Alongside supporting an organisation’s purpose and direction, trustees have legal responsibilities and must make decisions that protect its future. Yet many take on these roles without formal training, learning as they go.

Even experienced trustees can benefit from refreshing their knowledge, particularly as organisations grow, challenges change and expectations develop.

Good governance isn’t just about meeting legal requirements. It helps organisations make better decisions, manage risks, build confidence among funders and supporters, and ultimately deliver better outcomes for the communities they serve.

To help, we’re offering three free training sessions this November:

• Roles and Responsibilities of Trustees – 11 November. Understand your legal duties, responsibilities and how to contribute effectively to your board.
• What is Good Governance? – 12 November. Explore what effective governance looks like and how to strengthen your organisation’s approach.
• Managing Risk for Trustees – 18 November. Learn practical ways to identify, assess and manage risks within your organisation.

If you’re a charity manager, chair or organisational lead, please share these opportunities with your trustees, and consider attending yourself. Having a shared understanding of responsibilities and good governance can make a real difference to how effectively your organisation operates.

And if you’re already a trustee, whether you’ve been in the role for six months or six years, why not take a little time to invest in your own knowledge and confidence?

Your trustees invest their time in your organisation. This Trustees’ Week, help invest in them.