RURAL ACTION DERBYSHIRE SEEKS NEW TRUSTEES TO HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF RURAL COMMUNITIES

Rural Action Derbyshire (RAD) is calling on local people to step forward and consider becoming a Trustee of the long-established county charity.

The charity, which has supported rural communities across Derbyshire since 1924, is looking to recruit at least two, and ideally three, new Trustees to strengthen its Board.

Trustees play a vital role in providing strategic guidance, ensuring good governance, and supporting the executive team. The role is not operational, but Trustees bring their experience, judgement and insight to help the organisation respond to the changing needs of rural Derbyshire.

William Tudor Jones, Chair of Trustees at RAD, said, "Our Trustees are central to ensuring RAD continues to make a difference to people living in our rural communities. We are particularly keen to welcome people with lived experience of rural challenges, as well as those who can bring diversity of thought and background to our Board. This is a rewarding role where just a small investment of time can make a lasting impact."

Rural Action Derbyshire works on a wide range of issues including food and fuel poverty, rural housing, digital exclusion, transport barriers, village hall support, scams awareness, and rural domestic abuse.

Emma Simpson, Chief Executive of RAD, added, "We know the challenges facing rural communities are unique and often hidden. We are looking for thoughtful, committed people who care about rural life and want to help us shape our strategy and support our executive team in the years ahead. You don’t need to have been a Trustee before – we provide a supportive induction and mentoring."

Trustees are asked to attend four Board meetings a year (usually three online and one in-person in Matlock), read papers in advance, and where possible, contribute to sub-committees or working groups. The role is voluntary, with reasonable expenses reimbursed.

Applications close on Monday 22nd September at 10am. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an informal interview, and successful candidates will have the opportunity to observe a Board meeting before formally joining at the AGM.

For more information and details on how to apply, visit: www.ruralactionderbyshire.org.uk/join-our-team or contact Chief Executive Emma Simpson for an informal chat on 07540 736118 or email e.simpson@ruralactionderbyshire.org.uk