Volunteer Trustee - Mental Health Experience

What will you be doing?

At Connection Support, our team of 200 staff members and 150 active volunteers work alongside people to overcome life’s challenges.  We do this through our values of empowerment, collaboration, compassion and taking a personalised approach in all aspects of our work. Our approach focuses on the individual and aims to help people take control of their situation by building confidence, exploring resources and developing skills. So that people who are facing significant challenges can overcome them, achieve independence, live safe and fulfilling lives and be active and valued members of the communities in which they live. Our Mental Health service continues to grow as the need in society grows. And we continue to have impactful services across a range of geographies and need, and this role will support our successful, expanding operations and our strategic priorities in this area of our work. About the role. The trustee will support the CEO and wider senior team with advice and guidance specifically related to:

Managing existing projects. Maintaining good relationships with relevant agencies and potential partners. Advising on requirements when considering bids and contracts regarding Mental Health Services. Guiding the board on addressing societal needs and advising on potential strategies that support Connection Support to grow in the sector. Identifying ways in which Connection Support can engage key stakeholders to grow our reputation and services in this area.

Further information is available in our Trustee Information pack.

What are we looking for?

Our ideal Trustee will be passionate and motivated by the impact they can have by being part of Connection Support, and their personal values will align with ours. We would also like you to have the following expertise:

Experience of the Mental Health Act, as a service user, volunteer or employee. A strong and robust reputation that would raise no doubts in the minds of stakeholders, funders or clients. Strong and well-developed networks in the Mental Health sector. Knowledge or awareness of the Mental Health Act and the Mental Capacity Act. An instinctive, informed and up to date knowledge of the key issues impacting the Mental Health sector and policy - perhaps even as a ‘thought leader’. Expert, up-to-date knowledge of Mental Health legislation, policy and practice. Experience in applying relevant policy and procedures.

Previous board/Trustee experience is not necessary as we provide a full induction, and we pair each new Trustee with an experienced mentor. A number of training opportunities are circulated to Board members.

What difference will you make?

As a Trustee, you will play an important role, in providing leadership and direction including taking forward the 2024-2027 strategic plan and demonstrating a commitment to the financial health and viability of the organisation.