Volunteer Heart of Newhaven Community - Trustees

What will you be doing?

In August 2022, The Heart of Newhaven Community SCIO acquired the Victoria Primary School (until recently the oldest working primary school in Edinburgh) for community use. The former school site and its buildings has since been renamed ‘The Heart’ and is being developed as an intergenerational community hub. Our work is underpinned by three core themes: culture and heritage, enterprise and learning, and community wellbeing.  As we enter an exciting phase of development at The Heart, moving from ‘meanwhile use’ to full opening of the centre, we are looking for Trustees to join our expanding Trustee board. We are particularly interested in hearing from individuals with a background in Finance, Communications, and those who might be interested in taking on the role of Secretary.  Your role will include:  · Offering a level of expertise to ensure the overall strategic leadership and direction of HoNC  · Overseeing the affairs of HoNC through efficient, effective and accountable governance  · Ensuring the organisation is professionally run, manages risk, operates strict financial controls and acts in accordance with its aims and objectives  · Upholding our core values  · Championing and promoting the work of HoNC through their networks and fulfilling an ambassadorial role while meeting new contacts and networks.  · It is expected that each Trustee will take ownership of one strategic theme or facet of organisation, for example, volunteering, communications, equality and diversity, building management.  

What are we looking for?

We wish to recruit Trustees who are passionate about The Heart’s work and aims. We seek individuals who can help us take The Heart from ‘meanwhile use’ to a full opening. We are looking for trustees with expertise and skills that will help us to grow The Heart and to achieve longer-term sustainability.  Our Trustees will uphold and represent our purpose, vision, values and mission in a personal and professional capacity. Trustees are accountable for the overall strategic leadership and direction of HoNC, ensuring the organisation is professionally run, manages risk, operates strict financial controls, and acts in accordance with its aims and objectives. In addition, Trustees will take on leadership for one strategic theme or facet of the organisation.  Given that the organisation is in early stages of its development, ideal candidates will have a flexible approach with can-do attitudes, strong networking skills, as well as expert knowledge and experience necessary to support The Heart in achieving its aims.  Our ideal Trustee will:  · Have at least 3 years’ professional experience in profit or not-for-profit management, or facilities management.  · Have effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.  · Have a strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.  · Have enthusiasm for our vision and mission.  We are particularly interested in hearing from individuals with expertise in Finance, Communications, and those who might be interested in taking on the role of Secretary.  We are keen to appoint individuals living in our area of benefit, which stretches beyond the immediate area of Newhaven, from the edge of Leith to the edge of Granton and inland to Ferry Road, although this is not essential.  We are committed to increasing the diversity of our Board and warmly encourage applications from under-represented groups including BAME candidates or those with disabilities.  These posts are not remunerated. Previous trustee experience is not essential

What difference will you make?

As a Trustee, you will be able to make a real difference to a vibrant, local organisation that aims to provide much-needed, age-friendly spaces and improve community wellbeing in Newhaven and its surrounding areas. You will play an active part in developing The Heart, its partnerships, and activities as we move from ‘meanwhile use’ to full opening of the centre. You will have the opportunity to work alongside other like-minded people, organisations and charities to help The Heart meet its strategic aims and fulfil its potential. You will be part of an exciting and ambitious venture in the NE Edinburgh area that is being delivered for the community by the community.