Volunteer Trustee with Digital and IT experience to join board of an historic steamship

What will you be doing?

SS Freshspring is an historic steamship, the only survivor in her class berthed currently as a static exhibit in Bideford, North Devon welcoming Sunday visitors during the open season, but with the ambition to sail again.  Working successfully since 2013, the primary reason for her rescue was to create a resource to inspire and engage young people, to encourage their interest in STEM subjects and maritime studies, providing a pathway into a variety of careers. The Trust also provides support and activity for a diverse range of groups including, socially excluded young people, special needs groups and adults needing directional support or motivational activity We have embarked on the next step to explore the options and opportunities to secure the sustainable long term future of the SS Freshspring.  A recent National Lottery Heritage Fund grant has enabled us to complete a study into the feasibility of her going to sea and to carry passengers. Meanwhile, we need to continue to develop the range of people engaging with her, her impact on the local community and her income generating activities. To successfully achieve this, we now need to widen the number and range of Volunteers and Trustees on the board.   We are looking for people to support and shape the aims and future of SS Freshspring and are especially keen hear from people wanting to apply their Digital and IT interest, skills and experience

What are we looking for?

We are looking for someone to develop and oversee maintenance of an integrated IT infrastructure and digital processes, ensuring that we are making the best use of the technologies at the Trust’s disposal. We need someone with an IT background and ideally who also has experience of WordPress, website development and knowledge of Data Protection and GDPR

What difference will you make?

As part of the board you will use your skills and experience to support and shape our work and strategic direction. If you are not quite ready to take on a Trustee role, we also welcome interest from people wanting to use your skills and develop your experience while supporting our work.   As part of our Trustee board, you will support us through a period of significant growth and development as we continue to shape our direction, find funding and work towards our ambition of taking the ship to sea, maybe within the next five years. Trustees will engage in all aspects of governance to ensure the Trust remains robust and forward thinking. Fundraising is a role that all Trustees will engage in at some level.