Volunteer Trustee interested in helping people with arthritis to live better lives in Reading

What will you be doing?

People of all ages can experience arthritis and it comes in many forms affecting one in six people in the UK.  Established for over 30 years, Arthos is a charity which has been helping people with arthritis to live better lives.  We’re about to change our focus and priorities, based on what we are hearing from listening to people here in Reading. Would you like to be part of that change? Help us to develop our new strategy as we provide more peer support, better information in a range of languages and subsidised access to therapies. We need new Trustees to lead Arthros as we make sure we are fit for the future.  Don’t look for our website, we don’t have one YET.  What we have is secure funding through investments that mean we are going to be able to help people for the foreseeable future. You will meet new people, know that you are helping people to improve their lives through the decisions you make and have the opportunity to use your skills to drive Arthros’s future work

What are we looking for?

We are looking for someone who has strong connections to Reading, either through work or living there.  Also ·Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation. · Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member. · A commitment to partnership working. · An understanding of the social model of health and wellbeing · Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion. · A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. · Enthusiasm for our vision and mission. · Willingness to lead according to our values. · Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life · Experience and understanding of the impact of arthritis on wellbeing · An understanding of health services and structures

What difference will you make?

As a small charity, currently with no employees, Trustees are crucial to Arthros.This is a time of transition and development.  The founding members are all ready to step back a little although will stay involved for the next 12 months.  We have  two freelance consultants who have been talking and listening to people about the potential future role for Arthros. So this is a vital role at an exciting time in which you will be part of a new team working together to agree the future direction of Arthros. Ultimately our goal is to help people living with arthritis to live the best lives they can.  We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.  You do not need previous governance experience – we will provide a full induction and training.