Volunteer Legal Trustee

What will you be doing?

The Iolanthe Midwifery Trust is at an exciting phase of it's development.  3 years ago we became a CIO and we are about to launch our new 3 year strategy and plans.   The Legal Trustee will participate in all areas of our governance but take a special interest in the legal implications of the strategy and governance. The Legal Trustee will not be an expert in all legal matters, nor will they act as the Trust’s legal representative, but will use their sound legal training and experience to support with the Board’s understanding and interpretation. Having a sound understanding of charity law and/or data protection law would be an advantage, but not essential.  Knowledge of UK wide midwifery provision would also be an advantage but not essential.  

What are we looking for?

The Iolanthe Midwifery Trust is at an exciting stage of development having become a CIO 3 years ago and we are about to launch our new 3 year strategy.  The Legal trustee will play a key role in our way ahead.   The Legal Trustee will be a UK-based practising or non-practising solicitor, legal executive, barrister or have other equivalent legal experience. It is essential that you have experience of giving legal and governance advice on sensitive multi party complex issues.  Legal Experience in the areas of maternity, health and safety, and/or employment law would be an advantage  Outside of meetings, all Trustees are expected to spend 2-4 hours a fortnight on Iolanthe Trustee work to further the organisation’s work and mission. The legal Trustee is expected to check and to respond to emails at least once a week.

What difference will you make?

Midwives are the only professionals who have legal responsibility for the safety of all mothers and babies during normal childbirth in Britain. Anyone who has ever had a child will understand the total trust and confidence that a mother places in the midwife. Her life and her baby's life are in their hands. Most women never forget the midwife who helped her birth her baby. In order for midwives to offer the very best care they need to develop innovative practice, progress their professional education and conduct research. This is made possible through the work of the Iolanthe Midwifery Trust. For many midwives, the Iolanthe Midwifery Trust has transformed their lives, supporting them in achieving their dreams and aspirations. Over 30 years, the Iolanthe Midwifery Trust has helped nearly 400 midwives develop and broaden their skills and knowledge through bursaries, fellowships and special awards. The Charity has been in existence since 1983 and then became a CIO.  Our current Legal Trustee is stepping down and we are now looking for a new Legal Trustee to help take us forward into the next phase of our development.