Job Description – Associate Charity Trustee

ROLE DESCRIPTION

TitleAssociate Charity Trustee
Reporting toBoard of Trustees
Business Area☒ Governance ☒ Strategy ☐ Operations ☐ Advisory
LocationPark Wood
Role PurposeThe Associate Charity Trustee supports the Board of Trustees in ensuring the charity is well governed, financially sustainable, and operating in line with its charitable objectives. The role is designed to provide development opportunities for individuals who wish to gain experience in charity governance while contributing skills, insight, and enthusiasm to the organisation. Associate Trustees participate in board discussions, committee work, and strategic activities, helping to shape the charity’s direction and impact.

About Us

Fusion Maidstone is a community focused charity and Healthy Living Centre based in Park Wood, one of the most deprived areas in Maidstone.  We exist to reduce health inequalities, improve wellbeing and strengthen community connection.  Through a blend of drop-in support, social programmes, youth and family activities, community events and accessible facilities, Fusion offers a safe, welcoming hub for local people.  Our work is practical, people-centred and deeply grounded in the needs of the community we serve. 

Key Responsibilities

    • Support the Board of Trustees in delivering the charity’s mission, vision and strategic objectives.
    • Attend and contribute to trustee board meetings, workshops and relevant committee meetings.
    • Provide constructive input on strategic planning, governance, safeguarding, finance and risk management.
    • Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work and values within the community and professional networks.
    • Assist with fundraising, partnership development, and stakeholder engagement where appropriate.
    • Prepare for meetings by reviewing papers and contributing informed opinions and ideas.
    • Maintain confidentiality and uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability.
    • Support the charity’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

Development Opportunity
The Associate Trustee role offers:

    • Insight into charity governance and leadership.
    • Experience of strategic decision-making within the voluntary sector.
    • Opportunities for mentoring and training from experienced trustees and senior staff.
    • Exposure to financial oversight, compliance and organisational development.
    • Undertake an induction and governance training programme
    • Be assigned a trustee mentor

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Person Specification

Essential

    • Commitment to the charity’s purpose and values.
    • Willingness to learn about the charity governance and trustee responsibilities.
    • Ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively.
    • Good judgement and a strategic mindset.
    • Reliability and willingness to dedicate time to meetings and preparation.

Desirable

    • Experience in areas such as fundraising, finance, HR, legal, marketing, digital, community engagement or lived experience relevant to the charity’s work.
    • Previous volunteering, leadership, or committee experience.
    • Interest in progressing to a full trustee role in the future.

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Values & Behaviours
Associate Trustees are expected to

    • Act in the best interests of the charity at all times.
    • Respect confidentiality and collective decision-making.
    • Champion inclusion, transparency and accountability.
    • Uphold the charity’s policies and governance standards.

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Time Commitment

    • Attendance at board meetings held bi-monthly.
    • Preparation time for meetings and occasional participation in events or committees.
    • Estimated commitment: approximately 4-6 hours per month.

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Term of Appointment

Typically appointed for an initial term of 12-18 months with the possibility of renewal or progression to a Trustee position subject to board approval.

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Equal Opportunities

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates irrespective of gender, disability, marital or parental status, racial, ethnic or social origin, colour, religion, belief or sexual orientation. In addition, during the various stage of recruitment, specific measure can be taken to ensure equal opportunities for candidates with disabilities or special needs.  Fusion are committed to the Disability Confident charter. We actively recruit staff and volunteers who have lived experience. We recognise and value the unique combination of skills, knowledge and perspective that employing people with lived experience, at all levels across the organisation, brings. We create a trauma-informed, person-centred environment, where the sharing of experiences and vulnerabilities to support others and create positive change is welcomed.

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Next Steps

    • To apply please send a covering letter stating why you would be suitable for this position by email to suemaidens@fusionhlc.org.uk.
    • If Fusion wish to take your EOI further, we will send out an application pack.

This role description serves to illustrate the type and scope of the duties currently required for the above post and to provide an indication of the required level of responsibility. It is not a comprehensive or exclusive list, and duties may be varied from time to time, they will not however change the general character of the role, or the level of responsibility entailed.

For further information on how to apply or if you would like to have an informal chat, please contact
Sue Maidens – CEO  
T: 01622 691177
E: suemaidens@fusionhlc.org.uk