What does a trustee do?

The Board of Trustees are collectively responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the Bristol Law Centre (BLC).

The board oversee the financial affairs of the charity, supports the CEO and management team and ensures that the aims, objectives and goals are in accordance with its Memorandum and Articles of Association, and legal and regulatory guidelines.

It is important that, as a trustee, you are aware of, and understand, your individual and collective responsibilities. The main responsibilities of being trustee are

To support BLC to achieve its charitable objectives and ensure any action is in the best interest of the organisation and its beneficiaries
To determine the overall direction and development of BLC through good governance and clear strategic planning.
To ensure that BLC, and its representatives, function within all legal and regulatory requirements applicable
To take appropriate professional advice in all matters where there may be a material risk to BLC, or where the trustees may be in breach of their duties.
To avoid any personal conflict of interest.
To manage and use BLC’s resources so as to optimise its potential.
To ensure robust systems are in place for internal financial control and the protection of BLC’s funds and assets
To maintain confidentiality on all aspects of BLC business.

Anyone volunteering their time as a Trustee of Bristol Law Centre is asked to

Show commitment to the organisation
Have the willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to board activities. We hold 6 board meetings per year and trustees are also asked to sit on one sub-committee of their choice. The time commitment is 4 hours every 2 months for meetings plus around 2hrs of preparatory work (reading papers in advance). Trustees also take on projects and provide ad hoc support to BLC staff which use their individual skills and experience. The time commitment for these can be variable but fit around trustees’ other commitments.
Have a willingness to speak their mind so ideas are appropriately questioned and challenged to ensure robust decision making.
Have an understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
Be willing to work effectively as a member of a team

Work as a trustee is voluntary. However, BLC is able to reimburse expenses incurred in carrying out this role.