Trustee

Each individual member of the trustee board has a responsibility to contribute to the discharging of the board’s duties by:

·       Maintaining an awareness of the business of the bureau

·       Taking responsibility for his or her own learning and development

·       Regularly attending, preparing for and taking a full part in meetings

·       Actively contributing to setting policy and strategic direction

·       Monitoring whether the service complies with its governing document, whether it meets Citizens Advice standards and how well the advice needs of the local community are being met

·       Monitoring the financial position of the bureau and ensuring that it operates within its means and objects, and that there are clear lines of accountability for day-to-day financial management

·       Actively seeking to further the strategic objectives of the bureau, and acting in the best interests of the bureau at all times

·       Maintaining confidentiality about any sensitive or confidential information received in the course of duties as a trustee.

Skills

Each individual member of the trustee board brings skills and qualities to the board. They add to the collective knowledge and experience by providing the following.

1. Commitment and availability to attend bureau trustee board meetings

2. Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion

3. Willingness to gain knowledge of local needs and resources

4. Commitment to the aims, principles and policies of the Citizens Advice (CA) service, including those relating to equal opportunities, independence and social policy

5. Willingness and ability to act in the best interests of the bureau

6. Ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and employers

7. Willingness to participate in democratic process which develops CA policies by area and nationally

8. Numeracy to the extent required to understand CA accounts with the support of a treasurer

9. Willingness and ability to learn, and to develop and examine their own attitudes

10. Ability to think creatively and strategically, and exercise good, independent judgement

11. Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.