Trustee Week 2020

This year has been exceptionally challenging for everyone. For charities, having a strong board of trustees can be the difference between struggling and thriving.

There are approximately 196,000 charities in the UK (167,000 charities in England and Wales, 24,000 in Scotland, 5,000 registered in Northern Ireland). And just over 1 million trustees (of which some 850,000 are in England and Wales, 180,000 in Scotland and 30,000 in Northern Ireland).

Silv Ingram, chair of the board

I initially joined the Board of the Reuse Network as the voice of Scotland for the sector, although as time as passed I feel extremely passionate about the organisation and the work of the collective team. I also think it is important that I as a CEO of a charity, view the world through the lens of a trustee and it has influenced my interactions with my own Board of directors. There are times when the role can be time-consuming but the rewards are far reaching, I learn from other trustees and the staff team, this translates into me being a better CEO of my own organisation.

Mike Wheatley, Treasurer

Before my “official retirement”, I was Finance Officer with the Reuse Network and it is there I become aware of the aims and beliefs of this area of the third sector. As I retired, the position of Treasurer became vacant and it is then I chose to become involved as a trustee. Not only did I believe I had something to offer in this position, I also felt that I could provide some continuation for the charity.

Stephen Cawley, trustee and enterprise director

Having worked with the Reuse Network team on the John Lewis Sofa Take Back scheme which we launched nearly 10 years ago, I’d always loved what Reuse Network is about – helping those most in need and doing good for the planet. Earlier this year, after taking early retirement, I was approached to consider serving as a Trustee and it was a bit of a ‘no-brainer’ to say “Yes, sign me up”.

Paula Benson, trustee

For Film and Furniture readers, owning a recognisable piece from a film is the ultimate goal, but for some, simply having their own mattress, a cooker or a preloved sofa would mean the world. Driven by a social conscience, Film and Furniture sought out the Reuse Network and developed a partnership in 2019 – we are proud to support a much-needed social and environmental cause. I accepted an invitation to become a member of the Board in 2020. I bring an independent view from outside the sector and hope to contribute my strategic thinking towards the Reuse Network’s communications in the future.

Graham Harrison,  trustee and enterprise director

have always been inspired by the work of the people in the reuse sector and as a result joined an AATF as a trustee where I see first-hand meaningful reuse in action as well as Fareshare distribution, training and employment opportunities plus business start-up and financial support.

I jumped at the chance to join the Reuse Network as a trustee to enable me to use my experience in both Local Government and the private waste sector for the benefit of the Network to help provide our members the resources they need to reach vulnerable people in their communities.