The charity Framework is recruiting new members to its Board of Trustees and is encouraging members of the business community to apply.
Framework provides housing, health, employment and support services to people with a wide range of needs across Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire and Sheffield.
Its 70 services support more than 18,000 people annually and accommodate more than 1,300 people at any one time.
Framework’s Chief Executive Andrew Redfern explains: “These are important appointments as the Board is responsible for the charity’s governance, strategy and financial wellbeing.
“We are keen to attract applicants from the areas where we work – people who share our values and ethos and are committed to making a difference in the life chances of the people we support.
“We welcome applicants from all walks of life, preferably with experience of board membership, and are particularly looking for people with expertise in Finance and Risk, and Housing and Supported Housing.
“We are asking for help to identify suitable candidates for this vital role. It could be you, or someone you know. Please encourage them to apply.”
One of Framework’s current board members, Professor Sheona MacLeod, Director of Education and Training at NHS England, explained why she became involved and why the work is so fulfilling: “I applied to join the Framework Board having heard from another Trustee how rewarding he had found it, how impactful he thought the organisation was, and how much it made a difference to individuals.
“I also heard from friends working in other charities about how Framework provided for people whom everyone else forgot or ignored, and that it was a really positive organisation with lots of drive to make things better.
“As a trustee you bring a different and external perspective to help an already excellent executive team look at their work critically and see how they could be better.
“By offering challenge where you think there are other considerations or missed risks and opportunities, and by offering praise where they are doing well, you help the executive team and organisation be realistic and pragmatic in their decisions about their work, investments and future.
“If you are looking to use your experience and expertise to benefit wider society or to ‘give something back’, and to work with some dedicated and inspirational people then Framework would be a rewarding choice.
“By working with people who are most in need, and most forgotten, we create a better, more caring society for everyone. The aim of ending homelessness, the dedication of staff to achieve this, and the satisfaction in seeing the real difference the organisation makes to individuals, is something I have greatly valued.”
Full details and the application process can be found at www.frameworkha.org/board. The closing date is Friday 4 October.
