Join the board of Durham Wildlife Trust as the lead trustee for safeguarding and play a vital role in protecting both nature and people. This rewarding voluntary position offers the opportunity to help guide the strategic direction of the Trust while ensuring robust safeguarding practices are in place across our work with communities, volunteers and partners. 

You will be supported by Trust staff safeguarding leads and will be part of a network of safeguarding trustees from across the Wildlife Trusts federation sharing knowledge and best practice. You’ll bring sound judgement, a commitment to high standards and a passion for the environment, helping to create safe, inclusive spaces where nature and people can thrive together. 

Experience of safeguarding in professional healthcare, education or local authority settings would be advantageous. The current lead trustee for safeguarding is standing down at the AGM and will be happy to discuss the role with those interested in an informal chat in advance of an application.

About being a Trustee

Durham Wildlife Trust is both a charity and a company limited by guarantee. Board members serve as trustees of the charity and directors of the company.

Person Specification

• To stand for election to the Board of trustees, you must be a Durham Wildlife Trust member aged 16+.
• Experience in charity or committee governance is helpful but not essential.
• The key requirement is commitment to the Trust’s mission, aims and environmental focus.

Core Responsibilities

Trustees are responsible for the overall governance of the charity, ensuring compliance with its governing documents, charity law, and company law.

Commitment & Expectations

• Board meetings: Four per year, approx. two hours each.
• AGM: Held annually in Sept/Oct; attendance is expected.
• ‘Away Days’: A number of additional meetings are held to allow more in depth discussion on particular topics.
• Committees: Trustees may be asked to attend one of the sub committees that support the work of the Board.

Additional Involvement

• Events: Trustees are encouraged to attend some Trust events  to stay connected with the organisation’s work.
• Staff engagement: Trustees should get to know staff and projects, offering support and guidance when asked.
• Training: New trustees must familiarise themselves with Charity Commission guidance, governance documents, and Trust policies. The Chair oversees induction.

Other Information

• The role is voluntary, with travel and expenses reimbursed.
• Please do get in touch for an informal chat in the first instance, contact mail@durhamwt.co.uk