Lifeshare are looking for Trustees

Lifeshare was established in Manchester in 1985, and was originally set up to meet the needs of Manchester’s homeless. Lifeshare pioneered schemes for resettlement and rent guarantee to ensure stable accommodation for those in need, and initiated the sale of ‘The Big Issue’ in Manchester with a local supplement (now ‘The Big Issue in the North’).

Since then, Lifeshare has widened to serve other vulnerable groups including socially excluded young people, particularly those suffering from or at risk of sexual exploitation such as male sex workers. Though Lifeshare still support homeless people through a weekend breakfast service and Christmas drop-in centre, other services provided include benefits guidance, help in negotiating with statutory services, involving clients in leisure projects such as filmmaking, and helping them to secure training and employment opportunities. By participating in council forums, the Lifeshare staff influence local policy in order to promote a culture that discourages social exclusion.

Overall purpose of the job
The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, and legal and regulatory guidelines.

This position is voluntary and unpaid, though reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed.

Key responsibilities and duties
• Ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
• Ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document
• Ensure the organisation uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects
• Contribute actively to the board of trustees’ role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets
• Safeguard the good name and values of the organisation, and build relationships with key stakeholders in Manchester
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation
• Ensure the financial stability of the organisation
• Protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity’s funds
• Appoint senior management and monitor their performance
• Attend and contribute to monthly trustees’ meetings
• Take on executive duties where required to manage projects, and support staff and volunteers

Benefits
Being a trustee offers considerable opportunities to:
• Make a difference in the local community
• Develop new skills
• Meet new people
• Improve career prospects

The application process
To apply send a CV and signed application form to: The Company Secretary, Lifeshare Limited, 1st Floor, 27 Houldsworth St, Manchester M1 1EB.

For further information, contact Judith Vickers at: [email protected]