Trustees Week 2022 – A Trustee Like Me 
As part of our Trustees Week celebration, we asked the fantastic Toju, a Trustee at Citizens Advice Basingstoke , for a few words about what it’s like to be Trustee! Here is what he had to say:
- What got you involved?
I was approached to apply for a trustee vacancy at Citizens Advice Basingstoke – a charity whose work I already admire a lot as I had been a beneficiary of their service in the past. I felt it would be an honour to be able to directly support the work of the charity, so I did not hesitate to take the opportunity when it presented itself in the form of a volunteer trustee position.
- What do you like about being a Trustee?
I like being a trustee because it allows me to give back to the society, which I find really fulfilling. Specifically, being a trustee at Citizens Advice gives me the opportunity to be part of a mission that supports people on a wide range of issues, including the most vulnerable. It is a very rewarding aspect of my life.
- What has been the highlight of your time as a Trustee?
I don’t have a particular highlight but it always feels good to read case studies – each time we have a board meeting, of how Citizens Advice Basingstoke is helping people in our society overcome a wide variety of challenges. It was also quite heartening to see Citizens Advice Basingstoke get awarded Charity of the Year in the Place to be Proud of Awards for 2022. I consider this as one of the ‘highlight’ moments of my being Trustee.
- What would you say to someone thinking about becoming a Trustee?
It can be demanding, particularly if you are not fully or semi-retired; but I have found it to be very rewarding. Apart from the sense of fulfilment that comes with it, you get to meet and work with people from different backgrounds, as well as share experiences and possibly gain new skills.
Would you like to find out more about becoming a Trustee for a local charity? Get in touch with us on contact@bvaction.org.uk