Home > Social Action > Become a Charity Trustee >

Hospiscare Trustee case study

PETER DAY is a Trustee and Vice Chair of Hospiscare, the local hospice charity for Exeter, Mid and East Devon, delivering and developing end-of-life care for a population of 360,000. Peter was invited to become a trustee after volunteering as a driver and then in the day care unit where he still works.

"I was honoured to be asked to become a trustee. Initially, I was part of the finance committee, using the skills I had acquired in my working life. I have grown into the role and now deal with a whole range of issues. Being a volunteer first was a great way into becoming a trustee; it meant I was speaking from experience and with some authority about day to day operations.

I feel a huge privilege in working with everybody involved with Hospiscare. I see it as an "oasis of care" and I love working here. We operate an inclusive culture with respect for everyone's professional skills and experience. I feel my voice is heard and my opinions valued and taken account of. I really feel as if I have contributed and this keeps me motivated to continue and use my skills in a constructive way. It is very comforting to know that such a caring facility exists for everyone, including me.

Of course there are challenges in being a trustee. In my case, I need to keep abreast of health sector issues, legal matters, accounting standards and the like. You have to be sufficiently 'educated' to add value to the organisation. You need to be able to manage your time so as to ensure that you are up to speed and fully participate. You are answerable for the organisation and are often its public face, which is a big responsibility. You need to be able to work collaboratively; I am part of a variety of teams within the organisation and need to respect my colleagues and their points of view.

"Being a trustee gives you a significant opportunity to make a difference; it's a privilege and a very worthwhile use of time."