Break the Silence is a registered charity in Scotland and a company limited by guarantee. We make a profound and positive difference in the lives of those affected by childhood sexual trauma, their partners and family members. We support all genders, age 13+ across East and North Ayrshire. We are a centre of excellence, offering a professional counselling service, accredited by British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. We follow the BACP Ethical Framework for Counselling Professions.

About the role

We seek people to support the existing board and staff team in evolving the charity further. Having recently reviewed the skillset of the existing board, we especially welcome people with experience of Digital, IT systems and Finance.

Board meetings are held online quarterly lasting 2.5hs/meeting and some additional time is required outside meeting times to read board papers, where invited, to attend in-person events or training, or where there is voluntary participation in additional board sub group activities. Trustees need not be local and remote trustees are welcome given the online meeting format.

Trustee appointments are for a three year period, renewable thereafter in accordance with our Memorandum and Articles of Association.

We seek applicants who understand the community we serve and we value the diversity of opinion, thought and experience new board members can bring. Key responsibilities include; strategic oversight, financial governance, and safeguarding responsibilities. For more information on the duties of a charity trustee, please visit: OSCR | Charity trustee duties

About you

This role may appeal to those wishing to volunteer as a trustee for the first time, or to an experienced trustee seeking a new challenge. A full induction will be provided to include training in trauma and safeguarding.

It is important that potential candidates share our values of being compassionate and collaborative, effective and knowledgeable in supporting those affected by childhood sexual trauma and support the charity’s vision to influence and inform within the sector.

This post is unremunerated and PVG is required as this is considered a regulated role. In addition, we must comply with the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005 and Charities (Regulation and Administration) (Scotland) Act 2023. Within section 69 of the 2005 Act amended by the 2023 Act, there is specific criteria which disqualifies an individual from acting as a charity trustee. A full list of criteria is given here: OSCR | Annex 1: Criteria for disqualification. All candidates must meet eligibility requirements.

We are a registered disability confident employer and will be flexible throughout the recruitment process and welcome the opportunity to discuss alternative application methods/interview formats.

Organisational Profile

Transform Forth Valley is a Scottish registered charity and company limited by guarantee (SC033772), providing a wide range of services to support individuals and families experiencing inequality, trauma, addiction and health challenges across Forth Valley.

Since 2007 we have worked alongside individuals, families and communities to improve wellbeing, reduce inequality and create opportunities for sustainable change. Our person-centred approach recognises that challenges such as substance use, poor health, financial hardship, housing instability and social exclusion are often interconnected and require holistic support.

Transform Forth Valley is dedicated to empowering individuals and families to live more fulfilled lives. We work with partners to actively challenge inequalities and achieve sustainable change.

Vision Statement

A Scotland that is healthy, inclusive, and free from inequality, trauma, and addiction. Where everyone thrives, reaches their full potential, has a safe place to call home, and can lead long, happy, fulfilling lives.

Mission Statement

Transform Forth Valley is dedicated to empowering individuals and families to live a more fulfilled life. We work with partners to actively challenge inequalities and to achieve sustainable change.

Core Values

Compassion • Inclusion • Respect • Partnership

You can find out more about Transform Forth Valley here: transformfv.org.uk.

Role Profile

Transform Forth Valley is seeking new Trustees to join our Board and help shape the future of a charity that supports individuals and families affected by inequality, trauma, addiction and health challenges across Forth Valley.

As a Trustee, you will play an important role in the governance and strategic direction of the organisation, helping to ensure that Transform Forth Valley continues to deliver high-quality services, remains financially sustainable and meets its charitable objectives.

We welcome applications from individuals with a broad range of skills, knowledge and experience. Previous Board experience is not essential, and we would encourage applications from people who are committed to our values and passionate about making a positive difference within local communities.

Trustees contribute to:

• Setting and maintaining the charity's vision, mission and values.

• Supporting strategic planning and organisational development.

• Monitoring performance and managing risk.

• Ensuring strong governance, compliance and accountability.

• Supporting the financial stewardship of the organisation.

• Acting as ambassadors for Transform Forth Valley.

Board meetings are normally held every six weeks via Microsoft Teams, with occasional in-person meetings and events across Forth Valley. Full induction, training and ongoing support will be provided. Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed in line with organisational policies.

We are committed to building a diverse Board that reflects the communities we serve and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.

Whether you have previous Trustee experience or are considering your first Board role, we would be pleased to hear from you. We are looking for people who share our values, can think strategically, and are committed to supporting the continued development of Transform Forth Valley.