This #TrusteesWeek, I’m reflecting on an incredibly rewarding journey that began earlier this year as the first-ever Shadow Trustee at Peoples Health Trust. The role offers a chance to learn about Trustee responsibilities by actively participating in board discussions before deciding on a full trustee position.
I leaped at the opportunity, not only because I was keen to develop professionally but also with health inequalities being a golden thread throughout my career, I felt drawn to the mission of Peoples Health Trust and eager to contribute my own experience.
Before applying for the Shadow Trustee role, I put in the groundwork to understand what the position would entail. I read up on Charity Commission resources, attended Getting on Board webinars for practical insights, and spoke with people in my network who had taken on similar roles. Their experiences gave me a real sense of the responsibilities and helped me feel prepared and confident before stepping in.
Being able to ease into a role that comes with immense responsibility and accountability has been so appreciated. There is a great deal to learn and I’ve truly valued the time and space to do that whilst still gaining experience of sitting on a Board operating at national level.
I've had the chance to join several Board meetings and sit on both the Programme and Policy Committee as well as the Finance, Audit, and Risk Committee, giving me a broad view of different areas within the Trust. It’s been incredibly insightful to hear the diverse perspectives of fellow trustees and see how they approach decision-making at a strategic level—all while keeping the Trust’s mission front and centre.
Beyond the boardroom, I was also invited to participate in a number of other activities giving me a well-rounded view of the work the Trust does, such as visiting one of the projects funded by their community grants programme, taking part in a fundraising brainstorm and sitting in on a community grants panel. The staff team do such great work and their dedication shines through - it was a pleasure to see it in action.
John (CEO) and Jenny (Chair) have been tremendously supportive from the very beginning, providing me background information, regular check-ins, training opportunities and a mentor buddy, Jackie, who has been instrumental in helping me get up to speed with everything.
For anyone considering taking on a Trustee position for the first time, I can only say go for it! Do your homework to understand the responsibilities (there are so many resources out there) but know that the true learning happens by doing. It’s been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had.
My thanks to all the Staff and Trustees at the Peoples Health Trust, it’s been a real privilege working alongside you on this important mission and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity. I’m excited to see where this journey takes us next!
Jolynne De Souza
Jolynne De Souza is People's Health Trust's first shadow trustee – a role designed to support people into the full role as a trustee. She has a wealth of experience in patient advocacy borne out of a passion to ensure the patient voice, needs and experiences are central to achieving positive health outcomes.
