From 3-7 November, Trethowans is proud to join the nationwide celebration of Trustees’ Week 2025, recognising the incredible contribution charity trustees make across the UK. This year’s theme, ‘Celebrating, Supporting and Inspiring’, shines a light on the people who give their time, skills and experience to help charities thrive and adapt to an ever-changing governance landscape.
At Trethowans, many of our colleagues volunteer as trustees, strengthening the boards of organisations across the South Coast and beyond, from youth groups and wildlife charities to inclusive community projects.
Celebrating our colleagues making a difference
Katie Bickerstaff, a trustee for the 21st Bournemouth Scout Group, enjoys seeing how her behind-the-scenes work enables young people to learn new skills, make friends and take part in activities they might not otherwise experience.
“I enjoy seeing the way the work I do in the background enables the Group to provide a fun and diverse programme for our young people,” says Katie.
“My advice to anyone thinking about becoming a trustee is to think about what skills and time you can offer, there will always be a charity that needs your help.”
Laura Trapnell, Partner and Head of IP/IT, is a trustee of The Wetwheels Foundation, which provides barrier-free boating experiences for disabled and disadvantaged people.
“I first discovered Wetwheels through a corporate day and was completely inspired by what the charity does,” she explains. “What I value most is seeing the direct impact of our work, the smiles, the confidence and the sense of adventure participants gain.”
Laura also highlights some of the challenges trustees face today, including recruiting board members, balancing rising costs with sustainable funding and embracing digital transformation responsibly.
Kirsteen Hook, trustee for both Winchester Youth Counselling and Marwell Wildlife Trust, believes that finding a cause that resonates personally is key.
“Choose a cause that means something to you and where you feel you can bring something to the board,” she says.
“It’s important to understand the time commitment and responsibilities involved, but being a trustee is incredibly rewarding, you gain valuable governance experience and get to work alongside passionate people making a real difference.”
Supporting trustees through training and community
At Trethowans, we’re committed to supporting trustees in fulfilling their legal and governance responsibilities with confidence. Through our Forum for Charities, trustee training sessions and networking events, we help trustees stay up to date with their duties, connect with peers and strengthen their leadership skills.
Whether you’re considering your first trustee role or are already experienced in the sector, our resources and events are designed to help you navigate the evolving regulatory landscape and continue to make a meaningful impact.
Useful resources for trustees
There is a wide range of free and discounted online support available for charity trustees across the UK. These include:
– The Charity Commission – guidance notes, checklists and video tutorials.
– The Charity Governance Code – a practical tool to aid trustees in developing high standards of governance
– The Fundraising Code – outlines standards for legal, open, honest, and respectful fundraising.
– Discounted or free access to a range of resources such as Canva for Nonprofits (a premium design tool) – Specialist trustee training and networking opportunities through our Forum for Charities.
These tools help trustees enhance governance standards, improve confidence and lead their organisations more effectively.
Thank you to all trustees
Trustees’ Week is an opportunity to celebrate those who give their time and expertise to help charities succeed. To all trustees, including our own colleagues, we say thank you for the vital role you play in strengthening our communities.
