This Trustees’ Week (9-13 November), we’re celebrating some of the people who help guide CBM UK and make sure we keep moving towards a world where everyone can enjoy their human rights and take part fully in society.
Our trustees bring a brilliant mix of experience, knowledge and perspectives to CBM UK. They give their time, share their expertise, ask important questions and help us think about how we can make an even greater difference.
A charity trustee is a volunteer who helps make important decisions about how a charity is run. They oversee its work, finances and future direction, helping to ensure it achieves its goals.
Trustees are not usually paid, although expenses such as travel may be covered. The role is part-time, with most trustee boards meeting quarterly, meaning people can be trustees alongside their regular jobs.
Becoming a charity trustee is a rewarding way to make a difference while developing new skills and gaining valuable experience.
We asked some of our trustees to tell us a little about why they got involved, what they love about CBM’s work and what their vision for the future is. Here’s what they had to say:
For Elizabeth, it was a belief in the importance of accessible education that first inspired her to get involved.
“I became a trustee because I have always believed in everyone’s entitlement to an accessible education regardless of ability and was inspired by CBM’s work in the field. Now that I have a greater understanding of the collaborative processes, dedication and ingenuity involved – I still believe and am even more inspired. All the extraordinary people involved in every sphere of the organisation embrace the power of change and share my vision of a fair and meaningful quality of life for everyone living with a disability.”
For Ifunfun, it is the difference CBM UK makes in challenging exclusion and creating opportunities that really matters.
“I deeply believe in CBM UK’s mission and the tangible difference it makes in the lives of people with disabilities. What inspires me about CBM UK is that we turn this belief into action by breaking down barriers, challenging exclusion, protecting rights, and creating opportunities for people with disabilities to live fuller and more independent lives.”
For Jim, becoming a trustee was an opportunity to continue supporting a cause he has dedicated much of his career to.
“Disability inclusion remains one of international development’s most neglected areas. People with disabilities still face enormous barriers to the healthcare, education and livelihood opportunities that many of us in richer countries take for granted.
Being part of an effective organisation like CBM reminds us that we can still make a positive difference. This, in itself, is a very good reason to contribute to such a worthwhile and effective organisation.”
So, what do our trustees hope to see for CBM UK in the years ahead?
For Lisa, it’s about reaching more people and making sure people with disabilities are involved in the decisions that affect their lives.
“My vision is for CBM to continue to grow its impact and influence, reaching more people and communities who are too often overlooked, while ensuring that people with disabilities are at the heart of decisions and policy making that will affect their lives.”
Flynne hopes CBM UK will continue to champion disability inclusion while supporting local communities to lead change.
“My vision for CBM UK’s future is that we play a key part in shifting power to local communities, that we support adoption of disability inclusive practices and policies at scale, and that we continue championing disability inclusion and climate justice for all.”
And Tom, who has enjoyed being a trustee for the past five years, reflects on what makes the role so rewarding.
“I’ve enjoyed serving as a Trustee over the last five years. I’ve particularly appreciated being involved with a dynamic group of leaders helping to set the direction for CBM as it continues to serve people in the most challenging situations around the world. Our work continues to inspire and motivate me.”
This Trustees’ Week, we want to say a huge thank you to all our trustees for the time, energy and thought they give to CBM UK. We’re grateful for everything they bring to the organisation and for helping us turn our shared vision into action.
