Case Study: 'KIDS'

The group was established after a natural disaster when the group had clear vision to help those in need. However after several years the committee's capacity to move the organisation forward was felt to be lacking, with time being the main factor. I attended a very detailed initial meeting with the chair, allowing them to tell me about the history of the organisation and how they viewed the group being taken forward. Listening to the chair highlighted the need for the committee to be more involved in order for the organisation to move forward. I suggested that a session with the trustees around their roles and responsibilities may be very beneficial.

A trustee workshop was arranged, which all the trustees attended. In an informal, supportive setting the trustees were able to speak openly with each other, facilitated by myself. Each trustee was asked how they got involved in the organisation, how they felt about being involved and where they saw themselves in relation to the organisation in 6 months time. Each trustee was given the opportunity to reflect and speak openly which really gave them the opportunity to be honest. It was also clear that the trustees did not understand what their roles should involve which was clearly linked to the chair, feeling at times unsupported.

The meeting allowed true feelings to be aired without fear of an adverse reaction from their fellow trustees, as the environment was very calm and supportive from the offset. Whilst some of the trustees wished to continue, a couple explained their wish to step down. Whilst this could be seen as a negative outcome, it allowed the board to look at how they thought the organisation could move forward more positively, being more open with one another.

The group are now working with the Volunteer Cente to look for new committee members. I offered further support, in terms of a skills audit and trustee induction so that the organsiation may be able to be clear with new trustees about what their roles will involve.