Could you be a SWIDN trustee
SWIDN — the South West International Development Network — brings together individuals and organisations across the South West who are working for global solidarity. Founded in 2005 and registered as a charity in 2017, we have around 100 members and a wider community of 5,000 people working in international development across the UK's South West and beyond. We are looking for new trustees to join our dynamic team.
We want a board that reflects the world we work in.
We particularly welcome applications from people from the Global Majority, from LGBTQI+ communities, people living with disabilities, and people from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
What kind of person are we looking for
Education
We're not looking for a particular type of CV. We don't require previous trustee experience, a specific educational background, or management experience. What matters most is:
- A genuine commitment to our values and to SWIDN's mission
- Curiosity and openness — about international development, its history, and its future
- Willingness to commit some time and energy to support us
- Integrity, good judgment, and the confidence to speak your mind
We'd especially love to hear from people with experience in any of these areas:
- Working for a SWIDN member organisation
- Anti-racism from a governance perspective
- Charity financial management expertise
- Communications and marketing background
- Digital and AI from a governance perspective
- Fundraising knowledge and experience
So, what's actually involved
We Know Everyone Has Different Amounts Of Time And Energy To Give — And SWIDN Works Flexibly With That In Mind. Here's What You'd Typically Be Involved In
- Four quarterly Board meetings per year (online, 2 hours each)
- One in-person Board meeting in Bristol each year (usually March)
- One Strategy Away Day per year in Bristol
- At least one in-person SWIDN networking event per year
- Contributing to our Annual Conference or working groups — sharing your expertise or chairing sessions where relevant
The role is unpaid, but we will cover all reasonable expenses.
What would you actually be doing
As a Trustee You'd Be Helping To Steer SWIDN's Direction And Make Sure We're Doing What We Say We Will. In Practice, That Means Things Like
- Contributing to SWIDN's strategic direction and approving key policies
- Keeping an eye on ourfinances and how we're performing against our goals
- Providing guidance and supportto our Secretariat Staff
- Helping to recruitfuture staff and trustees
- Staying connected with our members and bringing their perspective into Board discussions
Interested We'd love to hear from you.Drop us an email — even just to ask a question orfind out more. There's no commitment in getting intouch.
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