ADDITIONAL trustees are being sought for a charity that owns and operates 12 almshouses in Skipton.

Heap Parkinson Homes recently refurbished the Otley Road almshouses, the oldest form of charitable, low-cost, community housing for local people in housing need.

The homes are 'micro-communities' that offer companionship and remain a permanent part of the community in perpetuity so generation after generation of people in housing need will have a warm, safe place to call home in their local community.

The charity trustees, the 16 members of Skipton Town Council, want to broaden the knowledge and expertise of its members and are now looking to co-opt up to two additional trustees.

Trustees ensure the charity has a clear strategy, and that its work and goals are in line with its objects. Their role is to ensure that all decisions put the needs of the beneficiaries first. They must safeguard the charity’s assets – both physical assets, including property, and intangible ones, such as its reputation.

A spokesperson for the charity said: "Being a trustee can be very rewarding. As a trustee you have the chance to support and shape the work and direction of the charity, and you can make a significant difference to a cause that matters to you. Being a trustee offers the opportunity for professional development. It can let you gain experience of strategy and leadership, and boost your CV. If you already have significant experience already, it can be stimulating to use it in a different and potentially challenging context."

Trustees work as a team and also have the opportunity to apply skills and experience, while learning from others. The trust usually meets three or four times a year, usually in person and sometimes remotely via Zoom.

To find out more about the role of trustees see: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-essential-trustee-whatyou-need-to-know-cc3/the-essential-trustee-what-you-need-to-know-whatyou-need-to-do

For more information and an application form contact Jenny Dean on 01756 700553 or email: deputyclerk@skiptontowncouncil.gov.uk