Make a difference to East Lothian during Trustees Week

Volunteer Centre East Lothian urges people to lend their support to local charities by becoming a trustee.

Article Source: Volunteer Centre East Lothian
Last Updated: 4 November 2025 9:45

From environmental and animal welfare to health and education, there is a wide range of charities throughout East Lothian that need help and support. And according to Volunteer Centre East Lothian (VCEL), there is no better time for locals to step up and offer assistance than Trustees’ Week. Because as the team at this third sector interface are keen to highlight, becoming a charity trustee could prove to be a transformative move – not just for the charity and its beneficiaries, but also for the trustees themselves.

Running from Monday 3rd – Friday 7th November, Trustees’ Week aims to raise awareness of the many benefits of supporting a charity by joining their board. The role of a trustee is an important one, their responsibility is to guide and support the charity to achieve its core aims, ensure finances are well managed, and assets and resources are safeguarded.

Speaking ahead of the launch of Trustees’ Week, VCEL Chief Officer Maureen Allan said;
"We work with several East Lothian charities that are currently looking to recruit trustees to guide and support their valuable work, be part of their decision-making processes, and help steer them into the future. Wherever your passion lies, whatever your skills, knowledge and experience, you can help to make a positive impact by bringing them to the board."

And it is not just the charity that could benefit from having proactive trustees on their board – trustees stand to gain a great deal too. “By joining a charity board, trustees have an opportunity to develop new skills, gain valuable experience and insights. They can add to their CV, broaden their employment opportunities and boost their career path. They can also benefit from meeting new people, expanding their network and connections. And of course, they can enjoy a sense of purpose, satisfaction and reward from seeing the positive impact of their contributions” added Maureen.

Anyone interested in exploring the possibility of becoming a trustee for a local charity should head to the VCEL website. Here, they can browse a wide range of workshops, group meetings, events and training sessions to help them on their way to making a real difference in their community.

Upcoming training sessions

SCVO/Eastside People: What Is A Trustee and How Do I Become One?
An introductory session with Eastside People, covering what trustees do, how to find the right role, and what to expect from board life.
Monday 3rd November, 6 - 7pm
Online
Book your place

SCVO: 21st Century Governance: Trustees' Week Conference
This conference will bring together trustees interested in good governance and future-proofing their organisations to share their experience and learn from each other. Creating a space for connection, learning and networking, this session will provide practical support and information, new ideas and inspiration.
Tuesday 4th November, 9:30am - 4pm
The Studio, 67 Hope Street, Glasgow, G2 6AE
Book your place

SCVO/Eastside People: New to the Board? How to Make an Impact From Day One
This session will offer advice and reflections from trustees on getting started and thriving in your first year on a board.
Tuesday 4th November, 6 - 7pm
Online
Book your place

OSCR: Ask OSCR
With recent changes to Scottish charity law, it’s more important than ever for charity trustees to understand their duties and responsibilities. During this webinar, you’ll have the chance to ask Scottish charity regulation experts about everything from good governance to annual returns.
Wednesday 5th November, 12 - 1pm
Online
Book your place

SCVO/Eastside People: Young Trustees Wanted - Unlocking The Next Generation
Eastside People invite you to join their session about tackling the barriers young people face in joining boards, and hear what’s working from trustees and charities.
Wednesday 5th November, 6 - 7pm
Online
Book your place

SCVO/Eastside People: How to Build Your Confidence as a Trustee
Eastside People invite you to find out how to build your presence, find your voice and hear how others have overcome self-doubt to become effective board members.
Thursday 6th November, 6 - 7pm
Online
Book your place

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