Trustee role: Safeguarding and quality 

A trustee to champion, oversee, and guide The Autumn Centre’s approach to protecting people from harm and ensure quality of The Centre’s core delivery.

Specific responsibilities:

• The Trustee will possess, or be supported to develop, the necessary knowledge, skills, and confidence in safeguarding.

• Senior leadership experience within social services, the care sector, local authorities, health, adult education, or charitable contexts.

• The Trustee should undergo regular ongoing safeguarding training (e.g., every 2-3 years).

• Ensure safeguarding is integrated into The Autumn Centre’s strategic plans, policies, and risk register. This is a strategic role, distinct from the Centre Management’s operational responsibilities for day to day cases and referrals. 

• Regular liaison with Centre management (including Designated Safeguarding Lead - DSL) to: 

  • • 1. • maintain oversight of the safeguarding issues

         • promote a safe, open and inclusive culture throughout The Centre

         • Review safeguarding practice, audit records, and ensure that safeguarding policies are effective and up to date.

         • act as a critical friend to the Centre’s Management to help plan, review and learn from the experience of The Centre’s core delivery

Shared responsibilities:

• • Defining the organisation's goals, mission, and long-term strategy in collaboration with Centre Management.

  • Setting budgets, managing, and ensuring the financial health of the organisation

  • Ensuring adherence to legal requirements, regulations, and the charity's own governing documents.

  • Monitoring care quality, service user safety, and assessing performance metrics.

  • Identifying and mitigating risks to the charity, including its reputation and assets

Additional information: 

• Trustee appointment is nominally for a 3-year term, extendable for up to 3 terms

• Monthly Trustee Meetings are held at The Autumn Centre on a Tuesday lunchtime

• This is an unpaid voluntary position; any reimbursement of expenses must be agreed upon in advance of any costs being incurred.