Recruitment of young trustees to Children’s Links

What are trustees?
Trustees are also known as governors, members of the board, committee members and directors. Trustees make decisions about how the organisation is run with the help of those working within it.

Rationale:
Children’s Links mission is to improve the quality of children’s life experience with the Every Child Matters outcome ‘making a positive contribution’ at the heart of our participation work. Hence we have made a commitment to see young people involved at the top level of our organisation.

Support:
Trustees will be supported by a Participation Officer who will go through agenda items, be an advocate in meetings and debrief trustees afterwards. Furthermore, a system of mutual support through regular contact will be available. Support can be steadily withdrawn as agreed with trustees and any training needs identified.

Findings:
Children’s Rights Alliance for England (www.crae.org.uk) saw preparation of young trustees and support as essential for the active participation of young trustees. Meeting were said to be less ‘stuffy’, information dissemination clearer with business more vibrant. CRAE direction and strategy improved and were more relevant due to young people’s involvement.