Article

NRAS Board of Trustees Members

NRAS is looking for a new trustee members with diverse skills and backgrounds in line with the people we represent.

The National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society is a leading, independent UK charity; we represent and support almost half-a-million adults living with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). We also support thousands of children and adolescents living with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). 

We raise awareness, we advocate for improvements to NHS care, and we support ground-breaking research. We offer people a range of services, helping them over their lifetimes as their symptoms and needs fluctuate. We support the newly diagnosed, providing educational resources, guidance and reassurance. When people are thriving under treatment, we help them safely self-manage their healthcare. Should people feel unable to cope or unable to work, perhaps due to pain or fatigue, we lend them support.  


Role Purpose

As a Trustee, you will contribute to the strategic direction, governance, and oversight of the charity. You will ensure that the charity is well-managed, financially sound, and delivering its mission effectively and ethically.

Location

UK Wide – meetings are generally held in a hybrid fashion with one meeting a year held in person, including an opportunity to meet the wider NRAS team.

Time Commitment

  • 4 Board meetings per year (held during working hours and lasting approximately 3 hours).
  • 2 Sub-Committee meetings per year (held during working days and lasting approximately 2 hours).
  • Ad-hoc support for the Senior Team and Chair across the year.
  • Occasional attendance at external events representing NRAS.
  • Expectation to be responsive to requests for support and able to prepare ahead of meetings.

Key Responsibilities

  • Ensure the charity complies with its governing documents, charity law, and other relevant legislation.
  • Safeguard the charity’s assets and ensure proper financial oversight.
  • Contribute to setting and reviewing the charity’s strategic direction.
  • Monitor performance against business plans.
  • Support and challenge the executive team to ensure effective delivery of services.
  • Promote the charity’s work and act as an ambassador.
  • Ensure that the voices of people living with RA and JIA are central to the charity’s work.

Person Specification

We are looking for individuals who can bring a mix of the following:

  • A commitment to the charity’s mission and values.
  • Strategic thinking and sound, independent judgement.
  • Willingness to speak your mind and work collaboratively.
  • Understanding of governance and the legal duties of trustees (training can be provided).
  • Lived experience of RA or JIA, or a strong connection to the community, is desirable but not essential.

Desirable Skills and Experience

We are currently seeking applications from people with experience in one or more of the following areas:

  • Healthcare or clinical background – we would welcome applications from GPs or the Rheumatology sector.
  • Fundraising or income generation.
  • Safeguarding.
  • Finance or relevant business skills.

What You’ll Gain

  • The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people with RA and JIA.
  • Experience in charity governance and strategic leadership.
  • Personal development and networking opportunities.

Applicants should provide an up-to-date CV and covering letter outlining your interest in the role and the cause to kim@nras.org.uk.

NRAS in 2024

  • 0 Helpline enquiries
  • 0 Publications sent out
  • 0 People reached