About the organisation
Glenside Hospital Museum (GHM), is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), Accredited Museum, a national resource, and provides rare opportunities for people to discuss mental health and incapacity through an examination of the past.
Our collection's foundations are from Bristol's purpose built psychiatric hospital (1861-1994), learning disabilities hospital (1909-1997) and Beaufort War Hospital (1915-1919). We continue to collect memories and artefacts, most recently from Commonwealth nurses, particularly those from the Caribbean and Africa who came to work in the newly formed NHS.
We are not a building filled with old hospital equipment and photographs. We are a place for people to participate in creating informative and absorbing displays, art and science, engage in live and digital activities, find interest, inspiration and motivation. take a walk, and enjoy conversation, particularly for and with those with lived experience.
In 2024 we celebrated our 40th year, driving an increased focus on sustainability and resilience, supported by a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant for Protect Our Wellbeing (PoW!). This remains the focus for trustees going forwards.
Vision
To play a vital role in destigmatising mental illness and learning disabilities, and supporting personal wellbeing in our communities, by making hidden histories accessible to a wide range of people, now and in the future.
Mission
To increase people's knowledge and understanding of their brain and health care using our heritage collection from three hospitals. We provide a safe, stimulating environment where our communities can contribute to destigmatising mental illness, and those with lived experience are encouraged to contribute to the history and development of mental health and learning disability care.
Values
We aim to provide a safe, inclusive, and caring environment for our volunteers and visitors, so they have a positive experience, while appreciating everyone's differences.
About the role
Key Responsibilities as a Board Member
With fellow Trustees and freelance staff you will be involved in the following activities to support delivery of our mission and vision, while developing our sustainability and resilience:
-Attend four in person Board meetings a year (evenings at the museum in Bristol)
-Contribute actively to specific task and finish groups as appropriate
-Volunteer stewarding at least twice a year
-Oversee and assist in the development and delivery of strategic forward plans
-Help to update policies and procedures on a regular basis
-Proactively develop relationships with potential supporters
-Attend exhibition openings and other events
Trustee Treasurer Role Description
We currently have a Treasurer in role who will be able to do a full and managed handover.
Summary: To be responsible for recording all transactions relating to the museum's funds, managing income and payments and reporting to Trustees the current financial position of the CIO. To liaise with the Independent Examiner in the preparation of the Annual Return to the Charity Commission and banking cash at the post office from at least once per month.
Expected time commitment: For regular bookkeeping about one day per month in total, including regular museum visits required to keep track of income and expenditure on site. Additional time at the end of financial year, and ad hoc for grant requirements.
Detailed Responsibilities:
-Annual review of financial policy
-Annual review and implementation of the financial strategy
-Point of contact for banking and a joint signatory
-Overseeing day to day income and expenditure
-Overseeing procurement and authorising non-routine expenditure
-Reporting in year forecast expenditure and proposing a budget
-Bookkeeping: maintaining up to date data on a database and reporting to Trustees as required; payment of bills, overseeing income; producing end of year accounts
-Preparing an Annual Report, seeking independent audit to produce accounts for Charity Commission Return
-File Gift Aid returns with HMRC
-Arrange and maintain insurance cover as as determined by the Trustees
-Support the Board with future forward financial planning for grants and business plans Support other Trustees and freelance staff with any information required in the preparation of grant applications
-To be responsible for administration of income and expenditure of any grants received. To ensure (with others) that any conditions applied to the grant are complied with.
Year One Responsibility:
-Reviewing present accounting practices and systems, and if necessary, recommending alternative approaches
Our ideal candidate
We are looking for a financially aware individual to become our Treasurer, ideally with experience of financial management, including the ability to understand accounts and other financial documents and to explain and present them to others. Proven organisational skills are essential. We are also open to individuals who wish to improve their skills base.
You don't have to have previous experience of being a Trustee to join us, nor do you have to come from a mental health or museums background. A passion for our vision and mission is the most important requirement.
What’s in it for you
If you share our passion for mental health, education, heritage, and community engagement and want to make a real impact then we encourage you to apply. GHM is a small organisation that punches above its weight, being one of only three mental health museums in the country. Your contribution will be evident in our shared successes, and you will have a central role in shaping our future plans. You will be encouraged to represent the museum to supporters and stakeholders, which has included everyone from the Princess Royal to universities, funders, and our brilliant volunteers, this year alone.
Apply for the role
Please provide a short cover note setting out your motivations for volunteering for the organisation, any relevant skills/experience and why you think you might be a suitable candidate.
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