About the organisation
At the PDA Society, our mission is to improve the lives of PDA children, PDA adults and their families. We are working hard to build awareness and understanding around PDA and demand avoidance so that everyone can get the understanding and support they need to thrive.
About the role
We’re looking to appoint two new Trustees to our Board, and we’re keen to broaden the range of skills and experiences represented. Trustees play a key role in providing strategic direction, oversight, and support to ensure that the PDA Society continues to grow sustainably and deliver real impact for the community we serve.
Our work is guided by people with lived experience, and our Board of Trustees plays a central role in shaping our strategy and ensuring that our values are embedded across everything we do.
We particularly welcome applications from anyone who has experienced marginalisation due to their race or religion, as these voices are currently underrepresented on our Board.
Appointments are made on merit, and we are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive Board that truly reflects the communities we serve. This is a voluntary position, and Trustees are not remunerated, although reasonable expenses are reimbursed. Trustees are appointed for an initial 3-year term.
Please note that applicants must be based in the UK and we do not accept CVs.
Our ideal candidate
We are particularly keen to appoint Trustees who can add strength in one or more of the following areas:
Clinical expertise (e.g. psychology, psychiatry, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, or clinical governance)
Marketing and communications
Fundraising and income generation
Digital transformation,
AI or IT systems
An understanding of autism & PDA is desirable in all Trustees and essential in a Trustee bringing clinical expertise.
Key responsibilities for all Trustees:
To ensure that the PDA Society has a clear vision, strategic objectives, and plans to achieve them
To ensure that the PDA Society performs according to its strategic objectives
To ensure that the PDA Society complies with all legal and statutory requirements
To fulfil your obligations as set out by the Charity Commission.
To ensure that the PDA Society’s governance complies with best practice
To ensure that the PDA Society’s policies and procedures are compliant with our obligations
To actively contribute to the organisation’s fundraising efforts
Personal characteristics:
The ability to operate strategically, and to ask good questions without getting unnecessarily stuck on small details The ability to communicate clearly and take an active role in discussions, challenging sensitively and constructively, and maintaining a level head in difficult situations
Focus and enthusiasm to deliver on the PDA Society’s vision and mission
An open mind and willingness to learn
What’s in it for you
Making a Difference: Trustees make a huge difference helping to shape a charity's strategic direction and ensure it achieves its mission. This often leads to a strong sense of personal fulfillment and purpose.
Meeting New People: Trusteeship brings together people from diverse backgrounds, fostering new relationships and opportunities for collaboration and mentorship outside usual professional circles.
Broadened Perspective: Trustees gain a deeper understanding of social, economic, and cultural issues and the challenges facing the non-profit sector.
Board-Level Experience: It offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in governance, strategy, and risk management at a senior, board level, which can be invaluable for career progression.
Skill Enhancement: Trustees develop and use a wide range of skills in new contexts, including financial management, strategic planning, decision-making, negotiation, and leadership. Research shows that many trustees report learning new skills and some even receive a promotion as a direct result of their trustee role.
Networking: Serving on a board expands professional networks, connecting individuals with senior leaders and professionals across various sectors.
Enhanced CV and Reputation: The role demonstrates values-driven leadership, commitment, and social responsibility to employers, helping individuals stand out in a competitive job marke
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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