Whatever your passion, becoming a charity trustee is a meaningful way to get involved - and can also enhance your career prospects. Charities are actively seeking to broaden their boards by welcoming younger individuals and those with diverse skills and experiences.
Doing good is a great way to feel good, according to recent research among Scotland’s 181,000-plus charity trustees.
The role of a charity trustee can be a rewarding one, with 80% of charity trustees say they would recommend the role to others. That’s a great advertisement for a role that supports thousands of good causes – from local sports clubs to homelessness charities.
While much of the earlier research was based on England and Wales, Scotland now has its own data showing trustees range in age from 16 to 97, with an average of five trustees per charity.
But without in any way belittling the excellent work of existing trustees, many charities are looking for a wider mix on their boards. Data from England and Wales shows that the average age of trustees is between 65 and 69, with 57% of trustees and 65% of chairs are being male.
In Glasgow, for example, 80% of charities have all-white trustee boards, and only 5.9% of trustees are from a minority ethnic background, despite the city’s diverse population.
So whilst the trustee ‘heartland’ of empty-nesters and the recently retired remains highly valued, the charities sector also needs you if don’t fit the traditional stereotype. And in addition to the traditional wish list of legal and financial experience, charities are looking for expertise in digital and IT, fundraising, marketing, and campaigning, and of course lived experience.
As well as noting the benefits of being a trustee – giving back to society, supporting your community, and opportunities to network or boost your CV – what do you need to know?
- Follow your passion – Find a charity that aligns with your interests or social life; it makes the experience more rewarding.
- Get your employer on side – One challenge reported by younger trustees is that employers don’t give them time off for trustee meetings. Show your employer how your trustee role develops valuable skills and enhances the organisation’s reputation, and even encourage wider support for your charity.
- Understand your role – As a trustee, you do need to take your responsibilities seriously. Ask the charity to provide governance training – not just for you but for the other trustees and senior staff as well. The whole organisation will benefit.
Lindsays acts for many charities and a number of our staff and partners are also charity trustees, supporting organisations from St Columba’s Hospice Care to Dundee Bairns.
Helen Kidd, Partner and Head of our Charities & Third Sector Team, is a trustee on the board of the WS Dependent’s Annuity Fund. She confirmed that she is supported by the firm to fulfil her responsibilities, saying:
“The firm stands by its values of care and collaboration and encouraged me take on this trusteeship. The skills and experiences gained from my trusteeships over the years are invaluable to me personally, and committing my time to a voluntary role is something the firm recognise as an important contribution to our communities.”
Being a trustee is not just about giving back - it’s about growing personally and professionally while helping shape the future of Scotland’s charities. Whether you're just starting your career, looking to share your expertise, or simply want to support a cause close to your heart, there’s a place for you on a charity board.
If you want to explore trustee training tailored to your organisation, the team at Lindsays is here to help and would be delighted to have a conversation.
Published 3 November 2025
