Trustees

Help shape a greener, healthier future for the Stroud District.

Do you want to use your skills to make a meaningful difference to people and nature in your local area? Stroud Valleys Project (SVP) is looking for new Trustees to join our Board and help guide the charity as we continue to grow our impact across the Stroud District. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute your ideas, expertise and enthusiasm to a respected environmental charity working at the heart of the community.

We are particularly keen to hear from people with finance, accounting or treasurer experience, who can help strengthen the board’s financial oversight and support the long-term sustainability of the organisation.

About Stroud Valleys Project

Stroud Valleys Project works to help people and nature thrive together across the Stroud District. Through practical conservation, community engagement and partnership working, we aim to make the district a happier, healthier and more sustainable place to live for present and future generations.

Our trustees play a vital role in helping us achieve this vision.

The Role of a Trustee

Trustees share collective responsibility for the overall governance and strategic direction of Stroud Valleys Project. They ensure the charity remains focused on its mission, operates effectively and responsibly, and continues to deliver meaningful impact.

Trustees support and challenge the staff team, including the CEO, to ensure the charity continues to grow and thrive.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting SVP’s purpose, vision, goals and activities
• Approving strategic plans, policies and priorities
• Overseeing financial planning, budgets and financial statements
• Ensuring effective and compliant management of the charity
• Identifying and monitoring key organisational risks
• Supporting and constructively challenging the CEO
• Contributing to strong governance and board development
• Promoting the work and reputation of SVP where possible

As a small charity, trustees may occasionally contribute beyond meetings by offering advice in their area of expertise or supporting new initiatives.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds and experiences who can bring energy, enthusiasm and new perspectives to our board.

You do not need previous trustee experience — we will provide a full induction and support.

We are particularly interested in people with experience in:

• Finance, accounting or treasurer roles
• Charity or company finance oversight
• Charity or company law
• IT or technology
• Human resources or people management

Finance expertise is especially valuable to us at this time, and we would welcome applicants interested in supporting the board in a Treasurer-type capacity.

Personal qualities

We are looking for people who:

• Can think strategically and exercise independent judgement
• Communicate well and contribute actively to discussions
• Are passionate about communities, nature and sustainability
• Are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion
• Share our values of sustainability, inclusivity and opportunity

Trustees are also expected to uphold the Nolan Principles of Public Life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Time Commitment

• 4 board meetings per year (currently held in person during the day in Stroud town centre)
• Occasional sub-committee meetings if relevant
• An annual half-day strategy session
• Completion of any required trustee training

Terms of Appointment

Trustees are appointed for a fixed term with the option of renewal.

This is a voluntary role, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Joining the SVP board is a rewarding opportunity to use your skills to help shape a charity that is making a real difference for people, communities and the natural environment across the Stroud District.

If you are interested in joining our brilliant board, get in touch via the Volunteers page on our website or by calling us.