Being on the board
What does a Trustee do?
- Ensures HARC complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations. Ensures that HARC develops and agrees an appropriate strategic plan.
- Ensures that HARC remains true to its mission and uses its resources exclusively in line with it’s charitable objectives.
- Ensures HARC has clear goals, and operational systems are in place to meet agreed targets.
- Safeguards the good name and values of HARC.
- Ensures that resources are in place to enable the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures.
- Focuses on the financial stability of the organisation.
- Ensures resources are in place to protect and manage the property of HARC and the proper investment of funds.
Benefits of being a HARC Trustee:
- Opportunities for development and training
- Be part of a supportive, inclusive and disability confident team
- Be part of a supportive, inclusive and disability confident team
- Help relieve poverty throughout East Sussex
- Expenses covered - see expenses policy.
HARC’s Mission:
To relieve local poverty and to improve the quality of life for people on low incomes
To relieve local poverty and to improve the quality of life for people on low incomes
Person specification
A willingness to devote the
necessary time and effort
planning how HARC will deliver
its charitable purpose.
- Good independent judgement.
- Good communication.
- An ability to work effectively as part of a team.
- A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
Time commitment
How often are Board meetings?
Board meetings take place quarterly and usually last 2 hours. Board meetings are a hybrid of online and face to face.
When will Trustees receive the meeting papers?
Papers for the Board meetings are emailed out approximately one week in advance and Trustees are asked to read these so that they can participate fully in the meeting.
Will Trustees need to join sub-committees?
Trustees with particular interests or expertise may also be asked to join the Boards sub committees which would involve an additional time commitment.
Will Trustees be expected to attend external events?
Trustees will have the opportunity to represent HARC at events which could involve an additional time commitment.
Want to join our Board of Trustees?
“The benefit system feels like a closed environment, a big impenetrable wall designed to stop people getting the help they need. HARC helps you negotiate that and finds a way to get you what you really need and are entitled to.”
HARC Client 2025
"The system is punitive and unnecessarily cruel to people. The media exacerbates the way people are seen for claiming benefits. HARC are humane, sensitive and I’m sure are responsible for saving people’s lives. I was one of those people."
HARC Client 2025
"Accessing the benefits system has improved my mental health overall. Truly every connection I’ve had with HARC has been excellent."
HARC Client 2025
"HARC had an open mind and helped me get benefits when I was suicidal."
HARC Client 2025
"The support I have received over the years from HARC with benefit advice and forms has been second to none. The Advisors make you feel at ease, and they are comfortable to talk to.
I wasn’t getting what I should, and I didn’t realise. Teresa went through everything and made sure I received the support I needed. Their help has taken the weight off my shoulders, and I cannot express how much less stressed I feel."
HARC Client 2025