Menu
Becoming a charity trustee is one of the most meaningful ways to use your skills, experience and judgement to make a real difference. At BCOP, trustees play a vital role in shaping high-quality care and housing services for older people across Birmingham, while also gaining valuable board experience within a supportive and well-governed organisation. Whether you’re a professional looking to broaden your leadership skills, or someone seeking a purposeful way to give back, being a trustee at BCOP offers the chance to contribute at a strategic level and help ensure older people can live the best version of their later life.
For John Bennett, who served as a BCOP trustee for nine years, trusteeship was about using hard-earned experience in a new way:
“Despite having retired, I still felt I had something to contribute – business skills, understanding the rigours of running an organisation, and a desire to give back. Making a tangible difference and working strategically in a different sector was exciting.”
Trustees don’t need to know everything – but they do need curiosity, confidence to ask questions, and a willingness to look at the detail.
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions (politely) and do the detail,” John says. “That’s where trustees really add value.”
For newer trustees, joining the Board can feel like a step into the unknown – but it’s one that quickly becomes rewarding.
Nigel Wilson, who joined BCOP as a new trustee, describes his first impressions as:
“Small, unique and interesting.”
What stood out most was the opportunity to contribute to an organisation with a strong history and a clear future:
“Being a trustee is a wonderful opportunity to support superb colleagues delivering real benefits for older people in the city.”
Lydia Willetts, another new trustee, talks openly about stepping outside her comfort zone:
“Being a trustee is completely out of my comfort zone – but I can really see where and how I can be useful. Being surrounded by trustees from different backgrounds is a privilege, and I learn something new at every meeting.”
What surprised her most?
“How friendly and genuinely interested the Board are. Every decision is made with the people who live with us and their families at the forefront.”
Trusteeship at BCOP isn’t about titles or ticking boxes. It’s about stewardship, shared responsibility and being part of something that matters.
As Lydia puts it:
“Being a BCOP trustee truly feels like you’re making a difference to the lives of older people across Birmingham.”
Whether you’re looking to develop your leadership skills, use your professional expertise in a new setting, or contribute to work that has a lasting social impact, becoming a trustee at BCOP could be the right next step.
Sometimes the most rewarding roles aren’t paid – but they pay you back in purpose.
If you’d like to find out more about becoming a BCOP trustee, including what the role involves and how to apply, you can read our Trustee information pack and how to apply on our About us page.