Closes 25th October

Abbeyfield & Wesley provides a range of housing across Northern Ireland, making time for our residents and aiming to enhance their lives by bringing everyone together in homely, friendly accommodation which has links within their community.  From the formation of the Abbeyfield movement in 1956, there has been a recognition that older people should maintain their social and community connections in order to prevent and alleviate the loneliness which can come with later life and can have such an impact on health and well-being.

The Management Board is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the Association, ensuring that the organisation meets the aims and objectives as laid down in the governing document.

Key Responsibilities: 

  • To ensure compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements and the values and objectives of the organisation.
  • To determine the overall direction and development of the organisation through clear strategic planning. 

Main Tasks:

 To attend Board Meetings which are held at a minimum on a quarterly basis, and to work with other Board Members to form an effective governing body.

  1. To give adequate time and energy to prepare for meetings and attend training seminars and other events as appropriate.
  2. To ensure the organisation complies with legislative and regulatory requirements such as health and safety, employment, equality, housing regulations.
  3. To maintain sound financial management of the Association’s resources, ensuring expenditure is in line with the Association’s objectives. This includes approval of budgets and accounts.
  4. To monitor and evaluate the work of the organisation.
  5. To ensure the organisation is committed to resident/tenant consultation and involvement.

Commitments:

 To act reasonably at all times in the interests of the association.

  1. Remain independent and not come under the control of any external organisation or group of individuals.
  2. Adhere to the Abbeyfield & Wesley Code of Conduct, including the Seven Principles of Public Life as laid down by the Nolan Committee.

Do you need experience of being a trustee or on a Board?

Previous Board experience is not essential. There is a perception that to be a charity Board Member you need to be an older professional, but we consider that to govern effectively, the board should be diverse and have a range and skills, knowledge and expertise. Insight of the lived experience of older people and residents can be a valuable asset for the board.

What are we looking for in a Board Member? 

  1. Commitment and an interest in older people, housing, care and support.
  2. An ability to exercise general independent judgement.
  3. Willing to debate constructively and challenge vigorously while working to achieve a shared consensus.
  4. Ability to review and comment on strategic, financial and operational matters.

How to apply:

Download AWHA Board Member 2024 Info Pack , review and complete the ‘Expression of Interest Form’

Send to the Chief Executive, Abbeyfield & Wesley, 2 Wesley Court, Carrickfergus, BT38 8DH

or email – pthompson@abbeyfieldandwesley.org.uk marking the subject header “Board Recruitment”

Closing date is 5pm on Friday 25th October 2024