By Jill Stocks

Two Horsforth residents, passionate about the local community, are in the process of setting up a new charitable organisation for the town – and are seeking three trustees to help lead the charity

Claire Evans and Kezia Roberts, already known in the community for their work with local projects, are founding a new, independent charity for Horsforth. The charity will aim to make the community supportive and inclusive, building on work already being done in the area by existing community groups.

Claire told WLD: “Kezia and I first met at the school gates when our now teenagers were at a local primary school.

“We got to know each other better through our involvement in various community activities, Kezia predominantly with the Walk of Art and myself with Horsforth Community Assets Project (HCAP).

“For a number of years now we have discussed the need for a charitable organisation for Horsforth that could be a home for the ‘good stuff’ that people want to see happening in our community. 

“We’re kicking things off by recruiting three volunteers to lead our Board of Trustees, amongst other skills we are looking for people who share our passion for Horsforth.

“Kezia and I have been going through a branding process with Helen Hartley (Consulting) which has been wonderful and we’re almost there. The last bit will be to finalise the charity’s name…. which we will announce in due course.”

Three trustees are required for three roles within the new organisation. A Chair of Trustees, a Finance Trustee and an Admin Trustee, are needed to lead the charity in working towards its three main aims;

  • Supporting individuals and families to thrive,
  • Listening to the community to initiate change and
  • Supporting the community to achieve. 

Applications for the roles are welcome from throughout the community to create the charity which hopes to become a “sustainable third-sector network that supports community led development”.

The roles are voluntary but the impact of the role and the project will be wide ranging and significant to the community. People from all walks of life are welcome to bring their skills and experience to these vital roles which will also involve some legal responsibilities. 

The Chair of Trustees will oversee the operation of the charity, ensuring its compliance with legal and moral obligations, as well as maintaining its effective running and working in accordance with the charities legal and ethical obligations.

As well as that a finance trustee is required to oversee the charitu’s financial matters and an admin trustee to ensure the effective use of resources and appropriate governance and management of the charity.

Whilst being a trustee is a rewarding position it does require a time commitment and there are certain criteria which would disqualify a person from taking on the role, which is open to those over 16 years of age, such as any conflict of interest or certain previous convictions. 

For more information on applying and a full description of each role follow the link and for informal discussion on the roles contact Claire Evans or Kezia Roberts by e-mailing welovehorsforth@outlook.com. Applications close on Sunday, 23 January.

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