Becoming a trustee of the union

Being a Trustee of the Students’ Union
As an executive officer of the Students’ Union, you are required to become a trustee of the charity. This is a role of great legal responsibility and should be considered when standing for election. Below is some information taken from the Charities Commission website that outlines the duties and responsibilities of being a trustee. As an exempt charity, the Charities Commission does not regulate us, but we still are legally bound to the it’s requirements. This, however, may change by the time the next sabbaticals come into office, and we will keep you updated on progress. If you have any questions about trusteeship, please don’t hesitate to contact the President.

Role of the Trustees
Charity Trustees are the people who serve on the governing body of a charity. They may be known as Trustees, Directors, Board Members, Governors or Committee Members. Charity Trustees are responsible for controlling the management and administration of a charity.
Their responsibilities and duties are summarised on the next page. The great majority of Trustees serve as volunteers, and receive no payment for their work.
Charity Trustees come from all walks of life, and are united by their wish to create positive change in society. Most people are eligible to serve as Trustees. The work of a Trustee should be rewarding and enjoyable, and an opportunity to serve the community while learning new skills.


Disqualified - Can anyone be a trustee?
Generally speaking anyone who is 18 years or over can be a trustee. However, certain people are legally disqualified from continuing to be, or from becoming a trustee. Obviously this will only effect a small minority of people. People who are disqualified are those who
• have been convicted at any time of any offence involving deception or dishonesty, unless the conviction is legally regarded as spent; or
• are undischarged bankrupts; or
• have made compositions or arrangements with their creditors from which they have not been discharged; or
• have at any time been removed by the Commissioners or by the court in England, Wales (or by the Court of Sessions in Scotland) from being a trustee because of misconduct; or
• are disqualified from being company directors; or
• are subject to an order made under s. 429(2) (b) of the Insolvency Act 1986.

 

PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL CANDIDATES FOR TRUSTEE OFFICER ROLES ARE REQUIRED TO SIGN A TRUSTEE DECLARATION FORM BEFORE NOMINATIONS ARE ACCEPTED.

THE POSITIONS OF RAG PRESIDENT AND STUDENT ACTION CHAIR ARE NOT TRUSTEE ROLES. NOR ARE NUS DELEGATION POSITIONS.

If you have any further questions please contact Jolene Jessiman, Union Manager on manager@yusu.org or call 01904433724.

Page Created: 3rd Feb, 2008
Last Updated: 2:42pm on 3rd Feb, 2008 by Anne-Marie Canning