HemiHelp is a small national charity providing information and support to families affected by hemiplegia. The charity was started by a group of parents in 1990 who felt they were not being provided with the support they needed from the government or existing charities. HemiHelp continues to be self-supporting; around half of the funds raised come from family members and many of the existing Trustees are family members. There are only eight paid members of staff but a wide network of volunteers work together to keep HemiHelp going. It is the only charity of its kind in the UK.
Hemiplegia is a neurological condition that weakens one side of the body, and affects one child in a thousand. It is sometimes described as a form of cerebral palsy, and the effects are similar to those of a stroke.
The Chair, like all Board Members, is expected to attend all Board meetings, which are held in London. Board meetings are held 3 or 4 times a year during normal office hours. Meetings usually last for 2 hours. In addition Board Members are expected to attend any Strategic Planning Day/s and also the Annual General Meeting. Board Members can claim out of pocket expenses incurred in travelling to and from meetings. In between meetings the Chair communicates regularly with the CEO.
We are looking for a new Chairperson to lead the charity into the next decade, Ideally you be someone with experience in a leadership role with knowledge of strategic development. Some understanding of disability and the voluntary sector would be an advantage but is not essential.
The Chairperson should have:
- A commitment to the mission of the charity
- A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
- Strategic vision
- Integrity
- Good, independent judgement
- An ability to think creatively
- A willingness to speak their mind
- An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship and directorship
- An ability to work effectively as a member of a team
You also need to be within easy reach of London to attend regular meetings.
For an informal chat about this role contact Alice Doyle, CEO: alice@hemihelp.org.uk or call 0845 120 3713
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