Welcoming, including and developing new trustees

Inductions are sometimes overlooked, yet they play an important role in helping new trustees to become effective. A well-structured induction isn’t just a checklist – it’s a strategic investment in your charity’s future. Recruiting the right person takes time and effort, so, once they’re on board, it’s essential to help them feel supported and valued. By investing in their learning and development from the outset, you’ll boost their confidence and engagement, which in-turn encourages commitment and retention.

While you may have a clear, well-thought-out induction programme, there may be times where you need to adapt or change. The steps below will likely apply to all new starters but learning and development needs will differ. Ask trustees what they need, don’t just assume – even the most experienced trustee might value a refresher on key governance topics. Build in time throughout the year for regular catch-ups. These could be with the charity’s chair, another trustee or mentor. And finally, don’t forget to ask for feedback, to help continuously inform and refine your induction offer.

Regardless of your charity’s size or trustee experience, you should prepare an information pack for new starters. Check your charity’s governing document first. It might stipulate what you need to provide. As a general guide, think about including the charity’s governing document, copies of the latest annual report, accounts and minutes of recent meetings and the charity’s key policies, plans and priorities.

This is also the time to familiarise new board members with Charity Commission guidance and other resources. According to the Charity Commission’s latest research with trustees, those who use Commission resources, generally have a better awareness of their responsibilities. A good starting point is ‘The essential trustee’ – a guide to the role and responsibilities of board members. Other useful resources at this stage include the Commission’s 5-minutes guides. They’re short, easy-reads and a great way to introduce new trustees to key topics.

Introducing new trustees to other members of the board and key charity staff can be online or in-person. To help build a more informed picture of the charity, it may also be useful for them to visit the organisation’s services and meet beneficiaries and other stakeholders.

Onboarding new trustees presents a valuable opportunity to reflect on how your board operates, as people’s circumstances can change over time. Small adjustments, like changing when and how you meet (you may need to amend your governing document), can make a big difference. Ask for feedback on board papers – is the language used straightforward or overly complex and are papers shared in good time? Being open and responsive to change not only supports new trustees but reaffirms your commitment to inclusivity and flexibility for the wider board.

1. Review your induction offer periodically
2. Reflect annually on how your board functions, making sure the set-up works for all trustees
3. Encourage new and existing trustees to familiarise themselves with key Charity Commission guidance and resources
4. Ask, don’t assume – even the most experienced trustee will likely have some development needs

ICAEW Volunteers connects charities with finance professionals looking for volunteer roles. The service is free for all not-for-profit organisations and volunteers to use.

• Read the Charity Commission’s recently updated guidance, Finding and appointing new trustees (CC30)

Read the first two articles in this series on trustee recruitment:

• Set yourself up for success: finding new trustees
• Finding new trustees: advertising and appointing