Join Us as a Trustee

Posted: 16th March 2026

We are a small but ambitious grassroots charity with a big heart and a growing impact. Based in Scotland, we help people of all ages build confidence, develop new skills, explore their potential and create meaningful, self‑directed life pathways. Our work is rooted in empowerment: supporting individuals to identify what matters to them, navigate challenges and take steps toward a future they can genuinely believe in.

Since our founding, CYD has grown organically in response to real need within our community. We support people facing a wide range of emotional, social, educational and practical barriers, offering compassionate, person‑centred support that meets each individual where they are. Our trustees, volunteers, partners and supporters all contribute to this work, and together we are building a trusted and valued presence locally.

We are now strengthening our Board to support the next phase of our development. We are seeking trustees who bring fresh perspectives, commitment and a passion for helping others thrive. We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of the challenges we aim to address, recognising the value this brings to shaping our decisions and ensuring our work remains grounded, relevant and inclusive.

If you are enthusiastic, community‑minded and excited to contribute your skills, experience or lived insight to a small charity with big aspirations, we would be delighted to hear from you.  Please email your CV to the address below and write a few short words on why you think you are a fit for CYD.

Trustee Role

Our trustees play a vital role in ensuring that Create Your Dream SCIO achieves its core purpose. They oversee the governance, management and direction of the charity, ensuring that our work and goals align with our vision. Trustees also support and constructively challenge the executive team as we grow and evolve.

You will help ensure that the people we support gain the confidence, tools and life skills they need to overcome challenges, build resilience and move towards their aspirations. Trustees champion CYD’s values and help amplify the voices of the individuals and communities we serve.

Duties of a Trustee

• Support and advise on CYD’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee CYD’s financial plans and budgets; monitor progress.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the charity.
• Identify, monitor and manage key organisational risks.
• Review and approve CYD’s annual financial statements.
• Provide support and appropriate challenge to the CEO in their leadership.
• Stay informed about CYD’s operating environment and external developments.
• Contribute to regular governance reviews and continuous improvement.
• Attend Board meetings prepared to participate in informed discussion.
• Use independent judgement, acting legally and in the best interests of the charity.
• Promote CYD’s aims, reputation and values.

As a small charity, trustees may at times become more actively involved between meetings — for example, scrutinising papers, leading discussions, advising on new initiatives or offering expertise in specialist areas.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking people who bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment, and who can broaden the diversity of thinking and experience on our Board.

We actively welcome and value lived experience, including (but not limited to):

• facing barriers such as trauma, poverty, exclusion or discrimination
• navigating challenges around wellbeing, housing, education, employment or care
• being supported by community or person‑centred services
• lived experience as a parent, carer or family member

Your voice, insight and perspective are deeply important to us.

Personal Skills and Qualities

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept trustee responsibilities.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically and exercise independent judgement.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to contribute actively to discussions.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for CYD’s mission and values.
• Willingness to lead according to our organisational values.
• Commitment to the Nine Principles of Public Life in Scotland:
  Selflessness, Integrity, Objectivity, Accountability & Stewardship, Openness, Honesty, Leadership, Duty and Respect.

Terms of Appointment – Terms of Office

• Trustees are appointed for a three‑year term, renewable once (maximum six years).
• This is a voluntary role; reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Time Commitment (approx. half a day per month)

• Attending six Board meetings annually (held remotely or in person).
• Attending annual strategy or training sessions.
• Committee or short‑term working group membership as required.
• Occasional ad hoc support to the executive team.

Expires: 2026-06-30

Contact: info@createyourdream.uk