How long have you been an SWA Trustee?
I have been a trustee at SWA since December 2023.
What made you want to join the SWA board of trustees, your experience, motivation etc?
I had been searching for a trustee role related to a cause that aligned with my values and interests and that I was passionate about. I recall seeing a post on LinkedIn seeking some new trustees at SWA. I was a little hesitant as I’d not been a trustee before and wasn’t sure what skills I could bring. I reached out to Hollie directly who was very warm and encouraged me to apply, telling me that everyone is a trustee for the first time at some point! I have loved being a trustee for a small, local charity where my fundraising and leadership skills can have a real impact.
Why is the work that SWA does so important in Sheffield, what makes you proud to be a trustee?
The work that SWA does in Sheffield is essential. The impact and outcomes this small but mighty charity achieves is outstanding and I feel so proud to be a part of the team. It makes me proud to see women and their children able to find a place of safety where they can rebuild their lives, confidence and go onto thrive. It has been a real privilege to be a trustee here.
What are the challenges in being a trustee?
It can be a challenge in getting the balance right between understanding enough of the detail and delivery whilst staying strategically focussed. It is easy to fall into a trap of being operational if you are not careful which isn’t the role of a trustee.
The Government has pledged to halve VAWG, with the work you see that SWA does, how do you think we can contribute to that ambitious aim?
SWA will be not only contributing to that aim locally on the ground in Sheffield but also through submitting evidence, using our voice and stories and feeding this into key groups and up through the WAFE. SWA does so much to raise awareness of VAWG and efforts to tackle this through engaging the public, supporters, volunteers and corporate partners. One of the challenges that must be noted though is the tight budgets and money ringfenced for statutory contracts which feels increasingly challenging to deliver on in light of the cost of living crisis.