Why become a Trustee of Age UK Wandsworth?

By Richard Smuts, Chair of Brand and Communications Committee

A few years ago, shortly after retiring, I started playing golf again. Some of the wonderful things about the game are that it gives you plenty of fresh air, friendship and banter plus obviously frustration when putts do not seem to drop. I had had in my mind for some while the thought that many others from my generation and older were far less fortunate. While chatting to one of my fellow golfers about how to support others, he mentioned Age UK Wandsworth and the rest, as they say, is history.

I was not immediately clear what I could offer. My understanding and appreciation of charities was limited – I did not see myself shaking a fundraising can outside a train station. My motivation was to use my professional experience in brand, communications and reputation management to support an organisation that plays a vital role in the local community. I have seen how effective communication can build trust, strengthen engagement and create meaningful connections between organisations and the people they serve. I have seen a few failures too, but those also provided insights and learning.  Joining the Board of Age UK Wandsworth offered an opportunity to apply those skills. 

The challenges facing older people are varied. Many, of course are lucky – they have their health, financial security, friends and family. The reality is that in a council the size of Wandsworth there are thousands of older people who suffer a mix of social isolation, health inequalities, financial pressures and poor access to support services. Age UK Wandsworth is at the forefront of addressing these challenges; providing practical advice, information, social activities and wellbeing services that help older residents remain connected, independent and active members of society.

Since joining the Board of Age UK Wandsworth, I have gained a much deeper understanding of the scale and impact of the charity’s work. I have been particularly impressed by the dedication and professionalism of the staff and volunteers, whose commitment ensures that support reaches those who need it most. I have also learnt since becoming a Trustee that I did not need to be an expert in health, care, or social services to make a meaningful contribution. My role as a Trustee is quite different. It is to provide strategic oversight, ensure strong governance, to challenge constructively, manage risk, safeguard the charity’s long-term sustainability and support the executive team in achieving the organisational objectives. It is about creating conditions in which talented staff and volunteers can do their best work. 

For me personally, I help to articulate the charity’s purpose and values, building trust with stakeholders, supporters, business partners and the wider community. Reputation is one of a charity’s most valuable assets and coherent communication plays a crucial role in ensuring that its work, values and achievements are understood and supported.

Returning to golf, after battling through 18 holes, there is often a chance to relax and enjoy the company of fellow competitors and friends at the 19th hole. So too with a diverse Trustee team, we find time after Board meetings or events to have fun, share experiences and learn from each other. More importantly, we also have opportunities to meet beneficiaries and volunteers and witness their positive interactions with the charity. For me, this combination makes being a Trustee a special privilege.