Trustees

The Sheppard Trust is a charitable housing trust providing independent homes for women aged 65 and over who are in housing need.

We believe a secure and comfortable home can make an enormous difference in later life. We provide affordable, well-maintained homes and support residents to maintain their independence, health and wellbeing. We are not a care provider, but help residents access health, social care and other services when needed.

Our work is underpinned by respect for independence, privacy and dignity, alongside a commitment to creating a mutually supportive community. Through our homes, support and community activities, we aim to reduce loneliness and isolation and enable residents to enjoy full and active lives.

About the role

Our Trustees play an important role in ensuring The Sheppard Trust remains well governed, financially sustainable and focused on its charitable purpose. As we establish our new community and consider the Trust’s future direction, our three new Trustees will bring fresh perspectives, expertise and independent judgement to the Board.

Working collectively with fellow Trustees and our leadership team, you will:

• Contribute to the development and oversight of our long-term strategy
• Provide informed challenge and contribute to decisions about risk, performance, assets and resources
• Help us respond to changing resident needs and opportunities for future community impact
• Ensure residents and their wellbeing remain at the heart of Board decision-making
• Act as an ambassador for the Trust and its mission.

We are looking for three new Trustees with different and complementary skills and perspectives. You do not need to bring experience across all of our priority areas. Collectively, we want to strengthen the Board for the next stage of The Sheppard Trust’s development.

We are particularly interested in hearing from people with experience in one or more of:

• Housing, almshouses or supported housing
• Property, development, construction or asset management
• Legal services and governance
• Community engagement and place-based development
• Health, social care or services supporting older people.

Alongside your professional or lived experience, you will bring strategic thinking, good judgement and strong interpersonal skills. You will be comfortable contributing your perspective, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive challenge while working collaboratively with others.

You will share our commitment to older women in housing need and understand the importance of independence, dignity and community.

We welcome both experienced Trustees and people seeking their first Board appointment, and particularly value perspectives and experiences that will broaden the Board’s understanding of the communities we serve.