The Thalidomide Trust is a unique organisation supporting 430 beneficiaries, now all aged in their 60s, born with disabilities as a result of their mother taking the drug, thalidomide, during pregnancy. Their physical disabilities include limb damage, hearing and visual impairment, brain and sensory impairment and damage to internal organs. They are a remarkable group of people, who have achieved a great deal despite often living with extreme levels of disability.
Our beneficiaries have very complex and varied needs which are increasing as they age, and we have gathered a wealth of data about them and gained an in-depth understanding of their evolving needs through our structured programme of three-yearly Holistic Needs Assessments (HNAs).
We are looking for an experienced and credible senior health or social care professional with a strategic approach and knowledge of the current challenging environment – ideally in respect of disability and ageing – to join our Board of Trustees*. Our Vision is that ‘each and every beneficiary of the Trust has access to the resources and support they need to live their best life for the longest time’ and, as they enter the next phase of their lives and as their needs grow ever more complex, you will play an important role in ensuring we provide the best possible future for them.
You will bring the following skills and experience to the role:
- Experience of operating at a senior level in a health and/or social care environment (this could be in policy, systems leadership or practice) with a high external profile and strong links with professional social care networks.
- Knowledge of current health and social care policy and provision and the implications for our beneficiaries as they age.
- Integrity, empathy and the ability to contribute to effective decision making in the best interests of all beneficiaries of the Trust.
You should also be willing and able to devote approximately 20 days (plus travel time) per annum to the Trust – and specifically be available to attend three full day board meetings, at least two half-day Health & Wellbeing Committee meetings and one beneficiary event each year.
This is a voluntary role, but reasonable expenses incurred will be reimbursed.
We particularly welcome applications from the BAME community and people living with disabilities.
More Information:
No contact from agencies or media sales
You can find out more about us by visiting http://www.thalidomidetrust.org.
If you would like to discuss the role further, please contact Katy Sagoe, Director of Health & Wellbeing on 01480 474074 and if you would like to discuss this opportunity with another trustee please contact us at Hello@thalidomidetrust.org or 01480 474 074 and we will make the necessary arrangements.
Application Details:
To apply, please visit our website via the button below.
Closing date for applications: 9am on 26 July 2024.
Date for Interview: Wednesday 31 July 2024 (in Central London).
* Following a restructuring exercise in January 2018, your formal title will be a Director of the Thalidomide Trust Company. However, you will operate as a charitable trustee and will be governed by the Charity Commission.
