Borders Community Action is calling on individuals across the Scottish Borders to step forward and help shape the future of local charities and community organisations. Trustees are the backbone of these groups, providing the vision, leadership, and oversight needed to tackle some of society’s most pressing challenges. Now, more than ever, they need your help.
Why Trustees Matter
The Scottish Borders is home to many outstanding volunteers who give their time, energy, and expertise to the third sector—organisations that focus on social, environmental, and cultural causes. These groups are the lifeblood of our community, fostering resilience and growth.
Trustees are at the core of their success and guide these organisations, ensuring they remain sustainable and impactful. However, the pandemic took its toll, with many trustees stepping down and not being replaced. Without fresh energy and expertise, many organisations face an uncertain future.
A Growing Need for Trustees
Borders Community Action has identified a critical need to increase both the number and diversity of trustees across the region. Many boards are struggling to fill vacancies, yet there is no shortage of skilled individuals in the Borders who could help.
This is where you come in. Whether you’re an experienced professional with expertise in areas like finance, HR, IT, or fundraising, or simply someone passionate about making a difference, there’s a place for you on a board. Young people, too, have an incredible opportunity to gain valuable life and work experience by becoming trustees.
A Unified Call to Action
Borders Community Action’s campaign is supported by the Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce and the region’s three Lord Lieutenants: The Duke of Buccleuch (Roxburgh, Ettrick, and Lauderdale), Ms. Catherine Maxwell Stuart (Tweeddale), and Mrs. Jeeana Swan (Berwickshire). Their shared commitment to volunteerism underscores the importance of trustees in driving positive change.
Together, they’re urging individuals across the Borders to consider joining a board. By becoming a trustee, you can play a key role in shaping the future of your community, helping organisations continue to deliver essential services and create meaningful impact.
Employer-Supported Volunteering
An increasing number of organisations are adopting employer-supported volunteering policies, enabling employees to dedicate time to causes they care about during working hours. This is a win-win: charities benefit from much-needed skills, while employees gain new experiences and make meaningful contributions. Employers, too, often find their teams are enriched and motivated by these opportunities.
If you’re an employer, Borders Community Action can help you connect with local organisations and set up these policies.
How Borders Community Action Can Help
Borders Community Action is dedicated to making the process of becoming a trustee as smooth as possible. They work closely with charities and individuals to match skills and interests, ensuring a fulfilling experience for all involved. Whether you’re new to volunteering or a seasoned professional, their team is here to help you find the right opportunity.
In addition, many organisations actively seek to diversify their boards, reflecting the rich diversity of our communities and bringing fresh perspectives to their work.
It could be you
Without a new injection of trustees, some organisations may face tough decisions about their future. But you have the power to make a difference. By stepping up, you’ll be helping local groups thrive, deliver essential services, and enrich countless people's lives in the Scottish Borders.
Contact Borders Community Action today to learn how to get involved. They’re here to provide support to individuals, charities, and employers, ensuring our community organisations have the trustees they need to succeed.
Email info@borderscommunityaction.org.uk to take the first step in this rewarding journey. Together, we can ensure that the Scottish Borders remains a vibrant and resilient community for generations to come.
Supported by Borders College.