Tim encourages Cumbrians to become a charity trustee

At the start of Trustees' Week, which runs from 10 -16 November, South Lakes MP Tim Farron has thanked local charity staff, volunteers and trustees for their dedicated work in running organisations throughout the South Lakes. Tim is also urging local residents with specific skills in high demand like book-keeping, project management and senior management experience to look at becoming a trustee.

Figures from 2011 show that Westmorland & Lonsdale had around 650 registered charities. They cover a wide range of activities and services, but all depend on the trustees who oversee their work, most of whom are volunteers. Trustees Week also raises awareness of how people can benefit themselves by becoming trustees, through gaining valuable experience and skills.

Tim said: "We have some fantastic local charities in the South Lakes doing really important work, but they wouldn't be able to function without their staff, volunteers and trustees. As we approach national Trustees' Week I want to pay tribute to their tireless work to keep our local community projects going. I would also really encourage people to consider becoming a trustee, especially those who have been successful in local businesses. We need to bring more of those skills to our local charities.

"Being a charity trustee is a great way of learning new skills and gaining valuable experience, and could lead to new opportunities and employment. Lots of charities need trustees who will help them achieve their goals, so it really is a win-win situation."

To learn more about Trustees' Week and trusteeship, visit www.trusteesweek.org.uk. The website includes trustees' stories, details of local events being held during Trustees' Week and links to trustee matching services for those who want to become a trustee.