This month Clinks Policy and Communications Officer Marianne Mooney met up with one of our Trustees Kelly Loftus, and reflected on what it's like to be a part of Clinks' board. 

With her newborn baby over her shoulder and a toddler downstairs with her partner, Kelly discussed how being a Trustee at Clinks is accessible and inclusive.

"Clinks are committed to making it accessible and adaptable to the fact that I can just jump off a call for a few minutes and change a nappy but that doesn't change anything about how I'm valued”

Being a working parent, Kelly explained how she'd initially been worried about the level of commitment being a Trustee at Clinks' would be. 

Kelly began her career in the criminal justice sector and recognised the importance of voluntary organisations for people in the criminal justice system and their families. While working in the sector, she worked for a Clinks member organisation, and spoke about utilising Clinks' resources to support her within her role.

"Clinks' commitment to standing up for and speaking out on behalf of voluntary organisations resonated with me. The chance to be involved with Clinks in any capacity was too good to pass up" she said as the little one on her shoulder started to wake up, seemingly in agreement. As her career progressed, Kelly moved away from criminal justice but still wanted to find a way to make a difference. She explained, "For nearly a decade, I had followed Clinks’ work, becoming a trustee seemed like a meaningful way I could use my experience to support a cause I care deeply about.” 

After applying to be a trustee for Clinks 2 years ago, Kelly watched and supported Clinks' board foster an inclusive environment.

"We start every meeting on a high and make sure there's always a bit of chat and engaging with each other, before getting down to serious business"

Recognising the challenges the voluntary sector faces, she explained how the board works together "it is tough and challenging times out there. But people come to board meetings with a sense of positivity and hope, and  that's what sums up Clinks, support and hope through immense challenges"

At first Kelly was unsure what to expect. Would it be serious and intimidating? Would it be too time-consuming? These were all questions she raised, but she explained that the reality turned out to be quite different.

"I hugely enjoy being a part of Clinks. I look forward to board meetings and receiving updates about the organisation's activities. It's a fun and fulfilling experience"

Clinks is a crucial support to many organisations in the voluntary sector, and Kelly explained being part of an organisation that stands up for and supports the voluntary sector in criminal justice is "immensely fulfilling".

The work of Clinks is far-reaching, from organising events, supporting new initiatives like the Q-SEED program and being a vital mediator between the sector and the government. Clinks supports numerous organisations and, by extension, helps countless individuals transform their lives.

Kelly reiterated that balancing responsibilities as a trustee with her professional and personal life is challenging, but manageable.

"The key is the supportive and flexible culture at Clinks".

The work that the board do can be done remotely and at any time of day, which is crucial for someone with a busy schedule. The in-person commitments, such as board meetings and the annual conference, are planned well in advance, allowing Kelly to integrate them into her life seamlessly and she added “it’s so worth it.”

Kelly's advice for a prospective Chair

"For those considering becoming a chair, my advice is simple: go for it."

Kelly spoke about how the initial steps are often the hardest, but reaching out and making that first contact to find out more can open doors to an impactful role, both personally and professionally. Clinks is accessible and supportive, making it an excellent environment for a new chair. Clinks value diverse experiences and perspectives. The key traits for a successful trustee or chair are a deep commitment to the organisation's mission, high energy, strategic thinking, and strong leadership qualities. It’s about being a strong advocate for Clinks, the sector, embracing challenges with positivity and being willing to ask tough questions.

Find out more and apply to be our Chair of the Board of Trustees