Mid Norfolk Mencap is seeking trustees to join our Board.
We are a growing charity based in Dereham in Norfolk. We support adults with learning disabilities to live independently and be part of their communities. This is a positive moment for the charity. The organisation is financially stable, strategically focused, and ready to grow. New board members who join us now will have a real opportunity to shape what Mid Norfolk Mencap becomes over the next five years.
Our Vision
Our vision is a world where people with a learning disability are valued equally, listened to and included. Our challenge, alongside people with a learning disability and their families, is to make this world a reality.
Our Mission
Our mission is to enable the people we support to lead fulfilling lives, to be involved members in their local wider community and to have access to the same opportunities as all members of the community.
Our Values
- We are Inclusive. People with a learning disability are at the heart of everything we do.
- We are Trustworthy. When we promise something, we don’t let people down.
- We are Caring. We treat everyone with respect and kindness.
- We are Challenging. When we see things that aren’t fair, we will campaign until we see real change.
- We are Positive. We never stop believing in a better future and we celebrate what we are proud of now.
The Board
The Board of Trustees holds collective responsibility for strategy and governance, with decisions made at quarterly meetings. Substantially renewed in January 2026, the Board brings together strong professional expertise and lived experience. The Chair and CEO work with each trustee to ensure they can contribute fully, supported by a clear Scheme of Delegation that defines the boundary between Board oversight and management responsibility.
We are particularly looking for trustees with a professional background or keen interest in one of the following areas:
- Supporting people with a learning disability e.g. Adult social services, healthcare, or ICB experience.
- Commissioning.
- Fundraising and income development e.g. Trusts and foundations, major donors, or corporate partnerships.
- Property and legal e.g. Commercial law, conveyancing, built environment, or charity law.
- Digital communications e.g. Marketing, digital channels or public communications.
Lived experience of learning disability, as a person with a learning disability, a family member or carer is most welcome but not essential.
The Role
The Board ensures the charity has a clear strategy and that all activities are aligned with our vision and mission. The people we support are at the forefront of everything we do, and the Board regularly monitors that this remains the case. Trustees are al charity's management and administration.
Qualities and Experience
We are looking for people who can demonstrate:
- Integrity and respect for confidential and sensitive information
- Commitment to the charity's vision, mission and values
- Willingness to listen carefully, empathise, and where necessary challenge respectfully
- Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and responsibilities of trusteeship
- Strategic thinking and sound, independent judgement
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team and contribute to open discussion
- Willingness to make time for the role and to be available to the senior management team on an ad hoc basis
- Competence with basic IT and the ability to read and interpret management reports.
Time Commitment
The time commitment typically averages around four to six hours per month. A minimum of approximately four hours per month is expected, increasing to between six and nine hours for trustees who take on additional responsibilities, such as chairing a sub-committee or leading specific initiatives.
If you would like to apply, or to have an informal conversation before doing so, please contact us at info@midnorfolkmencap.org.
Our process typically includes an informal discussion with the Chair or CEO, a formal interview with a Board member and the CEO, and an invitation to visit the Tavern Lane Hub to meet staff and the people we support. We recognise that you need to be as confident in us as we are in you, and we are committed to being open, transparent, and providing all the information you need to make a fully informed decision about becoming a trustee.
Closing date 30th June 2026.
We look forward to hearing from you.
*No board experience needed. Just commitment, curiosity, and time.*