One trustee shares why they got involved, what goes on behind the scenes, and why small decisions can have a big impact.

What It’s Like Being a Trustee at the RFSA
​
Why I Became a Trustee
I’ve always been grateful for the opportunities I had as a student. I went to art school back when the state still paid your grant, and that gave me a route into a career in design. It also helped me understand how important access and support can be. Those kinds of opportunities don’t exist anymore, which makes the work of charities like the RFSA all the more important.

When my partner saw that the RFSA was looking for trustees, it felt like the right moment to get involved. I wanted to give something back, and this felt like a way I could use what I know to support others starting out in creative education.

What Surprised Me
Before becoming a trustee, I thought most of the work would be quite formal, with budgets, meetings, that sort of thing. And yes, there’s quite a lot of that. But what surprised me was how collaborative and hands-on it really is.

We’re a small organisation with one member of staff, so if something new needs exploring, trustees roll up their sleeves and help get it done. I’ve learned a lot about how charities actually operate behind the scenes. If something needs doing, we usually find a way to get it done ourselves.

A Small Decision That Mattered
I’d say that every decision matters, even the small ones. At the RFSA, progress often happens in quiet, steady steps. One small example is the introduction of this newsletter. We know it will take time to grow, but you have to start somewhere. Across the charity, people are making everyday choices that, over time, help us build a more agile and resilient organisation.

Why It’s Worth Doing
​If you’ve ever thought about being a trustee, I’d say go for it — especially with a small charity. When you read feedback from a student who stayed in education because of a grant we helped fund, you’re reminded why it matters.
​
You don’t need to be an expert in charity law or finance, though it helps to have a basic understanding of both. What matters most is that you care about the mission and are willing to put in the time and be engaged. That’s what makes the difference.