Back in summer 2024 we put out a call for deaf and / or disabled people interested in learning about the practicalities of being a Trustee with an arts organisation. Volunteer Trusteeships aren't always accessible to deaf and disabled people, so this programme was an experiment in changing that.
Alison France joined us for the Intro to Trusteeship Programme - below are her reflections.
My Experience with the Intro to Trusteeship Programme
When I heard about the Intro to Trusteeship programme at Zoo Co Theatre in 2024, I was immediately drawn to it. As a Deaf artist with a passion for inclusivity, it felt like a natural step for me, especially after completing a Master's in Fine Arts that year. Having worked as a theatre director and producer in South Africa, I was keen to understand how UK arts charities operate and make a meaningful impact. This programme seemed the perfect way to learn about being a Trustee and further explore the arts and environmental sectors.
Observing Board Meetings
One of the most interesting parts of the programme was sitting in on Board meetings at Zoo Co Theatre. My previous role as a personal assistant to a CEO in healthcare had familiarised me with meetings, but my involvement had been more focused on taking notes and supporting the process.
The Trusteeship programme, however, was a completely different experience. I observed in-depth discussions about strategy, governance, and decision-making. We were given materials to read beforehand, which was new to me, and the team was incredibly supportive throughout. Seeing how people from different professional backgrounds brought their perspectives and skills to contribute to the charity’s mission was fascinating. I also gained a deeper understanding of broader issues like sustainability and community impact, which felt challenging and inspiring.
What I Learned
The programme gave me an insight into how charities are managed and led. I realised just how important Trustees are in guiding a charity’s mission while ensuring its long-term stability and effectiveness.
While my past work had given me a sense of how decisions are made in meetings, this experience showed me the care and attention required for these decisions. I also learned that Trustees don’t need to have all the answers. What truly matters is sharing your perspective and collaborating with others to achieve the best outcomes.
Looking Ahead
Now that I’ve completed the programme, I feel ready to take on a Trustee role. There’s still plenty to learn, but this experience has given me a strong foundation and sparked a real interest in contributing to the arts and environmental sectors.
If you’re thinking about applying for the Intro to Trusteeship programme at Zoo Co Theatre in 2025, I can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re a performer, artist, writer, or from a completely different background, it’s an incredible opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, gain valuable insights, and connect with people who are passionate about making a difference.
Zoo Co is recruiting for this year's Intro to Trusteeship participants, head to our vacancies page to find out more. Deadline for application is the 24th March 2025.
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