Trustee’s

🌿 Join the Board of Trustees at Matt’s Respite Retreats, Somerset, Dorset and beyond, HQ in Wincanton  🌿

Help us create unforgettable moments for people affected by cancer

About Us

Matt’s Respite Retreats offers free short breaks in a static caravan at Haven Weymouth Bay for individuals and families affected by cancer.

We know that healing goes beyond medicine. Emotional wellbeing, rest, and time spent with loved ones are vital, especially for those facing life-limiting diagnoses. Our breaks provide just that — a space to relax, recoup, and reconnect during some of life’s most challenging times.

We are a young and small charity, employing only one part time fund raiser who works alongside the existing Trustee. Every year, we provide around 45 breaks of 3–4 nights which in 2024 equated to 172 beneficiaries, helping them make lasting, meaningful memories, and we have ambitions to grow.

Trustee Vacancies – Make a Real Difference

We're now looking for passionate, committed Trustees to help guide our charity through its next exciting chapter.

Whether you're an experienced Trustee or completely new to governance, we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds — especially those with lived experience of cancer or from traditionally underrepresented communities.

Why Join Us?

• Shape the future of a small but impactful charity

• Use your skills to support families at a time they need it most

• Help grow a compassionate organisation with strong values and deep community roots

• Gain experience in strategic planning, governance, fundraising, and more

🧭 Trustee Role – At a Glance

Time commitment: Approx. 7–10 hours/month

Location: 6 board meetings per year in Wincanton, Somerset, plus occasional ad-hoc or virtual meetings

Term: 3 years (renewable)

You'll work closely with other Trustees to ensure the charity remains compliant, sustainable, and true to its mission. We are currently seeking Trustees with interest or experience in one or more of the following areas:

Areas of Focus

• Legal – Providing legal insight and governance support

• Fundraising & Community Engagement – Helping to develop income streams and run events

• Marketing & Communications – Developing communication strategies, media relations, and outreach

• Data & Digital – Supporting our website, email marketing, content and social media presence

• Charity Governance - a good all rounder with some spare time and willing to support the charity in various ways.

If you're open to taking on additional roles in the future (e.g., Chair, Treasurer, Committee Lead), we’d love to hear from you as part of our succession planning.

Trustee Responsibilities

• Help shape and oversee our strategy, ensuring we meet our charitable objectives

• Offer advice, mentoring and professional input as needed

• Champion good governance, diversity, and accountability

• Work collaboratively and respectfully as part of a passionate team

• Support fundraising, marketing, and community activities

Who We're Looking For

We’re looking for people who care deeply about improving the lives of those affected by cancer — no previous Trustee experience is required.

You might be:

• From a professional back ground or have experience of cancer as a sufferer or supporter

• An entrepreneur, community leader, or communications expert

• Someone with passion, empathy, and a desire to use your skills for social good

You’ll need to:

• Understand the role of a charity Trustee, or be willing to learn

• Value teamwork and collective accountability

• Be ready to commit your time and energy to help us grow sustainably

Ready to Apply?

To express interest, please message us and include a short note about:

• Why you’d like to join the Board

• What experience or perspective you’d bring

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an informal interview with current Trustees.

Diversity and Inclusion

Matt’s Respite Retreats is a proudly inclusive organisation. We’re committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the community we serve. We strongly encourage applications from people with lived experience of cancer, and those from minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ communities, disabled people, and others traditionally underrepresented in governance.

Use your experience to fuel lasting change.

This is your moment.