If someone had told me a few years ago that one of the most enjoyable and rewarding things I would do in retirement from policing would be becoming the chair of trustees of People First, I'd probably have looked at them with absolute disbelief!
After all, a senior police officer and a learning disability charity don't immediately sound like an obvious match.
My professional life was spent in law enforcement, dealing with everything from major incidents and organisational change to governance, performance and public accountability. Useful experience, certainly, but not the sort of background that naturally screams "charity trustee". What I have discovered, though, is that good leadership skills travel surprisingly well. Listening, supporting people, asking awkward questions when needed, keeping organisations focused on their purpose and occasionally helping navigate a challenge or two are just as important around a charity board table as they are anywhere else.
What I hadn't expected was how much I would enjoy being part of an entirely different world.
Working with People First has given me the opportunity to learn about a sector that was unfamiliar to me. It has challenged my thinking, broadened my horizons and introduced me to some truly remarkable people. Most importantly, it has allowed me to see first-hand the incredible difference that the organisation makes in supporting people with learning disabilities to have a stronger voice, more choice and greater control over their lives. This was really brought home to me when a parent of young person explained (whilst holding back tears) how People First had made such a difference to their child’s life.
The passion that runs through everything People First does is incredible.
The commitment to inclusion, empowerment and ensuring people's voices are heard is not simply written into a strategy document. It is lived every day by staff and volunteers and, most importantly, by the people the organisation exists to support.
I've also had the privilege of working alongside an exceptional group of trustees. They bring a huge range of knowledge, skills and lived experience, and they challenge and support each other in equal measure. (Or should I say challenge me and support each other…) Their commitment is inspiring. Trustee meetings are never dull; they're filled with thoughtful discussion, good humour and a shared determination to do the right thing. I've learned a great deal from them all and remain constantly impressed by the talent around the table.
Recent years have brought their fair share of challenges.
Like many charities, People First has had to adapt and look creatively at how it can continue delivering its mission in an increasingly complex environment. Supporting other organisations to join the wider People First family has also been both demanding and rewarding. It has required care, patience and a real focus on people. Seeing everyone work together to preserve services, maintain values and create new opportunities has been genuinely inspiring.
Looking back, I can honestly say the role has given me far more than I could ever have expected. It has reminded me that leadership is about bringing your experience, learning from others and working together to make a positive difference.
Would I recommend being a trustee? Absolutely.
You don't need to come from the charity sector and you don't need to be an expert. What matters is a willingness to contribute, to learn and to care about a cause. You'll meet extraordinary people, gain new perspectives and have the opportunity to help shape something that genuinely changes lives.
And if a retired police officer can find a new home in the People First family, then perhaps there is hope for all of us.
If you would like to find out more about our Board of Trustees and the opportunities available at at People First please click the link below.