In line with our revised Constitution which states that “The first Family Forum each year will nominate two unrelated family representatives to the Board, we are now inviting Expressions of Interest from family members to join the Board of Directors.
A "family member" means the parent, grandparent, legal guardian, sibling, spouse of a sibling, child of a sibling, aunt, uncle, spouse of an aunt or uncle or child of an aunt or uncle of a service user. [Constitution/Memorandum of Association, 3 (j)]
Charity directors are the people who exercise control over, and are legally responsible for the management of a charity. Although directors are volunteers, the role of a charity trustee carries significant responsibility. The Board of Directors of Ability West is collectively responsible for the oversight of the organisation and while charity directors can delegate tasks, they cannot delegate accountability.
The right mix of skills and experience is considered for the composition of the Board to ensure its effectiveness and as a result of a recent skills analysis, we are seeking nominees preferably with knowledge of service delivery in a healthcare setting or legal experience (particularly the Companies Act 2014 and/or Charities Act 2009) to the Board. Please note that experience in these fields is also not a requirement for prospective directors.
An Information Session about the role of directors will be held on 12th April 2021 at 7pm, via Zoom. Please email Carol.Browne@abilitywest.ie or call 091 540911 if you wish to participate in this session.
A role description will provide you with specific information about being a director with Ability West.
Expressions of interest must be submitted, by 26th April 2021, in writing to the Chief Executive at Blackrock House, Salthill, Galway, H91 R254 or email ceo@abilitywest.ie, outlining the relationship to your family member availing of our services, providing details about your skills, experience/background and if possible, enclosing a CV. Shortlisting will be completed by the Nominations Committee which comprises the Chairperson, Company Secretary and a Director of the Board.
A Family Forum will be held on 4th May 2021 at 7pm to finalise this process.