Could you be a SWIDN trustee?

SWIDN — the South West International Development Network — brings together individuals and organisations across the South West who are working for global solidarity. Founded in 2005 and registered as a charity in 2017, we have around 100 members and a wider community of 5,000 people working in international development across the UK’s South West and beyond. We are looking for current trustees to join our dynamic team.

We want a board that reflects the world we work in. We particularly welcome applications from people from the Global Majority, from LGBTQI+ communities, people living with disabilities, and people from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. What kind of person are we looking for?

Education We’re not looking for a particular type of CV. We don’t require previous trustee experience, a specific educational background, or management experience. What matters most is:

- A genuine commitment to our values and to SWIDN’s mission
- Curiosity and openness — about international development, its history, and its future
- Willingness to commit some time and energy to support us
- Integrity, good judgment, and the confidence to speak your mind

We’d especially love to hear from people with experience in any of these areas:
- Working for a SWIDN member organisation
- Anti-racism from a governance perspective
- Charity financial management expertise
- Communications and marketing background




- Digital and AI from a governance perspective
- Fundraising knowledge and experience

So, what’s actually involved? We Know Everyone Has Different Amounts Of Time And Energy To Give — And SWIDN Works Flexibly With That In Mind. Here’s What You’d Typically Be Involved In
- Four quarterly Board meetings per year (online, ~2 hours each)
- One in-person Board meeting in Bristol each year (usually March)
- One Strategy Away Day per year in Bristol
- At least one in-person SWIDN networking event per year
- Contributing to our Annual Conference or working groups — sharing your expertise or chairing sessions where relevant

The role is unpaid, but we will cover all reasonable expenses. What would you actually be doing? As a Trustee You’d Be Helping To Steer SWIDN’s Direction And Make Sure We’re Doing What We Say We Will. In Practice, That Means Things Like

- Contributing to SWIDN’s strategic direction and approving key policies
- Keeping an eye on ourfinances and how we’re performing against our goals
- Providing guidance and supportto our Secretariat Staff
- Helping to recruitfuture staff and trustees
- Staying connected with our members and bringing their perspective into Board discussions

Interested? We’d love to hear from you. Drop us an email — even just to ask a question or find out more. There’s no commitment in getting in touch. [email protected]

📌 Trustee at SWIDN (India)
🏢 South West International Development Network
📍 India