Help us keep creativity, community and culture thriving in West Cumbria
Becoming a trustee is a rewarding chance to make a real difference, build your experience and help shape the future of a much-loved local organisation. If you want to use your skills in a meaningful way, learn something new and support creative and community work across West Cumbria, we would love to hear from you.
No previous experience is necessary, but we’re particularly interested in hearing from people with experience in finance, fundraising, legal, project management, business or the arts.
About Us
Rosehill Arts Trust Ltd (RATL) is the registered charity that owns and runs Rosehill Theatre near Whitehaven. We are also a much-loved arts organisation in West Cumbria, working with partners to create opportunities for people to connect, take part and enjoy culture close to home. Our work includes the Welcome Hub for people needing warmth, food and company, singing sessions for people with dementia and their carers, support for young artists, community events including Whitehaven Weekender, and a year-round programme of live entertainment.
Rosehill is led day to day by our CEO, Jen Garrick, supported by a small team and dedicated volunteers. The charity is governed by a Board of Trustees, who serve unpaid for a three-year term, with the option of a second term. This helps keep the board fresh and brings in new ideas.
We are now looking for new trustees to help shape Rosehill’s next chapter.
So, what are we looking for in prospective trustees?
More than anything, we are looking for people with passion, curiosity and commitment: people who believe in the value of arts and culture, want to make a difference locally, and are ready to bring ideas, ask thoughtful questions and help us move forward.
Previous experience of being a trustee isn’t necessary
You do not need previous trustee experience. We offer bespoke inductions, training and support to suit your needs, and we are keen to welcome people who may not have seen themselves in this kind of role before.
We welcome applications from people of different ages, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives to ensure the board reflects the community we serve. A diverse board helps us make better decisions, stay connected to our communities and build a stronger future for Rosehill.
Who we’re looking for
We would particularly welcome people with experience in finance, fundraising, legal, project management, business or the arts. But no one trustee needs every skill, and we are very open to people from other backgrounds too. What matters most is your enthusiasm and your willingness to contribute.
The role of a Trustee
As a trustee, you will help make sure Rosehill has a clear direction, is well run and stays true to its purpose. The CEO leads day-to-day operations, and the board provides support, insight and constructive challenge.
In summary, trustees make sure the charity:
Has clear priorities and future plans
Follows its charitable mission
Has the money it needs
Spends that money responsibly on the activities it was raised for
Runs its activities effectively, sometimes by providing practical help
Follows the law and does not break its own rules
You can find more information about trustee responsibilities on the Charity Commission website.
The schedule and time commitment
The time commitment is modest. We hold four board meetings a year, each lasting around 2 to 2.5 hours, usually in the early evening. We also hold four informal meetings of similar length, with one extended each year for strategy. Meetings are usually in person at Rosehill, with video access for those who cannot travel.
We also have sub-committees for finance, fundraising and programming, which some trustees join or chair depending on their experience. These usually meet two to four times a year.
Trustees are welcome to give additional time to support Jen and the team, but this is optional.
Like most charities, fundraising is an ongoing priority. Our annual costs are around £800k, supported by income from events, Arts Council England, Sellafield Ltd, and individual and group supporters. This year’s funding is secure, and planning for future years continues.
The benefits of becoming a trustee
Being a trustee is a rewarding way to make a real difference. You will help protect and grow a much-valued 67-year-old Grade II listed theatre while supporting outreach work that brings creativity, connection and opportunity to local people.
If you are earlier in your career, the role can offer valuable experience, confidence and connections. If you are more established or retired, it is a meaningful way to give back, keep learning and support an organisation doing important work. Either way, it is a chance to be part of something positive and enjoyable.
The recruitment process
We want the recruitment process to feel open, friendly and straightforward. The main steps are:
An expression of interest from you
Informal chats with the Chair and CEO where we can provide more information and answer any questions you may have
The opportunity to attend a board meeting as an observer, meet the other trustees, to visit Rosehill and to see some of the projects we are engaged in
An invitation to join the board if both parties feel it would be a good fit
How to apply
If this sounds like something you would enjoy, we would love to hear from you. You can apply in whichever way feels easiest for you:
Send a CV covering relevant experience with a covering note explaining your reasons for interest
Send a simple email expressing your interest with some reasons for that interest
Alternatively, send a video or audio clip (max 5 minutes)
If you would like an informal conversation before applying, please email or call us.
We can be contacted on:
info@rosehilltheatre.co.uk
01946 692422
With your passion, insight and energy, Rosehill can do even more for our communities.
