I have been a Trustee of Equal Lives for nearly 9 years. Later this year, I will come to the end of my term of office and will leave my position as a Trustee of the organisation. I have been with Equal Lives since 2010, starting as a volunteer in what was Independent Living Norfolk, helping with the admin of the Independent Living Groups. In 2018 and 2019, I led the coordination and delivery of Norfolk Disability Pride, large-scale events at The Forum in Norwich that were attended by The Human Library and many charity organisations, both local and national.
Â
Despite its challenges, I have had a positive, interesting journey as a Trustee. Before Equal Lives, I had only ever been a trustee of a couple of smaller charities, both of which had little turnover. I learnt a lot as part of this organisation and have seen it go through various changes over the years, whether that be to its structure, its CEO, its core staff, its offices, or, of course, its Trustees. Although Equal Lives is now a smaller charity since when I started volunteering in my role, I am proud that the organisation has continued to stand up for Disabled people, amplifying their voices and working to remove barriers to their independence. We remain the largest Disabled People’s Organisation (DPO) in Norfolk.
Â
If you are passionate about disabled people’s rights, live in Norfolk or Suffolk, and want to make a change, why not consider becoming a Trustee of Equal Lives? The board meet 4 times a year in person or hybrid (join in online).
Â
To find out more or to have an informal chat, contact Ben Reed at Equal Lives on 01508 494210 or email ben.reed@equallives.org.ukÂ
Written by Martin Symons
Comentarios