All new board members need to be issued with a full induction pack/handbook and be referred to the Roles and Responsibilities section of this guide and its Related Resources. They should also visit the headquarters of the organisation and meet as many staff as possible. Some organisations link a new board member with a “buddy” already on the board.
It is particularly important, particularly for those who have not been a board member before (above all young people), that support is given and training offered. It is the duty of the chair to ensure that all board members feel comfortable about giving their views and participate in discussions.
New board members should be encouraged to attend performances/visit the collection of an organisation to enable them to advocate with confidence about the artistic/curatorial work.
A sample Board Induction Pack template can be downloaded here.
You can also find the Charity Commission’s new Charity trustee welcome pack here.