PROSPECT Hospice is seeking a new trustee after Sue Pycroft stepped down following six years of service.

The board of trustees aims to draw on a variety of different skills and expertise, with the forthcoming vacancy geared towards those with a background of public relations.

Sue, a director at Swindon communications agency Vox PR, joined the hospice six years ago when the firm managed a fundraising campaign to launch the new Prospect@Home service.

“I’d had no personal experience of hospices at that point, but we worked very closely with Prospect during the campaign and I soon realised that my preconceptions were unfounded,” she said.

“I’d imagined a hospice would be a very quiet, sombre place, but instead I discovered Prospect is a vibrant, positive home-from-home where everyone has huge enthusiasm and literally makes every day count.

“The feedback from patients and families on the care they received was that was exemplary, and I much wanted to continue my relationship with Prospect, so applied to become a trustee.

“The role of the trustees is to govern the running of the hospice, so of course it is a serious responsibility.

"Trustees need to be able to put aside the time to read reports, attend meetings and offer guidance to the senior management team based on their relevant experience and skills.

“But the rewards are considerable too. It has been one of the most fulfilling roles I’ve been lucky enough to undertake, working with an excellent senior team and a very able board of trustees.

"And I’ve learned a terrific amount in the two terms I’ve served as a trustee.

“I’d encourage anyone with the relevant skills and experience to find out more – like me, you could be embarking on one of the most rewarding roles you’ve ever had.”

Tim Willis, Prospect Hospice’s chair of trustees, said: “Sue has been a great asset to the board of trustees, and her wisdom and experience will be greatly missed.

"I am sure that she will always remain a good friend of this charity, and would like to thank her for her contribution to the board over many years.”

“Sue’s professional experience in the world of public relations and reputation management meant she was able to bring a great deal to the board, but I am hopeful that there will be others in this community with similar skills and experience who will welcome the opportunity to be considered for our current vacancy.”

The role of trustee is to monitor and review Prospect Hospice’s remit, strategy, policies and financial performance to enable the hospice to achieve its goals.

Work typically includes serving on a board sub-committee, ensuring that the charity’s governance is of the highest possible standard, and ensuring that the charity acts in an appropriate and prudent manner in accordance with its legal and charitable obligations.

Trustees are required to commit to attending a two-hour board meeting and a governance sub-committee every three months, plus an annual strategy meeting.

Trustees are encouraged to attend events during the year in support of the hospice as their time permits.

To arrange an informal discussion with an existing trustee or for more information about the role contact Siobhain Acott on 01793 816119 by July 16.

Closing date for applications is Thursday, July 16, with interview dates scheduled for Tuesday, July 21 at 7.30pm at Prospect Hospice.