Mainstay is distinctive in the breadth of the services we provide. Alongside residential care and supported living, we offer respite provision, day opportunities, and a thriving social enterprise

We are entering a period of significant transformation and growth as we deliver our Pathway to Possibility (2025–2030) strategic plan. This includes a major capital development programme: a new 10‑bed respite unit and a 21‑apartment supported living scheme; the continued growth of Silent Cuts, our social enterprise; and our preparations to extend services to children transitioning into adult support.

To deliver this ambitious vision, we are strengthening our Board with individuals who bring strategic insight, professional expertise, and a deep commitment to enriching lives. If you want to play a meaningful role in shaping the next chapter of Mainstay’s development, we warmly welcome your interest.

Trustees provide strategic leadership, ensure strong and effective governance, and safeguard Mainstay DRP’s mission, assets, people, and reputation. They help shape the charity’s long‑term direction and ensure decisions always reflect our purpose: To Enrich Lives.

As a Trustee you will:

Provide strategic oversight of Mainstay DRP’s plans, performance, and risks.
Ensure the charity meets its legal, financial, and regulatory obligations.
Uphold and promote Mainstay’s vision, values, and commitment to inclusion.
Monitor financial sustainability and support prudent long‑term planning.
Support and constructively challenge the Chief Executive and senior team.
Champion equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of governance.
Act as an ambassador for Mainstay, strengthening relationships with stakeholders.
Ensure safeguarding remains central to all decision‑making and practice.

This role is ideal for individuals who:

Are committed to improving the lives of people with learning disabilities and their families.
Can think strategically and make balanced, independent judgements.
Are collaborative, values‑driven, and comfortable constructively challenging assumptions.
Want to contribute professional expertise within a supportive and purpose-led Board.

Trustees are asked to commit to a manageable and predictable schedule of meetings and engagements, designed to ensure effective governance while recognising the voluntary nature of the role.

Board meetings – 6 meetings per year, generally held on the last Wednesday of the scheduled month at 5pm. In‑person attendance in Downpatrick is preferred, though hybrid participation can be accommodated.
Committee membership – Trustees are expected to serve on one Committee during their tenure, either the Finance, Audit & Risk Committee or the People & Culture Committee.
Annual Strategy / Away Day – One full-day strategy or development session each year.
Optional: attendance at events, engagement activities, or stakeholder meetings

Overall time expectation: Approximately 2 hours every two months for core commitments, with optional opportunities for deeper involvement.

Trustees serve a 3-year term, renewable up to a maximum of 9 years, in line with Charity Governance Code.

To support the next stage of Mainstay’s growth, we are seeking 2–3 Trustees who can bring professional expertise that complements the strong lived experience and commitment already on our Board. You do not need to meet every point below — we welcome interest from people with a range of backgrounds who feel they can contribute meaningfully.

We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in the following areas:

Property Development & Capital Projects

We are seeking Trustees with experience in property development, capital projects, housing, construction, or major capital investment programmes. Insight into project risk, procurement, or contract oversight would be especially valuable as we progress new supported living and respite developments. Knowledge of Northern Ireland’s housing partnerships, funding routes, or estates strategy would be a strong advantage.

HR, Workforce Strategy & Organisational Development

We would benefit greatly from Trustees with experience in workforce planning, HR strategy, employment law, organisational culture, or leadership development. Understanding the social care workforce landscape, or experience supporting organisations to become strong learning cultures, would provide significant added value.

Social Enterprise, Fundraising & Business Development

We are seeking individuals with experience in social enterprise, business development, income diversification, or commercial strategy. Skills in commissioning, tendering, marketing, or innovation would be particularly helpful as we grow and strengthen our social enterprise activity.

To be effective in this role, all Trustees are expected to bring the values, behaviours, and commitment needed for effective and compassionate governance. While everyone contributes different strengths, the following attributes are essential for all members of our Board:

Essential

A strong commitment to Mainstay’s mission and values.
The ability to think strategically and contribute to long‑term planning.
Integrity, good judgement, and independence of mind.
A willingness to constructively challenge assumptions and decisions.
An understanding of collective responsibility and the role of a Board.
Availability to meet the expected time commitments.
The ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
A commitment to continuous learning and development.

Desirable

Lived experience of disability or caring.
Board or senior leadership experience.
Knowledge of charity governance in Northern Ireland (training provided).

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