Listed today
Trustee Recruitment Pack St John’s Winchester April 2026 Dear prospective Trustee, Thank you for your interest in joining the Board of St John’s Winchester. We are looking for individuals who share our commitment to helping people live well in Winchester, and who are ready to contribute their insight, experience, and judgement to support our work. As one of England’s oldest charities, we are proud of our 900-year legacy of service. Today, our work spans almshouse accommodation, dementia care, and community-based support. We are at an important moment of development, with a clear strategic vision and ambitious plans to strengthen our impact in the years ahead. To support this, we are seeking new trustees who bring curiosity, collaboration, and courage. We are particularly keen to hear from people with experience in adult health and social care and/or community engagement though above all, we are looking for people who care deeply about the dignity and wellbeing of older people. We are also looking for individuals who understand the importance of community engagement in enabling our residents to live fulfilled, independent lives, people who can help us strengthen connections, foster a sense of belonging, so our community continues to thrive. Whether or not you have been a trustee before, we hope you will consider bringing your voice to our Board. We value lived experience, fresh perspectives, and people who want to help shape a future where every older person in Winchester feels valued, supported, and connected. With warmest regards, Marianne Wanstall Chair of Trustees 1 About St John’s Winchester History and Background of St John's Winchester The origins of St John’s Winchester can be traced back to the 10th century, with evidence suggesting that St John’s Hospital was founded by the 23rd Bishop of Winchester, Brinstan, in 934 to provide comfort to the poor and sick. By the late 13th century, the charity had become a central institution in medieval Winchester, bolstered by the endowments of key benefactors such as John Devenish in 1289. Following Elizabeth I’s royal charter in 1588, the charity’s administration passed to the city fathers until a significant turning point in 1830, when legal challenges over the misuse of funds led to the establishment of independent trustees under a private Act of Parliament. This governance model has shaped the modern structure of the charity, emphasising independent oversight and long-term stewardship. St John’s Winchester is now an amalgamation of several historic institutions, including Christes Hospital (founded 1608) and Mary Magdalen Hospital, both of which served vulnerable people in Winchester for centuries. Many of our historic buildings remain in use today, including the early 18th-century St John’s House and our medieval chapel, providing continuity between our heritage and contemporary mission. Today, St John’s Winchester provides around 100 almshouse units for older people, most of whom have strong ties to the city. Our mission is to support residents to live independently for as long as possible, with 24-hour support delivered by our dedicated Welfare Team. Our residents form a vibrant and caring community, with many involved in faith-based and social activities, and in the wider life of Winchester. A Financial Model Rooted in Property and Purpose Over the past year, St John’s Winchester has continued to provide a stable and supportive environment for older people, alongside growing its wider support offer. Around 100 almshouse homes have been maintained in the heart of Winchester, offering secure, independent living for residents. Alongside this, the charity has delivered over 1,200 dementia support interactions, including guidance, respite, and access to specialist nurse-led care. A committed group of around 35 volunteers has supported this work across chaplaincy, befriending, gardening, and community events—helping to sustain a strong sense of connection and daily life within the almshouse community. Resident feedback remains a particular strength: all residents surveyed reported that they feel safe living at St John’s, and almost all would recommend it to others. 2 Why St John’s Matters — To Winchester and the People We Support St John’s Winchester has been a part of this city’s fabric for over nine centuries. Today, our work remains as essential as ever — offering stability, dignity, and community to older people who need it most. In a city where more than 1 in 4 people are aged 60 or over, and demand for supported housing and later-life care is growing, St John’s provides 99 almshouse homes right in the heart of Winchester — a unique model of independent living with tailored support. We serve residents who often face complex challenges, including low income and social isolation. Our team is on hand for support, as needed, while our chaplaincy, volunteer programme, and communal life create a powerful sense of belonging and mutual support. In our most recent resident survey, 100% of respondents said they felt safe living at St John’s, and 97% said they would recommend it to others. We also lead vital work around dementia — one of the most urgent health and social care issues of our time. In the UK, over 900,000 people live with dementia, including thousands across Hampshire. At St John’s, our Dementia Support team (including two Admiral Nurses) provides guidance, emotional support, and practical help to individuals and families affected by dementia — whether they live in our almshouses or in the wider Winchester community. This is one of the few services of its kind locally, and it is expanding as need continues to grow. St John’s is more than a historic charity — it is a lifeline, a trusted presence, and a voice for those often unheard. We are part of Winchester’s living legacy, and as trustees, we are responsible for ensuring it continues to serve, adapt, and advocate in the decades ahead. 3 Our Financial Position: Strengths, Challenges, and Strategic Priorities St John’s Winchester benefits from a substantial endowment, primarily a commercial and residential property portfolio generating around £1.8m of annual income. This provides a strong financial foundation and allows the charity to operate without reliance on public funding or unpredictable grant income. However, this position is under increasing pressure. In the year to 31 March 2025, the charity recorded a deficit of £1.47m on total income of £2.86m — the fifth consecutive year of deficit, with the gap between income and expenditure widening. While this includes some one-off factors, the underlying structural deficit is significant and requires action. The principal driver of the deficit is the cost of directly providing CQC-registered personal care. The service operates at a significant and ongoing loss, which is no longer sustainable. The Board has therefore concluded that continuing to provide regulated care directly is not financially viable. A transition is now underway to a facilitated care model, supported by a new Almshouse Community Team. This represents a major strategic shift and is a key priority to deliver well for residents, staff, and the long-term sustainability of the charity. More broadly, the charity faces the typical challenges of an endowment-funded model. Property income is subject to market conditions, voids, and ongoing maintenance costs. A historic estate brings significant long-term repair liabilities, requiring careful capital planning and reserves. Free reserves currently cover around nine months of expenditure, below the policy target of twelve months, and rebuilding this buffer is an important medium-term objective. There are, however, opportunities. Rental income can grow as market conditions improve, and more active management of the portfolio remains a priority. There is also potential to develop the community support model in ways that attract grant and philanthropic funding. Incoming trustees join at a point of both challenge and transition. The endowment provides a strong platform; the task now is to stabilise the financial position, manage change effectively, and ensure the charity’s assets continue to support its mission for the long term. 4 The Role of a Trustee As a Trustee of St John’s Winchester, you share collective responsibility for the governance and strategic direction and planning for the charity. Trustees ensure the charity remains true to its purpose, and delivers meaningful, lasting impact for the people we serve. Trustees are required to abide by both company and charity law, exercising their legal and financial obligations as company and charity directors, adhering to corporate regulation and the charity’s Memorandum and Articles of Association. This voluntary role is both rewarding and demanding, requiring integrity, curiosity, collaboration, and a strong commitment to our values. Core Responsibilities 1. Strategic Leadership Set and safeguard the charity’s vision, mission, and long-term strategy. • • Ensure activities align with our objects and deliver measurable impact. • Shape and approve strategic plans in partnership with the executive team. 2. Legal and Regulatory Compliance • Ensure compliance with charity law, housing and care regulation, and our governing documents. • Uphold responsibilities under data protection, health and safety, safeguarding, and equality legislation. • Understand and manage legal and reputational risks. 3. Effective Governance • Attend and contribute to Board and sub-committee meetings. • Promote transparency, accountability, and high standards of conduct. • Participate in Board development, self-assessment, and succession planning. • Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of governance. 4. Financial Stewardship • Oversee financial strategy and ensure long-term sustainability. • Approve annual budgets and review financial performance. • Monitor investment, reserves, and property strategies in line with risk appetite. 5. Executive Oversight Support and constructively challenge the Chief Executive. • • Ensure clarity of roles, appropriate delegation, and robust performance appraisal. • Participate in the appointment and succession planning of senior leaders. 6. Safeguarding Reputation and Assets • Protect and enhance the charity’s reputation, values, and culture. • Ensure the prudent management of property, financial, digital, and human resources. • Make decisions in the charity’s best interests, avoiding personal conflicts of interest. 5 7. Stakeholder Engagement • Act as an ambassador for St John’s in Winchester and beyond. • Engage with residents, staff, volunteers, partners, and donors to understand needs and build • trust. Listen to and reflect lived experiences—especially of older people, carers, and those affected by dementia. • Attend charity events where possible. 8. Learning and Development • Commit to personal learning and Board development. Stay informed about the charity sector and policy environment. • • Participate in induction, training, and periodic governance reviews. 6 Who We’re Looking For We welcome interest from individuals from all walks of life. We recognise that great governance is shaped by diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. If you share our values and want to make a difference in the lives of older people in Winchester, we encourage you to get in touch, regardless of whether you have previous trustee experience. We are particularly keen to hear from individuals with experience in adult health and social care, alongside those who bring insight into community engagement and building connected, inclusive communities. If you are motivated by enabling people to live fulfilled, independent lives, and care deeply about dignity, wellbeing, and belonging, we would be very pleased to hear from you. Community Engagement, Health and Social Care, and Resident Wellbeing At the heart of St John’s Winchester is a commitment not only to providing safe and secure housing, but to enabling our residents to live fulfilled, independent lives as part of a supportive and connected community. To support this, we are seeking a trustee who brings curiosity, collaboration, and courage, alongside experience in adult health and social care. Above all, we are looking for someone who cares deeply about the dignity and wellbeing of older people. This role will help shape how we integrate community engagement with our approach to health, wellbeing, and independence. As we develop our Almshouse Community Team model, we are particularly interested in individuals who understand how strong community connections can prevent isolation, support early intervention, and enable people to live well for longer. Your insight will help us foster a sense of belonging, strengthen relationships within our community, and ensure our residents continue to thrive. • Relevant experience may include: • Professional experience in adult health and social care, including community-based or preventative services Leadership in services supporting older people, wellbeing, or independent living • • Experience in community development, engagement, or outreach within charities, local authorities, or health systems • Backgrounds in social prescribing, public health, or integrated care models • Design or delivery of programmes that promote independence, participation, and quality of life • Volunteer coordination, community organising, or partnership working across local networks We also welcome those who bring transferable experience or a strong personal commitment to building inclusive, connected communities, and who are motivated by the opportunity to support a model of care and community that places dignity, independence, and belonging at its core. As well as this, we welcome candidates with experience in a wide range of people-focused environments, including housing, health, education, local government, or the wider voluntary sector. Personal Qualities • High standards of integrity and good judgment • Collaborative, curious, and collegiate in approach • A commitment to inclusion, equality, and listening to lived experience 7 • Passionate about supporting older people The Benefits of Being a Charity Trustee Becoming a trustee at St John’s Winchester offers more than the chance to contribute your time and expertise, it’s an opportunity to shape the future of one of England’s oldest and most respected charities, deeply rooted in the life of Winchester. Make a Real Difference in Your Community Our work supports older people across Winchester to live independently and with dignity. As a trustee, you play a direct role in ensuring this support is not only sustained but expanded, through good governance, sound financial oversight, and strategic insight. Join a Legacy of Local Leadership For over 900 years, St John’s has provided sanctuary and support to those in need. Trusteeship connects you with this powerful legacy and the opportunity to leave your own mark, alongside like- minded individuals from across the city and beyond. Our current board includes professionals from housing, finance, healthcare, property, and public service, many of whom have strong ties to Winchester. Grow Personally and Professionally Serving as a trustee offers valuable leadership experience, strategic exposure, and insight into charity governance and operations—skills that benefit trustees at every stage of their careers. It’s also a chance to learn from others, broaden your understanding of social issues, and participate in a forward-thinking board environment that values integrity, curiosity, and collaboration. Be Part of a Strong and Evolving Organisation St John’s manages a significant property portfolio, with £50 million in total net assets and ambitious plans for growth and innovation. As a trustee, you’ll contribute to a resilient and well-resourced charity with a clear strategy for financial sustainability, social impact, and environmental responsibility. Connect with Winchester's Future We are particularly interested in hearing from people with strong connections to the city—whether you live or work locally or have insight into the lives and challenges of the people we serve. We also welcome applications from individuals with lived experience of ageing, caring, or housing insecurity. Our Commitment to Inclusive and Representative Governance At St John’s Winchester, we are committed to building a Board of Trustees that reflects the rich diversity of the community we serve. We believe that good governance is strengthened by a range of perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds. We are particularly keen to hear from individuals who live in or have strong connections to Winchester, and from those with lived experience of ageing, caring, dementia, housing insecurity, or accessing community-based support. We warmly welcome applications from people of all ages, ethnicities, abilities, and walks of life — especially those who may not have previously considered a trustee role. Your insight could help shape a more inclusive and compassionate future for our charity and the people we support. 8 Practical Information Term of office Trustee terms are for three years, renewable for a second three-year term. Time Commitment Trustees are asked to commit around 8–10 days per year, which includes: • Board Meetings: Held five times annually, including participation in the annual Away Day (typically held in October). Meetings are usually 2–3 hours long and scheduled well in advance. Regular attendance and active contribution are expected. • Committee Membership: Trustees are invited to join at least one sub-committee aligned to their skills and interests. Committees usually meet quarterly, and trustees are expected to participate actively in discussions and decision-making. • Reading and Preparation: Papers are circulated at least one week ahead of meetings via our secure online portal (AdminControl). Trustees are expected to read all papers in advance and come prepared to contribute to discussion and scrutiny. • Engagement: We welcome and encourage informal engagement with staff, residents, volunteers, and events throughout the year, helping trustees stay connected to the life of the organisation. Location Most meetings are held in person at St John’s Winchester. Hybrid attendance is supported as an ad hoc, rather than regular requirement, and we are happy to accommodate personal, or access needs to support inclusive participation. Induction and Support New trustees are offered a structured induction including: • An introduction to our history, mission, and strategic priorities • Meetings with the CEO, senior staff, and fellow trustees • A tour of our almshouses and community services • Access to governance resources and ongoing training (e.g. via the Almshouse Association), including attendance at The Almshouse Way training day Eligibility To be eligible, you must be over 18 years of age and not disqualified under the Charities Act or Companies Act. We are keen to welcome trustees from all professional backgrounds and encourage applications regardless of previous board experience. How to Apply If you are interested in becoming a trustee, please send the following by Thursday 28 May 2026: • A brief statement (1–2 pages) outlining your interest in the role, relevant experience, and what you feel you would bring to the board • A short CV 9 If you would like to have an informal conversation before applying, we would be very happy to arrange a chat with our CEO, Tim Bissett, one of our trustees, Jenny Warner, or Chair of Trustees to explore the role further. Please send your application by 28 May 2026 to: Tim Bissett, Chief Executive Email: tim.bissett@stjohnswinchester.co.uk Timetable Stage Date (2026) Applications open Friday 17th April Deadline for applications Thursday 28th May Shortlisting completed Week of 1st June Informal interviews 10th, 11th, 12th June Final interviews (in-person) Week of 19th June First Board meeting 22nd September 2026 Useful Links • Website • Charity Commission Profile • The Almshouse Association • Charity Commission – The Essential Trustee 10