Job Description

We are looking for new Trustees to join the RiDC Board.

Who are we? 

The Research Institute for Disabled Consumers (RiDC) is the leading expert in person-centred research involving disabled and older consumers. ​

 ​We are an independent, national charity with over 50 years’ experience in consumer research in this specialist area. We were originally founded by Lord Young of Dartington as part of Which? and have operated as an independent charity since 1991. ​

 We are run by - and for - people, the majority of whom have lived experience of disability.

Our approach

We always start from the perspective of disabled and older consumers. ​​By working with disabled and older people, listening to their needs and reflecting real lives in our research, we make sure nobody is excluded or left behind. ​

​We have a pan disability consumer panel of over 4000 disabled and older people who are the experts on the ground and are core to all our work. ​

As a result, we have developed a strong track record of providing unique insights and solutions to businesses, government and charities. ​

Who are we looking for?

Make a difference to the lives of disabled consumers.

The charity is looking for three new board trustees. We are particularly interested in applicants with lived experience of disability, a long-term health condition or the challenges of ageing.

We are committed to diverse representation and encourage applications from anyone, regardless of age, background, education or cultural heritage. Previous board or trustee experience isn’t needed as full training on the role of a charity trustee will be available. Your passion, energy and commitment to help are much more important.​​

1. Are you an enthusiastic and creative individual who enjoys a challenge?

· Do you want to join a team who are determined to grow the reach and impact of the organisation?

· Do you have a lived experience of disability or long-term health condition?

· Do you have the time to commit to helping us grow the impact of RiDC?

2. We would be particularly interested to hear from you if you have expertise in one or more of:

· Legal

· Finance

· HR and people management

· Social media and digital technology for business

3. In addition to the above, knowledge and expertise in one or more of the following areas would be an advantage;

· Developing and growing an organisation;

· Consumer affairs

With respect to the time you are expected to commit to RiDC, there are four board meetings a year. These are held in north London over an afternoon or over Zoom.

We also a have a number of sub-committees, including Nominations and Finance which meet four times a year, as well as ad hoc project groups. New trustees will be invited to join one or more of these if they have skills or enthusiasm to contribute.

Finally, there is an annual staff/trustee away day that looks at the strategy and overall direction of the organisation. We cover any reasonable travel expenses so that trustees can attend the meeting.