The Organisation
Established in 1875, Reach Deaf Services is non-profit charity enabling the Deaf Community and Deaf people generally to achieve their full potential and to have equality of access and opportunity in all aspects of their lives.
Reach Deaf Services focuses on the areas of education, social care, pastoral and spiritual work.
Reach Deaf Services is in receipt of funding from the HSE for the boarding campus accommodating children attending the specialised Holy Family School for the Deaf and a Community Supported Living Service which supports Deaf and Deaf Blind adults living in their own homes. Reach Deaf Services directly manages these services and is the trustee of the Holy Family School.
The National Deaf Village Sports and Leisure Company Ltd, which now trades as the Inspire Fitness Centre, is a subsidiary company of Reach Deaf Services.
Our Key Services Include
Reach Deaf Services Community/Supported Living Service
Reach Deaf Services Boarding Campus for Deaf Children
The National Chaplaincy for Deaf People
Trustees of the Holy Family School for the Deaf
Mission: Mission/Vision/Values
Board: Governance/Board
Website: Home - Reach Deaf Services
The Role
Reach Deaf Services is currently seeking a board director with knowledge and subject matter expertise in the areas of financial management and governance. This is a voluntary, unpaid role.
Given the services and supports offered by Reach Deaf Services on behalf of the HSE and the governance and compliance landscape within which Reach Deaf Services operates, it is imperative that the board has the skills, competencies and behaviours required to ensure effective governance and oversight.
Perspective board members are encouraged to apply for this role with the requirement that they can demonstrate the relevance of their skills and experience. The person appointed will demonstrate a genuine commitment to Reach Deaf Services ethos and vision and possess the skills and attributes detailed below.
Irish Sign Language (ISL) and Deaf Culture are a key part of how our services are provided. Board members are encouraged to learn ISL with classes being provided by the organisation.
Responsibilities
Providing leadership to Reach Deaf Services within the framework of prudent and effective controls, which enables risk to be assessed and managed.
Policy formation and implementation as required.
Essential Skills/Qualities Required
An understanding of and commitment to the mission and values of Reach Deaf Services.
Commitment to the highest levels of corporate governance.
Experience or an understanding of the Deaf Community would be a benefit but is not essential as thorough induction will be provided.
Board members are encouraged to learn ISL with classes being provided by the organisation.
Behavioural Competencies
Ability and willingness to challenge and probe.
Integrity and high ethical standards.
Common sense and sound judgement.
Understanding of effective decision-making processes
Willingness and ability to devote time and energy to the role.
Team player/collaborative.
Excellent communication, interpersonal and active listening skills.
Willingness to share knowledge and experience through coaching and or mentoring.
Candidates should have one or more of the following governance competencies:
Governance Competencies
Previous board experience.
Financial literacy.
Strategic thinking/planning from a governance perspective.
Risk management from a governance perspective.
Knowledge of the compliance/legal landscape in Ireland.
General Duties Of a Charity Trustee
Comply with the Reach Deaf Services governing document.
Ensure Reach Deaf Services is complying with its charitable purpose for the public benefit.
Act in the best interest of the Reach Deaf Services.
Act with reasonable care and skill.
Manage the assets of your Reach Deaf Services.
Board Meetings
There are seven board meetings a year plus the AGM. Board meetings are held in person and last for two hours. They are occasionally held online but are never held in hybrid form.
Board Committees
There Are Five Board Committees
Finance, Audit and Risk
Governance, Strategy and Organisational Development
Safeguarding, Welfare and Protection
HR
Communications
The board committee meetings are held either in person or online and last for two hours. The new trustee will be expected to join a board committee.