Trustee (Legal Background)

Voluntary (unremunerated)
Whitchurch, Hampshire

Whitchurch Silk Mill Trust is seeking a new Trustee with a legal background to join its Board and help guide the Mill’s future.

Whitchurch Silk Mill is a unique, working heritage site – a Grade II* listed Georgian watermill built around 1815, and the only place in the UK where visitors can see historic machinery weaving silk. Today, the Mill is both a living museum and a vibrant community hub, with an ambitious vision for growth, sustainability and cultural impact.

About the role

This is a strategic governance role. As a Trustee, you will work collaboratively with fellow Board members to ensure the effective stewardship of the charity, support sound decision-making, and champion the Mill’s work.

While you will bring a legal perspective, this is not a legal advisory role; all Trustees share collective responsibility for governance. Your expertise will help strengthen the Board’s thinking, particularly in areas such as risk, compliance and good practice.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has legal knowledge or experience (charity governance and/or property experience is particularly valuable)
• Understands, or is willing to develop, the role and responsibilities of a Trustee
• Can contribute thoughtfully to discussion and decision-making
• Has strong interpersonal skills and works well collaboratively
• Is committed to the Mill’s purpose and public benefit mission
• Ideally has some understanding of fundraising or the heritage/charity sector

We welcome applications from those with formal legal qualifications, as well as individuals with relevant experience in legal environments who can bring this experience and insight.

Time commitment

• Board meetings: 4 per year (February, April, July, November – a mix of in-person and virtual)
• Audit & Risk Committee: typically 4 meetings per year (virtual)
• Approximate commitment: 1 days per month

The appointment is for a three-year term, renewable for up to two further terms.

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to:

• Play a meaningful role in preserving and shaping a nationally significant heritage organisation
• Contribute your expertise within a collaborative and committed Board
• Support the long-term sustainability and impact of a unique working mill

For a candidate information pack, including governance documents and further details about the role, please contact Sue Tapliss, Mill Director sue.tapliss@whitchurchsilkmill.org.uk

How to apply

Please submit:

• A CV
• A short covering letter outlining your interest and relevant experience

For an informal conversation, or to request a recruitment pack, please contact: Sue Tapliss, Mill Director
📞 01256 892065
✉ sue.tapliss@whitchurchsilkmill.org.uk

Closing date: 7 September 2026

Inclusive recruitment

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board.

Creative in Residence Programme 2026

Throughout 2026, we’re opening the doors to an inspiring Creative in Residence program at Whitchurch Silk Mill.

An open studio space on the first floor within this historic building, this opportunity provides a creative place to grow your business commercially, demonstrate your heritage skills and sell your handmade products to visitors.

• Build your brand in a unique heritage setting
• Connect with a community of artisan makers and craft enthusiasts
• Inspire others with your creative business and skills

Full details on the Creative in Residence opportunity and how to apply are in the document below. We are currently still accepting applications.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer Story Tellers – Bring the Mill’s Story to Life

 

Commitment: Flexible – weekly, monthly, or occasional slots available
Times: 11:00 am and 2:00 pm daily (especially seeking help for afternoons and weekends)

About the Role:
We’re looking for friendly, enthusiastic volunteers to join our team of Story Tellers and help bring the Mill’s rich history to life for our visitors. Since launching daily tours, we’ve seen a big increase in visitor numbers and how much they have enjoyed and valued their visit!

What You’ll Do:

• Lead engaging 1-hour tours of the Mill
• Share stories about our heritage, including our current projects
• Help visitors connect with the Mill in a personal and memorable way
• No experience needed! We’ll provide all the information and support you need, just bring your enthusiasm and love for the Mill.

Current Rota Gaps:

Wednesday pm
Thursday pm
Friday pm
Saturday am & pm
Sunday am & pm

Whether you can commit to a regular slot or just help out occasionally, we’d love to hear from you. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of something special and help shape the visitor experience at the Mill.

Interested?
Contact us at info@whitchurchsilkmill.org.uk to learn more or to sign up.