Becoming a committee member

Committee members hold special roles within a local deaf children’s society. Each has their own individual responsibilities, but they work as a team to run the society, support their members and make sure the group is following the law.

Only local societies have a committee. Parent and Family Network groups are more informal, so don’t have official committee roles.

There are four different roles on a local society committee.

The chair is responsible for running effective meetings, leading the committee to set their yearly goals, and ensuring the committee meets all its legal responsibilities. They act as a figurehead for the society at events and in the media.

The secretary organises the group’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) and makes sure regular meetings run smoothly by booking rooms, taking minutes and preparing an agenda. They are also the first point of contact for new families looking to join the society.

The treasurer oversees the society’s finances. They keep records of incoming and outgoing funds, make financial reports to the society and regulators and make sure the group is managing money in a legal and ethical way.

The Designated Person for Safeguarding can be an individual person, or it can be an additional role taken by an existing committee member. They take the lead on keeping children, young people and vulnerable adults safe in your society. They are the go-to person to deal with safeguarding concerns, and also organise safeguarding training and criminal records checks.

No committee role is more important than another. There is no leader and the committee works together to run the society. Legally, all the committee members have equal responsibility for making sure the group works within the law.

You don’t need to have experience to be a committee member. Some skills and knowledge can be helpful, but offer lots of guidance and support to help you feel confident in your new role.

Usually, committee members are elected at a group’s Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Everyone who stands for election needs to be nominated (either by themselves or another member) and have that nomination seconded by another member of the group.

The committee will often ask for nominations before the AGM. Make sure you express your interest early so your name can be added to the ballot.

You might be asked to make a short speech at the AGM or write a statement explaining your skills and why you want to be a committee member. There will then be a vote, usually by a show of hands.

If you’re successful, we can offer lots of advice and support for your new role!