East Cheshire Eye Society is an independent charity which solely relies on funding to support all its activities. The charity is run by a board of voluntary trustees, some of whom have a sight impairment themselves. As the trustees mean so much to the charity, we wanted to get to know them a little bit better and share with you their own experience as a trustee.
Meet Laura Weston
Laura moved to Cheshire in 2019 after studying at Aberystwyth University. She then went on to work for Blind Veterans UK in London, followed by a career break in South East Asia and Australia – how cool!
Laura is now a project manager within the communications and engagement team of a local housing provider in nearby Stoke-on-Trent. In her work, she’s an incredibly passionate person who loves to empower those with sight loss. Not only that, but she also strives to raise awareness of all ECES’s services and support, as she has a parent with vision loss. In Laura’s spare time, she loves to travel, walk, and spend time with her family, including Lulu the guide dog!
How long have you been a trustee at East Cheshire Eye Society?
Eight months.
What is your favourite thing about being a trustee?
I love being able to give back to a local charity that provides incredible support to people with visual impairments.
What was your reason for wanting to become a trustee?
I have a parent with sight loss, and I’ve also previously worked with another sight loss charity, so I felt that I have the experience and knowledge to give back to East Cheshire Eye Society.
How did you become a trustee?
I spotted an advert on LinkedIn! So, I enquired, had a meeting with the trustees and applied immediately after.
What does a day in the life of a trustee look like?
During the weekdays, I work full time as a marketing project manager for a not-for-profit organisation in Staffordshire. A large chunk of my time is also spent studying towards a CIM diploma, so it’s pretty hectic in the week! However, at the weekend, you’ll usually find me spending time with my family and friends, going out for dinner, or travelling!
How rewarding is being a trustee?
Incredibly rewarding! I love being able to support a charity which then, in turn, supports many local people – which is the best feeling ever!
How would you summarise your experience of being a trustee?
It’s fun and gives me a challenge! You can never lose sight of the legal obligations of being a trustee and helping to steer the charity in a responsible and sustainable way.
You can discover more about our other trustees, here.
We’re always on the lookout for new trustees to join us. So, if you’re interested and would like to find out how to become a trustee yourself, please get in touch today, either by emailing info@eastcheshireeyesociety.org.uk or calling 01625 422602.
