Trustees for leading learning disabilities & autism support charity

Aurora Nexus is a south London-based charity delivering services for people with learning disabilities or autism. Its services include supporting people through supported living services - all rated as outstanding by CQC - residential care homes; and outreach and day opportunity services, including work-based support in over 25 locations.

The organisation was formed as the result of a recent merger between Aurora Options and Lewisham Nexus Services. The two organisations had previously worked closely together, and the merger was achieved following a period of consultation and planning, with the aim to build on the heritage and learning of both organisations and develop a robust vision for the future.

Aurora Nexus services are in place in Lewisham, Bexley, Southwark, and Bromley. Access to affordable housing is a challenge, and the charity is keen to maintain its support for people to have lives in their local community that are meaningful and safe. The financial climate remains difficult and at the same time, expectations of excellence for organisations like this one are at their highest.

Nonetheless, Aurora Nexus is confident that its commitment and creativity will continue and is looking for new ways to build partnerships that match its values. It is confident that commitment and creativity will continue to influence change in the sector and ensure the organisation remains at the forefront of service delivery.

The opportunities

Trustees are now sought to help deliver even greater impact as the new organisation, Aurora Nexus continues to deliver truly person-centred support.

The board would be pleased to hear from people who bring skills and experience in:

• legal/regulatory affairs;

• marketing and/or fundraising;

• IT/process

• sector-specific experience, so someone who brings knowledge and understanding of the social care sector and current issues affecting it.

In all instances trustees will be people who have strong leadership skills, the ability to motivate staff and bring people together. Applications are welcome from all who have experience as outlined, and Aurora Nexus is keen for its board to reflect the demographic of the areas where it works, so applications are encouraged from black, Asian and other ethnic minority candidates.

The Aurora Nexus Mission is “to deliver services that support people with learning disabilities or autism to lead fulfilling lives, effectively engaged in the local community and feeling safe and involved”.

If you share this outlook and have the skills that could really offer something in this role, we’re looking forward to hearing from you!