Clare Cottage

The John Clare Trust is seeking a new trustee at an exciting time of growth and renewal.

As a trustee, you will support us in preserving and promoting the legacy of John Clare, a renowned English nature poet and an early advocate for environmental awareness, while strengthening our efforts to safeguard, develop, and further engage the public with John Clare Cottage, the poet’s historic home.

With the recent appointment of a new chief executive, we are entering a period of change and development. We have exciting plans for the future, particularly with regard to our engagement with children and young people.

The role requires participation in regular board meetings and a willingness to share your professional and broader skill set to further the charity’s aims.

About us

The John Clare Trust is a registered charity dedicated to preserving and celebrating the life and legacy of John Clare, one of England’s most remarkable nature poets and early environmentalists. Established in 2005 to safeguard and restore Clare’s historic cottage, the Trust has dedicated its efforts to preserving the historic character of the building and ensuring its accessibility to the public as an engaging and educative space. Today
the site boasts a museum, visitor centre, cafe and beautiful gardens.

We aspire to be a vibrant centre for education, culture, and community engagement, where visitors can connect deeply with Clare’s love of the natural world, his poetry, and his remarkable story as the “peasant poet.’’

Responsibilities of a Trustee

As a trustee of the John Clare Trust, you will work collaboratively with fellow trustees and the Clare Cottage staff to:

• Safeguard Clare’s Legacy: Help us to preserve and promote John Clare’s historic home and his contributions to literature and environmentalism.
• Participate in Board Meetings: Actively participate in six bi-monthly board meetings per year, contributing to strategic discussions and decision-making. Trustees may attend in person or online.
• Support Development Initiatives: Offer your professional expertise and broader skills to support the Trust’s projects, including education programs, volunteer initiatives, and fundraising activities.
• Ensure Good Governance: Uphold the Trust’s charitable objectives, ensuring legal and financial compliance.

Person specification 

• A passion for literature, history, and the natural world.
• The ability to think strategically and contribute to shaping the Trust’s long-term direction.
• A willingness to act as an ambassador for the Trust, promoting its work to external stakeholders.
• Professional expertise in one or more of the following areas:
  • Fundraising and grant applications.
  • Governance and legal compliance.
  • Heritage preservation and museum development.
  • Education and outreach (particularly with children and young people).
  • Finance and budgeting.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive board. We particularly encourage applications from individuals who are underrepresented in governance roles.

How to apply

For more information or to express you interest in the role please contact Keira Harvey [email protected]