Grace’s story: Volunteering as a trustee

18 December 2024

Back Up was founded by volunteers, and they remain at the heart of all we do. Our trustees are volunteers who help govern Back Up. They ensure that we are accountable to the people we support, and are passionate about transforming lives affected by spinal cord injury.  

Grace sustained a spinal cord injury in 2018 and, having received confidence-boosting support from Back Up, she decided she wanted to give something back. She has volunteered as a Back Up trustee since 2022, sharing her vital lived experience as someone with a spinal cord injury and from her career as a junior doctor in London.

Discover why Grace became a Back Up trustee, and why she encourages others to get involved as a Back Up volunteer.

Why did you become a trustee? 

I was first approached by Abigail Lock, Back Up’s CEO. She reached out to ask what I thought about becoming a trustee for Back Up.  I have used Back Up services personally, and I always felt they were a great charity. But I never worked with a charity before, I really didn’t know what it entailed so I was a bit wary. I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into! But Abigail and everyone I spoke to at the charity seemed so lovely. I felt really lucky becoming a trustee. 

The Board of trustees is full of many amazing people with really interesting backgrounds. I wasn’t sure how I’d fit in! But everyone within Back Up is so receptive – I never felt like I was asking a silly question. My work as a doctor and seeing patients with spinal cord injuries can help in the role, but I also think my age can bring something too. Everyone has made me feel really comfortable and I definitely feel like I’ve found my place. 

What would you say to someone who was thinking of applying for the role of trustee?

For me, becoming a Back Up trustee has brought a new community into my life. I never expected that – it’s such a bonus. It truly feels like you belong, and that you’re involved in the charity’s growth and development. I also love having interesting conversations with other trustees and Back Up staff. I’m so grateful I went for it – and you should too! 

Being a trustee is some of the most meaningful work I do. I talk to people about it all the time. It’s a way for me to make a difference. It’s so interesting to see the huge things that Back Up are doing to directly help people with spinal cord injury. That to me is really gratifying – I think back to my time at spinal rehab and what I thought could change or be improved, I feel now that I can contribute to the full picture. 

It’s the most exciting time to be a part of Back Up. They’re growing so quickly, with so many new ideas and development plans, it all feels really exciting.  

It also feels like a very mutual relationship; I get so much, probably more, out of it than I ever thought possible. I feel like a valuable member of the group – I am heard, listened to and valued. I love meeting people from so many different backgrounds and having a connection with them, it’s a really special role. It feels like a real honour. 

Learn more about volunteering as a trustee for Back Up here.