For one existing member of the St Michael’s Hospice Lottery Board, saying yes to the role was an opportunity to use professional experience in a way that makes a real difference locally. Having worked in financial services for more than 20 years, Susannah Clayton felt they could bring valuable insight to the Board while supporting a charity in a meaningful and practical way.
“Being able to support a charity in a meaningful way gives me a sense of pride,” they said. That sense of purpose sits at the heart of the role. St Michael’s Hospice Lottery is one of the Hospice’s most important income streams, with every ticket helping to fund care for local patients and their families.
The Lottery Board plays an important part in making sure this vital fundraising activity is well governed, compliant and focused on long-term success. In simple terms, the Board oversees the performance of the Lottery, ensuring it meets legal and regulatory obligations while helping the Lottery Company stay focused on its strategic objectives and its ultimate purpose: supporting the Hospice.
For this Board member, their day job in internal audit has proved highly relevant. Their experience reviewing risks and controls, identifying issues and supporting remediation helps them contribute to the Lottery’s governance and compliance. “Ensuring compliance to legal and regulatory obligations is key,” they explained.
What has surprised them most is how involved Board members are in shaping the Lottery’s future. Far from being a passive role, it includes reviewing performance, contributing ideas and supporting strategies that help the Lottery Company grow sustainably. This combination of oversight and constructive input makes the role both purposeful and engaging.
The time commitment is also manageable alongside other responsibilities. They keep up to date with Hospice news through emails and newsletters, while Board papers are shared a week ahead of meetings, giving them time to read, reflect and note the key points they would like to raise. For anyone considering whether they could fit the role around work, family or other commitments, their experience shows that preparation and regular communication make it possible.
St Michael’s Hospice is now seeking two volunteers to join the Lottery Board: a Chair and a Non-Executive Director. The roles are ideal for people who can bring sound judgement, integrity, curiosity and a commitment to the Hospice’s values of kindness, inclusivity, respect and innovation. Experience in areas such as regulated sectors, finance, audit, risk, income generation, digital engagement, marketing or customer experience could all be valuable.
The message from someone already doing the role is simple: “Go for it.” They describe it as “a very worthwhile and rewarding role” that fits around life while enabling people to contribute to a great cause in a meaningful way. For those who want to use their skills to support compassionate end of life care across Hastings and Rother, joining the Lottery Board offers the chance to help turn every play into vital hospice care.
Find out more and apply now: Lottery Company Non-Executive Directors & Chair – St Michael’s Hospice
