STORY
David Holdsworth, Chief Executive of the Charity Commission, lauded the indispensable contributions of charity trustees in his keynote address at the Trustee Exchange 2025 conference in London. Emphasising the sector’s substantial £94 billion annual turnover in England and Wales, Holdsworth highlighted the tangible impacts of trustees’ efforts, from groundbreaking medical research enabling a paralysed woman to regain hand function, to environmental conservation successes like the resurgence of ospreys in the UK.
Holdsworth underscored the critical role trustees play in sustaining the charity sector, stating, “Without you, there would be no charity sector.” He acknowledged the challenges faced by charities amidst global uncertainties and domestic pressures, noting their frontline position in addressing issues ranging from international conflicts to local community needs.
In his speech, Holdsworth also addressed the importance of attracting and retaining trustees, advocating for initiatives to make trusteeship more appealing and accessible. He called for a collective effort to support trustees in maximising their charities’ impact, reinforcing the Commission’s commitment to providing necessary guidance and resources.