Marriage Care is looking for volunteers to join its board of trustees so it can continue delivering vital relationship support services and marriage preparation courses for the Catholic community and beyond.

Expressions of interest from all candidates are welcome, but they are particularly keen to hear from individuals who have experience in income generation, IT and project management, marketing and social media, relationship counselling or training.

Chair of trustees Kit Dollard, who is from our diocese, said: “After 45 years in the military, then the city, followed by property and last of all the Church, I was looking to give back to society.

“Marriage Care specialises in marriage and relationships and promoting relationship skills and was just the vehicle I needed. On the way, I’ve learnt a few new skills, had a lot of fun, met some wonderful people and, as a frontline volunteer, I’ve had the privilege to meet couples in that first phase of love, as well as helping repair some broken relationships.

“Perhaps more importantly I have helped an organisation deliver its goals to more than 9,000 couples each year, with the help of 700 volunteers. For me, it’s a reminder that in giving our time we always receive back more than we actually give and that for me is surprising, humbling and a privilege.”

Fellow trustee Dr Clare Watkins added: “It took me a bit by surprise when I was asked – I’m not a lawyer, accountant or senior manager, so at first I was worried I wouldn’t have much to contribute. But it became clear quite quickly that this was an organisation that valued a variety of gifts and a range of voices in the decision-making processes.

“It’s been joyful working with such committed and able people with skills I don’t have, but all the time feeling what little things I do bring are valued.

“It’s a great honour to be part of a board that serves such a large and remarkable group of volunteers who give of their time and their wisdom so generously.”

As the largest faith-based provider of relationship support services in England and Wales, Marriage Care believes that relationship support is a matter of social justice.

It has been supporting couples for more than 70 years by providing low cost and accessible marriage preparation and relationship counselling services and is committed to sharing the joy of the Catholic understanding of marriage and relationships in all that it does.

Feedback from couples and individuals shows that 82% report a positive outcome from their counselling experience and 86% give a satisfaction rating of 80% or more for Marriage Care’s services.

For more information on how you could be involved, visit marriagecare.org.uk/get-involved/trustee/ or email volunteer@marriagecare.org.uk.