Diversifying Governance: What Board Shadowing Can Really Achieve

Despite years of discussion around trustee diversity, progress has been slow. A recent Charity Commission report confirms that board diversity in England and Wales has barely shifted in nearly two decades. Yet we know that diverse boards make better decisions, drive innovation, and deliver greater impact.

So how do we move from intention to action?

Reach Volunteering’s new resource, Diversifying Governance Through Shadowing Programmes, offers a practical, tested approach. Drawing on the experiences of five organisations - Smallwood Trust, John Ellerman Foundation, Charity Bank, Durham University (in partnership with Formation), and Board Racial Diversity - the guide explores how board shadowing can open up governance spaces to new voices and perspectives.

Why Shadowing Works

Board shadowing isn’t just about observation. It’s about:

• Demystifying governance for those unfamiliar with boardrooms.

• Creating transparency around how organisations operate.

• Improving board dynamics by introducing fresh perspectives.

• Building confidence and networks for shadowees, many of whom go on to pursue governance roles.

  
  

What Makes a Programme Effective

The guide outlines key features of successful programmes:

• Full participation in board and subcommittee meetings.

• Cohort models that foster peer support.

• Structured support including inductions, pre-meetings, debriefs, mentoring, coaching, and peer connection.

• Recognition of lived experience as valuable expertise.

• Financial support, such as development grants or paid participation.

  
  

Lessons for Organisations

• Senior leadership buy-in is essential. Without it, programmes risk being sidelined.

• Align with strategy. Shadowing should support your organisation’s EDI and governance goals,

  not sit outside them.

• Recruit openly and inclusively. Be clear about who you’re looking for and why.

• Set clear boundaries and expectations. Transparency builds trust.

• End well. Celebrate participation and offer pathways forward, such as alumni networks or trustee training.

Questions for the Future

The guide doesn’t shy away from complexity. It asks:

• Who is the ideal candidate?

• How can we ensure equity, especially when lived experience is shared?

• Should shadowees be present for all discussions?

• Could we rethink the language we use to describe these programmes?

  
  

Explore the Full Resource

This guide is a must-read for anyone serious about inclusive governance. It offers not just inspiration, but practical tools and reflections to help you design a programme that works.

Check it out here: Diversifying governance through shadowing programmes | Reach Volunteering

You can also find the fully refreshed Trustee Recruitment Cycle from Reach Volunteering here: Trustee Recruitment Cycle | Reach Volunteering