Board Director: Young Adult Voice & Lived Experience

‍About Shine

For almost 50 years, Shine has been one of Ireland’s leading mental health charities, working alongside people affected by mental illness, their families and supporters.

Our vision is of a more compassionate Ireland where those affected by mental illness and stigma are supported and included in all aspects of society. We specialise in supporting, educating and advocating for individuals, family members and communities impacted by mental illness and stigma.  

The Opportunity

Shine is governed by a voluntary Board of Directors responsible for strategy, governance, accountability and long-term organisational stewardship. We are now seeking a new Board Director who can bring the voice and perspective of young adults with lived experience of mental illness to our Board.

This is an important opportunity to ensure that lived experience remains central to decision-making, strategy and the future development of Shine. We are particularly interested in people who want to use their experience positively, influence change and help improve supports for others.

Why This Role Matters

At Shine, we believe decisions are stronger when informed by people with direct lived experience. Young adults often experience mental health systems, education systems, employment pressures, housing challenges and stigma in distinct ways. Your perspective can help ensure Shine remains relevant, responsive and future-focused.

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‍Board Responsibilities

As a Board Director, you will:

• Contribute fully to Board discussions and strategic decision-making  
• Bring insight from lived experience in a constructive and meaningful way  
• Help shape services, advocacy priorities and future direction  
• Support good governance and organisational accountability  
• Act in the best interests of Shine and uphold collective Board responsibility  
• Champion inclusion, dignity and stigma reduction

You will not be expected to represent all young people or all experiences. Your own perspective and insight are valuable in themselves.

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Person Specification

We welcome applications from individuals who can bring:

• Lived experience of mental illness  
• Insight into issues affecting young adults in Ireland today  
• Passion for improving mental health supports and reducing stigma  
• Willingness to contribute as part of a collaborative Board team  
• Commitment to equality, inclusion and positive change  
• Reliability, sound judgement and willingness to learn governance responsibilities  

Previous Board experience is not required. We are more interested in your perspective, values and commitment than formal governance experience.

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What you’ll bring  

We welcome applications from individuals who can bring:

• Lived experience of mental illness  
• Insight into issues affecting young adults in Ireland today  
• Passion for improving mental health supports and reducing stigma  
• Willingness to contribute as part of a collaborative Board team  
• Commitment to equality, inclusion and positive change  
• Reliability, sound judgement and willingness to learn governance responsibilities  

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Support & Development

Shine is committed to ensuring all Board members can contribute confidently. You will receive:

• Full induction to the role
• Governance training
• Ongoing support from the Chair and Board colleagues
• Opportunities for further learning and development

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Time Commitment

This is a voluntary role.

Expected commitment includes:

• Approximately eight Board meetings annually  
• Reading Board papers in advance  
• Attendance at the AGM
• Participation in committee work where relevant  
• Occasional strategy sessions and events  
• Meetings are a combination of online and in-person meetings.
• Meetings are a mix of online and in-person meetings, including in Maynooth.

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Why Join Shine?

This is an opportunity to:

• Use your voice to create real change
• Influence a respected national charity
• Help shape the future of mental health supports in Ireland
• Build leadership and governance skills
• Work alongside experienced and committed Board members

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Diversity & Inclusion

Shine is committed to building a diverse, inclusive and representative Board.

We strongly welcome applications from young adults with lived experience of mental illness, and from people whose voices are often underrepresented in leadership and governance spaces.

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Confidential Enquiries

For a confidential exploratory conversation, please contact:

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Joe Houghton, Chair of the Board

jhoughton@shine.ie  

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Nicola Byrne, CEO

ceo@shine.ie