Board Shadowing Programme: three-year evaluation published
September 4, 2026Between 2022 and 2025, Smallwood Trust piloted a Board Shadowing Programme designed to demystify governance and shift perceptions of trusteeship among women with lived experience of financial hardship and systemic barriers.
The programme allowed participants to observe board meetings, access mentoring from trustees, and receive bursaries to support their personal development. It aimed to ground learning in real governance practice whilst creating pathways to wider opportunities.
This external evaluation, by Anj Handa of Inspiring Women Changemakers, focuses on structural design principles, governance considerations, and implementation insights that proved transferable across contexts. It reflects on what worked, what did not, and what organisations need to consider before launching their own programmes. It synthesises insights from three cohorts, providing a practical framework for funders and charities considering similar initiatives.
Download the full evaluation here:
