Traditionally a no-go area for British fundraisers, trustees are increasingly proving to be a valuable source of fundraising income and support. Celina Ribeiro talks to fundraisers who are starting to get their boards on board

Engaged, frequently wealthy and already generous, charity trustees often fit the profile for a major donor prospect like a silk-lined gloved. A sector-wide reluctance for fundraisers to put their hands out to trustees, however, means that boards have traditionally been spared the gaze of the fundraising department.