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11 March 2016 / Bethan Walsh
Issue: 7690 / Categories: Features , Charities
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Getting things in order

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Bethan Walsh provides advice to improve a charity’s governance in just one year

Good governance is essential to any organisation but especially for charities. Reviewing a charity’s governance can be a daunting task and it is often ignored until a significant oversight occurs. Adopting a proactive approach to governance review can save costs, time and stress in the long run. This month-by-month guide offers a starting point in getting to grips with reviewing a charity’s governance.

Month 1: undertake a simple internal governance health check

  • What is the governing document, eg deed, rules or memorandum and articles of association?
  • Who are the trustees?
  • What are the other interests of the trustees?
  • What is the role of the chairperson and other individual trustees?
  • What reports are presented to the board of trustees?
  • What board sub-committees exist?
  • How often are new trustees appointed or elected?
  • What skills does the organisation need on the board?
  • Is everyone on the board clear about what is expected of them?
  • How does the board delegate matters?

Month 2:

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