Governance

“Charity trustees are the people who share ultimate responsibility for governing a charity and directing how it is managed and run. They may be called trustees, the board, the management committee, governors, directors or something else”.

For the purpose of this guide, we will refer to these individuals as the responsible person.

Find out more about Charity trustee: what’s involved (CC3a)

The role of the responsible person:

  • Ultimately responsible for running the organisation
  • Ensure the organisation meets it’s aims
  • Ensure the organisation meets it’s legal obligations
  • Share responsibility for decisions and actions

As a responsible person you must make sure that your organisation:

  • Pursues its objects or purposes, as set out in your governing document (sometimes called your Constitution or Articles)
  • Uses its assets to exclusively pursue those aims
  • Acts in the best interest of its beneficiaries/members

You should also:

  • Take an active part in the organisation
  • Avoid conflict with your personal interests
  • Not profit from our role unless it has been authorised

Being a responsible person of an organisation can be both rewarding and daunting at the same time. We have a number of resources available to help you navigate your way through.

Webinar – Trustees – roles and responsibilities

The Essential Trustee: what you need to know, what you need to do – Charity Commission.

Future Builders: free governance support resources for VCS organisations.

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