Good governance allows great charity work to continue to flow whatever the current challenges bring.
If there’s anything that the last few years have taught those involved with charities and the third sector, it is that to tackle challenges and thrive as an organisation you must have your house in order.
And what makes a good charity robust in an unstable environment? Good governance.
Inspiring leadership
Given the ever-changing external factors currently adding to the day-today challenges of running a charity, it may sometimes seem like achieving your original charitable purpose is beyond reach. A key part of keeping your organisation on track involves good governance which comes from strong, inspiring leadership promoting solid procedures.
It’s important that leaders ensure their charity is well organised, appropriately structured, prepared to face sometimes difficult decisions and embrace change.
Strategy and advice
Strong strategy and well-informed legal advice will help you properly consider the consequences of your actions and make the right decisions. As ever, showing that matters are being dealt with is important, so keep a note of everything considered and any key decisions.
Whether your current queries relate to constitutional or operational issues, or to employment or property matters we have a team of experienced lawyers - both third sector specialists, and those from other fields - who will be able to advise.
Support your trustees
There has rarely been a more important time to ensure that trustees are properly prepared and briefed to meet the demands that charities face. Most charities, like any business, will be facing the impact of the economic pressure across society and trustees play a crucial role in helping steer the route through.
Trustees can sometimes feel criticised for not doing enough and some people may be deterred from becoming trustees for fear of what is involved. Effective training will help ensure they know about their responsibilities as well as dispelling the myths of being a trustee.
Good governance is essential for charities to effectively implement the changes required to ensure they not only survive, but thrive.
Ben Doherty, Partner, Charities and the Third Sector Group
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