Making Governance Simple

The Idea

What does it mean?

Keeping things simple means ensuring everyone knows their role and sticks to it.

Why is it important?

Charities need to run smoothly, like a well-oiled machine. Each part must work well to ensure good governance and reassure service users and commissioners.

How to achieve this?

Evaluate current activities: Do they meet your aims? Are they useful? Do they make a difference?
Avoid getting stuck in habits that lead to mission drift.

In practice:

People on the ground:

Volunteers and staff carry out tasks to fulfill the mission. They spend more time on tasks than the board and follow the strategic plan.

Committee/Board:

Committees, made up of volunteers, meet quarterly to set the organisation's direction, support the leader, and ensure the team stays on mission.
The board should not deliver services or participate in activities but remain separate and objective.

Paperwork:

Reduce complexity and use plain language. Measure impact and ensure decisions are recorded.

Influences:

Keep activities consistent and mission-focused to build a strong reputation and manage people effectively. Be aware of external influences that may tempt you to stray from your mission.

Motives:

Staff motives are usually clear (money), but board members should reflect on their motives. Ensure they are there to further the cause and support service users.