Introduction
It is important that trustees understand their role and duties and that they perform them effectively, as trustees are responsible for the general control and direction of a charity. It is essential they are able to execute sufficient oversight to ensure not just that legal requirements are met but that the charity’s culture and values are embedded throughout.
Given that trustees are generally unpaid and have limited time to give to the role, it is key that the Trustees have the appropriate mix of skills, experience, knowledge and attributes to deliver good governance for the charity and its beneficiaries. While it is not unusual for boards to have trustees with specific detailed knowledge of one or more areas of the charity and its activities, it should be remembered that all trustees must be able to fulfil their legal duties as a minimum.
The Charity Governance Code recommends that boards carry out regular skills audits. These can help to ensure that the charity has the mix of skills, knowledge and leadership it needs to govern, lead and deliver its purposes effectively.
In order to support the assessment of the skills and competencies of the Trustees and identify any gaps and allow to plan for succession planning, we would be grateful if you could complete the following skills matrix at the earliest
opportunity.