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Supporting Scotland's vibrant voluntary sector

Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations is the membership organisation for Scotland's charities, voluntary organisations and social enterprises. Charity registered in Scotland SC003558. Registered office Mansfield Traquair Centre, 15 Mansfield Place, Edinburgh EH3 6BB.

Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations

The Scottish Governance Code for the Third Sector

Anna Fowlie

Foreword

Good governance matters because it underpins successful organisations. It matters in all sectors, but especially in ours, where the purpose is to serve people, causes and communities as best we can. A good reputation takes years to build and seconds to destroy. Our effectiveness relies on good governance, which is the best way to protect and improve the reputation of individual organisations and our sector as a whole.

Over 250,000 trustees in Scotland are volunteers and give their time and skills to steer the work of third sector organisations. Individually as trustees, and collectively as boards, they maintain good governance.

This code has been created by the third sector, for the third sector. Please use it. Please share it.

Please help promote good governance.

Anna Fowlie,
Chair, Scotland's Third Sector Governance Forum

Introduction

This governance code is a statement of best practice. It sets out the core principles and key elements of good governance for the voluntary sector in Scotland

Using the code

The code is for use by all third sector organisations in Scotland, whatever their shape, size or activities. The code's principles apply equally to all organisations, but how an organisation follows each principle will depend on its size, income, activities and complexity.

Organisational purpose

A well-run board is clear about the purpose and values of the organisation and how it will achieve its aims.

Leadership

A well-run board is clear about its role and responsibilities and provides strategic direction in line with the organisation's purpose, vision and values.

Board behaviour

A well-run board, both collectively and individually, embraces and demonstrates mutual respect, integrity, openness and accountability.

Control & risk management

A well-run board will manage risk, maintain control and make effective decisions to direct and oversee the progress and performance of the organisation.

Effectiveness

A well-run board understands its role, powers and duties, and works collectively and proactively to achieve its organisational purpose.

The Scottish Governance Code for the Third Sector is also available in PDF format:

Download PDF

The Scottish Governance Code for the Third Sector is also available in text-only format:

Download text-only Word document

Last modified on 21 March 2024
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