Good Governance – A Code for the Voluntary and Community Sector (UK)

The Code is designed for all those involved in the governance of voluntary and community sector organisations, and particularly for trustees and chief executives. It will also help staff, volunteers, members and service users to understand what they can expect from a well-governed organisation.

This Code originates in the needs expressed by the voluntary sector in the UK. For guidance to clarify the main principles of governance and to help them in decision-making, accountability and the work of their boards

Governance is high on the agenda in all sectors – public, private and voluntary. Voluntary and community organisations working for public benefit are increasingly expected to demonstrate how well they are governed.

As a response to demands of not-for-profit organisations, a group of voluntary sector infrastructure associations, with the Charity Commission (UK), came together and decided to work towards developing the Code.

The Code has thus been developed by and for voluntary and community organisations and is aimed at the entire voluntary and community sector.

The Code contains:

Part 1: Introduction, including why a code of governance, what is governance, how to use the code

Part 2: Good Governance a Code for the Voluntary and Community Sector, including key principles, the Code.

Part 3: Appendices, including Further reading

Follow this link to Good Governance - A Code for the Voluntary and Community Sector (opens in a new browser window)

For further information

Contact	:	c/o National Council for Voluntary Organisations
Address	:	Regent’s Wharf 8 All Saints Street London N1 9RL
Phone	:	020 7713 6161
Fax	:	020 7713 6300
Email	:	governance.code@ncvo-vol.org.uk