Your chance to build better governance

Governance enquiries top the list of frequently asked questions year after year on the SCVO Information Service. From how to improve relationships between trustees and senior management to tips on running effective board meetings, we know that trustees are looking for practical help and advice to improve the governance of their organisations. This common theme has been highlighted recently by challenging media stories about governance, fundraising and finance scandals in our sector. Only one group of people can ensure lessons are learnt from these debacles – and that’s the trustees.

Getting your governance right is crucial for achieving your organisation’s mission

So I’m really excited to announce our plans to bring a comprehensive new programme of governance training to Scotland for the very first time. In partnership with the CASS Centre for Charity Effectiveness the leading non-profit and philanthropy centre in the UK, SCVO is offering a series of Building Better Governance seminars. Run over a three month period, the sessions will give you the opportunity to generate new thinking about governance, build capacity and drive organisational change. CASS CCE’s experts will share their knowledge and up to date research in highly interactive sessions and insightful group work, where you’ll be able to explore best practice and gain insights with your peers to enhance your governance skills. Last year I attended the same course in the North East of England, and was so impressed by the sessions that I wanted to make it happen in Scotland. We’ve managed to do that, and can now launch the Building Better Governance Scotland Programme. And more good news! We’ve also got the support of CCLA so we can offer an Early Bird bursary scheme to SCVO member organisations. Book now and you can get a buy-one-get-one-free place, so both a trustee and a member of staff from your organisation can attend. Getting your governance right is crucial for achieving your organisation’s mission, and training and support is just what our sector needs. Unfortunately my experience is that people only ask for help when things have gone really wrong. Don’t wait for that, help your board to become the best it can be and join us in building better governance.