Governance & Accountability

Governance structure

The Board of Trustees provides strategic oversight, protects the organisation’s charitable purpose, approves major policies and budgets, monitors risk, and holds management accountable for responsible delivery.

Trustee tenure

Trustees are expected to serve a four-year term, renewable once, so that no trustee serves more than two consecutive terms unless the constitution and applicable law provide otherwise.

Common seal and official records

The Secretary may act as custodian of the common seal and key governance records. The seal should only be used with proper Board authority and in accordance with the organisation’s constitution.

Financial records and audit

Proper books of account should be maintained, financial responsibilities separated where practical, expenditure authorised, bank transactions documented, annual accounts reviewed or audited as required, and records preserved for at least the applicable statutory period.

Conflicts of interest

Trustees, staff and volunteers should disclose actual, potential or perceived conflicts. A conflicted person should not influence a decision from which they or a connected person may improperly benefit.

Application of funds

Income and property should be applied solely toward the Foundation’s approved charitable objects. No portion should be distributed to members or trustees except legitimate reimbursement or properly authorised payment for services permitted by law and policy.

Accountability mechanisms

• Approved annual plans and budgets.
• Documented delegation and approval limits.
• Programme monitoring, partner agreements and post-project reporting.
• Safeguarding, data protection, complaints and whistleblowing channels.
• Procurement, cash, asset and expense controls, supported by periodic review of risk, compliance, performance and organisational capacity.