SCVO Governance - Homepage

Govern vb. to direct and control the actions, affairs, policies, functions of (an) organisation… to be a predominant influence on something…

Governance n. the action, manner or system of governing…

WELCOME to Governance
The website for members of voluntary sector boards and management committees in Scotland.

The work done by voluntary boards and management committees, technically known as 'governance', is critical to the success of every voluntary organisation. This website offers a one-stop shop for members of boards and management committees looking for the information and support they need to maximise that contribution. Staff and development professionals who support boards and management committees in their work will also find the site of value.

Why bother taking the time to explore this site?

Whether you are new to board and committee work or have bags of experience, any improvement in your knowledge and skills will make a real difference to your organisation
Grant makers increasingly look for evidence that the board or management committee is effective before investing money in an organisation - they know it helps guarantee success
If your organisation is or might become a charity, company or similar, this site will help you get to grips with what is legally required of you
Improving your knowledge and skills can also bring personal benefits - to your confidence, satisfaction and even your career

An introductory leaflet: Your Mission Governance
'At a glance' the key responsibilities of management committees and boards - ideal for beginners and as a checklist for the more experienced. To choose from pdf or MS Word versions click the link then select the 'governance toolkits' category in our online resources section. Hard copies of the leaflet are available free of charge (subject to availability) from SCVO publications team Tel. 0131 556 3882 Email publications@scvo.org.uk.

Charity Law in Scotland
This section provides a guide to the Charities and Trustee Investment Act (Scotland) 2005. Start with the ‘Introduction and Overview’ page and then dive in to discover everything you need to know about the operation of the Act.

Getting to grips with governance toolkit
A comprehensive guide for boards and management committees of voluntary organisations in Scotland.

Governance e-learning
Are you keen to learn more about governance but relevant courses always seem to take place too far away or involve more time than you can give? E-learning could be the answer! SCVO has developed a series of courses covering all aspects of voluntary sector governance and taking into account the different needs and circumstances of learners. To view the series select the 'e-learning' category in our on-line resources section.

Guide to Constitutions and Charitable status (SCVO)
This Guide explains the legal structures available to voluntary organisations including the pros and cons of each. It contains model constitutions and it explains what it means to have charitable status. Essential reading for those wishing to set up a voluntary organisation or adopt a new legal form for one that already exists.

Is joining a board or management committee for me?
Not part of a board or management committee? Wondering they are and are for? This course will introduce you to their work and help you to figure out whether getting involved in one is for you.

Setting up a voluntary organisation in 6 steps
A step by step guide to setting up a new voluntary organisation.

Working With Us: A Guide to Good Employment Practice in the Scottish Voluntary Sector
If you’re reached the point where you want to employ staff you can’t afford not to read this. Covering every conceivable aspect of employment in a straightforward manner it will help both employers and employees to get their relationship right and thereby ensure that they can both get on with the job!

03 Sep 09 Glasgow
UPGRADING YOUR GOVERNANCE
Seminar

29 Sep 09 Edinbrugh
Constitution Surgeries
Consultation Event

05 Nov 09 Edinburgh
Do you know your SORP from your OSCR?
Training Course

12 Nov 09 Edinburgh
Governance & Management
Training Course

19 Nov 09 Edinburgh
Getting to Grips With Governance
Training Course

Full calendar

CVS Network The website of the Councils for Voluntary Service in Scotland
The Governance Hub The Governance Hub for England helps develop governance in organisations. Much of the information is useful for Scotland.
goodmoves The premier careers hub for the not for profit and voluntary sector in Scotland
The Big Picture A quality improvement framework, written by and for the voluntary sector