Stories from the boardroom

Charities are facing tough times. Public spending cuts are kicking in, there is increasing competition for private funding, and 39% of charities say they have seen an increase in demand for their services as a result of the recession.

In times like these, it is more important than ever that trustees are there to lead and support charities.

In Spring 2011, NPC and The Clothworkers’ Company held a series of seminars for charity trustees to give them an opportunity to hear from experts and debate the issues high on their agenda – including how to support charities through challenging times, how to review board performance, and how to collaborate with other organisations.

This report highlights key themes discussed during these seminars and explores some of the topics in more depth through case studies from a variety of charities. The report covers four key themes which emerged from the seminar discussion and case studies:

  • building an effective board;
  • reviewing and renewing your board;
  • coping with challenges; and
  • managing collaboration and mergers.

 If your charity is going through a period of change, then it is probably going to require a greater input of time and expertise.

David Stewart, Chair, Tomorrow’s People

Footer