Good governance is essential for the success of any charity and is now more important than ever. Members of boards play a vital role in serving their causes and communities by ensuring the proper procedures and policies are in place to manage their charity’s resources effectively. They provide long-term vision and protect their charity’s reputation and values.

This section will explain the principles of good governance, and provide guidance on managing charity resources and how to manage risk. It will also provide links to resources on environmental issues.

• Good governance - will set out the basic principles of good governance and links to resources such as 'The Code of Good Governance' is available here www.diycommitteeguide.org (External link).
• Managing risk - will provide guidance on managing risk to a charity’s beneficiaries, resources or reputation.
• Managing charity resources - will provide guidance on managing charity resources, including finances, land and property, pensions and investments. It will also provide topical guidance for charities in the current economic downturn. 

The Commission, in association with the Developing Governance group and local support networks are running a series of free seminars. These seminars are focused on the powers of the Commission, both current and future, as well as looking at governance issues. 

Also, it is useful to note that the Northern Ireland Central Investment Fund for Charities, managed by the Department for Social Development, is one investment option for charities. The Fund aims to provide Trustees with the opportunity to invest all or part of their assets with the benefit of expert supervision. It is managed by the Department for Social Development through recognised fund managers, but its investment policy is guided by a locally based Advisory Committee appointed by the Department. More information on the Northern Ireland Central Investment Fund for Charities.