I am new to a board · Lesson 1 of 5

Boards decide collectively

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THE IDEA

Trustees, directors or committee members should understand their shared responsibility for oversight and record important decisions collectively in line with the governing document.

A chair or staff member may lead work, but responsibility cannot quietly be transferred away from the properly authorised governing body.

See a worked example

Extending a project

Fictional worked examples for learning. Organisational records need your own checked information.

Identify which body or delegated role has authority for this decision.
The governing document and delegation schedule reserve the proposed six-month project extension to the trustee board.
Give decision-makers the relevant evidence, risks and conflicts in advance.
The secretary will circulate the budget, participant feedback, capacity assessment and declared interests before the meeting.
Record attendance, the decision, rationale, actions and any dissent according to the governing document.
Minutes will list attendees, quorum, the decision and reasons, any dissent, and the coordinator's action to confirm resources before the extension starts.

Example 1 of 3

What to check before using this

The governing document, current regulator guidance and professional advice remain authoritative.

Next: try a multiple-choice scenario.

Official guidance and further reading