1. Introduction

Welcome to Giving Back Generation ("GBG"). As a Trustee, you play a vital role in overseeing the charity’s governance, strategy, and compliance with legal obligations. This Trustee Handbook outlines your responsibilities, expectations, and the principles that guide your work to support GBG’s mission.

2. Who Can Become a Trustee?

Eligibility to become a Trustee includes:

• Being over the age of 18.
• Demonstrating good character, integrity, and accountability.
• Supporting GBG’s mission and objectives.
• Meeting the eligibility requirements set forth by the Charities Act 2011 (e.g., not being disqualified due to bankruptcy or legal restrictions).

3. Responsibilities of Trustees

Trustees are collectively responsible for:

• Ensuring GBG’s activities align with its charitable purposes and benefit the community.
• Safeguarding GBG’s assets, including financial and physical resources.
• Acting in the best interests of GBG and avoiding conflicts of interest.
• Complying with all relevant laws, including the Charities Act 2011 and UK GDPR.
• Managing risks effectively and ensuring proper risk mitigation measures are in place.

4. Duties of Trustees

Trustees have specific duties to fulfill:

4.1 Strategic Oversight

• Setting GBG’s vision, mission, and strategic goals.
• Approving major projects, budgets, and policies.
• Monitoring the charity’s performance against objectives.

4.2 Governance

• Attending regular Trustee meetings and actively participating in discussions.
• Reviewing and approving governance documents, including the Articles of Association.
• Ensuring GBG operates within the law and adheres to best practices.

4.3 Financial Management

• Approving annual budgets and financial statements.
• Ensuring the charity’s funds are used effectively and for their intended purposes.
• Monitoring financial risks and ensuring the charity remains solvent.

4.4 Compliance

• Ensuring the charity meets its legal and regulatory obligations, including submitting annual returns to the Charity Commission and Companies House.
• Adhering to GBG’s safeguarding, data protection, and health and safety policies.

5. Expectations of Trustees

Trustees are expected to:

• Dedicate sufficient time to fulfill their duties, including attending all scheduled meetings.
• Prepare thoroughly for meetings by reviewing agenda items and relevant documents.
• Act in a manner that reflects GBG’s values and mission.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive matters discussed in meetings.
• Engage in training and development opportunities to enhance their effectiveness.

6. Powers of Trustees

Trustees have the authority to:

• Manage and direct the charity’s operations, either directly or by delegating to staff and volunteers.
• Approve major financial and operational decisions.
• Appoint or remove key staff members, including the CEO (if applicable).
• Oversee changes to the Articles of Association and other governance documents.
• Approve fundraising and partnership initiatives.

7. Code of Conduct for Trustees

All Trustees must adhere to GBG’s Trustee Code of Conduct, which includes:

• Acting with honesty, transparency, and accountability.
• Declaring and managing any conflicts of interest.
• Respecting diversity and treating all stakeholders with fairness.
• Complying with GBG’s ethical and safeguarding policies.

8. Trustee Induction and Training

New Trustees will undergo an induction programme that includes:

• An overview of GBG’s mission, objectives, and operations.
• Training on governance, financial management, and regulatory compliance.
• A review of key documents, including the Articles of Association and recent financial reports.

Ongoing training opportunities will be provided to ensure Trustees stay informed about best practices and regulatory changes.

9. Becoming a Trustee as a Volunteer

Volunteers who have actively committed to GBG for at least six months are eligible to apply to become a Trustee. The application process includes:

• Application Submission: Volunteers must submit a written statement explaining why they wish to become a Trustee, highlighting their contributions to GBG and demonstrating why they are a suitable candidate.
• Internal Review: Applications will be reviewed internally by the Board of Trustees and Members.
• Evaluation Criteria: Applicants must demonstrate alignment with GBG’s mission, commitment to its objectives, and the ability to contribute effectively to the charity’s governance.
• Decision: Successful candidates will be approved by a majority vote of the Board and Members.

Applications should be submitted via email to members@givingbackgeneration.org.uk.

10. Trustee Contact

Anyone wishing to contact the Trustees directly may do so by emailing trustee@givingbackgeneration.org.uk.

11. Resignation or Removal of Trustees

A Trustee may cease to hold office if they:

• Resign by providing written notice to the Board.
• Are removed by a majority vote of Members for failing to fulfill their duties or acting against GBG’s objectives.
• Become disqualified under the Charities Act 2011.

12. Contact Information

For questions about Trusteeship or this handbook, please contact us:

Giving Back Generation Limited
662 High Road, N12 0NL
contact@givingbackgeneration.org.uk

Thank you for your commitment to Giving Back Generation. Your dedication ensures that we continue to empower communities and make a lasting impact.

‍