Guidance

Charity trustee welcome pack

As a new charity trustee, this guide will help you in your role. It can also be used by existing trustees to refresh knowledge and skills.

Applies to England and Wales

Documents

Charity trustee welcome pack, PDF

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If you use assistive technology (such as a screen reader) and need a version of this document in a more accessible format, please email usability@charitycommission.gov.uk. Please tell us what format you need. It will help us if you say what assistive technology you use.

Details

Each year there are around 100,000 new trustees, appointed either as trustees of newly registered charities or existing established charities.

We recognise the vital role that they play and welcome people who take on a trustee position.

This guide is emailed to new trustees to introduce them to the role so that they have a basic understanding of their duties and responsibilities. It:

  • outlines the basics of trusteeship
  • summarises what they can expect
  • raises awareness of their duties and responsibilities
  • explains what needs to be sent to us
  • provides reference to more detailed guidance and information

The guide may also be helpful if you are:

  • a new trustee who has not received it by email
  • an existing trustee who would like to refresh their knowledge
  • thinking of appointing or inducting a new trustee
  • interested in becoming a trustee

We send the welcome pack to each new trustee at the email address they have given us. You can update your charity details online, including email addresses.

Helen Stephenson, Chief Executive of the Charity Commission, said:

“As a trustee you will be able to use your skills and experience and have a direct influence over a cause you care about. It is a rewarding role, but there are responsibilities meaning you will need to give up enough time to help your charity succeed. You should use your first six months to really get to understand your role and responsibilities. We have prepared this short guide to help you do that. It tells you what to expect in your first year and where you can get more detailed advice.

Charities have a special place in our society because they are committed to helping others. This creates a level of trust from the public that we must protect. You will need to help run an effective charity that shows how it operates for the good of others, while we will provide guidance and services to support you in that.”

Published 30 April 2018
Last updated 29 May 2018 + show all updates
  1. We have added a PDF version of the welcome pack for download.

  2. Added translation