Charity Commission gets new governance framework

A revised and updated governance framework has been published by The Charity Commission following an independent review.

The effectiveness of the existing governance framework was the focus of the review, which came about after a recommendation from the National Audit Office.

Effective and efficient

The new framework sets out the procedures for the conduct of its business in an effective and efficient manner. It also sets out the respective roles of the board, the chair, the executive and the chief executive officer.

The review evaluated the performance of the board and audit and risk committee and looked at how the accounting officer and the board are affected by governance arrangements.

Commission chair William Shawcross said: "Our new governance framework sets out clearly what our purpose is, and how the commission will be governed. I want to thank Alan Downey for his work on the review and the helpful clarity it has brought to the way in which we work."

Authority to intervene

The new framework confirms the authority of the board to intervene in operational matters directly, particularly if they involve aspects that affect the reputation and performance of the commission.

The commission has accepted all the suggested changes.

"The board brings huge expertise across a range of issues. It strengthens the commission immeasurably and I am grateful for their support. I would also like to thank the executive for their hard work in delivering the strategic aims set out by the board," Shawcross added.