CHARITIES GOVERNANCE CODE - Whelan Dowling & Associates

CHARITIES GOVERENCE CODE

The Charities Governance Code

Good governance. Stronger charities. Greater confidence.

WDA helps charity Boards and trustees understand and apply the Charities Governance Code, building strong governance frameworks that support your charitable purpose and meet regulatory expectations. We provide practical guidance on governance structures, policies, Board responsibilities and compliance, helping your organisation strengthen oversight, improve accountability and embed good governance in day-to-day decision-making.

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Governance Expertise

Deep understanding of the Charities Governance Code and the charity sector in Ireland.

Practical Implementation

Realistic, proportionate solutions that work for your organisation.

Board Support

Guidance and training for charity trustees and management teams.

Ongoing Review

Continued support as your organisation and regulatory environment evolve.

What is the Charities Governance Code?

The Charities Governance Code sets out principles and standards of good governance for charities in Ireland. It is designed to help charities achieve their charitable purpose, build public trust and ensure they are well run and accountable.

The Code applies to charities in Ireland and is based on six key governance principles, supported by core standards for all charities and additional standards for more complex organisations.

Good governance enables charities to have a greater impact.

We support Boards and management teams in putting the principles of the Code into practice in a way that is proportionate and effective for their organisation.

The Six Principles of the Charities Governance Code

1. Advancing Charitable Purpose

Ensure your charity stays true to its purpose and achieves positive impact.

2. Behaving With Integrity

Act with honesty, fairness and in the best interests of your charity.

3. Leading People

Provide effective leadership and support your people and volunteers.

4. Exercising Control

Ensure appropriate oversight, risk management and internal control.

5. Working Effectively

Work effectively as a Board and with others.

6. Being Accountable and Transparent

Be accountable for your decisions and transparent in your activities.

From Principles to Practice

We provide practical support to help charities implement the Charities Governance Code and strengthen their governance arrangements.

Governance Review & Gap Analysis

Assess your current governance arrangements against the Code, identify gaps and prioritise areas for improvement.

Policies & Procedures

Develop or update governance policies, procedures and supporting documentation tailored to your organisation.

Compliance Records

Support with maintaining appropriate governance records and evidence to demonstrate how the Code is being applied.

Board Training

Practical training for trustees and management teams to strengthen understanding of governance responsibilities.

Action Plans & Implementation

Develop practical, phased action plans to address identified areas and embed good governance across the organisation.

Ongoing Advisory Support

Continued guidance and independent support as your charity, governance needs and regulatory environment evolve.