Sample Trustee Code Of Conduct printable pdf download

Sample Trustee code of conduct

From National Council of Voluntary Organisations, UK

The purpose of this document is to provide a model code of conduct for trustees. A code

of conduct for board members ensures high standards and makes it clear how potential

conflicts of interests are dealt with.

This model aims to capture good practice. It should be used as a guide rather than a

definitive code. It should be tailored to meet the specific needs of each organisation.

Remember also that the organisation must comply with all legal regulations.

This code of conduct is based on the Nolan Committee's 'Seven Principles of Public Life'.

Selflessness

Trustees of [name of organisation] have a general duty to act in the best interests of

[name of organisation] as a whole. They should not do so in order to gain financial or

other material benefits for themselves, their family, their friends or the organisation they

come from or represent.

Integrity

[name of organisation]'s trustees:

should not place themselves under any financial or other obligation to outside individuals

or organisations that might seek to influence them in the performance of their role;

as well as avoiding actual impropriety, should avoid any appearance of improper

behaviour;

should avoid accepting gifts and hospitality that might reasonably be thought to influence

their judgment.

Objectivity

In carrying out their role, including making appointments (including trustee

appointments), awarding contracts, recommending individuals for rewards and benefits

or transacting other business, [name of organisation]'s trustees should ensure that

decisions are made solely on merit.

Accountability

[name of organisation's] trustees:

have a duty to comply with the law on all occasions in accordance with the trust placed in

them and in such a way as to preserve public confidence in[name of organisation];

are accountable for their decisions and actions to the public, funders and service users.

They must submit themselves to what scrutiny is appropriate to their role.

Openness

[name of organisation's] trustees:

Sample Trustee Code Of Conduct