Charity chairs need more training

Only a small proportion of chairs receive an induction when joining a charity and most new chairs must learn on the job, according to a study from the Governance Hub.

The research Support and Resource Needs of Trustees and Chairs in Voluntary and Community Organisations also found that despite most chairs already having managerial experience in the private, public or voluntary sector, 25% think they are not offered enough opportunities to learn about their role. In addition, 61% of chairs said they wanted structured learning and less formal opportunities through networks and exchanges with peers, as well as increased access to information, particularly online.

Jolanta Lasota, head of the Governance Hub, said: “Chairs have an important role in the effective governance of voluntary and community organisations. It is therefore imperative that they are equipped well enough to lead their organisation, and work with their board, with competence, confidence and passion.”

To view the full report, visit www.governancehub.org.uk