Time to Review Your Charity’s Governing Document?
As your charity grows and adapts to new challenges, it’s easy for the paperwork that underpins your organisation to fall behind. Your governing document — whether it’s a constitution, trust deed, or articles of association — sets out the rules for how your charity operates.
But when was the last time you checked that it still reflects how you actually work?
Why reviews matter
Your governing document is more than just a formality. It’s a legal foundation and a practical tool that protects your charity and helps you make confident decisions. Over time, laws change, activities evolve, and trustees move on — all of which can make parts of your document outdated or unclear.
Regular reviews (ideally every 3–5 years) can help to:
Keep your charity compliant with the latest legal requirements
Ensure your objects (charitable purposes) still match what you do
Simplify governance — for example, by modernising quorum or voting rules
Make your charity more inclusive and accessible
Prevent problems when applying for funding or registering changes with the Charity Commission
Common triggers for a review
You should consider reviewing your governing document if:
You’re employing staff, leasing premises, or taking on new projects
You’ve had feedback from funders or regulators about your structure
Trustees have noticed confusion or conflict about roles or procedures
You’re thinking about changing your charity’s name or merging
Your constitution contains outdated references or unclear wording
How to approach it
Start with a discussion at a trustee meeting – agree that a review is needed.
Check your current document carefully for gaps or outdated clauses.
Seek support and check the information is correct before making formal changes.
Follow the correct procedure for approval – some amendments need Charity Commission consent.
Keep good records and file any updated version with the relevant regulator(s).
GVS can help
At Glamorganshire Voluntary Services (GVS), we regularly support charities and community groups with reviewing or amending their governing documents. If your charity would benefit from guidance or support, contact the GVS team today:
📞 Get in touch
👉 Email: Development@gvs.wales
👉 Phone: 01446 741706
👉 Website: www.gvs.wales