Writing the perfect constitution can seem daunting, but don't be put off, Active Outcomes want to help!
It is so important to set out your vision and aims and to make sure that you give everyone a chance to have their say and get involved in creating the document that will shape the future development of your group or charity.
Check out this presentation and see why it is so important to get it right!
Need help? Active Outcomes can help draft your constitution, go to www.activeoutcomes.co.uk for more details.
2. What is a constitution?
• A constitution sets out the aims of a community group or
charity. It makes clear the rules about who can join, how the
group will be run and how finances will be managed.
• It offers a great chance for everyone interested in getting
your group up-and-running to have their say on your vision
and talk through any potential issues before you
get started.
3. Why bother?
• It can strengthen your group by setting out clear aims that
you all work toward.
• Save any future disagreements by having clear procedures in
place from the beginning.
• A clear constitution can really help you out when it comes to
making bids for funding.
4. What to include?
The following clauses are found in most constitutions:
• Name of Organisation
• Aims/Objectives
• Powers
• Membership
• Meetings
• Management Committee
• Finance
• Alterations to the Constitution
• Dissolution
5. Tips
• Check out a few constitutions that other groups with similar
aims have drawn up for inspiration. BUT don’t be tempted
to just cut and paste – your constitution should be written
to suit YOUR needs, not THEIRS!
• Set aside time to discuss your content and to re-draft the
constitution to ensure that everyone gets to have their say.
6. Tips
• Formally adopt your constitution at a general meeting so all
your members feel involved in the process. You will need
two current members to sign and date it.
• It may seem strange to think about dissolution if you are just
starting up your group but it is important that funders know
what will happen to your assets should your group disband
– it can save a lot of arguments further down the road!
7. Need help?
Active Outcomes can help your group draw up the perfect
constitution: get in touch today.
www.activeoutcomes.co.uk
info@activeoutcomes.co.uk
07542 768132
@ActiveOutcomes