Role of the Trustee Part 1

Being a trustee is a rewarding role—but it also comes with significant legal and ethical responsibilities. This practical session introduces the core duties of charity trustees, helping you understand your role, your responsibilities, and how to govern your organisation effectively and safely.

What the session covers:

• The different types of charities and legal structures, and what these mean for trustees

• Key legislation trustees must be aware of, including charity, company, safeguarding, and data protection law

• The six fundamental legal duties of charity trustees and how to fulfil them in practice

• Understanding governing documents, charitable purposes, and public benefit

• Managing conflicts of interest and loyalty confidently and transparently

• Who regulates charities, trustees’ responsibilities to regulators, and reporting requirements

• What to do if things go wrong, including serious incident reporting and trustee accountability

Who is it for?

Ideal for current trustees, new or prospective trustees, committee members, directors of charitable companies, and anyone considering a trustee role.

Also useful for staff who work closely with trustees and want a clearer understanding of board responsibilities.

Why attend?

Trustees play a crucial role in setting direction, safeguarding assets, and ensuring charities operate for public benefit. Understanding your duties protects both you and your organisation.

Please note this is part one of two sessions, please make sure you can attend both sessions. The second session will be held at 1pm on Wednesday 8 July 2026.

For directions on how to find us and parking information, please follow this link: Visiting MVDA: Directions & Parking.

For more information about this training please contact us on: Tel: 01642 249300 Email: [email protected]

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Host or Publisher Middlesbrough Voluntary Development Agency