"Governance is the systems and processes concerned with ensuring the overall direction, supervision and accountability of an organisation"

Chris Cornforth

The Governance of Voluntary and Community Organisations An Overview, 2003

(Co-operatives UK)

Governance is a term that is used widely, but often not understood. Governance is frequently defined as the systems by which organisations are run. This includes the laws and regulations with which they must comply.

We help organisations to take a broader view of governance that goes beyond compliance with the law and includes strategic development and leadership.

At Governance Works we believe that when a board has good governance practices in place it impacts on the performance of the entire organisation.

Good Governance Means:

• Everyone understands the part they play in achieving success for the organisation

• There is a strong collective understanding of purpose, direction and priorities

• Resources are well targeted

• Risks are assessed and where undertaken are calculated

• Information flow enables decision making

• There are good relationships with external stakeholders

• There is a focus on long term impact not simply short term outputs

Foundation for Good Governance

Governance Works was instrumental in establishing The Foundation for Good Governance.

The Foundation focuses on developing greater understanding of governance within the charitable and not for profit sector. It does this by organising events, undertaking research and disseminating the results of its work.