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Constitution Check Up

We tend to use our constitutions like a faithful old piece of furniture – well used but rarely closely examined. We assume it’s in good shape and run a duster over it occasionally but never check the fundamental structure for weaknesses or worn out parts.

It’s good practice to cast a careful eye over your constitution every few years to ensure that it still reflects what your group actually does, and how you operate. If you find you need to update it you can call our development staff for support. If you do make changes to it, be sure to:

• Check the requirements of the Charity Commission if your organisation is a registered charity. If you are a registered organisation, do it in line with the requirements of the Charity Commission;
  
• Check the requirements outlined within your constitution for changing the document is in line with the rules given within the constitution itself;
• Send BAVO a copy your new constitution so that we can keep it safely for the future and understand the structure of your organisation when we are working with you.

It’s a good idea to review your policies annually, shortly before an AGM as that will give you the opportunity to have updated versions adopted in a vote of members during the AGM. However, legislative changes will need to be incorporated into your policies as the relevant act comes into force.

Again, if you require support to ensure your policies are up to date, our development staff can help with this.