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Is your governing document fit for purpose?

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A photograph of two women, sat at a table with one signing a document. Photo by Gabrielle Henderson on Unsplash.

Our governance advice for co-operatives and community businesses is unparalleled - and here we tell you why it's critical to ensure a governing document is up to scratch.

 

Good governance and success go hand in hand for every co-operative and community business. An important element of good governance is having a governing document that is fit for purpose. It's good practice for a co-operative to review its governing document every three years to ensure it remains compliant with the latest legislation and best practice.

Why regular reviews matter

  • Legal compliance: Laws and regulations that affect co-operatives and community businesses are constantly evolving. Regularly reviewing your governing document ensures compliance and avoids potential legal issues.
  • Reflecting current practices and supporting growth: Over time, the way your co-operative operates may change. Regular reviews help ensure your governing document accurately reflects current practices and procedures - as well as strategic goals and long-term vision - making it a living document that grows with your organisation.
  • Enhanced governance and accountability: A well-maintained governing document promotes good governance by clearly defining roles, responsibilities, and processes. This enhances accountability and helps maintain trust of members and stakeholders.
  • Clarity of purpose: Outdated or unclear provisions can lead to confusion and conflict. Regular updates help in streamlining operations and ensuring everyone is on the same page.
  • Increased member engagement and Inclusivity: Reviewing your governing document provides an opportunity to engage members in governance. This process can increase member involvement and ensure the document meets their needs and expectations.
Start the process for amending or reviewing your governing document today

  • Legal Risks: Failing to comply with new regulations can lead to legal penalties.
  • Operational Inefficiencies: Outdated documents can cause procedural delays and misunderstandings.
  • Member discontent: If members feel their voices aren’t heard or that their co-operative/community business isn’t operating transparently, they may become disengaged.
  • Stagnation: Without regular updates, your co-operative/community business may struggle to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

Our governing document review/amendment service

A robust and up-to-date governing document plays a critical role in the success of your co-operative or community business. As experts in co-operative and community business governance, our amendment service is designed to help you stay compliant, efficient, and fully aligned with strategic goals.

Why choose us?

  1. Expertise and Experience: Our team of experts has extensive experience in co-operative governance and understands the unique challenges faced by co-operatives and community businesses.
  2. Comprehensive Review: We conduct a thorough review of your governing document, identifying areas that need updates or improvements to ensure compliance with the latest legal standards and best practices.
  3. Tailored Solutions: We provide customised recommendations that reflect the specific needs and goals of your organisation, from small amendments through to starting afresh with adoption of new model rules.
  4. Smooth Implementation: We assist with the amendment process, including drafting new provisions, facilitating approval from members, liaising with the registrar and filing all necessary documentation.
  5. Ongoing Support: We offer ongoing support and advice to help you implement and maintain good governance practices.
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Because of Co-operatives UK’s unique experience and expertise, it made a potentially difficult and expensive process as easy and as cost-effective as it possibly could have been.
– AF Group CEO, David Horton-Fawkes

Our fees

Our fees start from £500 plus VAT, with members enjoying a 20% discount. Contact our expert advisers today to learn more about our governing document review/amendment service and how we can help your business thrive.

Get your governing document sorted

You're a short form away from starting the process for reviewing and/or amending your governing document.
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