In July 2024 the Charity Commission issued updated guidance on how charity meetings are held, to reflect the developments in the way we communicate since the pandemic.
Whilst so many of us are happy to jump on a Zoom call rather than brave the dark nights that are rapidly drawing in, trustees need to ensure that their charity’s rules in respect of meetings allow this, and that the governing document has been updated for specific changes in respect of virtual meetings. For example, are votes permitted at virtual or hybrid meetings? And what if a board member has technical issues? Do they forfeit their vote?
There is no doubt that online meetings can make life so much easier for many of us and benefit charities through increased attendance at board meetings. However, we must consider whether virtual meetings reap the same rewards as the in-person alternative. Without that chance to read another person’s body language and concentrate fully (cue the dog to start barking at a cat outside) on the topic in hand we may be missing out on opportunities for effective communication.
Ultimately charities need to decide when and how online and hybrid meetings should be used for greatest benefit, and ensure their regulatory documents are updated to reflect the decisions made.
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