- 31 October 2025
A refreshed Charity Governance Code has been published today, setting out clearer expectations of the behaviours, values and processes that underpin good governance in charities of all sizes.
The Institute was part of the cross-sector steering group that developed the Code. The Code provides practical guidance for boards to reflect on how they lead, make decisions and uphold their charity’s purpose. It remains a voluntary framework rather than a regulatory requirement but is designed to help boards achieve the highest standards of effectiveness and accountability.
This is the most significant update to the Code since 2017, with eight core principles for boards to apply flexibly through an apply or explain approach. The 2025 Code brings a sharper focus on the behaviours that sustain effective boards, and brings fresh optics to matters around ethics, decision making and managing resources and risks.
Linda Ford, CEO of CGIUKI, said:
“The new Charity Governance Code has been refreshed and is published today, Monday 3 November. It sets a clear path for stronger governance, greater transparency and a commitment to equity and inclusion. The Institute sits on the steering group responsible for developing and maintaining the Code, ensuring that it continues to provide a strong, practical framework for boards and trustees. Alongside the revised Code, we will be releasing an Institute toolkit to help charities and governance professionals embed the principles effectively and confidently.
“I encourage all charities to embrace it as a catalyst for continuous improvement and positive change.”
You can read the official press release about the publication of the code here
And you can order your free Charity Code toolkit here