A code of conduct can sometimes be helpful in ensuring committee meetings run smoothly. Committee members should consider agreeing to a set of guidelines for their meetings.

Some suggested guidelines include:

• If you are unable to attend, send your apologies to the secretary in advance of the meeting.

• Start the meeting on time.

• Put your phone on silent.

• Follow the agenda and discuss only committee business.

• One person speaking at a time.

• Address questions through the Chair.

• Make constructive contributions to group meetings.

• Read any paperwork in advance of committee meetings.

• Be aware of confidentiality where appropriate, and do not share committee business outside of the group.

• Allow everyone to have their say.

• Respect everyone’s view, especially if it is different from yours. This will reduce the likelihood of conflict.

• Adhere to the Constitution.

• Ensure the workload is shared among committee members.

• If you agree to do something, ensure you do it.

• Undertake training as/when required to enable you to fulfil your role.

• Any work undertaken in the name of the committee is the responsibility of all committee members.  For this reason, it is important for members to share updates at committee meetings, seek approval for decisions and always be mindful of the organisation's purpose.

• Be aware of Charity Commission NI public benefit guidance.

• Be aware of Charity Commission NI registration and annual returns (as required).

• Ensure decisions are made by the committee at committee meetings. This will ensure decisions are properly discussed and recorded. Respect any decisions that are made as a group.

• Keep up to date on income/expenditure and ongoing funding/new funding applications.

• Declare any conflicts of interest (when an individual’s personal interests - family, friendships, financial, or social factors - could compromise their judgment, decisions, or actions).