We are very pleased to announce that Reading Welfare Rights recently achieved the RVA Safe and Sound Quality Mark for charity good governance! Safe and Sound is an opportunity for charity trustees and managers to work through key areas of running a charity, receive advice on good practice from RVA, and reflect on any changes that may be needed legally or that may enhance their charity governance and management. This is a free service provided by RVA and funded through the Earley Charity. Here’s what Peter Kayes, Chair of Trustees and Matt Harrison, CEO had to say on achieving this award:
Tell us a little about the charity and what inspired you to get involved with the charity:
The Charity helps people secure the welfare benefits to which they are entitled, often after their initial claim to DWP has been rejected. It is a worthy cause and vital assistance to many people in desperate financial circumstances due to being unable to work or other issues such as poor health.
What encouraged you to apply for Safe and Sound?
As a charity we are totally dependent on grants and contract income so have to seek funds from organisations willing to support good causes. We do not charge our clients anything for our services for the obvious reason that they would not be able to afford it. To secure these grants, holding quality standards gives potential funders positive information about our charity to help them make their funding decisions.
As an example we have managed to secure a continuation call with the National Lottery Community Fund for when our current grant from them ends and they are particularly interested in progress, achievements and evidence of a quality service; obviously, achieving the Safe and Sound Quality Mark will help us to demonstrate that these standards are being met.
What did the process involve for the team?
Reviewing our constitution and company policies to ensure they meet the RVA Safe and Sound standard.
What benefits can you see for your charity from going through Safe and Sound?
Recognition of the quality of our operation by both clients and funders.
What were the highlights for you this year?
We secured an additional grant from another national fund giving organisation as well as securing a continuation contract from Reading Borough Council as a member of a Tackling Poverty Partnership with 6 other local charities who offer a range of complementary services and support to local residents.
Congratulations again to the whole team at Reading Welfare Rights for all their hard work and dedication not only to the services they deliver but for the good governance that they have in place behind the scenes, through their trustees and management.
Further information on Safe and Sound:
If your charity is interested in working towards good governance, RVA is holding an information session on First Steps towards Safe and Sound on 21 Sep 1pm-2pm. This session should ideally be attended by a Trustee or Manager of your charity. Book your free place here.