We’ve updated Safe and Sound accreditation for local charities!

Author's position
RVA Advice Service Manager
Article date
11 December 2024
Primary interest
Voluntary sector

We’re pleased to announce we have updated our materials for RVA Safe and Sound – Reading’s very own accreditation for charities seeking to work towards good governance.

What’s in the updated materials?

The Safe and Sound accreditation involves a self assessment that trustees primarily work through at their own pace followed by a consultation with the RVA Advice Manager, to identify areas of good practice and where improvements could be made to improve the charity’s governance. This accreditation is free of charge for local charities, funded by the Early Charity.

We have updated the self assessment booklet to include elements of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) that run through all of the eight areas of Safe and Sound, from having confidence in how you are managed, engaging staff and volunteers and right through to keeping everyone safe. This will give local charities assurance that EDI is integral to the way in which they run their organisation and deliver their services.

Where can I find out more?

Take a look at our Safe and Sound accreditation information here.

What if I am new to charity accreditation? Where should I start?

RVA has introduced First Steps towards Safe and Sound, which is an ideal first step for any charity or community group delivering services in Reading that wishes to move towards good governance. This is not the full accreditation but a simple checklist to give you assurance that you have the very basics in place. We offer monthly introduction sessions alternating between online and in-person.

If you have any questions on either Safe and Sound or First Steps towards Safe and Sound, please get in touch with us at advice@rva.org.uk