Introduction

CVS Inverclyde (CVSI) is committed to transparent, accountable, and effective governance. Our structure ensures that we act in the best interests of Inverclyde’s third sector, providing reliable support and strong leadership across all areas of our work.

Our Governance Support

CVSI operates as the area’s Third Sector Interface, with a governance model designed to represent, strengthen and sustain local charities, social enterprises, and voluntary organisations.

Governance Surgeries

We offer dedicated governance surgeries weekly for organisations that would benefit from focused, one-to-one support. These sessions provide space to discuss your governing document, board roles, policies, or any governance questions you may have.

Our team can help you:

·      Review or refresh your governance arrangements.

·      Clarify trustee and committee responsibilities.

·      Identify gaps in safeguarding, risk, policies and procedures.

·      Plan next steps for strengthening your board.

Governance surgeries are available to local voluntary organisations, social enterprises, and charities at any stage of their development.

Governance Health Checks

Our governance health checks offer a practical way to understand how well your voluntary organisation is operating and where improvements can be made. These reviews are supportive, not evaluative — the focus is on helping your organisation strengthen its structures and practices.

Health checks are tailored to your organisation’s size, purpose, and stage of development. A governance health check can help you:

·      Assess whether your governing document is still fit for purpose.

·      Review how decisions are made and recorded.

·      Consider board skills, roles, and succession planning.

·      Check essential policies and compliance requirements.

·      Identify simple, achievable actions to improve governance.

Governance Workshops and Sessions

We deliver practical workshops and group sessions designed to help voluntary organisations build confidence and strengthen their approach to governance. These sessions bring people together to learn, share experiences, and explore the essentials of running an effective organisation.

Our workshops cover topics such as:

·      Understanding trustee roles and responsibilities.

·      Organisations -  start up sessions.

·      Trustee conflict and resolution workshops.

·      Financial governance and accountability.

·      Planning for board development and succession.

Sessions are interactive, accessible, and suitable for new groups as well as established organisations seeking to refresh their knowledge.

Inverclyde Chairs Network

Inverclyde Chairs Network brings together chairs, vice chairs and aspiring chairs from across Inverclyde’s third sector. This peer group offers a supportive space to share experiences, explore challenges, and strengthen leadership practice.

Through facilitated discussions and learning sessions, the network helps chairs:

·      Build confidence in their leadership role.

·      Strengthen chairing and facilitation skills.

·      Navigate governance challenges and complex decision-making.

·      Learn from sector peers and emerging good practice.

·      Connect with others providing strategic leadership across Inverclyde.

The network meets regularly and is open to chairs of charities, voluntary organisations, and social enterprises.

Our Commitment to the Sector

Our governance approach ensures that CVSI is a trusted partner for Inverclyde’s third sector. We aim to lead by example, supporting local organisations to build strong governance of their own.

For more information about governance or our organisational structure, please get in touch with our team.

Governance Wiki

The GovernanceWiki provides easy-to-understand guidance on key governance topics, offering clear explanations, definitions, and practical steps for boards and committees. Designed as a quick-reference tool, it supports trustees, office bearers, and those new to governance to build confidence in key areas.

The Wiki includes:

·      Advice on getting started with governance principles and early actions for new organisations.

·      Operational guidance on employment, safeguarding, and health and safety.

·      Social enterprise guidance on Community Interest Companies and charitable companies.

·      Trustee duties – roles, responsibilities, and practical guidance.

·      Links - to further support, templates, and resources.

The Governance Wiki is continually updated to reflect emerging issues, legislative changes, and sector learning.