Charity Governance Code

The Charity Governance Code is what “good governance” looks like when written down. It is not law and no one enforces it, but it is the standard well-run boards measure themselves against — and the one an increasing number of funders ask about.

The current Charity Governance Code was published in 2025, a major refresh built on core principles, with more emphasis on board behaviours, culture and inclusion. (Source: charitygovernancecode.org, 2025 edition; NCVO, accessed 9 July 2026.) It works on an ‘apply or explain’ basis: you adopt the principles that fit and explain where you take a different path. Versions are pitched at different charity sizes so the expectations stay proportionate.

Use it as a yearly health-check for your board rather than a one-off. Pair it with a risk register and clear trustee roles, and see the Trustee & Governance Handbook.