Conflicts of interest policy template

How to use this: complete it and check it against your governing document, which may set specific rules. Set up an actual conflicts register alongside the policy, and have trustees adopt it.

Conflicts of interest policy — [Charity name]

1. What a conflict is
   A conflict of interest arises when a trustee's duty to act in [Charity name]'s
   best interests could be affected by a personal interest — financial or a
   competing loyalty. Both actual and potential conflicts are covered.

2. Declaring interests
   Trustees declare interests on appointment, keep a conflicts register reviewed
   regularly, and declare any relevant interest at the start of the meeting item.

3. Handling a conflict
   A trustee with a conflict withdraws from the discussion and decision and does
   not vote on it; the minutes record this. [CHECK GOVERNING DOCUMENT for rules
   on quorum and voting.]

4. Trustee benefits
   Any payment or benefit to a trustee or connected person will only be made where
   properly authorised. [CHECK governing document / Commission authority.]

5. Review
   Trustees adopt and review this policy [annually]. Adopted: [date].