Financial management

FAQ: search by topic

Each topic area provides detailed information covering basic definitions and concepts, FAQs and practical resources to help your organisation:

Financial strategy planning strategically and holistically to effectively manage your financial resources. Discover how to stay on mission through planning and monitoring your performance.
Budgeting why budget and how to do it. Learn how to identify and control potential problems before they spiral out of control.
Cashflow crisis and insolvency support advice and guidance to help you act on financial difficulties.
Accounting understanding your financial statements and preparing accounts. Compare the different models, tools and frameworks available and undertake an organisational health check.
Audit what to expect from an internal or external audit. Read and tailor a model terms of reference for an audit committee.
Full cost recovery learn more about the background and types of overhead costs. Discover a template to understand and calculate your full costs of projects, activities or services.
Managing financial resources getting the most from the resources you have. Learn how to implement, manage and evaluate procedures to maximise your performance.
Investment be aware of the options and methods available to manage your reserves. View a sample investment policy to compare and/or adapt.
Risk minimise financial risk and maximise your opportunities. Read a case study about implementing risk management.
Tax an introduction of the main issues surrounding the sector and taxation. Read about the different types of donor relief and the necessary requirements to ensure your success.

The Community Accountancy National Network (CANN) a variety of financial management services and support close to home.
Model job descriptions - Accountant, Internal Auditor, Finance Director, Treasurer, Financial Management Advisor.
External support - other organisations that provide financial management information.
Discount finance resources - special deals for voluntary organisations on a range of financial products and services.

We have a range of publications available

The Good Financial Management Guide for the Voluntary Sector - topics covered include: structuring the organisation for financial strength; budgeting; resource management; tax, accounts and financial management.
The Honorary Treasurer's Handbook - defines and outlines the key role of a treasurer.
Download The Guide to Financial Management from the Introductory Guide to Funding and Finance (PDF 758kb).
This includes further information, tools and examples on financial techniques and processes.