Equality and diversity and the board

Equality is an important principle for charities and trustee boards.

Trustees have legal responsibilities in this area, mainly in relation to discrimination in employment, the provision of services. Trustees must take expert advice if they wish to restrict employment or service opportunities in a way that might be discriminating. 

The board can also follow equality and diversity principles within its own role and functioning. For example, boards might consider

• the recruitment of new trustees – does the board ensure that vacancies are promoted as widely as possible?
• the involvement of users at board level – as trustees or in an advisory capacity
• the accessibility of board meetings – when and where meetings are held and the support given to board members.