Probity

Trustees should be aware of the issues that might arise if they accept gifts or hospitality whilst on the charity’s business. 

Trustees have a duty to act in the best interests of the charity and its beneficiaries. They must avoid situations where their personal interests conflict with their duty to the charity, unless they have been authorised. Trustees can only benefit from the charity if it is allowed by law or authorised in the charity’s governing document.

The receipt of gifts or hospitality by a trustee might lead to a conflict of interest. It might be perceived as having an influence over the decisions of the board or interpreted as an unauthorised personal benefit.

Trustees should not accept gifts or hospitality in their capacity as a trustee unless it has been authorised. The trustee board should consider carefully any decision to authorise the receipt of gifts or hospitality. 

A decision to authorise the receipt of gifts or hospitality should take into account the duty of trustees to act in the best interests of the charity and restrictions over trustees receiving benefits. Trustees might decide to draw up a probity policy or to include provisions in the code of conduct to ensure consistent decisions are made.