The Board’s Role in Safeguarding Public Trust

In today’s climate of increased scrutiny, transparency, and expectations, public trust is the single most valuable currency a charity holds. It fuels donations, volunteerism, community support, and goodwill among regulators.

But trust isn't guaranteed — it's earned, monitored, and safeguarded. And at the heart of that responsibility lies the board.

For Irish charities, safeguarding public trust isn’t just good governance — it’s a legal and ethical obligation. The Charities Governance Code sets out clear expectations, but how a board embraces those standards determines whether trust is truly upheld… or quietly eroded.

In recent months, we’ve seen how quickly reputations can unravel when governance fails to keep pace with risk. These aren’t just cautionary tales — they’re reminders of the board’s critical role in protecting both mission and mandate.

Why Public Trust Matters More Than Ever

Public sentiment can shift quickly. A lapse in oversight, a conflict of interest left unaddressed, or even the perception of poor decision-making can cast long shadows.

In the age of social media and instant news cycles, stakeholders — from donors to funders to volunteers — expect more than noble intentions. They expect clarity, integrity, and proactive leadership.

When the public trusts a charity, they believe in its purpose. When they doubt its governance, everything else — funding, partnerships, and impact — is put at risk.

Where Boards Make the Difference

Boards hold both the mandate and the power to set the tone for how an organisation behaves, communicates, and navigates challenges. A well-informed, well-equipped board doesn’t just minimise risk — it models accountability from the top down.

Here’s where they play a decisive role:

• Accountability: Are responsibilities clear? Are board members holding themselves and senior leadership accountable?
• Transparency: Are key decisions documented, risks reported, and policies up-to-date and visible?
• Risk Oversight: Is a functioning risk register in place? Does the board understand and own emerging risks?
• Culture & Conduct: Does the board model ethical leadership, respectful conduct, and open dialogue?
• Engagement: Are board members connected to stakeholders, including staff, volunteers, beneficiaries, and funders?

5 Practical Ways Boards Can Safeguard Trust

1. Conduct Regular Board Evaluations: Use tools to evaluate board performance, identify skills gaps, and assess effectiveness.
2. Maintain a Live Risk Register: Keep it current, review quarterly, and ensure mitigations are realistic and owned.
3. Disclose More, Not Less: Share impact reports, board minutes (as appropriate), and challenges, not just achievements.
4. Invest in Governance Tech: Platforms like BoardX help automate compliance tracking, flag issues early, and give boards real-time oversight.
5. Build a Governance Culture: Governance isn’t just policy — it’s a mindset. Encourage curiosity, challenge, and promote ongoing board learning.

Public trust is hard-earned and easily lost. For charities, it's the foundation of everything. Boards that see governance as a living, breathing responsibility — not just a checkbox — will lead with clarity, courage, and credibility. And in doing so, they don’t just protect the organisation — they strengthen the entire sector.

About BoardX

BoardX is an Irish-built GRC platform tailored for not-for-profits. We help boards automate compliance, manage risk, and demonstrate governance in action. Learn more at www.boardx.io.

Written by:
Rita Martin, CRO - Keynote Speaker- BoardX. 

Let’s Connect – Business Meeting with Rita @ https://calendly.com/rita-martin-boardx