When a charity’s leadership stops pulling in the same direction, the damage can be swift and far‑reaching.
This month, the Charity Commission ordered a charity to elect a new board after what it described as a “severe breakdown in relationships between trustees”. It’s a stark reminder that even the most mission‑driven organisations can be brought to a standstill when trust and communication fail at the top.
Boardroom conflict isn’t just an internal issue
When trustees fall out, it’s not just awkward meetings and frosty emails.
- Strategic decisions stall.
- Staff morale takes a hit.
- Donors and funders lose confidence.
- The charity’s reputation takes a knock (sometimes in full public view).
From the high‑profile dispute at the Actors’ Benevolent Fund to complete board resignations in smaller charities, the pattern is clear: fractured leadership undermines the mission.
Trust is the cornerstone of good governance
The Charity Governance Code is clear: strong, respectful relationships between trustees and executives are essential. That means:
- Constructive challenge without personal animosity.
- Clear boundaries between strategic oversight and operational delivery.
- An open culture where issues are addressed before they escalate.
When these elements are missing, even minor disagreements can spiral into full‑blown governance crises.
How to keep your board united
1. Be clear on roles
Trustees govern. Executives deliver. Confusion here is a breeding ground for conflict.
2. Keep talking
Regular check‑ins between the Chair and CEO, outside of formal meetings, can defuse tension early.
3. Build a one‑team mindset
Trustees and staff should share ownership of successes and setbacks.
4. Keep skills fresh
Inductions, training, and periodic governance reviews strengthen the board’s collective ability to work well together.
5. Act on issues quickly
Don’t let personal grievances fester, as unresolved tension rarely fixes itself.
Lessons from the sector
| Case | What went wrong | The takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| Actors’ Benevolent Fund | Prolonged disputes delayed governance processes and created a toxic atmosphere | Transparent, fair processes help maintain trust |
| Sentebale | Governance clashes led to high‑profile resignations | Public fallouts can destabilise the whole organisation |
| Voluntary Sector Gateway | Entire board resigned after long‑term breakdown | Fractured trust erodes confidence from stakeholders and regulators |
Final thoughts
Healthy relationships at board level aren’t a “nice‑to‑have”, they’re the engine that keeps a charity moving forward. Without them, even the strongest mission can stall.
The good news? With clarity, communication, and a shared sense of purpose, boards can navigate disagreements without losing sight of the people and causes they serve.
