You can use this exercise to show groups the benefits of
effective governance. It also introduces two resources: Good
Governance: a Code for the Voluntary and Community Sector, and
the National Occupational Standards for Trustees (both
from the Governance Hub).
Preparation
- Have a look through both the Good Governance Code and the
National Occupational Standards for Trustees to update yourself. If
you can't find them at your work, they are at
www.governancehub.org.uk
- Print off the 23
governance statement cards (use coloured paper for bigger
impact).
- Fold each of the cards in half, with the writing on the
outside.
With the group…
- Introduce the idea of effective governance, including the Good
Governance Code and the National Occupational Standards for
Trustees. The
supporting information presentation can help with this.
- Have the governance statement cards in a pile in front of you.
Hold one up (with the "true" or "false" facing you!) and ask the
group if the statement is true or false.
- After they've guessed, turn the card round to reveal the right
answer.
- If they get the answer wrong, then explain why this is. There
are bullet points at the bottom of each card which you can use as a
prompt.
- If they get the answer right, talk the issue through. Again,
bullets at the bottom of the cards, plus the supporting information
may help.
- Screw up and throw the "false" cards in the bin.
- Stick the "true" cards up on the wall. You should end up with
11.
- Give the group a chance to read the "true" cards and either
offer support, or signpost them on to the Good Governance
Code and National Occupational Standards for Trustees
at
www.governancehub.org.uk
Variation for large groups, or for when you've got dominating
individuals…
Divide the whole group into teams of four or five, and run the
exercise the same way, but asking the teams if the cards are true
or false.
Keep a score and (if you've got the budget) give the winning team a
prize.
Don't forget to look at
hints and tips (Word, 29 KB).