Keep between the flags

Good trust governance requires diligence.  The Collins dictionary defines diligence as ‘careful and persevering in carrying out tasks or duties’.

Diligence in my mind is found at the junction of mindset and conduct. 

Trustees with the right mindset know what they’re responsible for, know what’s going on, and give matters at hand the proper care, consideration and attention. 

That’s essential if you're prepared to take on responsibility for other people interests. 

Knowing the right thing to do is one thing. To be diligent you need to be doing the right thing as well. 

Sometimes when you’re busy or too close to things, you don’t always recognise exactly what situation you’re in, which options are available or whether you should ask for help.

It’s a bit like swimming between the flags. You still need to raise a hand if you need help.

Well-meaning professional trustees can't keep pushing on hoping things will get better or that they will get on to it 'someday'.

That 'someday' never arrives.

If you need a hand, raise one and move from good intention to good practice

Trust good practice.

Lindsay