2.0 The basics
Introduction for New Members to Management Committee or Board
Joining a management committee or board is an important way you can give your community the benefit of your commitment and skills. However, committee membership is not just about giving; there is a great deal of satisfaction to be gained from working as a group and seeing the practical results of your efforts. Being a new management committee member can sometimes feel daunting. This collection of basic information includes key documents you may find useful.
It includes information on the bigger picture of the Council structure, and who the elected members are. We have also included information on ‘who’s who’ in the Connected Communities department of the Council, with contact details.
Management Committees or Boards have constitutions and yours will be particular to your Building. The constitution is a legal document which states how your committee/board will be run. For example, it may say how many members are needed to hold a quorate meeting (i.e. one that has the power to make decisions), how often you need to meet and how Annual General Meetings will be conducted.
A management committee/board normally produces an Annual Report. This gives an account of what has been happening during the year along with details of the building income and expenditure
The papers you have been given will include the constitution and latest Annual Report, as well as information on the building’s programme. If not, you could ask for copies of these.
The Basics is part of a larger reference pack, which you can dip into at a later date when you feel you want information on particular topics.
The good news is that you are not alone. Volunteer Centre East Lothian (VCEL) and the Connected Communities Team can support you with advice and training where required.