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Constitutions
Some
local inter faith bodies have a simple ‘statement of aims’. Others
adopt more formal constitutions. It is particularly important for
organisations which are ‘representative’ in nature to have a
constitution. [The Inter Faith Network can provide sample
constitutions and give the addresses of local groups or councils in
your region which can share their experiences in working one out for
their organisation.]
The
process of agreeing and writing down the body’s aims and procedures
is very important for bodies with multi faith membership because it is
part of proceeding with care and respect for each other’s views. The
discussion process actually has the potential to foster greater
understanding and, if carried out well, it will actually contribute to
the development of relationships of trust among those engaged in the
task.
Constitutions need to cover such matters as:
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aims of the organisation (often called ‘objects’)
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powers (ie what the body can do to achieve its objects)
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membership eligibility
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procedures for AGMs and other meetings of members
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rights and duties of members
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election of appointment of committee members and their
duties
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appointment of office bearers such as chairperson and
secretary
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arrangements for determining classes of membership and
subscriptions
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procedures for constitutional amendment
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procedures for winding up the organisation and
disposing of its assets
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Constitutions, once agreed, need to be reviewed from time to time.
Local inter faith bodies vary widely in their chosen working methods
and their constitutions reflect this. For this reason, the Inter Faith
Network does not provide a ‘model’ constitution or recommend the
constitutions of particular existing bodies. Organisations developing
constitutions need to do so in ways which reflect their own choices about
aims and methods and desired pattern of membership and officer
structure. The Local Inter Faith Guide gives detailed information
about these areas. However, in case helpful, the constitutions
of a number of different local inter faith bodies are provided here as
examples. The Charity Commission also provide
a basic model constitution for charitable unincorporated associations
Useful Links
National Council
of Voluntary Organisations
Charity
Commission
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