29 Oct 2014
This year the Trustees attended a full two day meeting in September. The overall discussion was not specifically on the strategic objectives and actions, but more concerned with addressing the continuing deficits over the past few years which have depleted the general reserves. BoT agreed to work towards an operating deficit target of £200k for 2015 with the aim of reducing this to a break even budget in 2016.
At the meeting, Trustees were reminded of their responsibilities and it was emphasised that it was vital that they follow the principles as laid out by the Charity Commission: 'Trustees must act reasonably and prudently in all matters relating to the charity and must always bear in mind that their prime concern is the charity’s interests.'
Two small working parties were formed at the meeting. One to help inform the Trustees, at their next meeting in November, on how to progress with reducing the deficit and on how SCI could be run more efficiently. The other group would look at potential high calibre candidates to take on the role of the new Honorary President for SCI at the next AGM.
During the meeting the Group Officers' conference was approved to go ahead in 2015. This would be held on Thursday 15 January at SCI in London and should be a perfect opportunity for Group officers to put their opinions and ideas forward.
BoT is presently looking at improving its networking with collaborative organisations by assigning trustees and advisory committee members who are best suited to be SCI representatives, to this role. The members so far identified already have a good working relationship with a number of these organisations.
The refurbishment at SCI is drawing to an end and although it has been a long process, the improvements are evident. It was reported that Dame Sally Davies, Chief Medical Officer for England who presented at the Public Evening Lecture in September, was 'overwhelmed' with our lovely refurbished auditorium.
Dr Jack Melling
Chairman, Board of Trustees
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