Blog - Reporting vs Reassuring

We often talk about ‘reporting’ to the trustees when, as trustees, what we’re really asking for is reassurance that:

• the leadership team are doing a good job;
• the current business has no concerns;
• if there are concerns, there is a plan to address them;
• there is an opportunity for employees to participate in some way;
• there is a future direction of travel that is progressing.

‘Reporting’ feels like there is homework that was set by the trustees for them to mark.

In practice, the trustees do not direct the leadership team, delegate trust responsibilities or instruct leaders in their role.

Conversely, the leadership team may delegate into the business – operations, delivery, projects, sales, initiatives, actions. This creates a need for reporting on progress and agreement or approval. There is a clear reporting line that needs evidence of its application

For trustees, reporting is needed on reserved matters, those items that need trustee input and approval. Everything else is reassurance.