Responsibilities and Duties Of Charity Trustees in Sport

As foundations and charitable organisations across sport continue to grow, the legal responsibilities placed on trustees have become increasingly complex. Yet many boards still operate without fully understanding their duties—or the serious consequences of getting governance wrong. Late filings, conflicts of interest, inadequate safeguarding policies and resource mismanagement aren't just administrative oversights; they can trigger Charity Commission investigations and, in the worst cases, threaten an organisation's existence.

This article summarises a recent LawInSport webinar on the practical realities of charity trusteeship in sport. Whether you're a current trustee, considering a board role, or advising sports charities professionally, the discussion offers clear guidance on the six core duties every trustee must understand—and how skills-based governance, proactive compliance, and proper risk management can help your organisation deliver genuine impact whilst maintaining legal integrity.

The speakers were:

• Gary Stannett MBE, CEO, Rio Ferdinand Foundation
• Joseph Hobbins, Solicitor, HCR Hewitsons
• Sean Cottrell, CEO, LawInSport - Moderator

The topics discussed were:

• Understanding Your Role as a Charity Trustee
• The Evolution of Sports Foundation Governance
• Six Core Trustee Duties
  • Duty 1: Ensuring Eligibility and Acting in Accordance with the Charity's Purpose
  • Duty 2: Complying with the Governing Document and Surrounding Law
  • Duty 3: Acting in the Best Interests of the Charity
  • Duty 4: Ensuring Responsible Resource Management
  • Duty 5: Duty of Care - Using Reasonable Care and Skill
  • Duty 6: Ensuring Accountability and Compliance
• The Role of the Charity Commission
• Skills-Based Trustee Recruitment
• Trustee Benefits and Expenses
• Governance Structures and Sub-Committees
• Building Trust with Donors and the Public
• Practical Guidance and Resources
  • Skills Audits
  • Charity Governance Code
  • Dealing with Stringent Indemnity Clauses
  • The Charity Commission's Limitations
• Key Takeaways

You can view the full recording of the webinar here.