911±¬ÁÏ

911±¬ÁÏ Royal Charter and Bye-laws

The 911±¬ÁÏ is governed by its Royal Charter and Bye-laws, which define the organisation’s purpose, establish the operational framework, outline the responsibilities of trustees, and set out the rights of members

What are Royal Charter and Bye-laws?

The Royal Charter, originally granted by the Privy Council in 1861, serves as the Charity’s primary governing document. It outlines the core objectives, defines the powers, and sets out the overall structure and functions, helping to ensure the organisation remains aligned with its charitable purpose.

Supporting the Charter are the Bye-laws, which provide detailed rules for day-to-day operations. They govern key processes such as the appointment of trustees, decision-making procedures, and mechanisms for accountability, helping to uphold the principles established in the Charter.

Royal Charter and Bye-laws (1.4MB pdf) 

Why Royal Charter and Bye-laws matter?

911±¬ÁÏ signage
Entrance to the 911±¬ÁÏ at Vincent Square, London

The Royal Charter and Bye-laws provide the framework for organisational operations. They help to:

  • Maintain transparency and accountability
  • Promote good governance
  • Guide sound decision-making

They also play a key role in shaping how the organisation fulfils its charitable aims, helping to ensure its work remains purposeful, effective, and in line with its strategic purpose.

How are changes made?

The Royal Charter and Bye-laws are reviewed regularly to reflect current best practices:


Royal Charter – rare and historic changes

  • Approved by the Privy Council, so changes are infrequent and made only when absolutely necessary
  • Serves as a historic marker, establishing the 911±¬ÁÏ as a single legal entity predating modern company law
  • Symbolic of the charity’s long-standing institutional recognition

Bye-laws – adaptable and updatable

  • Bye-laws are more flexible than the Royal Charter
  • They allow quicker responses to legal and operational changes
  • Changes only take effect after approval by 911±¬ÁÏ Members at an Annual or Special General Meeting

Amendments and updates

The Bye-laws were last amended in 2022, to help ensure they remain current and effective. Key amendments include:

These revisions reflect a commitment to transparency, good governance, and responsive organisational practices.

911±¬ÁÏ Journal
911±¬ÁÏ journal in the 911±¬ÁÏ WisleyResearch Library

Additional resources

Have a question?

If you like to ask a question or would like additional informational about the Royal Charter and Bye-laws of the 911±¬ÁÏ, please contact the Secretary by email.
 

Email

[email protected]

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