TRAINING FOR CHAIRPERSONS
The Chair is a key person who should provide some leadership and be a facilitator in order for the group to function and operate effectively. Chair's main role is to ensure that the meeting is conducted in an effective and efficient manner, and its purposes are achieved. The Chair needs to ask questions to draw out the quieter members and those with special expertise, and handle members who monopolies discussions or criticize others.
Their responsibilities should include:
- Regular attendance and chairing at ‘group' meetings
- Planning and preparation, with the Secretary & other appropriate people, Including adequate notification of the meeting
- Making sure the purpose of the meeting is clear, and that it is achieved, as well as agreeing the its length.
- Conducting meetings efficiently, and controlling discussion without monopolizing it
- At the start of the meeting, mention ‘ground rules', if appropriate (ie. respect for each others' opinions, listening and not ‘talking over' others)
- Making sure that everyone has the chance to air his or her views
- Making sure the meeting keeps to time
- Making sure the meeting is properly recorded by the Secretary, and agreeing note/minutes afterwards
- Achieving a good balance between formal business & informal, to maintain interest
Chairpersons should ENJOY THEIR ROLE. It is a responsibility, but can be very rewarding when a group performs well and is making progress! It is also a fantastic opportunity for career and personal development, allowing the Chair to learn new skills, and gain different experiences and insights.
TRAINING FOR CAG TREASURERS
The CAG project is managed by Resource Futures who is accountable for the funds spent on the Project. The CAG project is currently funded by OCC; therefore we are accountable for public money.
Role of a treasurer
- Keep financial records
- Report back to the group on money matters
- Claim annual CAG maintenance grant - the grant is not automatic, it needs claiming!
- Receive money from events and pay money into bank
- Pay cheques and petty cash (if used) ensuring members are not out of pocket for their voluntary work
- Submit annual account records to CAG project - The CAG financial year runs from 1st April to 31st March.Accounts should be returned to the CAG Project Manager as soon as possible after the end of the financial year.
- Submit application for funding for special projects
- May source other funding if the CAG requires more funds
- CAG Project officers will be happy to help you set up a bank account and spread sheets for accounts.
RISK ASSESSMENTS
Many people confuse the meaning of HAZARD and RISK. This is quite understandable; as if you look up the definition in a dictionary you will find that the words are nearly always interchangeable. However from what we have recently learnt from Health & Safety Law
HAZARD - Is something with the potential to cause harm
RISK - Is the likelihood of it actually causing harm. This is quantified in terms of the probability and severity of the injury
Take ELECTRICITY as an example of a HAZARD If:
The person is untrained
The tool is mains powered
The equipment is damaged
You are working in the rain
The RISK is HIGH and almost certain to cause injury which could quite likely prove fatal!
However, if:
The person is competent
The tool is battery powered
The equipment is in good condition
You are working indoors
The RISK is extremely LOW - It is easy to see the difference in this example
For details of carrying out full risk assessments contact the CAG Project
For Further information:
Contact the CAG Project Manager
Email Simon Kenton