SARAH JANE LEIGH CHARITABLE TRUST

CHARITY CONSTITUTION

1. Name

The name of the charity is Sarah Jane Leigh Charitable Trust (“the Charity”).


2. Charitable Status

The Charity is established as an unincorporated charitable association and is governed by this Constitution.


3. Objects

The Charity’s objects are to relieve the needs of children, young people, families, and carers affected by poor mental health, social disadvantage, trauma, or emotional distress, for the public benefit, by:

  • Supporting mental health, emotional wellbeing, and resilience through therapeutic, creative, educational, and community-based programmes

  • Working in partnership with charities, schools, community organisations, and mental health professionals

  • Providing or funding safe spaces, supported activities, and services that promote inclusion, confidence, and personal development

  • Offering such additional support as the Trustees determine to be appropriate and consistent with the Charity’s purposes


4. Application of Income and Property

The income and property of the Charity shall be applied solely towards the promotion of its objects.

No part of the Charity’s income or property shall be paid or transferred directly or indirectly by way of profit to Trustees or members, except:

  • Reimbursement of reasonable expenses properly incurred

  • Trustee indemnity insurance permitted by law


5. Benefits and Payments to Trustees

Trustees may not receive any financial benefit from the Charity unless permitted by charity law and authorised in accordance with Charity Commission guidance.

Any conflict of interest must be declared, recorded, and managed appropriately.


6. Trustees
  • The Charity shall have a minimum of three Trustees

  • Trustees are responsible for the management, governance, and strategic direction of the Charity

  • Trustees serve fixed terms and may be re-appointed


7. Powers of Trustees

The Trustees may:

  • Raise funds and accept donations and grants

  • Enter partnerships with other charities and organisations

  • Commission services and projects aligned with the Charity’s objects

  • Employ staff or engage consultants where appropriate

  • Manage finances, open bank accounts, and maintain reserves

  • Do all lawful things necessary to further the Charity’s objects


8. Meetings
  • Trustees shall meet as required, with a minimum of one meeting per year

  • Decisions are made by majority vote

  • A quorum is two Trustees or one-third of the total Trustees, whichever is greater


9. Conflicts of Interest

Trustees must declare any personal or financial interest and withdraw from related discussions and decisions.


10. Accounts and Reporting

The Trustees shall ensure proper accounts are kept and submitted in accordance with the Charities Act 2011 and Charity Commission regulations.


11. Amendments

This Constitution may be amended by a resolution passed by at least two-thirds of Trustees, subject to Charity Commission consent where required.


12. Dissolution

If the Charity is dissolved, remaining assets shall be transferred to one or more charities with similar objects.
No assets shall be distributed to Trustees or members.


13. Interpretation

References to legislation include any statutory modification or re-enactment.