Charity Policy

1. Purpose

   This policy establishes the framework for the ethical, legal and operational responsibilities of The Lavender Touch. It ensures compliance with applicable laws, promotes transparency and upholds the highest standards of integrity in all charitable activities.

2. Mission Statement

   The Lavender Touch is dedicated to supporting people who live in the Scottish Borders through their cancer experience, whether that person is the individual themselves or their family caring for them. We strive to make a meaningful impact by working with communities, donors and partners to create sustainable change.

3. Governance & Compliance

   1. The charity shall be governed by a Board of Trustees responsible for strategic oversight, financial accountability and legal compliance.
   2. The charity shall comply with all relevant laws and regulations, detailed in Appendix A.
   3. Regular audits and reports shall be conducted to ensure transparency and accountability.

4. Ethical Fundraising & Donations

   1. All fundraising activities shall be conducted ethically, honestly and in compliance with legal standards.
   2. Donations must align with the charity’s mission and values.
   3. The charity will not accept donations from sources that compromise its integrity or independence.
   4. Financial records related to fundraising shall be maintained transparently and made available for review upon request.

5. Financial Management

   1. All funds shall be used solely for charitable purposes as defined by the organisation’s mission.
   2. A detailed financial plan, including budgets and expenditure policies, shall be maintained.
   3. The charity shall ensure that administrative costs are reasonable and proportionate to the funds raised.
   4. Annual financial statements shall be audited by an independent auditor.

6. Conflict of Interest

   1. Trustees, staff and volunteers must disclose any conflicts of interest that may influence their decision making.
   2. Any individual with a conflict of interest shall abstain from decision making processes related to the conflict.

7. Volunteer & Staff Responsibilities

   1. Volunteers and staff must adhere to the highest ethical standards in their work.
   2. All personnel shall undergo appropriate training related to the charity’s mission and policies.
   3. The charity shall foster a workplace culture of respect, inclusion and non discrimination.

Our Values

Compassion

We approach each service user, volunteer, therapist, employee and member of the public with genuine care and warmth, recognising their dignity and worth.

Community

We are deeply connected to the people and place of the Scottish Borders, acting as loyal partners through challenges and opportunities.

Understanding

We strive to truly listen and learn from others’ experiences, creating a culture of inclusion where everyone feels seen, heard and valued.

Trustworthy

We earn trust through honesty, integrity and consistency, remaining a charity people can depend on.

Person‑focused

We place people at the heart of everything we do, rooting our work in dignity and empowerment.

8. Data Protection & Confidentiality

   The charity shall comply with relevant data protection laws, ie GDPR, when collecting and processing personal information. Donor, beneficiary and staff data shall be handled with strict confidentiality and used only for legitimate purposes.

9. Anti‑Fraud & Corruption Measures

   The charity maintains a zero tolerance policy toward fraud, corruption and mismanagement of funds. Any suspected misconduct shall be reported and investigated.

10. Public Relations & Communications

    All external communications, including marketing and public statements, shall reflect the charity’s values and mission accurately. The charity shall be transparent about its activities, impact and use of funds in reports and public disclosures.

11. Review & Amendments

    This policy shall be reviewed annually by the Board of Trustees to ensure it remains relevant and effective. Any amendments must be approved by the Board and communicated to stakeholders.

Appendix A

• The Charities Act
• Trading Standards
• RIDDOR
• Charity Commission Serious Incident Reporting
• HSE: Charities
• HSE: H&SW made simple
• HSE: H&SW policy
• HSE: H&SW toolbox
• Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005
• Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR)
• The Charities (Regulation and Administration) (Scotland) Act 2023
• Fundraising Regulator’s Code of Fundraising Practice
• The Charities Accounts (Scotland) Regulations 2006
• Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP)