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Short answer: a charity’s general liability policy may not protect trustees against every allegation about management decisions. Trustee or directors’ and officers’ cover, where arranged, is a distinct section with its own insured persons, triggers, exclusions and limits.
Separate operational liability from governance
Public liability may concern injury or property damage involving third parties. Employers’ liability concerns specified legal liability to employees. Allegations that a trustee breached duties, mismanaged funds or made an improper governance decision may raise a different question. Check whether the policy includes management liability and whether it covers trustees, committee members, officers and volunteers in the roles they actually perform.
Review exclusions for known circumstances, deliberate acts, fines or penalties, and claims between insured parties. The charity’s legal form, funding agreements and activities may affect what needs to be declared. Keep governance minutes, delegated authority records, conflict declarations and financial controls in good order.
Questions for a broker
- Which people and entities are insured?
- Does cover apply to current, former and newly appointed trustees?
- What is the claims-made basis and notification process?
- Are safeguarding, advice, fundraising and event activities declared?
Explore Insure24’s business insurance information and contact the broker with the charity’s structure and activities. Insure24 is not the insurer; actual cover depends on the policy wording.
General information only. Seek appropriate legal advice on trustee duties.
Common questions
Does this article replace insurance advice?
No. It is general guidance only. The right policy still depends on the business activity, contracts, locations, turnover, staff, assets, claims history and insurer wording.
What information should I prepare before asking for quotes?
Prepare turnover, wage roll, activities, locations, contract requirements, claims history, asset values, existing policy details and any deadlines for evidence of cover.
Where should I go next?
Use the main Charity Commercial Insurance page if you are ready to compare quote-led cover options or talk through the risk with Insure24.