Page 98 - Demo
P. 98
inundated with applications that are simply not suitable or able to be considered. The guidelines should also make clear the mandatory information needed if the application is to be processed, the next stages and an indication of the time that may elapse between the application being received and a decision being made.
While an application form assists with fairness and transparency, charity trustees should remember that this works in both directions – an applicant that trustees turn down may well ask for feedback and an explanation of why they were not successful.
Even if not inviting applications, it is worth devising your own internal form on which you record much of the information you would expect on an application form about those you are considering giving money to. This will enable you to have all information to hand and make judgements between different projects or charities.
WHAT IS MEANT BY THE INITIAL ASSESSMENT OF THE APPLICATION?
When an application is received, it is sensible to carry out some initial basic checks on the information contained therein and so avoid unnecessary delays and the danger or processing the application only to discover at a later date that some crucial information is missing. The types of check to consider at this stage are as follows:
Has the application form been completed fully?
Does the application meet the criteria set out by the charity for the types
or causes it will support?
Does the application meet any other eligibility criteria set out by the charity?
Do you have the necessary supplementary information?
Has a set of accounts been provided?
Does the application warrant further assessment and due diligence?
Although not essential, it is often helpful to develop a form of checklist of questions to be answered when carrying out the initial assessment of the application. The checklist can then be completed and attached to the application form.
94 Chapter 5
