By Claire Racine

Charities are increasingly feeling the impact of the recession - and doing nothing is no longer an option, according to the Charity Commission.

In response, the Commission and CBI are launching the Big Board Talk, an initiative to get all charities to ask themselves some serious questions.

The direct result of an extensive four-month programme of outreach and research by the Commission, the Big Board Talk covers the key areas where charities are most vulnerable asking 15 questions to help trustee boards make decisions.

“The survival of our charities depends on their having the courage to ask themselves some fundamental questions,” said Andrew Hind, the Commission’s chief executive.

“Asking these key questions will help trustee boards review their options, make the hard decisions and enable them to have a clear understanding of the challenges they face and the best ways to tackle them,” he said.

No organisation, whether business or charity, will survive difficult economic times without those in charge seriously looking at their financial health, direction and whether they’re making the best use of resources.

Businesses all over have to make changes, focussing on core activities and “stripping out the nice-to-haves,” said Richard Lambert, CBI director-general.

Charities have an additional problem because the demand for their services is highest during economic hardships; however, “the Big Board Talk provides sound advice that will help trustees take the steps necessary to protect the vital services they offer,” Lambert added.

Rob Wilde, general manager of West Yorkshire Forget Me Not Trust, feels that the Big Board Talk is a great tool for his team and trustees alike.

“Efficiency and effectiveness are key right now,” Wilde said. “So, while the workload of our small fundraising team can make us too focused on the 'day job', this checklist helps us review our operations and monitor the bigger picture."

“The economic downturn – 15 questions trustees need to ask” is available from the Commission’s website at www.charitycommission.gov.uk.

This week it will be sent in the Commission’s newsletter to each of the 190,000 charities registered in England & Wales.