Rokpa Trust’s governance framework ensures that we operate with integrity, accountability, and in full compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and best practices. We are wholly committed to upholding legal and ethical standards with the wish to bring great benefit to all who are connected to our centres.
1. Governance Structure
Our Board of Trustees provides leadership, oversees operations, and ensures the charity’s long-term sustainability. The Trustees uphold principles of diversity, independence, and collective responsibility, meeting regularly to review performance, risks, and policies.
For Governance Structure, Related Parties and Policy on Conflicts of Interest:
2. Legal and Regulatory Compliance
As may be relevant, we comply with all legal and regulatory requirements as set out by the Charity Commission, the Scottish Charity Regulator, the Care Inspectorate, HMRC, and other relevant authorities. This includes adhering to financial reporting standards, safeguarding policies, data protection laws, and health and safety regulations. The Trustees are supported by a Legal Committee which is responsible to assist with legal and compliance matters, including the maintenance of the Trust’s policies and procedures.
3. Financial Accountability
We maintain robust financial controls to ensure all funds are managed with transparency and accountability. Anti-money laundering and anti-bribery and corruption policies are in place. Annual financial statements are prepared and independently audited in accordance with the required accounting standards, and regular internal reviews are conducted to monitor the efficiency and effectiveness of our operations. The Trustees are supported by a Finance Committee which oversees all the financial transactions of Rokpa Trust, and is responsible for liaison with the auditors.
4. Risk Management
The Trustees regularly review actual or potential risks or threats to the charity’s operations, reputation, or finances so that these are addressed proactively.
5. Ethical Conduct and Safeguarding
We are committed to ethical practices in all our activities, teachings and retreats, including safeguarding the welfare of vulnerable individuals who engage with the charity. We have clear policies and procedures in place to protect against harm, abuse, and exploitation. In particular, we have guidelines for teachings and teachers at Samye Ling and the Samye Dzongs. The teachings are from the Kagyu Lineage and there are restrictions on who may teach. Additionally, as Rokpa Trust provides facilities for retreats, we have a Policy for Retreats which provides safeguards to reduce any psychological or other risk.
We have a Policy as to Mindfulness Courses given at Samye Ling and Samye Dzongs. This makes it clear that Rokpa Trust does not provide training in secular mindfulness. Centres may offer facilities for mindfulness courses and other subjects such as Tai Chi or Yoga. Such course providers and tutors are independent of Rokpa Trust and carry their own insurance and any related complaints have to be addressed to them and not to Rokpa Trust. Independent course providers or tutors have to make it clear that they are not providing instruction on behalf of Rokpa Trust.
6. Transparency and Reporting
We are dedicated to maintaining an open and transparent relationship with our stakeholders, including beneficiaries, donors, regulators, and the public. Our annual report and audited financial statements are available at Companies House.