Hillcroft is a company limited by guarantee and a registered charity. The Members of the Council are the directors of the company and as such are registered at Companies House.

Hillcroft’s objects and rules by which it is governed are set out in the Memorandum and Articles of Association.

The Council has a set of Standing Orders which are the rules by which it operates. In addition there is a Code of Conduct for members, and each committee has clear terms of reference. All members are required to declare financial and other interests, which are held by the Clerk in a Register open to inspection. In addition eligibility is confirmed on appointment.

Members are normally appointed for a term of 3 years initially, and this is renewable for another 3 years. There is discretion on occasion for a maximum service of 9 years.

The Council meets 3 times per year. In addition the Council has a number of committees:

• Finance and General Purposes Committee (meets 3 times a year)
• Quality and Standards Committee (meets twice a year)
• Audit Committee (meets 3 times a year)
• Governance and Search Committee (meets 3 times a year)
• Human Resources and Remuneration Committee (meets 3 times a year)
• Property Project Board (meets monthly)

Members of the Council are expected to serve on at least one of these committees. Governors are also invited to social events and encouraged to link with staff in the areas of Hillcroft’s work that most interests them.