Handbook summary

What's in the handbook?

The handbook outlines the expectations that the law, the US Centre, and your community members have of you in your role as Chair.  The document also explains how you can get assistance from the United Synagogue’s professional team.

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Appendices to this document are integral to the Handbook. This Handbook outlines the responsibilities of the Executive and the Synagogue Council: these are supplied as a quick reference for Chairs. The core procedural responsibilities and authority of the Executive and Synagogue Council are set out in the Byelaws (which can be found at www.theus.org.uk/byelaws). These responsibilities are not exhaustive.

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Legal background to the handbook

• The United Synagogue (“US”) is a single charity. The US Trustees have responsibility to the Charity Commission under the Charities Act 2011 for the assets and activities of all of the US. Individual US member synagogues have no separate legal identity.

• The US Trustees must by law act in the best interests of the US when making policies and decisions.

• The US Trustees delegate certain powers, with attendant liabilities, to the Honorary Officers - including potentially the Chair, Vice- Chair, Financial Representative, Wardens and Women's Officer - of the individual Communities.

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