FIS is a charitable company limited by guarantee, founded in 1973 incorporated on 12 June 2000 and registered as a charity on 29 May 2002.  It was established under a Memorandum of Association, which defines its objects and powers, and is governed by that and its Articles of Association. In addition, there are detailed Regulations made under the Articles.

Full membership of the Federation is open to voluntary organisations that comply with the criteria for membership. In addition there are other affiliate categories of membership . FIS's Trustee Board is responsible for managing the business of FIS as outlined in the Articles of Association.

Trustees are responsible under FIS bye-laws and charity law for ensuring that the charitable objectives of the society are carried out and that the organisation is run in an appropriate, legal way.

The Trustee Board meets approximately six times a year.

Trustee Board

The 12 Trustees comprise three Officers (Chair, Secretary and Treasurer). Nine Trustees are directly elected from the membership. Three Trustees are externally recruited by the Board to ensure the right mix of skills and experience.  

The Trustee Board appoints two Committees to support its work.Finance Committee

This committee scrutinises the financial governance and management of the organisation along with planning and risk management. 

Remuneration and HR Committee

This Committee considers HR policy and related matters, including pensions.

National meetings

National meetings are held throughout the year to bring members together to contribute to the development of and advise the Board on policy issues affecting members