How to Register a Charity in England and Wales: A Step-by-Step Guide
Starting a charity is a noble endeavor, allowing you to contribute to causes you care about and make a positive impact on society. However, the process of registering a charity involves several steps and requires careful planning. This guide will walk you through the key steps to successfully register your charity in England and Wales.
1. Understand What Constitutes a Charity
Before starting the registration process, it’s crucial to understand what qualifies as a charity. In England, a charity must:
Be established for charitable purposes only.
Provide public benefit.
Charitable purposes include a wide range of activities such as advancing education, relieving poverty, promoting health, and more. The Charity Commission provides a comprehensive list of charitable purposes on its website.
2. Form a Board of Trustees
A charity should have at least three trustees who are responsible for the overall management and decision-making. Trustees can be family members, friends, or other individuals who share a vision. They must not be disqualified from acting as trustees due to reasons such as bankruptcy or a criminal conviction involving dishonesty.
3. Draft a Governing Document
The governing document outlines how your charity will operate. This document can, for example, take the form of:
A trust deed
Articles of association
A constitution
The governing document should cover essential points such as the charity’s name, purposes, trustee appointments, and procedures for meetings and decision-making.
4. Choose a Suitable Name
Select a name that reflects your charity’s objectives and is unique. Ensure the name isn’t too similar to existing charities to avoid confusion. The name should also comply with the Charity Commission's rules, which prohibit names that are misleading, offensive, or imply connections to the government or royal family.
5. Register for a Charity Bank Account
Having a separate bank account for your charity is essential for managing funds and ensuring transparency. Most banks offer special accounts for charities, often with benefits such as reduced fees.
6. Apply to the Charity Commission
If your charity’s annual income is expected to be £5,000 or more or you wish to be a CIO, you must register with the Charity Commission. The application process involves:
Creating an online account on the Charity Commission’s website.
Filling out the application form with details about your charity’s purposes, activities, and financial information.
Submitting your governing document and trustee details.
Providing a public benefit statement explaining how your charity’s activities benefit the public.
You can make this process more straightforward by contacting us today!
7. Await Approval
The Charity Commission reviews your application to ensure it meets all requirements. This process can take several weeks. If the Commission needs more information, they will get in contact.
8. Comply with Ongoing Obligations
Once registered, your charity must comply with ongoing obligations such as:
Submitting annual returns and accounts to the Charity Commission.
Keeping accurate financial records.
Ensuring trustees comply with their legal responsibilities.
Reporting any significant changes or incidents to the Charity Commission.
9. Promote Your Charity
After successful registration, promote your charity to attract donors, volunteers, and beneficiaries. Use social media, local community events, and partnerships with other organisations to raise awareness.
Conclusion
Registering a charity in England involves several detailed steps, but with careful planning and a clear understanding of legal requirements, you can successfully establish and operate a charity that makes a real difference. Remember to stay informed about your responsibilities and seek professional advice if needed such as The Charity Launch Consultancy. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a lasting positive impact in your community.
Plan to Register Your Charity