How to Write Charitable Objects: Getting It Right and Why The Charity Launch Consultancy Can Help
Charitable objects are at the very heart of any charity. They define its purpose, guide its activities, and determine its eligibility for charitable status with the Charity Commission. Writing clear and effective charitable objects is a vital step in setting up a charity, but it can also be one of the trickiest aspects to get right. Let’s explore how to approach this process and why turning to The Charity Launch Consultancy can make all the difference.
What Are Charitable Objects?
Charitable objects are statements that define the specific aims your organisation seeks to achieve. These must:
Be exclusively charitable under the law (in England and Wales, these align with the charitable purposes set out in the Charities Act 2011).
Provide a public benefit, meaning the charity’s activities must benefit a sufficient section of the public.
Be clear and concise, ensuring there is no ambiguity or scope for activities that fall outside of charitable purposes.
In essence, charitable objects answer the question: what is your charity set up to do?
Getting Charitable Objects Right
1. Be Specific but Flexible
Your charitable objects should clearly outline the purpose of your charity without being overly restrictive. For example, instead of specifying a single location or narrow activity, consider drafting objects that allow room for growth and adaptation over time.
2. Align with Recognised Charitable Purposes
The Charities Act 2011 identifies 13 recognised charitable purposes, such as:
The prevention or relief of poverty.
The advancement of education.
The advancement of health or the saving of lives.
The advancement of arts, culture, heritage, or science.
The advancement of environmental protection or improvement.
Ensuring your objects align with these purposes is crucial to achieving charitable status.
3. Avoid Ambiguity
Ambiguously worded objects can lead to rejection by the Charity Commission or cause issues down the line, such as confusion over what activities are permissible. For instance, stating “To support young people” is too vague. Instead, you might write: “To advance the education of young people under the age of 25 through the provision of grants, training, and resources.”
4. Consider the Public Benefit Requirement
Your objects must reflect a purpose that genuinely benefits the public or a sufficient section of it. Avoid wording that suggests your charity serves a private or overly narrow group.
5. Tailor Objects to Your Vision
While you need to follow legal frameworks, your objects should still reflect your charity’s unique vision. Think carefully about the outcomes you want to achieve and ensure your objects set a foundation for achieving those goals.
The Benefits of Seeking Expert Help
While the principles may seem straightforward, crafting effective charitable objects can be daunting. This is where The Charity Launch Consultancy can help. Here’s why partnering with us is a good choice:
1. Expertise in Charity Law and Best Practices
With years of experience, our team understands the complexities of charity law and the requirements of the Charity Commission. We’ll ensure your objects align perfectly with legal guidelines while reflecting your organisation’s unique purpose.
2. Avoid Costly Mistakes
Submitting inaccurate or unclear objects can delay the your application or result in rejection. Our expertise helps you get it right the first time, saving time, frustration, and potential costs.
3. Tailored Guidance for Your Cause
Every charity is unique. We take the time to understand your vision, goals, and target beneficiaries, helping you draft objects that meet both regulatory standards and your specific needs.
4. Futureproofing Your Charity
We help ensure your objects are flexible enough to allow your charity to evolve. This reduces the likelihood of needing to revise your governing documents in the future, which can be a complex and time-consuming process.
5. A Full Suite of Support Services
Beyond drafting charitable objects, we offer comprehensive support for launching your charity, including governance advice, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning. We’re with you every step of the way to ensure your charity starts strong and stays successful.
Why Choose The Charity Launch Consultancy?
At The Charity Launch Consultancy, we combine legal expertise, practical experience, and a passion for supporting new charities. Our friendly, approachable team understands the challenges of setting up a charity and is committed to making the process as smooth as possible for you.
By partnering with us, you’ll gain:
Confidence that your charitable objects are legally sound and effective.
Peace of mind knowing your charity’s foundation is built to last.
A trusted partner to guide you through the complexities of the charity sector.
Let’s Get Started
If you’re ready to set your charity on the path to success, we’re here to help. Contact The Charity Launch Consultancy today to discuss how we can support you in writing your charitable objects and beyond. Together, we’ll bring your vision to life and create lasting change for the causes that matter most to you.