Complete guide to setting up and registering a charity in the UK. Learn about choosing a structure, charity purposes, and the registration process.
Setting up a charity requires careful planning and understanding of legal requirements. The process involves choosing a suitable structure, defining charitable purposes, and registering with the appropriate regulator.
Your charity must have purposes that are recognised as charitable under English law. These include relief of poverty, education, religion, health, and other purposes that benefit the public.
Consider whether to form a CIO, charitable company, trust, or unincorporated association. Each has different advantages and regulatory requirements.
Choose between CIO, charitable company, trust, or unincorporated association. Consider liability, governance flexibility, and registration requirements.
Define purposes that are recognised as charitable. The Charity Commission must approve your purposes before registering.
Prepare a constitution or governing document that sets out purposes, structures, and decision-making processes. This must be submitted with your application.
Apply to the Charity Commission to register your charity. Most charities must register unless exempt. Registration provides legal recognition.
We can help you set up your charity correctly. Contact us today for expert guidance.