Category: Not for Profit

The Charity Commission has updated its conflicts of interest guidance – and the reason behind that update is worth understanding. 

In most charities, trustees are confident in the difference between restricted funds (ring-fenced by the donor) and unrestricted funds (which can be spent on any of the charity’s purposes). Where it often gets hazy is the middle ground: designated funds.

If your charity’s income has been creeping toward – or past – the £1 million mark, there is some genuinely welcome news to share.

Trust is the foundation of the charity sector.

Trustees didn’t join for status, money, or influence. Many didn’t plan to take on responsibility – they stepped up because someone had to.

Trust is the foundation of the charity sector. Donors trust that funds will be used appropriately. Beneficiaries trust that decisions are made in their best interests. And regulators trust that Trustees are acting with independence, integrity and proper oversight.

For a long time, ESG felt like someone else’s agenda.

The start of a new year often brings renewed energy. New goals, fresh resolve, and an understandable desire to move things forward.

When trustees prepare a Trustees’ Annual Report (TAR), some sections come easily. Achievements and impact feel natural to describe, and the financial review provides clarity on resources. But the “Plans for the Future” section often gets overlooked or treated vaguely.

If your charity runs regular activities in local halls, libraries, or community centres, you could be eligible to increase your Gift Aid Small Donations Scheme (GASDS) claim – potentially multiplying your claim limit based on where you work.