Charity law and regulation: reading list

NCVO submission to PASC inquiry into the Charities Act

In September 2012, NCVO submitted written evidence to the Public Administration Select Committee inquiry into the Charities Act. All written evidence is available on the Parliament's website and you can read our answers on page 150 of the report.

Regulation of the Charitable Sector and the Charities Act 2006 - written evidence

Charity law review advisory group report and recommendations

NCVO set up a Charity Law Review Advisory Group to carry out an independent review of charity law and develop proposals for improving the legal framework in which charities operate. In particular, the Advisory Group was referred to enquire and report on the operation of the Charities Act 2006 and its overall effect on public trust and confidence in charities.

Published 2012.

Read the Charity Law Review Advisory Group's final report and recommendations (PDF, 1.36MB)

Managing Risk – A new approach to the fit and proper regulation of charities

This report sets out the findings and recommendations of the Task & Finish Group established by NCVO to analyse the level of protection within charities against financial crime and fraud. It also explores whether the measures introduced by HMRC in the Finance Act 2010 are proportionate and effective when applied to the charity sector.

Published 2011.

Read Managing Risk – A new approach to the fit and proper regulation of charities (PDF, 69 KB)

NCVO policy submission to the Red Tape Task Force

In our submission to the government’s Red Tape Task Force, we welcome the government's commitment to make it easier to run charities, voluntary organisations and social enterprises.  However, we stress that it is important to maintain existing protections and not cut back on what is necessary regulation, especially in relation to the payment of trustees.

The response discusses many areas which are considered to put a regulatory burden on civil society organisations, including Gift Aid, VAT and licensing requirements, and offers solutions for moving forward.

Released in January 2011.

Read our submission to the government’s Red Tape Task Force (PDF, 71 KB)

Security and Civil Society: The impact of counter-terrorism measures on civil society organisations

This report explores the impact of terrorism and counter-terrorism regulation and legislation on charities and voluntary organisations in the UK. It is based on findings from an advisory group set up by NCVO and chaired by Lord Plant of Highfield in 2006.

Published 2007.

Read Security and Civil Society: The impact of counter-terrorism measures on civil society organisations (PDF, 221 KB)

For the public benefit? A consultation document

Maintaining public trust and confidence in the ‘charity brand’ requires a level playing field where all charities must demonstrate that they exist for public benefit. This report represents over two years’ work by the NCVO Charity Law Reform Advisory Group and is also informed by the comments of expert individuals and groups who submitted evidence.

Published 2005.

Read For the public benefit? A consultation document (PDF, 482 KB)

The Impact of Regulation on Voluntary Organisations

This report outlines the different types of regulation impacting on voluntary organisations, with particular focus on those delivering public services. It drew a number of policy conclusions about how the government’s overall approach to regulation might need to be amended to ensure that voluntary organisations could maximise their contribution both to the delivery of public services and civic renewal.

Published 2004.

Read The Impact of Regulation on Voluntary Organisations (PDF, 174 KB)