Charity Law and Regulation

CFDG works with the government to ensure that the legal and regulatory framework is fit for purpose and meets the needs of the voluntary sector. We also work towards ensuring that the legal environment helps charities to develop their activities and services and moves towards more flexible funding arrangements while giving confidence to the public about the integrity of charities.

This section keeps you up to date on the latest developments taking place in the sector and enables you to help shape future government policy by taking part in consultations and campaigns.

Charities Act 2006

CFDG is pleased that the Charities Bill has now received royal assent and has become an Act. CFDG was particularly pleased that our amendment tabled by Lord Dubs on Group Accounts was accepted. We now look forward to working with you, our members, on how this new legisation will impact on you. The Office of the Third Sector has published a timetable for the implementation of the Act and you can find a link to this document below. Copies of the Charities Act are available from the Office of Public Sector Information: www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/third_sector/documents/charity_reform/implementation_plan.pdf

Also below you can see a short and longer guide to the Charities Act from Farrer and Co.
Long Guide
Short Guide

We also have an explanation of the provisions in the third commencement order of the Charities Act:
Briefing

Finance Bill

CFDG has prepared a briefing on the main points in the Finance Bill affecting members.
Briefing Document (23kb)

New Chair of the Charity Commission

Dame Suzi Leather has been appointed Chair of the Charity Commission and will take over from Geraldine Peacock on 1 August 2006. Ed Miliband MP, Minister for the Third Sector at the Cabinet Office announced the appointment on 15 June. Suzi Leather will step down as Chair of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) and as Chair of the School Food Trust.

Cabinet Reshuffle

CFDG has complied a quick guide to the reshuffle that took place and relevant moves for the charity sector.
Reshuffle Document (29kb)

Charity Commission

The Charity Commission is established by law as the regulator and registrar for charities in England and Wales.
www.charity-commission.gov.uk