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How to Set Up a Charity in the UK
Charity Setup Guide (2025)
This guide is structured across three core stages: Preparation, Registration, and Post-Registration (Launch & Compliance). Whether you’re at the idea stage or ready to apply, this guide simplifies the process.
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1) Charity Setup Preparation
Plan and Prepare Before You Register a Charity in the UK
1.1 Is Setting Up a Charity the Right Choice for You?
Before starting a charity, consider whether it’s the best legal form for your aims. Alternatives like CICs or social enterprises may suit you better. Your organisation must exist for exclusively charitable purposes and show a defined public benefit.
1.2 Define Your Charity’s Purpose and Public Benefit
Your charity must meet one or more of the 13 charitable purposes under UK law. These include relieving poverty, advancing education, and protecting the environment. You must also show how your activities serve the public and not just private individuals.
1.3 Choose the Right Legal Structure for Your Charity
You can set up as a CIO, charitable company, trust, or unincorporated association. Each has different levels of liability, governance responsibilities, and reporting rules. Choose the structure that fits your size, plans, and risk level.
1.4 Recruit Charity Trustees with the Right Skills and Responsibilities
Most charities operate with at least three independent trustees, though legal requirements vary by structure. CIOs require a minimum of three trustees aged 16+, while charitable companies need at least one director, but three+ are recommended for good governance. Trusts and associations generally require trustees to be 18+, with three or more recommended for effective oversight.
1.5 Choose a Unique and Compliant Charity Name
Pick a name that reflects your mission, is easy to remember, and meets Charity Commission rules. Avoid names that are misleading or already in use. Check availability on the Charity Register, Companies House, and trademark listings.
1.6 Write a Governing Document That Meets Charity Commission Requirements
Your governing document outlines how your charity will be run. It must include your purpose, trustee rules, decision-making processes, and what happens if the charity closes. Use a Charity Commission template that matches your structure.
1.7 Prepare Key Documents and a Charity Strategy Plan
Develop a simple strategy with your mission, target beneficiaries, and first-year activities. Include a basic financial forecast and plan for fundraising. This will strengthen your registration and guide your early work.
2) Registering Your Charity with the Charity Commission
Step-by-Step Guide to the Charity Registration Process
2.1 Do You Need to Register Your Charity with the Charity Commission?
You must register if your income is £5,000 or more per year or if you’re setting up a CIO. If your income is lower, you can still operate legally as a small charity without registering. However, registration gives more credibility and access to funding.
2.2 Gather the Documents You Need to Register a Charity
You’ll need a finalised governing document, trustee declaration forms, and ID details. Include a financial plan or evidence of income, and a statement showing your public benefit. Safeguarding policies are essential when working with vulnerable people.
2.3 Submit Your Charity Registration Application Online
Set up an account on the Charity Commission’s website and complete the online form. Upload all supporting documents and check that your details are accurate. Inconsistencies between your form and documents are a common reason for delays.
2.4 Respond to Charity Commission Questions or Requests
The Commission may follow up with questions about your purposes or how you’ll deliver public benefit. Respond clearly and quickly to avoid delays. Be ready to clarify language or provide extra documents if requested.
2.5 What You’ll Receive After Your Charity Is Approved
Once approved, you’ll get a charity number and registration confirmation. CIOs and charitable companies also receive a certificate of incorporation. Your charity will appear on the official Register of Charities.
2.6 Register Your Charity with HMRC for Tax and Gift Aid
Apply to HMRC after registration to access tax reliefs and claim Gift Aid on donations. You’ll need your charity number and bank details. HMRC recognition also enables VAT exemptions and business rate reductions.
3) Launching and Running Your Charity
What to Do After Charity Registration – Governance, Compliance, and Growth
3.1 Set Up a Charity Bank Account and Financial Systems
Open a dedicated charity bank account in the charity’s name with dual authorisation. Put in place defined bookkeeping procedures and set a reserves policy. Use a charity accounting software to keep things organised and compliant.
3.2 Launch Your Charity and Put Good Governance in Place
Hold your first trustee meeting and record the minutes. Approve essential policies covering safeguarding, financial procedures, GDPR, and conflicts of interest. This helps ensure accountability and compliance from day one.
3.3 Build Your Charity’s Brand and Raise Public Awareness
Create your logo, colour scheme, and messaging that reflect your mission. Build your charity website and set up social media accounts with contact information. Use launch materials to tell your story and attract supporters.
3.4 Develop a Fundraising and Marketing Strategy for Your Charity
Register with the Fundraising Regulator if you’re raising money from the public. Plan your first campaigns and outline how you’ll communicate with donors. Include Gift Aid messaging to maximise the value of donations.
3.5 Plan for Your Charity’s Growth and Manage Risks Responsibly
Set up a risk register and review it regularly with your trustees. Monitor cash flow, staffing needs, and new opportunities. Think about whether partnerships, grants, or trading could help you grow sustainably.
3.6 Meet Your Charity’s Annual Reporting and Filing Requirements
Submit your Annual Return, Trustees’ Report, and accounts on time each year. Requirements depend on your income level and structure. Notify the Charity Commission of any trustee changes, incidents, or constitution updates.
3.7 Stay on Track with Charity Strategy and Ongoing Support
Use a compliance calendar to manage key dates and tasks. Review your strategy and governance annually. Evolve Catalyst can support you with templates, mentoring, and expert advice customised to small charities.
Need Help to Start Your UK Charity?
Setting up a charity takes thorough planning, accurate registration, and ongoing compliance. While this guide outlines the essential steps, every charity journey is unique. If you need support with charity setup, document reviews, or ongoing mentoring, Evolve Catalyst can help you build strong foundations for long-term success and impact.
Start Your Journey with Evolve Catalyst