How to Set Up a Charity in the UK: Complete Guide (2026)

Setting up a charity is a meaningful commitment. This guide covers everything from validating your idea to getting your charity number — and what to do in the crucial first year.

Before You Start: Questions to Answer

1. Is a charity the right structure? — A charity isn't the only way to do good. Consider whether a social enterprise, community interest company, or informal group would better suit your goals.
2. Does something similar already exist? — Search the Charity Commission register. Could you volunteer with or support an existing organisation instead?
3. Is there public benefit? — A charity must serve the public, not just a private group.
4. Are you prepared for the commitment? — Running a charity involves legal responsibilities, reporting, and governance.

Step 1: Define Your Mission

Write a clear statement of what your charity will do and who it will help. This will form the basis of your charitable objects — the legal purposes of your charity.

Good charitable objects are:

• Specific enough to be meaningful: "Relieving poverty among refugees in Greater Manchester" not "Helping people"
• Broad enough to allow flexibility: Don't restrict yourself to one method
• Within the 13 descriptions of charitable purposes in the Charities Act 2011 — see our registration guide

Step 2: Choose Your Structure

The main options for new charities:

• CIO (Charitable Incorporated Organisation) — recommended for most new charities. Limited liability, Charity Commission only. Full CIO guide
• Charitable Trust — simpler setup but no limited liability for trustees
• Charitable Company (CLG) — limited liability but dual regulation (CC + Companies House)

Our recommendation: CIO (Foundation model) unless you have specific reasons for another structure.

Step 3: Find Your Trustees

You need at least 3 trustees (the Charity Commission recommends this minimum). Ideal trustees bring:

• Diverse skills (finance, legal, marketing, sector knowledge)
• Commitment to your mission
• Time to attend meetings and read papers
• Networks that can help the charity

Read our trustee responsibilities guide so everyone knows what they're signing up for.

Step 4: Write Your Governing Document

Use the Charity Commission's model constitution for CIOs. It covers everything you need. Customise the objects and any specific provisions, but don't reinvent the wheel.

Step 5: Register

Apply online at the Charity Commission. Full step-by-step in our registration guide. Processing takes 30-45 working days.

Step 6: Set Up Operations

Once registered, your immediate priorities:

1. Open a bank account — you'll need your charity number. CAF Bank, Unity Trust, and high street banks all offer charity accounts.
2. Register for Gift Aid — apply to HMRC to claim Gift Aid on eligible donations (25% uplift)
3. Set up basic accounting — even a spreadsheet is fine to start. Graduate to accounting software as you grow.
4. Create a website — doesn't need to be expensive. A simple one-pager with your mission, team, and how to donate.
5. Set up donation collection — PledgeNow gives new charities a free pledge collection tool from day one.

Step 7: Start Fundraising

You can't do anything without money. Start with:

• Friends and family — your first donors will be people who believe in you
• Local events — 101 fundraising ideas for inspiration
• Gift Aid — start claiming from day one. It's 25% free money.
• Grants — research trusts and foundations in your area (Foundation Directory, GrantFinder)

First Year Checklist

• [ ] Charity registered with Charity Commission
• [ ] Bank account opened
• [ ] Gift Aid registered with HMRC
• [ ] Governing document finalised
• [ ] Trustees meet at least 4 times per year
• [ ] Financial records maintained from day one
• [ ] Insurance arranged (public liability at minimum)
• [ ] Website live with mission and donation info
• [ ] First annual return filed on time (10 months after year-end)