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Setting up a charity

From associations to trusts, social enterprises, companies limited by guarantee and SCIOs – it’s no wonder that setting up a voluntary sector organisation can feel confusing.

Our information will help you to make the best decisions to set up an organisation that fits your goals.

Our guide to setting up a charity:

1. Get started

Information to help you think through some of the key issues around starting a voluntary sector organisation in Scotland.
Find out more

2. Make a plan

Developing a new voluntary sector organisation takes careful planning to map out your vision and pay attention to all the detail.
Find out more

3. Decide on membership

Membership organisations are common in the voluntary sector. You just have to choose the right kind for you.
Find out more

4. Decide on charitable status

How to understand the particular circumstances of your organisation and decide which option is right for you.
Find out more

5. Consider the risks

Consider the types of activity you will be involved in and the level of risk attached.
Find out more

6. Decide on structure

Choose the right legal structure for your organisation based on what you plan to do.
Find out more

7. Write your constitution

Once you have decided on your legal structure and are ready to draft your constitution. We’ve got models you can follow.
Find out more

8. Next steps

Register your new organisation with the appropriate body. Then get on with the business of running your organisation.
Find out more
  • Support & learning
  • Setting up a charity
  • 1. Get started
  • 2. Make a plan
  • 3. Decide on membership
  • 4. Decide on charitable status
  • 5. Consider the risks
  • 6. Decide on structure
  • 7. Write your constitution
  • 8. Next steps
  • Frequently asked questions

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About

The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations is the membership organisation for Scotland's charities, voluntary organisations and social enterprises. Find out more

© 2021. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation.
Charity registered in Scotland SC003558. Registered office Mansfield Traquair Centre, 15 Mansfield Place, Edinburgh EH3 6BB.

Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations