Charity compliance refers to the legal, regulatory, and ethical responsibilities that charities and non-profit organisations must adhere to. This includes financial reporting, governance, safeguarding, GDPR, insurance compliance, anti-harassment training, and whistleblowing procedures. Staying compliant ensures transparency, protects beneficiaries, and maintains public trust.

The 7 principles of charity governance are outlined in the Charity Governance Code. They include:

1. Organisational purpose
2. Leadership
3. Integrity
4. Decision-making, risk, and control
5. Board effectiveness
6. Equality, diversity, and inclusion
7. Openness and accountability.

These principles guide boards to deliver effective governance and fulfill their legal duties.

Charities in the UK must follow a range of regulations including the Charities Act, GDPR and data protection laws, safeguarding regulations, employment law, fundraising codes of practice, and requirements from the Charity Commission. Non-profits must also comply with financial reporting standards and anti-money laundering laws if applicable.

Yes, every charity that collects or processes personal data must have a GDPR policy in place. This ensures compliance with data protection laws, clarifies how personal data is managed, and outlines individual rights. A robust GDPR policy helps prevent data breaches and builds trust with donors, beneficiaries, and volunteers.

A charity risk assessment identifies potential risks to a non-profit’s operations, finances, people, and reputation. It includes evaluating health & safety, safeguarding, financial fraud, data protection, and governance. Conducting regular risk assessments helps charities fulfil duty-of-care responsibilities and mitigate potential harm.

Compliance training is essential for non-profits to educate staff, volunteers, and trustees on legal obligations, ethical standards, and internal procedures. It reduces the risk of regulatory breaches, ensures consistent behaviour across the organisation, and strengthens the charity’s reputation and public trust.

Yes, volunteers should receive appropriate compliance training to understand their roles, responsibilities, and the organisation’s expectations. Training topics may include safeguarding, GDPR, equality and inclusion, and health & safety. Proper training ensures volunteers act safely and responsibly, protecting service users and the charity itself.

A whistleblowing policy provides a clear process for staff and volunteers to report concerns about misconduct, fraud, or unethical behaviour without fear of retaliation. It is a vital part of governance and risk management, demonstrating the charity’s commitment to transparency and accountability.