This toolkit is designed for people who want to set up, structure, or strengthen a community group, voluntary organisation, or social enterprise. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining an existing group, the resources here provide practical guidance on governance, legal structures, finances, and everyday management.
Who it’s for:
Community organisers
Voluntary groups
Social enterprises
Anyone exploring charitable or cooperative models
Why it’s valuable: Community organisations thrive when they are well‑structured, transparent, and legally sound. This toolkit brings together neutral, practical information to help you avoid pitfalls, attract funding, and serve your community effectively.
Contents
Legal Structures Overview
Key considerations when choosing a structure
Pros and cons of incorporation
Overview of unincorporated and incorporated models
Community Enterprise & Cooperatives
What community enterprises are
How cooperatives work
Benefits and challenges of cooperative models
Model Constitution Template
Suggested constitution for small unincorporated groups
Guidance on membership, management, finance, and meetings
Registering as a Charity
What charitable status means
Charitable purposes and public benefit
Steps to register with the Charity Commission
Setting up a Community Group
Step‑by‑step guide from purpose to fundraising
Writing policies and governing documents
Recruiting volunteers and planning activities
Setting up a Group Bank Account
Choosing a provider
Requirements for opening an account
Signatories and verification process
Legal Structures Chart (At a Glance)
Comparison table of common structures
Governance, liability, asset locks, and charitable status
