The Charity Commission is seeking 25 volunteer charities to take part in a new project examining strategy development, implementation and review.
The project has been launched by the Charity Commission in partnership with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW). Each charity will receive a free consultation by experienced accountants on its policies, procedures and practices relating to strategic planning, with the collective outcome of the review providing important feedback to the Charity Commission regarding sector practices in this area.
The Charity Commission will use the project findings to inform its regulatory approach and identify gaps in the support it provides as part of its wider Review Programme on the risks and challenges facing charities in England and Wales.
Charities registered with the Charity Commission and with an annual income of less than £5 million are eligible to take part and will be selected based on geographic location and on a first come, first served basis.
Sam Younger, Chief Executive of the Charity Commission said:
"I am delighted that ICAEW are collaborating with us on this project. Good strategic planning helps trustees make sure their charity is fulfilling its objects as effectively as possible. Our case work shows that poor strategic planning can put charities at risk of serious regulatory problems. This project will give us insight into trustees' understanding of strategy. I am confident that this will help us, and the charity sector itself, provide appropriate support and advice and improve charities' performance."