Stunell tells local charities to "be prepared"

12.19.34pm UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 1st Jun 2007

Hundreds of local organisations need to take stock of new charity rules, according to local MP Andrew Stunell. All charities must now have more specific charitable aims which benefit the public, say the Charity Commission.

Mr Stunell met with the Charity Commission last week to find out how this would affect charities in Stockport. Speaking after the meeting Mr Stunell said:

"It is important for local charities and organisations to be aware of these new rules that come into force in early 2008.

"At the moment the Charity Commission assumes that schools and religious organisations benefit the public. From next year they will have to state specific aims and any minor activities outside their main purpose could be affected.

"For example schools may not be able to rent out their sports halls for non-educational purposes. Many people are worried that these rules will stop local charities helping those who do not fall directly within their official 'target'.

"Many local charities depend on volunteers and more procedures could limit vital help. It is a shame that the excellent and valuable work of so many local organisations could be restricted in this way.

"I encourage anyone who needs advice on these new rules to contact my office on 0161 406 7070." ENDS

Notes to editors:

More details about the Charity Commission's new rules can be found on their website www.charitycommission.gov.uk