Charitable organisations and campaigning: new guidance clarifies position

The “Campaigning and political activities by Charities in Northern Ireland” guidance was launched at Stormont by CCNI Chief Executive Frances McCandless, Deputy Chief Commissioner Paddy Sloan and Assembly Speaker William Hay MLA. The guidance has been developed to clarify the legitimate activities charitable organisations can engage in when undertaking campaigning, advocacy and political activity.

The Charity Commission aims to ensure that charities are confident about what is acceptable regarding involvement in political activity. In an attempt to provide a positive message for charities the guidance focuses “first on the freedoms and possibilities for charities to campaign, and only then on the restrictions and risks that trustees must bear in mind”.

Ms Paddy Sloan explained:

"Many more of our charities are engaging in activities aimed at influencing our politicians and political parties. Whether this activity aims to encourage debate about an issue, influence policy or introduce a change to the law, it is important that charities act within the law and that their independence is maintained."

William Hay, MLA, Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly said:

"This document is welcome guidance that I hope will give charitable organisations confidence about how to engage with the Assembly and our MLAs, while also offering clear instruction about the restrictions, risks and responsibilities that trustees must bear in mind."

"Campaigning and political activities by Charities in Northern Ireland" can be downloaded from www.charitycommissionni.org.uk/

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