Charities are rightly subject to greater regulatory scrutiny and additional legislation than many other organisations because they occupy a privileged position of trust and stewardship within society: millions of us regularly give our money, time and resources to help charities to advance their causes. Our dedicated and specialist charities team helps our clients to navigate a complex, ever-changing and challenging legal landscape so they can continue to make a positive difference.
The voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector is increasingly being called upon to meet a wide range of needs, at a time of growing disparities in wealth and opportunity, ongoing climate and ecological crises, and very limited public funding.
There is a pressing need for new approaches and fresh thinking. and as well as providing legal solutions, we proactively convene charities and businesses to facilitate cross-sector collaboration for mutual benefit.
VCSE organisations outline the ‘what’ and ‘why,’ while our Shoosmiths charities and social enterprise team supports the sector with the ‘how’, to address the challenges of the twenty-first century.
Challenges in the VCSE sector
Charities and other not-for-profit organisations continue to need support in:
- ensuring they go about their work in the right way, in accordance with their values;
- making the most of the resources they already have;
- securing more funding;
- protecting their brand and reputation;
- limiting their expenditure; and
- managing their risks.
Achieving purpose alongside profit has been part of the business world for a long time, but the importance placed on it has reached new heights in recent years with an increased focus on environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues, informed by a longer-term view that we cannot afford to pursue profit without consideration for people and planet.
How we can help
We have extensive experience of working with businesses, individuals and charities/social enterprises of all sizes to provide cost-effective, solutions-based legal advice.
Our lawyers offer specialist expertise in a wide variety of areas. We frequently advise on charity law, governance and regulation and the creation and running of charitable foundations established by businesses, but also on other issues where you may require support such as: employment and pensions; real estate; health and safety and general compliance; tax; the protection of brands and IP; the procurement of goods, services and technology; through to niche specialisms including advertising and fundraising, privacy and data issues, and collaborative research.
You will have a constant point of contact and counsel, and our team will tailor their service delivery to meet your needs. We’ll provide the right advice with the right resources when you need it, all delivered in a responsive, personal, and cost-effective way.
Our Band 2 ranked (Legal 500) lawyers provide reassuring 24/7 legal support for you and your business, when you need it most.
