Sector Updates

Patterns to watch

• Late or missing annual returns and accounts

  Inquiry reports and regulatory action often start with charities missing the 10-month deadline for annual returns, accounts and trustees’ annual reports. Small boards should treat the filing calendar as a standing agenda item.

  Action: Confirm your financial year-end, diary the 10-month filing deadline, and name an owner for the annual return and accounts pack.

  Source

• Weak financial controls — use the CC8 checklist

  The Commission continues to highlight weak internal financial controls, including blank-cheque and cash practices. CC8 remains the practical checklist for small boards.

  Action: Walk the CC8 internal financial controls checklist at the next finance or board meeting; record gaps and owners.

  Source

• Conflicts of interest on small related boards

  Small charities and CICs often have overlapping family, friendship or supplier ties on the board. Undeclared conflicts remain a recurring Commission concern.

  Action: Review your conflicts register this month; ensure every trustee has declared interests and that minutes show recusal where needed.

  Source