If your charity is facing an uncertain future as a result of a reduction or loss of funding, we are here to help:
- Submit an online referral form (we aim to respond within 5 working days)
- Or call the office on 0131 555 9100
Advice and support on a range of issues is also available using the links below:
- ACAS: Redundancy
- OSCR: How to Manager Your Charity Through Touch Times
- OSCR: Winding Up or Dissolving a Charity
- SCVO: Guide to Organisational Change
- SCVO: Deciding to Close
- The Decelerator: Info, tools and hands-on support for better endings
- UK Government: Redundancy
Key Actions to Consider
If your organisation is facing an uncertain future, here are some key points and actions to consider. It is important to get help before the crisis hits and to develop a plan with a timeline and action deadlines.
Assets (vehicles, IT, etc): Your constitution will determine how any owned items can be sold or donated to a charity.
Customers: Can you signpost them to other organisations and services that may be able to offer support and opportunities?
Funding: If you have funding or grant awards, do they need to be returned? Winding down does cost money, prepare a budget for it. How can surplus funds be dispersed (e.g. to another charity)?
HR: If you have staff are there any opportunities to TUPE to another organisation? Do you need to plan for redundancies?
Legal: Be guided by your Constitution/Articles. There is normally a winding-up clause at the end that may be helpful. Inform OSCR and/or Companies House as appropriate. Seek legal advice as soon as possible.
Liabilities: Any leases or contracts need to be cancelled, from phones and photocopiers to vehicles and property.
Managing the risks: A risk-based approach can help to prioritise the greatest risks.
Mergers: Is there a similar organisation also facing the same difficulties?
Property (owned or leased): Have you informed the landlord? Are there penalty clauses for exiting early?
