Views sought on charity changes

Tuesday 25 March 2014

A new law governing charities in Jersey and creating the first charity commissioner are open for consultation.

Drafted by the Chief Minister’s Department, along with the Jersey Voluntary and Community Sector Partnership, the law determines which organisations are entitled to charitable status and tax benefits. If approved, it will establish a public register of charities and define the duties of people who run charities. It's intended that the law will improve transparency and promote high standards of management.

Assistant Chief Minister Paul Routier said: “The relationship between charities and the public they serve is unique. Charities are often dependent on the trust, generosity and confidence of Islanders who, in turn, can be dependent on the dedication and determination of those same charities. This law is about protecting and enhancing that relationship.”

The draft law has already been subject to an initial consultation period. In 2013 Islanders were asked whether Jersey needed a Charities Law; 96% of respondents supported the need for a new legal definition of charities and 95% agreed that only publically-registered charities should be able to make public financial appeals.

Public meetings to discuss the draft law will take place between 2 April and 10April 2014. Details of the meetings and copies of the draft law, can be found on www.gov.je/consult.

The deadline for responses to the consultation is 1 May.