Heritage missing out on £450,000 by not being a charity

Tuesday 27 October 2020

Jersey Heritage Trust wants to register as a charity so that it doesn’t miss out on an estimated £450,000 from lost grants, donations and tax liabilities.

The Trust manages more than 35 historic sites and museums around the island, as well as the public archives.

By registering as a charity, Heritage can benefit from tax exemptions and grants only available to charities.   

Heritage self-generates half of its income and the government funds the remainder. As such, Heritage is currently prohibited from registering as a charity because the its constitution permits States control. 

Pictured: The Jersey Heritage Trust is responsible for more than 35 historic sites and museums across the island. 

For Heritage to register as a charity, its constitution must be amended.

States Members will be asked to approve that change in a debate on 1 December.

A report outlining the amendments states: “Undoubtedly, JHT has a special role to play in the island community and in securing and promoting the culture and identity of the island by illuminating its history."

It adds: “Charitable status is vital to JHT’s ability to raise substantial funds and to obtain tax exemptions and other benefits, all of which contribute to the costs of operating the heritage sector in the island for the public benefit.”