Predictions for 2021
So, looking forward, we predict below what 2021 may bring:
01
The sector will need to adjust to the implications of Brexit
02
The post-Brexit budget will take place this year on 3 March, and could be significant, although coronavirus is likely to dominate the agenda
03
The recommendations in Danny Kruger’s report may gain some traction
04
Greater use of data by the Government to track the impact of the charity sector
05
Charges for large charities using the Commission’s services are off the agenda for now
06
Pilot programmes rolled out for the new £1.5 billion UK Shared Prosperity Fund introduced by the government
07
HMRC audits of those (including) charities that participated in furlough schemes in 2020/21
08
Changes to the Social Value Act may result in more government contracts going to community sector organisations and social enterprises
09
Follow up by the Charity Commission with those charities in receipt of the RNIB regulatory alert
10
A new Chair of the Charity Commission will be appointed, with Baroness Stowell's term ending in February
11
Further debate on the implications of the CIFF case for charities and their members
12
Updates to the model governing documents published by the Charity Commission
13
The Ministry of Justice legislating for ‘secure schools’
14
Charities reconsidering their use of office space
15
The Charity Commission (finally) publishing a summary of their findings into executive pay in charities
16
A judgment in the Insolvency Service's proceedings against the former directors of Kids Company as well as movement on the Charity Commission's inquiry
17
The Scottish government will publish the results of a consultation on strengthening charity law in Scotland
18
A greater push for independence in Scotland and charities considering how they might need to restructure their presence in an independent country
19
A potential spike in charity legacy income following the severe delays in the probate service in 2020 are increased death rate
20
Consultations into reforming the Companies House register by BEIS aimed at tackling fraud
21
Review of the Human Rights Act due to be published in summer 2021
22
Renewed focus on diversity in charities
23
Postponement of the requirement for excepted charities to join the charities register in 2021
24
Charities may be able to run fundraising events in the latter half of the year, as the vaccine roll-out continues