Charities - political, lobbying and advocacy activities

Introduction

Charities can carry out political, lobbying and advocacy activities, where they are only carried out for the sake of, or in aid of, or in furtherance of the charitable purposes.

This web page gives examples where we accept that the organisations’ political, lobbying and advocacy activities are consistent with them maintaining their status as charities. It is not an exhaustive list. There will also be many other instances.

The examples are grouped under these headings:

Elections

• participating in the democratic process
• other organisations interacting with charities
• people connected with charities engaging in the democratic process

Law change

• changing or maintaining law or policy
• people connected with charities acting outside the law

Advocacy for clients

• representing people to government

Dealing with government

• seeking support from government for projects
• being invited to participate by government

Raising public awareness

• raising public awareness

Further resources are available which discuss the principles and legal considerations for charities’ political, lobbying and advocacy activities - see More information.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 20 December 2005