Charities are being urged to seek advice before setting up shop

Charities are being urged to take care while fundraising through selling products or services.

The Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) has published new guidance for charities that are looking to trade.

The guide contains information on the different types of charity trading, trading subsidiaries and trustees duties in relation to trading.

OSCR’s head of professional advice and intelligence, Laura Anderson, said charities should seek support and advice before beginning to trade.

“For many charities, trading is an essential activity,” she said. “The money raised can help meet objectives and make a real difference.

“But remember, there are rules to follow. When a charity engages in any trading activity or establishes a trading subsidiary, trustees must be aware of their duties to ensure that they comply with the law. This new guide outlines what must be in place before any trading activity begins.”