Updates to the online application for charity registration

As well as updating the annual reporting system, the Commission has also introduced a number of changes to the online charity registration application form.

Since the introduction of charity registration in December 2013, some risks have become more prominent, including safeguarding, cybercrime and fraud. Research highlights the potential for these issues to have a negative impact on the public’s trust and confidence in the charity sector.

The changes made to the online application are in response to these issues. For example, the updates will support the Commission in gathering vital information on safeguarding, fundraising and how charities handle personal data. This, in turn, will increase transparency around these areas of risk, contributing to public confidence in the charity sector.
 
Frances McCandless, Commission Chef Executive, commented: “I am delighted the updates have been made, which will support both applicants in submitting information and the Commission in developing further as a proportionate regulator, focussing resources where they are most needed."
 
The Commission has published revised Registering as a charity in Northern Ireland guidance to assist applicants with the new questions, including screenshots of the updated online application. The guidance, alongside additional support for applicants, is available here. 

The changes to the online registration application were the subject of an eight week consultation in 2019, the results of which can be found on the Commission's website here.