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Community benefit societies

The Credit Unions and Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies (Northern Ireland) Act 2016 changed the law. You can no longer register a new Industrial and Provident Society. New societies must register as either:

    • a Co-operative Society (for member benefit – not charitable), or
    • a Community Benefit Society (for public/community benefit – can be charitable). 

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) now handles registration for:

If your society is charitable, you must also register with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland. Find out more information on registering here. 

Societies registered Before 6 April 2018 are now called “registered societies". They don’t need to change their name or rules, even if they refer to the old legislation. If they do update their rules, they can refer to the new Act: Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act (NI) 1969. For example, on letterheads or websites, use: “[Name of society] is a registered society under the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act (Northern Ireland) 1969.”

Important notes

  • Co-operative societies cannot be charities.
  • Community Benefit Societies can be charities, but must meet charity law requirements.
  • Legal advice is recommended to choose the right structure and ensure compliance.

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