Starting up

We can offer support and advice on the best way to start your idea.

Whether you are a volunteer-led group, or a budding entrepreneur thinking of starting a new social enterprise or charity, we can help guide you through the various legal models available and make sure your idea has the right foundations to grow.

Setting up a new group, or changing the structure of an existing one, can seem a complicated process, particularly if you haven’t had previous experience in this field. If you would like to talk through any queries, or take advantage of support to help form your group, we can give you information, advice and guidance over the phone, email or in person.

There are a few questions to think about when forming a new community group.

• Do you have the time, energy, skills and commitment to do the work?
• Why are you setting up this group, and what is your motivation?
• Is there a need for this group?
• Is anyone else doing the same thing in the same area?

You will need to have at least three people who aren’t related to each other to form your committee, and you will also need to write a governing document.

We can help you with this, as well as in a number of other areas

• Choosing the right legal structure
• Business planning – developing your business case or strategic plan
• Looking at and applying for appropriate start-up funding
• Advice on appropriate systems, policies and procedures to make sure you comply with legal requirements and have good governance

Useful links and resources

Social Enterprise UK
Charity Commission
CIC regulator