Can One Person Set Up a Charity

Introduction

Starting a charity is a powerful way to make a difference, but it is not as simple as registering a business in your own name. In the UK, charities are not owned by individuals. They are run by trustees who manage the organisation collectively and ensure it operates for the public benefit.

That means while one person can take the lead and drive the idea forward, a charity cannot legally be formed or managed by just one person. The law requires a minimum number of trustees to ensure proper oversight and accountability.

Can one person legally set up a charity

You cannot register a charity entirely on your own. UK charity law requires at least three independent trustees to register with the Charity Commission for England and Wales. These trustees share legal responsibility for the charity’s decisions, finances, and compliance.

However, one person can absolutely start the process of forming a charity. You can develop the idea, draft the objectives, recruit trustees, and prepare all necessary documents. Once you have at least two other suitable people to act as trustees, you can complete the registration.

The key point is that no single individual can have full control over a registered charity. This rule protects public trust and ensures that charitable funds are used properly.

Why charities must have multiple trustees

Trustees act as the charity’s governing body. Having at least three independent trustees provides a balance of skills, opinions, and accountability. It also prevents conflicts of interest and misuse of funds.

The Charity Commission expects trustees to:

Manage the charity’s resources responsibly

Act in the best interests of the public benefit

Ensure the charity complies with the law and its governing document

Avoid personal gain or conflicts of interest

This shared responsibility helps maintain transparency and builds confidence among donors and beneficiaries.

What if you want to run a charitable project alone

If your goal is simply to support a cause without forming a full charity, there are several other options available.

1. Set up a small charitable organisation

You can operate as an unregistered charity if your income is below £5,000 per year. You’ll still need a clear charitable purpose and trustees, but registration with the Charity Commission isn’t yet required.

This can be a good way to test your idea before scaling up. Once your income regularly exceeds £5,000, you’ll need to register officially.

2. Create a charitable fund under another organisation

Some people start by setting up a donor-advised fund or community fund through an existing charity or local community foundation. This allows you to raise and distribute money for your chosen cause without handling the legal administration yourself.

3. Form a non-charitable social enterprise

If you prefer to work independently, a Community Interest Company (CIC) or similar social enterprise structure might suit you better. CICs can be run by one person and still have a social purpose, but they are regulated differently and can pay salaries or dividends within limits.

This route allows more personal control while still supporting community or environmental aims.

Steps to set up a charity if you’re starting alone

Step 1: Define your charitable purpose

Your cause must fit one or more of the 13 recognised charitable purposes under UK law, such as relieving poverty, advancing education, or protecting the environment. You must also show that your charity provides a clear public benefit.

Step 2: Recruit trustees

You’ll need at least three unrelated trustees. They should be over 18, trustworthy, and willing to take legal responsibility for managing the charity. Choose people who share your vision and bring different skills such as finance, governance, or fundraising.

Step 3: Write your governing document

This is your charity’s constitution or set of rules. It outlines your objectives, structure, trustee roles, and how decisions are made. You can use templates from the Charity Commission’s website or get professional help if your charity’s activities are complex.

Step 4: Choose your structure

The most common structures are:

Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO): Best for small or medium charities that want limited liability.

Charitable Trust: Suitable for organisations managing funds or property.

Unincorporated Association: Simple structure for small, volunteer-run groups.

If you want your charity to own property or employ staff, a CIO is usually the best choice.

Step 5: Apply to the Charity Commission

Once you have your trustees, governing document, and structure, you can register with the Charity Commission if your income is at least £5,000 or if you are forming a CIO. The application requires details about your charity’s purpose, activities, and finances.

If approved, you’ll receive a charity number and can start operating officially.

Responsibilities once your charity is registered

As founder and trustee, you must ensure your charity operates transparently and in line with its objectives. This includes:

Keeping proper financial records

Submitting annual reports and accounts

Following data protection and safeguarding rules

Acting only in the charity’s best interests

Even though you can’t be the sole decision-maker, you can still play a leading role in shaping the charity’s direction and managing daily operations.

How to find trustees

If you don’t already know people who can join you, there are several ways to find trustees:

Ask friends, family, or colleagues who support your cause

Approach local professionals with relevant expertise

Advertise on websites like Reach Volunteering or Do-it.org

Contact your local voluntary action centre or community hub

Focus on finding trustworthy individuals with complementary skills, as a diverse board strengthens the organisation.

Common mistakes to avoid

Trying to register with only one trustee

Choosing friends or relatives who won’t actively participate

Lacking a clear charitable purpose

Ignoring the need for a written constitution

Mixing personal and charity finances

Avoiding these pitfalls helps ensure your charity is compliant and ready for long-term success.

Conclusion

While one person cannot legally form a registered charity alone, one person can absolutely start the process. You can develop the idea, recruit trustees, and lead the charity once it’s established.

The key requirement is that a charity must be governed by at least three independent trustees who share responsibility for its management. This ensures accountability, protects the charity’s reputation, and builds public trust.

If you’re passionate about a cause, don’t let the rules discourage you. With the right team and a clear mission, one person’s vision can become a registered charity that makes a real difference.