Charities and Social Ventures

Navigating today’s regulatory and governance landscape can be daunting for any organisation. We offer unparalleled advisory services that ensure our clients not only comply with the law but also thrive within it. We offer a specialist, seamless service to help innovative charities, social ventures and philanthropists to deliver their strategic and operational plans, from start-ups to charities over 350 years old, and both local and globally. We advise on the full spectrum of legal issues for impact-driven clients, from governance and operational matters to complex regulatory challenges.  

Our team has unparalleled experience of Charity Commission investigations and complaints, drawing on 20 years of combined experience working on investigations and litigation within the regulator’s legal team. We advise clients on all aspects of charity regulation, including responding to regulatory enquiries strategically and effectively, on pragmatic reviews and improvement plans where things have gone wrong, and on impactful complaints to the regulator. 

In the world of social good, collaboration is key. We facilitate strategic partnerships that amplify impact, bringing together like-minded entities to create synergies and drive positive change. We have particular expertise in advising on joint ventures, mergers, and collaborations that bring together charities, public bodies and industries, designing bespoke governance frameworks to protect and align interests across sectors. 

We are at the forefront of designing, creating and supporting social and impact ventures such as Community Interest Companies (CICs), social enterprises and B Corps throughout their lifecycle, as they tackle the world's big social and environmental challenges, both local and global. We provide comprehensive support, from venture design and legal and governance frameworks, to advising on investment and funding strategies, including the use of blended finance. We also help with establishing collaboration and partner agreements, and wider day-to-day advice covering all aspects as the venture grows. 

Securing funding and exploring commercial opportunities can be vital for growth and sustainability. We provide expert guidance on all aspects of fundraising, from navigating the complexities of charity law to structuring commercial activities that support your social objectives. We help you to identify and implement innovative funding strategies that align with your values, legal obligations, and best practice governance. 

When disputes arise, whether internal or external, our team is equipped to handle them with sensitivity and resolve. We understand the reputational risks involved and work tirelessly to protect the interests of our clients. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, we are committed to finding the best possible outcome, allowing you to maintain focus on your core mission. 

We provide an end-to-end service for foundations and grant-makers, from setting up new organisations, through grant-making policies and best-practice, to due diligence and risk mitigation on grant delivery. We have particular expertise in climate, health and nature funding. 

Our team is at the forefront of impact investment and social finance, working closely with our top-tier investment and venture capital team. We advise investors and investees on structuring deals that provide for social and environmental benefits alongside financial returns. We support charities and other investors at the cutting edge of this dynamic area, as well as impact ventures they fund, understanding the nuances and potential of using capital for good while navigating legal and regulatory risk. 

Drawing on our practical experience, we deliver engaging, bespoke training sessions and educational workshops across a range of topics. We ensure that you are equipped with the latest legal knowledge and best practices to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of charity and social venture law and practice.