Charity Commission Complaints
Specialist legal support for charities and trustees
Charities and trustees play a vital role in maintaining public trust. When concerns are raised with the Charity Commission, however, even a well-run charity can find itself facing difficult questions. Whether the issue involves a complaint, regulatory compliance case or statutory inquiry, Charity Commission scrutiny can feel daunting, disruptive and potentially damaging to the charity’s reputation.
For trustees and senior managers, knowing how to respond can be challenging. There may be uncertainty about what information needs to be provided, how concerns should be addressed and what the Charity Commission may expect from the organisation. A poorly judged response can create further questions or concerns, while failing to engage appropriately can make matters more difficult.
At Ellis-Fermor & Negus, we advise charities, trustees and senior management teams across England and Wales when they are facing Charity Commission scrutiny. We understand that these situations can be stressful, particularly when trustees are concerned about their personal responsibilities, the charity’s reputation or the potential consequences for the organisation.
We can help you understand the concerns being raised, assess the position and develop a proportionate and carefully considered response. Where appropriate, we can assist with communications and submissions to the Charity Commission, help trustees understand their responsibilities and advise on practical steps to address any underlying governance or compliance issues.
Our approach is calm, strategic and focused on resolving the situation constructively. We consider the wider implications for the charity and its trustees, helping you protect the organisation’s position and strengthen its governance where necessary.
If the Charity Commission has raised concerns about your charity, early legal advice can make a real difference. We can help you understand what is happening, what needs to be done and how best to move forward.
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‘Ben provided me with excellent advice and dealt with my matter swiftly and efficiently.’
Ben Bourne
Director and Solicitor
Who Can Help?
Ben Bourne – Director and Solicitor
Ben Bourne is an experienced solicitor who advises hundreds of charities on governance, compliance, and regulatory matters. He is a member of the Charity Law Association and has extensive experience assisting charities where there have been:
- Financial mismanagement concerns
- Conflicts of interest
- Invalid or improper decision-making
- Safeguarding issues
- Improper disposal of charity assets (including property)
- Failure to act in accordance with governing documents
Clients value Ben’s measured, calm approach and his ability to guide trustees through difficult regulatory situations with clarity and confidence.
Why choose Ellis-Fermor & Negus?
We are committed to helping charities continue their vital work while meeting regulatory expectations.
Proven experience advising hundreds of charities and not-for-profits
Specialist knowledge of Charity Commission processes and expectations
Sensitive handling of reputational and governance issues
Clear, transparent fee structures
Calm, pragmatic advice focused on outcomes
Reviews, what our clients are saying…
Frequently Asked Questions
The Charity Commission is the regulator for charities in England and Wales. It may become involved where it receives a complaint, identifies regulatory concerns, or believes there may be mismanagement or misconduct.
Not all complaints lead to action—but early responses matter.
We regularly advise charities of all sizes—local, regional, and national—facing:
- Complaints made to the Charity Commission
- Regulatory compliance cases or ongoing monitoring
- Statutory inquiries or formal investigations
- Requests for information, explanations, or action plans
- Allegations of mismanagement or misconduct
- Governance, safeguarding, or financial control concerns
- Trustee duties, conflicts of interest, or decision-making issues
Many charities encounter regulatory scrutiny through no deliberate wrongdoing. How trustees respond at an early stage is often critical in preventing escalation.
We understand that most trustees want to do the right thing and may be dealing with the Charity Commission for the first time. Our approach is:
- Practical and proportionate – focused on resolving issues efficiently
- Clear and supportive – helping trustees understand duties and options
- Strategic – protecting both the charity’s future and its reputation
- Experienced – grounded in deep knowledge of charity law and regulation
We work collaboratively with trustees and senior staff, recognising the operational and emotional pressures charities face during regulatory scrutiny.
Charity Commission involvement usually falls into one of three stages:
- Initial Complaint or Concern
The Commission may receive a complaint from:
- A member of the public
- A beneficiary
- A disgruntled trustee or former employee
- A whistle-blower
Not all complaints are well-founded, but they must still be handled carefully.
- Regulatory Compliance Case
This is typically an informal engagement, where the Commission seeks reassurance that trustees:
- Understand the issue
- Are acting appropriately
- Have controls and governance in place
Many matters can be resolved at this stage with clear explanations and proportionate action.
- Statutory Inquiry
A statutory inquiry is a formal investigation with wider legal powers. While more serious, it does not automatically mean wrongdoing has been proven. Early advice can still significantly influence scope, duration, and outcome.
Contact Us
If your charity or trustees are facing a complaint or Charity Commission scrutiny, early support can make all the difference.
• Phone: 0115 922 1591
• Email: ben.bourne@ellis-fermor.co.uk