JGP News

Moves to cut red tape for those working for charities have been unveiled, it has emerged.

Proposals by Phil Hope, minister for the third sector, could result in some 33,000 registered voluntary groups - the equivalent of about a fifth of all charities - dealing with less regulation from the 2009-10 financial year.

Under the plans, the income threshold above which charities must prepare accruals accounts will rise from £100,000 to £250,000.

It was also suggested that some 37,000 third sector bodies may no longer need to have their accounts externally examined should they earn less than £25,000.

And in news that could help organisations to maintain sustainable efficiencies, it was stated the changes will be of particular benefit to leaders at small charities as they will not have to spend the majority of their time filling out forms.

Mr Hope claimed that it is important for voluntary and community groups "to focus as much time as possible on their core purpose which is why I am delighted that these changes will see the administrative burdens of thousands of charities reduced".

Earlier this week, proposals by the Department of Communities and Local Government suggested that local authorities may soon be able to implement byelaws focusing on improving community safety without first being required to get Whitehall approval.

More about sustainable efficiencies.