Model CIOs
We have produced with the Western Counties and South Wales Evangelization Trust a Model Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) Pack to help independent evangelical churches register as a charity.
The Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) was introduced as a new legal structure in 2006 and CIOs came into being in England and Wales in 2012. A CIO is specifically and expressly designed as a charity structure. Like a company it has a legal identity of its own. Unlike a company it is not registered with the Companies House. It is registered only with, and indeed comes into existence by registration with, the Charity Commission. It is a suitable structure for small to medium sized charities and can be used for large charities as well, so is suitable for most independent churches.
Model CIO papers available for download
- CIO Briefing Paper – A general briefing paper explaining what CIOs are.
- Guide to the Model CIO document – An explanatory guide on how to use the Model CIO, including recommendations on solicitors to use.
- Elder-led CIO model constitution – Shows the variations to the Charity Commission’s Model Constitution and giving options for you to use in your constitution.
- Elder-led CIO model constitution (with notes) – This is the same document as above, but also contains explanatory notes on each part of the constitution.
- Brethren Movement briefing paper – This may be helpful if your church has roots in the Open Brethren Movement to explains to the Charity Commission the difference between Open Brethren and “Exclusive” Brethren.
If you are interested in this service or have any questions on charity information, please contact Giles Arnold on 01536 647164 or giles.arnold@churchgrowth.org.uk.
