Small charities: why confident leadership now matters more than ever

Recent discussions across the charity sector press and civil society organisations have highlighted a common theme: resilience is no longer just about surviving uncertainty. It is about building strong governance, making informed decisions and communicating clearly with supporters, funders and beneficiaries. 

Against this backdrop, the Charity Community is hosting its free, virtual event for the trustees and advisers of small charities for the third year running. ‘Small Charities: Building Confidence, Strengthening Leadership’ takes place on 7 October 2026, and its free half-day programme will explore some of the most pressing issues currently affecting the sector. Our expert speakers will provide practical guidance that attendees can take back to their organisations.

The implementation of the new Charities SORP, alongside wider reporting reforms, is one of the most discussed developments. Alongside increased financial thresholds and forthcoming Companies House changes, charities are facing a period of adjustment that will affect how they communicate financial performance and accountability. Our event will open with a session examining what these developments mean for smaller charities and the actions trustees should be taking now. Another session brings a practical perspective on how small charities can bring their stories, outcomes, and impact to life, drawing on the experience of RSPCA branches.

The focus on reporting is about more than compliance. Increasingly, stakeholders expect charity reports to tell a clear story about stewardship, decision-making and public benefit. Trustees therefore need to understand not only what must be reported, but how to communicate it effectively.

For trustees with financial skills, this means playing a vital role in translating financial information into language and insights that can be understood by the whole board. Effective governance depends on all trustees being able to engage confidently with financial performance, risks and opportunities, regardless of their financial background. By presenting financial information clearly and accessibly, finance trustees can help foster informed discussion, strengthen collective stewardship and support better decision-making across the board.

Another recurring theme in sector discussions is financial resilience. Many charities continue to face rising costs, uncertain income streams and growing demand for services. In this environment, it’s important for charities to demonstrate to funders that a financial plan for resilience is in place. Yet reserves remain one of the most misunderstood areas of charity accounting and the reserves policy is often difficult to reconcile with the balance sheet figures.

A dedicated session at the event will explore the new reserves reporting requirements under SORP 2026 and provide practical insight from Ben Clarkson, who combines senior finance leadership with trustee experience. Strong reserves reporting can help charities not only comply with the new SORP requirements but also demonstrate responsible stewardship.

Artificial intelligence remains one of the most talked-about developments by ICAEW members across all sectors. Much of the conversation has understandably focused on opportunities and risks, but trustees are increasingly asking a more practical question: how can AI help organisations make better decisions?

One of the event's most forward-looking sessions will demonstrate how small charities can use AI responsibly to transform financial information into clear board reporting and decision-support tools. Importantly, the session will also address governance considerations and the need for human oversight. As charities explore digital transformation opportunities, understanding where technology can genuinely add value will become an increasingly important leadership skill.

Alongside strategic issues, trustees must continue to ensure strong compliance in core operational areas. Gift Aid remains a valuable source of income for many charities and the event includes a practical session covering recent guidance updates, common issues raised by HMRC and steps charities can take to maximise claims while remaining compliant.

While the challenges facing small charities are significant, they also present opportunities. Charities that understand regulatory changes, communicate effectively, make good use of technology and maintain strong governance arrangements will be better placed to deliver impact and build trust.

The Charity Community's free event Small Charities: Building Confidence, Strengthening Leadership, brings together experienced practitioners who work closely with smaller charities and understand the realities facing trustees and treasurers today. Attendees will gain up to 3.5 hours of verifiable CPD, practical insights, and the opportunity to ask questions about the issues affecting their organisations. You can also invite your colleagues and fellow trustees – the event is open and free for non-members, too.

• Book your free place