Charity Commission urges charities to prepare for new EHRC Code of Practice

The Charity Commission is encouraging charities to begin preparing now for the new Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) Code of Practice, which is due to come into force shortly and will have legal status.

The updated Code provides guidance on how organisations should apply the Equality Act 2010, including reflecting the Supreme Court’s clarification that, for the purposes of the Act, “sex” refers to biological sex. Trustees are responsible for ensuring their charities comply with the law once the Code becomes legally enforceable.

The Charity Commission has confirmed it is developing additional guidance specifically for charities, expected later this autumn. However, trustees are advised not to wait for this guidance before reviewing their policies, procedures and practices. Depending on the nature of their work, charities may also wish to seek independent legal advice.

To read the full announcement and access further guidance, visit the GOV.UK website here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/charities-urged-to-prepare-for-compliance-with-ehrc-code-of-practice.