The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland has recently issued a reminder to charities of the importance for charities to be politically independent and not party political. Obviously important advice when we are so close to local elections on 18th May.
Of note the Commission has reminded that charities should be careful of associating, or becoming associated in the minds of the public, with a particular candidate and must not assist candidates with their election campaigns, financially or otherwise.
It is important to note that individual members of a charity may choose to assist any candidate in a personal capacity, but officers and employees of a charity should not use their position in any campaigning activities in such a way as to suggest that the charity endorses any candidate.
For more information visit the Commission’s website to download their charities and politics guidance.
