Charity Commission guidance on social media & resources for trustees

5th October 2023

The Charity Commission for England and Wales has published new guidance on charities’ use of social media. The guidance makes clear that social media can be an effective way for a charity to engage its audiences and communicate about its work. It aims to help trustees understand the risks of social media, how their legal duties apply, and what to consider if issues arise. The guidance recommends that charities using social media should have a social media policy in place and should ensure the policy is followed. A practical checklist is included to help trustees and senior employees have informed conversations on what the right policy looks like for them. The guidance also reiterates charities’ right to engage in campaigning and political activity, including using social media, to further their charitable objectives.

The Charity Commission for England and Wales has also recently launched a new campaign for charity trustees, including a new interactive quiz which has been designed for trustees to check their knowledge and reveal any gaps they might have. Trustees are also encouraged to look at the series of 5-minute guides, which cover core trustee duties.