Charity campaigning in a general election period
Understand the rules on political activity and campaigning and how they are regulated now a general election has been called.
Applies to England and Wales
A general election has been called to take place on 4 July 2024, and many charities will see this as an opportunity to highlight the issues faced by their beneficiaries.
Charities can take part in political activity that supports their purpose and is in their best interests. However, charities must follow the law when doing so. Outlined below is key guidance to help guide charities over the coming weeks.
Charity law and elections
As a trustee you are responsible for making sure your charity always follows the rules on political activity and campaigning. Extra care must be taken now a General Election has been called.
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charities should familiarise themselves with our guidance on campaigning and political activity, which also has an introductory 5-minute guide
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for supplementary guidance on additional issues to consider, read our guidance on elections
Key issues and questions to consider
This useful guide outlines key issues and questions for charities to consider and is based on scenarios that charities have commonly faced during previous election periods.
Social media guidance
Charities can legitimately use social media to campaign, but there can be risks to doing so. Read our social media guidance for more information.
Information for parliamentary candidates
Read our guide for information on how parliamentary candidates can engage with charities during an election campaign.
Electoral law
Alongside charity law, electoral law may apply to your charity.
Electoral law requires charities to register as non-party campaigners if they spend over a certain amount on regulated campaign activities in the 12 months leading up to the next election.
Check the Electoral Commission’s non-party campaigner code of practice for full details of the rules.
Read the joint Commission blog for an overview of recent changes to the code and how it applies to your charity.