Advice on starting a group
How to get started
Here are some simple first steps to help you get moving.
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1. Does it already exist?
1. First, find out if something similar exists already Can you partner with an existing organisation and extend what they are doing? East Sussex Community Information Service
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2. Find your people
Different people bring different skills, so you can share responsibilities between you. If you plan to apply for funding or become a formal non-profit organisation, you will usually need at least three unrelated people involved in running the group.
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3. A formal organisation?
You might be able to do what you want to do as an informal activity with little paperwork. However if you intend to apply for grant funding, open a group bank account or start contracts, you usually will need to make the group formal.
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4. Key questions
Ask yourself: What are the aims of your project? Where will the money come from to run your activities? Do you want to earn an income from this work? Do you want a membership of local residents to support your project?
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5. Choose a legal structure
See our Common Legal Structures for Groups document below.
Common Legal Structures for Groups
This guide outlines some of the most common legal structures used by charities, community groups and social enterprises.
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Other useful links
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Let’s Do Business
A leading provider of business support, LDB support small business to develop and grow, through business consultancy, access to finance, marketing and business training, helping to create jobs in communities and grow the local economy
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Rother Voluntary Action
Support and advice for voluntary and community groups across Rother, including help with setting up and running organisations.
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NCVO
NCVO bring charities, voluntary organisations and trustees together to share ideas and best practice.
More resources
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Low-cost DBS checks for charities, community groups and organisations, carried out through a virtual process that follows current government guidance. Volunteer checks are free, with a £10 admin fee.
31 March, 2026 Peter Thorpe
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This guide outlines some of the most common legal structures used by charities, community groups and social enterprises.
17 March, 2026 HVA
FAQs
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Can we start informally before becoming a formal organisation?
Yes, you can absolutely begin as an informal, voluntary group before becoming a formal charity. In fact, operating informally to test your ideas and build your community is a highly recommended first step.
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What if a similar group already exists locally?
Can you reach out and suggest partnering with the existing organization and extend what they are doing?
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Can family members run a group together?
Yes, family members can absolutely run a charity together. However, you must carefully manage conflicts of interest and ensure the board remains accountable. In the UK, the Charity Commission requires at least three trustees to register, and a majority must be completely independent (unconnected) to prevent the charity from serving purely private interests.
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Do we need a separate bank account straight away?
Yes, we would recommend opening a separate bank account. While technically not a strict legal requirement for all initial charity setups, mixing charity donations with personal funds makes it nearly impossible to secure grants, claim Gift Aid, or pass audits.
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What kinds of projects can HVA support?
HVA can support not-for-profit groups including community groups, charities and Community Interest Companies.
Still can't find what you're looking for?
Please use the resources on this page first, but if you need further help with funding for your voluntary organisation, you can complete our online form.