Rainwater charges lead to Scout lobby of parliament
The Scout Association is organising its first ever day of action at the Houses of Parliament on St Swithun's Day, 15th July, to ask assistance from MPs in the campaign against the changes in charges for surface water run off. Seehttp://www.scout.org.uk/water. Previously charity/community premises had not been charged as much as commercial properties for this service by the water utilities, with billing based on rateable value. The new approach is based on drainage surface area. More on the "Rain Tax" at http://www.dontdrainus.org
These changes could affect any village hall whose rain water run-off goes into the main drainage system rather than a soak away – more news as and when available.
Changes to VAT concession on 'charitable buildings'
The zero VAT rating 'charitable building' concession (ESC 3.29) is to be withdrawn on 1st July 2010. However, there is a new interpretation of the 'for use solely for a relevant charitable purpose (RCP)' requirement of statutory legislation - the building must intended to be used 95 per cent or more for a RCP based on any fair and reasonable measuring method. There is a transitional period of 12 months from 1st July 2009 in which charities can use either approach. See VAT Info Sheet 39/09, http://tinyurl.com/nuvkdp.
Managing a building or other facility?
There is a new FM Charity Network Forum, The Forum is open for all Head of Facilities, Facilities Managers, Office / Administration Managers, or other roles involving FM responsibilities within a charity organisation.http://www.fmcharitynetworkforum.co.uk.
And another one ....
Perhaps they haven't come across the Charities Facilities Management Special Interest Group of the charity ‘Upkeep’, an informal network that aims to help voluntary sector organisations get the best from their buildings and services. They promote peer-to-peer networking and the exchange of knowledge and experience between individuals and organisations. They aim to be a useful resource for charities of all sizes, from large organisations with major property investments to small charities who may rent a few rooms http://www.upkeep.org.uk/cfmg/, it has been around since 2001
Free property advice
The Charity Property Help service gives voluntary organisations free advice on property-related issues. The service provides a free one-hour consultation on topics including property maintenance; environmental issues; lease, renewals and tenancies; and planning issues. Find out more at: Charity Property Help