A charity in Scotland is an organisation which is entered in the
Scottish Charity Register. Charities can have many
constitutional forms, for example companies, trusts or
unincorporated associations. There are currently over 23,000
charities in Scotland and you can find information about them
here.
We have a statutory duty to encourage and assist charities to meet
their legal requirements. Find out how we do this.
To become a charity in Scotland you must apply to OSCR for
charitable status. Find out how to apply for charitable status.
The SCIO is an optional new legal form for registered Scottish
charities. Find out more.
Read about the legislative requirements for English and Welsh
(cross-border) charities.
View a selection of charities illustrating the impact of the
sector.