More information to appear on the Scottish Charity Register from 9 March 2026, including charity trustee names and accounts documents. Click here for more details.

Introduction

Published: 12/03/2025
Updated: 07/04/2025

What this guidance covers

This guidance explains what cross-border charities; charities registered with the Charity Commission for England and Wales (CCEW) and with the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) need to know about how OSCR regulates them.

The primary piece of charity law in Scotland is:

The primary piece of charity law in England and Wales is:

Generally speaking the regulatory regime for charities in Scotland applies equally to all charities entered in the Scottish Charity Register. The following sections explain the key elements of Scottish charity regulation that cross-border charities need to know.

The guidance also explains when a charity registered with CCEW needs to register with OSCR.

Who is the guidance for?

This guidance is aimed at charity trustees of cross-border charities and people working with or advising charity trustees.

It will also be useful to those looking to apply to OSCR to become a cross-border charity.

How to use the guide

The guide is split into sections to help you find the information most relevant to you and your charity. Each section contains summary information, a brief explanation of the relevant laws and links to further guidance from OSCR and CCEW.

Scroll to top