Introduction

 

Download the full PDF version of the Guidance. Download the word version.  Download the large print version here (point 18 font).

What this guidance covers

Every year you need to send us:

1. the online annual return
2. statement of accounts
3. trustees’ annual report and
4. external scrutiny report.

This guidance explains what a trustees’ annual report is, what the law says it must contain and how you can use it to benefit your charity.

In this guidance we refer to the trustees’ annual report as a TAR.

Who is the guidance for?

This guidance is aimed at charity trustees of small to medium sized charities to help them produce a TAR. It may also be useful to people working with or advising charity trustees.

How to use the guidance

The glossary provides you with further information, definitions and descriptions of some key terms. We’ve highlighted these key terms in bold purple type. Clicking on these terms will take you straight to the glossary.

Sources of help and advice

The TAR is part of the annual report and accounts and there are legal requirements for the content so you need to make sure you get it right.  There’s more guidance from OSCR on our charity accounting webpage.

These organisations can help with some or all of the areas set out in the guidance as well:

• Local Third Sector Interfaces offer a range of support to voluntary organisations.
  
  
• The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO).
  
  
• You may need to consult a professional advisor. The Institute of Chartered Accountants in Scotland (ICAS) or the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) may be able to help you to identify a professional firm with expertise in charity accounting.
  
  
• The Association of Charity Independent Examiners (ACIE) may be able to help you find an independent examiner with expertise in charity accounting.
  
  
• If your charity is part of an umbrella organisation, such as Early Years Scotland or the Development Trusts Association Scotland, the umbrella organisation or parent charity may be able to give you support.