What does the Charities Act 2006 mean for Leeds University Union?
Quite simply it means that we have to register as a charity. This is because students unions are now regulated by the charities commission. LUU, up to now, has been defined as an unincorporated association. “Association” means that we are an organisation consisting of a group of people who have decided to work together in furthering what the organisation is established to do, and who participate in its administration. “Unincorporated” means that the organisation is not incorporated as a company. Because the organisation is unincorporated, we cannot undertake investments in our own name nor do we have limited liability. That liability currently lies with the Board of Trustees on an individual basis. Following advice from independent solicitors and financial advisors we are proposing that Leeds University Union becomes a charitable company limited by guarantee. The Union would continue to be a not for profit organisation, and students would not see any change in the way that the Union is
