Religious charities in the UK can hold unpopular views, such as not endorsing homosexuality, just as long as they are transparent, the Charity Commission has stated.Charities can also require that their employees comply with 'religiously-derived norms of behaviour' as long as they do not break the law in doing so.
These conclusions were published after a consultation lasting 16 weeks with various religious charities.
Many religious charities have been wondering for some time how the new requirement of proving 'public benefit' – in order to stay within the law – affects them.
The Charity Commission invited religious charities to comment on its new draft guidance for charities involved with the advancement of religion. This supplementary guidance contributes to its guidance designed for all charities - published in January.
During the consultation several respondents wished to know to what extent charities advancing religion could promote "particular viewpoints or interpretations of religious beliefs or doctrines," such as attitudes towards homosexuality.
They also wished to know to what extent religious charities could restrict their membership, based on the need to comply with 'behavioural norms'.
The Charity Commission responded with the following advice, which they advise charities to keep in order to stay within the law: "Where charities whose aims include advancing religion hold views that, in a secular context, could be viewed as discriminatory, our guidance makes it clear that whilst such views can be held, those organisations are encouraged to be open and transparent about them so that members of the public can make informed choices about whether to attend or support those organisations."
The advice went on to say: "Also, charities advancing religion can require their followers or adherents to comply with religiously-derived norms of behaviour promoted by that religion. However, where doing so involves breaking the law, or where there is evidence of detriment or harm, this will affect public benefit."
Other charitable sectors have also been in consultation with the Charity Commission; namely charities involved in the Relief of Poverty, the Advancement of Education and Fee-charging.
Dame Suzi Leather, Chair of the Charity Commission, said: "The general guidance which we published in January is the key document for all charity trustees, but I would encourage them to consider this additional material published today."
She added: "Once again we have carried out extensive consultation and the feedback we have received has been very valuable. We will be doing further work in the New Year to ensure charities are aware of these additional materials."
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(Source: RI)