CFDG is creating a forum to tackle banking issues faced by civil society organizations.

Running on a bi-yearly basis, the Charity Banking Forum will comprise of members of the Charity Finance Directors’ Group (CFDG) and representatives from the banking industry.

The move toward such a forum came after a meeting between CFDG members; banks; representatives from the Payments Council, the Charity Commission, the Treasury and the Office of the Third Sector.

“Our discussion allowed charities to outline their specific concerns related to beneficiary payments, appeal responses, local membership groups and small charities,” said Roger Chester, CFDG deputy chair and chairman for the meeting.

He continues, “In addition to looking at new initiatives that may address some of the barriers, we also identified some gaps that need addressing such as accounting and banking software, and training for the charity sector and for frontline bank staff on charity banking needs.”