The Association of Charitable Foundations, which represents trusts and foundations, and the Association of Charitable Organisations, which represents benevolent funds, have entered talks to explore how they can work together more closely.

Neither organisation would comment on whether a merger is in their sights, stressing that talks are at a very early stage.

The two organisations already share the same offices, some members and organise joint events.  In a statement, they said: “Building on a history of close joint working, ACF and ACO have agreed to explore ways of enhancing our membership offers and strengthening voice and representation for our respective sectors.  

“Our two boards will be looking more closely at opportunities for collaboration over the summer, prior to reporting on progress in October.”

This time last year, ACF chief David Emerson (pictured) confirmed the body was exploring a merger opportunity with the Community Foundation Network.  Nobody was available from either of those bodies today to comment on progress.