Scottish charities need to start preparing for the impact of a ‘yes’ vote to independence and engage with policy-makers about the issues ahead of the referendum, warns the Carnegie UK Trust.
Of the Scottish charities with UK links that responded to the Trust's survey, more than 50 per cent expected to be affected by constitutional change but 88 per cent have not started to plan for what it could mean.
With the vote on independence set to take place in autumn 2014, the charity is now urging trustee boards to discuss the implications for their organisations during 2013 and to provide guidance for staff on how to respond to questions from stakeholders.
The Trust's report, A charitable concern? How charities in Scotland are preparing for the potential for further constitutional change, warns that: “Under different constitutional arrangements, everything from budgetary choice by government to entity regulation could be subject to change, or at least review.”
Martyn Evans, chief executive of Carnegie UK Trust, said: “It is difficult to say at this stage in the debate what the impact of further constitutional change would be on charities, positive or negative.”
He added that: “With less than two years to go, and with just one St Andrew’s Day left until we all pledge our vote, now is the time for us to learn more, ask questions, and encourage our politicians to bring the topic to the fore sooner rather than later.”
As well surveying 164 Scottish charities, the researchers interviewed 23 senior representatives from those charities.
Evans said that from these interviews: “It became apparent that it was not down to bemused uncertainty, but rather lack of clarity as to what options might eventually be offered” and that “some charities are hesitant about speaking out because they might be seen to take sides”.
Since the research was carried out the Scottish and UK governments have agreed that a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ vote on independence will be held.
Evans concluded that: “With so many ifs, buts and maybes still outstanding, as well as much consideration to be given by Scottish charities with UK-wide affiliations, charities need to enter the debate now and should not shy away from being seen and heard.”
