Trustee names will be published in the Scottish Charity Register

Charities can now submit charity trustee information through the Scottish charity regulator’s OSCR Online.

This data will support its regulatory work, and from early 2026, the names of charity trustees will be published on the Scottish Charity Register to promote transparency and strengthen public trust in the sector.

Charities can only submit trustee details on OSCR Online through one of their designated OSCR Online charity users.

Any charity completing a new online annual return created on or after 30 June 2025 will be required to include charity trustee information as part of the submission.

While this requirement does not apply to online annual returns created before 30 June, the regulator is strongly encouraging all Scottish charities to provide trustee details as soon as possible to ensure their compliance with the new legislation.

This change is part of the Charities (Regulation and Administration) (Scotland) Act 2023. Other measures under the Act, including OSCR’s expanded inquiry powers, are already in effect.

Katriona Carmichael, OSCR’s chief executive, said: “This is a positive and important change for Scotland’s charity sector. By collecting and publishing charity trustee names, we are strengthening our ability to regulate charities, building greater transparency, and reinforcing public confidence in the work of charities.

“It supports OSCR’s vision of a trusted and respected Scottish charity sector that contributes positively to society. We know that the vast majority of charity trustees act with integrity and commitment, and this new requirement will help shine a light on their vital role.”

Full instructions on how to provide charity trustee information using OSCR Online are available here.