Regulator explains how it plans to operate in coming years

A new corporate plan for the next three years has been outlined by the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR).

Funded by an annual budget of just over £3.3m, OSCR’s Corporate Plan 2020-23 sets out the strategic direction of the regulator for “a trusted and respected Scottish charity sector which positively contributes to society”.

Its strategic outcomes include the public having confidence in charities, charities being well run and thriving, charities being at the heart of a vibrant and sustainable Scotland, and ensuring that OSCR is a highly effective organisation.

The regulator says that because of the coronavirus pandemic, the plan will be implemented with flexibility.

OSCR has said it will reflect on “how our actions and priorities may require to change in response to the pandemic”.

Maureen Mallon, chief executive of OSCR, said: “I am delighted to share our new corporate plan. Charities have shown time and time again that they are essential to a flourishing society in Scotland, and it is vital for public trust and confidence that the sector operates to the very highest standards.

“‘In the plan, you will see that we have used the knowledge gained as regulator to update our strategic direction and vision to better reflect how we can meet the expectations of the public, sector organisations and charities themselves.

“We look forward to sharing updates on our progress as the plan progresses, and we will continue to review its content to ensure its relevance as time goes on.”

It will increase its focus on supporting charity trustees and using its data and intelligence on the charity sector to “proactively seek to improve the understanding of Scotland’s charity sector locally, nationally and internationally.”