Scottish Government

PART FIVE - NEXT STEPS

194. As previously stated, this consultation examines policy principles rather than detailed legislative provisions. This is to allow greater public and stakeholder involvement in decisions about the fundamental structure of the SCIO and the regulatory framework within which it will operate. As part of the consultation process, we intend to arrange public events to better understand the needs and perspectives of different stakeholders. Details of these events will be published on the Charity Law pages of the Scottish Government website ( http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/People/15300/charities/law/SCIOs).

195. Once the consultation closes, we will analyse the responses and prepare a consultation report summarising these and outlining next steps. Our intention is then to prepare draft regulations taking on board the views received during consultation. The timing of implementation will largely depend on the outcome of the consultation and whether a further consultation on draft regulations is deemed necessary. We do not wish to delay the introduction of the SCIO any more than is necessary but also recognise that it will be important that those who will have to work with the provisions should have the opportunity to comment on them. So we may undertake a shorter, more targeted consultation on draft regulations with charity practitioners and professional advisors. Our expectation is that the form will become available some time late in 2010 or early 2011.

196. We understand that it will take some time for the new form to bed in and implementation may need to be phased to allow for OSCR to make the necessary operational arrangements. We will work with OSCR and other partners to ensure that charities fully understand the requirements which will be placed on them when becoming SCIOs. To underpin this effort we intend to develop a communications strategy to raise awareness and increase access to information.

197. In the meantime, we would welcome your views on the questions raised in this consultation, which can be submitted on the response form (see pages 66-75 below) before the closing date of 26 February 2010 to:

Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisations ( SCIOs) Consultation

Tel: 0131 244 0123
Fax: 0131 244 8325
Email: charityact@scotland.gsi.gov.uk