Monday 30-06-2025 - 10:42

As SUs continue to lead the way in developing opinions, organising debates, and welcoming guest speakers, it's essential that SU trustees and senior staff understand the complexities of the legal responsibilities that come with these activities, especially within the framework of charity law.

To help you navigate these responsibilities with confidence, NUS Charity has been working closely with expert law firm Bates Wells, alongside leading barristers Edward Cumming KC and Raj Desai, to update the sector’s core legal guidance first issued in 2016.

The updated legal opinion will be published in full once certain aspects of the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act are repealed. In the meantime, a new interim guidance document is now available to help you support debates, motions, and speaker events while ensuring compliance with charity law.

What’s in the document?

• Clear legal context for hosting debates and speakers
• Guidance on what’s permissible for charitable organisations
• Advice on managing political, controversial or sensitive topics
• Practical tips for safeguarding your union’s charitable status

Check out the guidance now.