Online event
Join us for our bi-annual Technical Update Conference where we will delve into the technical aspects of charity finance. We will provide insightful sessions throughout the day, with opportunities to get your questions answered by the experts.
If you want to get up-to-speed with all the recent developments, and gain key insights into the technical world of charity finance, this is the perfect event for you.
Why should I attend?
Please see the full programme below, but as a summary we will be covering:
- Getting governance right
- Navigating VAT with confidence
- Accounting and reporting update
- HR and legal update
- Fundraising update
When and where?
- Thursday 17 September
- 09:30-16:00
- Location: Online via Zoom Events
How do I book?
Book below. You'll receive updated event information approximately one week prior to the event date.
Who should attend?
This event is appropriate for whole finance departments including Finance directors, managers and accountants.
About CFG events and membership
Becoming a CFG member gives you access to exclusive benefits including event discounts, so find out more about CFG Membership before you book. Association of Independent Museums members can register for free CFG membership through our partnership.
CFG events, training and members' meetings can count towards your continuous professional development (CPD), and this event could provide you with 3 hours of CPD. For more details contact your association or email events@cfg.org.uk.
Programme
| 09:30-09:35 | Chair's welcome |
| 09:35-10:15 |
Accounting and reporting update Experts will explore key updates to accounting standards and charity reporting requirements, common areas of scrutiny from auditors and regulators, and the emerging issues charities should be preparing for in their year-end accounts and annual reports. The session will also examine developments in reserves reporting, going concern considerations, income recognition, fund accounting, and the growing expectations around impact, narrative, and non-financial reporting. |
| 10:15-10:25 | Coffee break |
| 10:25-11:05 |
HR & Legal update This session will explore the key legal, regulatory, and workforce developments affecting charities in 2026. Topics will include the Employment Rights Act 2025, the Charity Commission’s latest regulatory priorities and guidance, membership disputes and governance challenges, and updates on marketing soft opt-in and data protection. The session will also cover recruitment and retention, hybrid working, wellbeing, safeguarding, organisational culture, and inclusion, alongside a horizon scan of wider developments such as company law changes and charity tax reforms. |
| 11:05-11:15 | Coffee break |
| 11:15-11:55 |
Fundraising update In this session, experts will discuss changing donor behaviours, digital and AI-driven fundraising trends, the continued growth of high-value giving and philanthropy, and how charities can build stronger long-term supporter relationships in a challenging economic climate. The session will also examine emerging opportunities in creator and influencer fundraising, corporate partnerships, legacies, and diversified income streams, alongside the risks and governance considerations finance leaders and trustees should be aware of. |
| 11:55-13:25 | Lunch break |
| 13:25-14:10 |
Investment update This session will provide a practical update on the key market, economic, and regulatory developments affecting charity investments in 2026. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing charity investors, alongside practical insight into governance expectations, market outlooks, and the questions finance leaders and trustees should be asking their investment partners. |
| 14:10-14:20 | Coffee break |
| 14:20-15:00 |
Getting governance right The Charity Governance Code has been refreshed in 2025, bringing important updates that impact how charities operate and maintain public trust. This session is designed to give you a clear understanding of what the refreshed code means for your organisation. We’ll also examine how governance failures have led to notable setbacks and uncover the critical lessons organisations can learn to avoid repeating these mistakes, and provide practical insights into fostering effective governance practices and emphasise the vital role accountability plays in driving organisational success. |
| 15:00-15:15 | Coffee break |
| 15:15-15:55 |
Navigating VAT with confidence This session will explore the critical role of VAT compliance in empowering charities to embrace change and strengthen financial resilience. Using practical examples and anonymised case studies, we will highlight common pitfalls and share actionable strategies to ensure trustees and finance managers meet their obligations confidently. Attendees will gain insights into governance frameworks, risk mitigation, and how VAT compliance can underpin sustainable growth. The session will be solution-focused and rooted in real-world experience, equipping participants with tools to improve processes and inspire progress across their organisations. |
| 15:55-16:00 | Closing remarks |
17/09/2026
09:30 - 16:00
6.00 CPD Approved