Standing Strong Together: How Charities Can Navigate a Hostile Environment

In increasingly divided times, many charities report operating in what the Charity Commission describes as a “hostile environment” — where staff, volunteers and beneficiaries can face criticism, threats, and intimidation simply for doing their valuable work. The Charity Commission has just published new guidance to help charities respond to these challenging circumstances with clarity, confidence and care.  Click here to read

Why This Guidance Matters Now

Charities have always played a vital role in representing and supporting some of the most vulnerable in our society. Whether advocating for better policies, delivering frontline services, or speaking up on important social issues, charities lawfully campaign and express views in pursuit of their mission. The new guidance reaffirms that right, while also acknowledging the real risks many organisations now face. 

Reports from across the sector echo this reality: many charities are experiencing increasing harassment, threats and harassment, online and in public  as social and political tensions grow.

Some organisations have faced vandalism, abusive language and even threats of violence, creating a climate of fear that impacts morale and safety. 

In this context, the Commission’s updated guidance isn’t just about policy,  it’s about reassurance, resilience and practical support.

Key Messages from the Guidance

1. Safeguarding Comes First

Charities are encouraged to:

• Use existing safeguarding policies to prevent harm and respond quickly when issues arise.
• Act swiftly to stop or minimise harm, and communicate sensitively with all involved.
• Report incidents to the appropriate authorities and regulators when required. 

These steps are designed not only to protect people, but also to support trustees and staff in making well-informed decisions under pressure.

2. Review and Strengthen Safety Measures

The guidance recommends charities regularly review:

• The physical security of buildings, entrances and exits.
• Procedures for staff, volunteers and visitors in the event of threatening incidents.
• Contacts with local police and security partners to prepare for possible risks.
• Whether there are nominated people responsible for urgent alerts or risk updates. 

This practical approach helps charities feel confident that they’re ready — not paralysed — when confronting difficult situations.

3. Use the Support Available

Charities are signposted to a range of support, including:

• Advice from the National Business Crime Centre on safeguarding during public events.
• Security preparation resources from ProtectUK.
• Local Resilience Forums and VCSE networks that offer community-level coordination and resilience planning.
• Infrastructure and support organisations that can help charities navigate emergencies. 

Being connected — and not working in isolation — strengthens the entire voluntary, community and social enterprise sector.

Keeping Focused on Purpose, Not Fear
The guidance also reminds us of something important: charities are entitled to be part of public debate where this serves their mission, and receiving challenge or criticism for that is part of a healthy democracy. But there’s a clear line between legitimate debate and behaviour that endangers people or undermines safety.

For charities feeling overwhelmed by hostility, this guidance provides both structure and reassurance — reminding leaders to safeguard their communities while staying true to their purpose.


Final Thoughts
Navigating a hostile environment isn’t easy — and it’s an issue affecting many parts of the sector right now. But with clear guidance, practical planning and strong support networks, charities can continue to deliver impact, protect those they serve, and uphold the values that make civil society strong.

If you haven’t already, take time to read the full guidance and review your organisation’s plans — because feeling prepared helps keep your people safe and your mission alive.