The Charity

Woodcote Village Hall Charity have recently (May 2026) updated their legal structure from a traditional charity to a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). Until now, not only has the Charity operated under a 60-year-old constitution that includes the Village Green but has also carried significant risk to the Trustees who are personally responsible for its contracts, finances, and any legal matters.

By becoming a CIO, the hall will still be a charity but with an updated legal structure. That both limits the liability of the Trustees and, just as importantly, increases the number of Trustees from the current 6 to 12. Many village halls across the country have already made this change. As responsibilities and regulations have increased over time, CIO status has become the preferred structure for community buildings like ours. Making the switch now helps to future-proof the hall, making it easier to manage, maintain, and develop in the years ahead.

If you would like to become a Trustee then please contact Geoff Botting, the current chair of the Trustees 07811908257, 01491681670 or geoffrey.botting@btinternet.com

This is a behind-the-scenes improvement to ensure the hall is well-managed and protected for the long term. Nothing will change in the day-to-day use of the hall, the hall will still host the same activities, events, and groups and booking and access arrangements remain the same.

The Hall has been central to village life in Woodcote for over 100 years — hosting events, meetings, celebrations, and activities for all ages. Moving to a CIO helps ensure it remains a safe, secure, and well-run space for everyone. If you have any questions, the Trustees are always happy to help. This is your village hall, and its future matters to the whole community. Please address any correspondence to woodcotevillagehall@outlook.com in the first instance.