The Charities Regulator’s 2025 Research Report paints a detailed picture of a sector
showing resilience, but also facing real challenges — particularly around governance,
funding, and public confidence.

At Whelan Dowling & Associates (WDA), we believe strong governance is the foundation
for charitable impact. Whether you’re a small local initiative or a national non-profit, how you
lead, manage risk, and demonstrate accountability is key to fulfilling your mission — and
earning public trust.

Key Findings from the 2025 Charity Sector Survey:
The survey, conducted by Ipsos B&A on behalf of the Charities Regulator, includes insights
from over 1,400 Irish charities. It highlights areas where the sector is doing well — but also
where attention is needed:

1. Financial and Operational Pressure
● 35% of charities cited income and funding as their biggest challenge.
● 34% reported increased running costs (e.g. energy, rent, insurance).
● Smaller charities (under €100k income) were less likely to report progress, with
many just holding steady.

2. Governance and Leadership Gaps
● 31% of charities are struggling with succession planning and attracting new
trustees.
● Many trustees lack formal training in financial oversight, risk management, and legal
obligations.
● While 93% know their Registered Charity Number (RCN), less than half use it on
fundraising materials — a missed opportunity to boost credibility and meet new
compliance requirements.

3. Trust and Transparency
● One-third of charities believe public trust has declined — though public-facing
research suggests it’s stabilising or improving.
● The disconnect reflects ongoing concerns around transparency, financial reporting,
and communication with donors and the community.

Why Good Governance Matters:

Strong governance is about more than staying compliant — it’s about long-term sustainability
and impact. Benefits include:
✅ Enhanced public trust
✅ Better funding outcomes
✅ Stronger strategic decision-making
✅ Improved risk management
✅ Full compliance with the Charities Governance Code

The Charities Regulator provides valuable guidance, updates, and governance resources on
its official site: www.charitiesregulator.ie

How WDA Helps Charities Strengthen Governance

At Whelan Dowling & Associates, we support boards, trustees, and charity leaders with:

Independent Governance Reviews

We assess your charity’s governance structures, policies, and practices — and provide clear, actionable recommendations.

Trustee & Board Training

Our training covers:

  • Roles and responsibilities
  • Legal and regulatory duties
  • Financial oversight and risk
  • Conflict of interest management
  • Strategic planning and leadership. 

Governance Policies & Procedures

We help you create robust documentation aligned with the Charities Governance Code and tailored to your organisation’s needs.

Meeting Facilitation & Strategic Planning

We support board effectiveness through well-structured strategic sessions, helping your charity align on goals and accountability.

One-on-One Mentoring

For charity leaders and trustees, we provide personal mentoring to build confidence, knowledge, and leadership capacity.

Make 2025 the Year You Strengthen Governance

With the implementation of the Charities (Amendment) Act 2024, expectations around governance, compliance, and transparency are higher than ever. Charities that act now will be best positioned to thrive in this evolving landscape.

Don’t wait for a funding block, reputational issue, or compliance review to act.

Contact Whelan Dowling & Associates today to learn how we can help your organisation lead with integrity, strengthen trust, and maximise impact.

📩 Get in touch:
 🌐 www.wda.ie
 📧 info@wda.ie
 📞 +353 (01) 6771411

To read the full report visit the Charities Regulators website