New community service set-up

JCofMargate

A friend of mine wants to set up a small organisation for the benefit of the local community, pro tem run by volunteers, but is not sure whether or how to register as a business or some kind of non-profitable organisation. He has chosen a name and bought web addresses, but we don't know how to protect the business name from being pinched. Any comments/suggestions gratefully received. Thanks JC

fengirl_2

First of all, you need to decide whether this is going to be a business or a community organisation as this will affect the kind of legal structure you adopt and the way in whcih the organisation is run.There is no way to protect a business name without incorporation.
How is money going to be raised, what is the organisation going to do? Lots to consider and you really need to go and see your CVS and CDA for help. PM me if you have any problems making contact with these organisations.
See my sticky on starting a charity on the Small Business and Charity Organisers board here:
http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=2145241

chocsessential

Is it going to be a social enterprise? Business Link might be able to advise him about free training courses.