The Pagan Federation announced extraordinary news yesterday: After more than 25 years of dedication and hard work by numerous volunteers within the Pagan Federation (PF), has successfully attained charitable status!
First, from all of us at The Wild Hunt, Congratulations!
The Pagan Federation is a UK-based organization that promotes understanding and acceptance of Paganism, an umbrella term encompassing various earth-centered spiritual traditions. Founded in 1971, the Pagan Federation provides support, resources, and networking opportunities for Pagans, as well as advocating for their rights and freedoms. PF aims to foster a positive image of Paganism in society and offers guidance on ethical and spiritual matters within Pagan practices. The organization also hosts events, publishes literature, and engages in community outreach to educate the public about Pagan beliefs and practices. While it is based in the UK, the Pagan Federation has branches and members worldwide.
Charitable status in the UK is granted by the Charity Commission for England and Wales to organizations that meet specific criteria and operate for the public benefit. Charitable status enhances an organization’s credibility and legitimacy in the eyes of the public, donors, and potential partners from around the world. Receiving charitable status also demonstrates a commitment to serving the public good and adhering to rigorous standards of governance and accountability. The recognition, naturally, improves trust with stakeholders and creates safeguards against misuse of funds.
When an organization receives charitable status, it means that it is recognized as a legally constituted charity under UK law. The benefits to the PF are extensive. Foremost, as a charity, the PF will generally be exempt from paying certain taxes on income generated for charitable purposes. Additionally, donors to the PF can often claim tax relief on their donations.
Charities may be eligible for reduced business rates on the property they occupy, and they may also benefit from exemptions or discounts on other operational costs.
The PF will also now be able to seek grants and similar resources. Many grant-making bodies, both governmental and private, require organizations to have charitable status to apply for funding. The PF may also have access to specific funding streams and support programs available only to registered charities.
In a statement, Sarah Kerr, president of the Pagan Federation wrote:
I’ve got some fantastic news to share with you all. After over 25 years of effort and commitment from many PF volunteers, we have officially been granted charitable status.
This achievement marks a monumental milestone in our journey, one that holds profound significance for the entire Pagan community. For decades, we’ve worked hard to foster understanding, promote inclusivity, and celebrate the rich tapestry of Pagan traditions and beliefs. And now, with charitable status, we’re poised to make an even greater impact than ever before.
But what does this mean for us, you ask? Well, let me break it down for you. Firstly, charitable status provides us with a solid foundation to expand our reach and amplify our voice. It opens doors to funding opportunities, which will allow us to support vital initiatives, events, and resources that benefit both Pagans and the wider community.
Moreover, it grants us legitimacy and recognition on a broader scale, helping to lift our status within society and enhancing our ability to advocate for Pagan rights and representation. In a world where misconceptions and stereotypes often overshadow the truth about our beliefs, this legitimacy is invaluable.
But perhaps most importantly, charitable status signals a significant step forward in our ongoing quest for acceptance and understanding. By achieving this milestone, we’re not only affirming the validity of Paganism as a legitimate faith but also challenging outdated perceptions and encouraging a culture of respect and tolerance.
So, to all our members, supporters, and allies, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude. Your dedication and support have helped to bring us to this moment, and together, we will continue to shape a brighter future for Pagans everywhere.
Here’s to the next chapter in our journey—a chapter filled with boundless possibilities, endless opportunities, and, above all, a profound sense of unity and purpose.
Sarah told The Wild Hunt that the news from the Charity Commission was fantastic. “It’s huge news in so many ways and I can’t wait to see where it takes us!”.
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