The Charity Commission has issued an Official Warning to Calderdale Metropolitan Borough Council for failing to manage 13 charities properly.
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Graeme Hughes
Partner, Head of Charities, Not-for-Profits and Social Enterprises
0151 600 3079
07834 621 509
graeme.hughes@brabners.com
Graeme is a Partner and leads our charities, not-for-profits and social enterprises team.
An experienced charity lawyer, Graeme has practised exclusively in charity law since 2010.
He advises on all aspects of charity law especially the establishment and management of charities, the incorporation of unincorporated charitable trusts and associations, compliance/administrative matters, governance issues, charity mergers, restructures and reorganisations.
He also advises on fundraising matters, charities’ relationships with commercial organisations and trading by charities and their subsidiaries. In addition, he is experienced in dealing with the Charity Commission, advising trustees and interim managers on regulatory issues.
Graeme acts for charities of all sizes operating both domestically and overseas including museums, research organisations, grant-making foundations, religious organisations, hospices and other care providers, educational institutions, registered providers of social housing, youth and community centres.
He is also part of our sports sector team and acts for professional sports clubs, sports personalities and other charities operating in the field of sports (including community amateur sports clubs).
He regularly speaks on legal matters affecting charities and delivers training courses for both charity trustees and staff.
He is a member of the Law Society, the Charity Law Association and also sits on the Non-Contentious Business Committee of Liverpool Law Society.
He is classed as a ‘Leading Partner' by the Legal 500 which describes him as 'unflappable' and notes “his pragmatism, sound advice and wisdom facilitate the smooth managing of complex matters”.
Graeme’s clients include the Manchester United Foundation, Michael Carrick Foundation, EMDR Association, United Kingdom Islamic Mission and the Turner Home.
Graeme joined us in 2009 and works across our Liverpool and Manchester offices.
“The practice is led by the seasoned and ‘unflappable’ Graeme Hughes, who works exclusively for charities and not-for-profit organisations such as Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Sir Josiah Mason Trust and North West Cancer Research.”
Legal 500 2025 editorial commentary
“[Brabners] have a thorough understanding of the charitable sector, of what constitutes charitable activity and of the operation of the Charity Commission. We have particularly valued the advice of Graeme Hughes and Imogen Trafford.”
Client feedback, Legal 500 2025
“Graeme Hughes competently advises on charity law, governance and regulatory issues, as well as overseeing matters requiring insights from his corporate, property and employment colleagues.”
The Legal 500, 2024
“We have valued the long-term relationship with [Brabners]… [its] understanding of our company structure — and the market, regulation and jurisdiction in which we operate — supports the delivery of exceptional advice. Graeme Hughes and Imogen Trafford provide outstanding support around charity law.”
Client feedback, Legal 500, 2024
Recognised in the Legal 500 2025 as a Leading Partner
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