The Charity Commission has just published (19 July 2010) its first public benefit assessment report for arts organisations. The Charity Commission looked at four organisations, including The Royal Opera House in London, and The Castle Players, based in Barnard Castle, County Durham. The Charity Commission considered their activities, and tested whether they fulfil the current public benefit test. They noted both group’s locations, mode of operation, membership, admission prices, membership fees, level of free access (bursaries and free tickets), and level of subsidised access. The Charity Commission concluded that, taking all these factors into account, both charities complied with the public benefit test.

The Gwent Ballet Theatre and the Young Concert Artists Trust were also assessed. These organisations were also found to be complying with the test.

The report highlights the need for all charity trustees to review their current activities, in relation to their stated charitable objects.