Welcome to Dravero, and thank you for joining this free course.
Whether you're exploring an idea for the first time or you've been thinking about creating positive change for some time, you're in the right place.
Purpose-led organisations come in many different forms, but they all begin with one thing in common: a desire to make a meaningful difference.
Throughout this course we'll explore what purpose-led organisations are, the different legal structures available in the UK, and the key questions you should consider before deciding whether a charity or Community Interest Company (CIC) is the right fit.
This course has been designed to give you a practical introduction. You don't need any previous knowledge, and there are no right or wrong answers. My aim is to help you understand the options available so you can make informed decisions as your ideas develop.
I encourage you to work through the course at your own pace. Pause the videos whenever you need to, make notes and take time to reflect on the questions being discussed. There is no rush—building a strong organisation starts with taking the time to think carefully about the foundations.
Before deciding on a legal structure, it's worth taking a step back and thinking about the change you want to create.
In this section we'll explore what purpose-led organisations are, why they exist and how purpose, sustainability and social impact work together. Before choosing a legal structure, it's important to understand the change you want to create and the difference you hope your organisation will make.
As you work through this section, I encourage you to download the accompanying resources. They're designed to help you reflect on your own ideas and begin turning your purpose into action.
Creating Change Workbook
This workbook will help you explore the issue you want to address, who is affected, the change you'd like to create and how your idea could become sustainable over time. Use it alongside the lesson or complete it afterwards—there's no right or wrong way to use it.
How to Find Purpose
If you're still developing your ideas, this worksheet will help you reflect on your interests, strengths and the change you'd like to make. Sometimes the best ideas come from taking a step back and asking the right questions.
Choosing a legal structure is an important decision, but it's rarely the first. Before deciding whether a charity or Community Interest Company is right for you, it's worth taking time to understand your purpose, the people you want to support and how your organisation will create lasting impact.
In this section we'll compare charities and Community Interest Companies (CICs), explore how they differ and discuss the questions you should consider before deciding which structure is right for your organisation.
We'll look at funding, governance, founder involvement and ongoing responsibilities, as well as some of the common misconceptions that often lead people to choose the wrong structure.
Remember, the aim isn't to convince you that one structure is better than another. It's to help you understand the options available so you can choose the one that best supports your mission.
Choosing the Right Structure Workbook
This workbook will help you compare your options, record your thoughts and identify which structure currently feels like the best fit. If you're still undecided at the end of the lesson, that's perfectly normal. The important thing is that you're asking the right questions before you register.
This course provides an introduction to purpose-led organisations and the legal structures available in the UK. If you're planning to establish a charity or Community Interest Company, I strongly recommend reading the official guidance published by the relevant regulators.
The resources in this section will help you explore the requirements in more detail and understand your responsibilities before registering your organisation.
Remember, choosing a legal structure is only the beginning. Strong organisations are built on clear purpose, good governance and thoughtful planning. Take your time, ask questions and don't be afraid to seek advice when you need it.