Cambridge charity seeks pro bono legal advice on business rates and possible leasing implications

What do they need help with?

YMCA Trinity Group is exploring use of a currently under‑utilised space at its Cambridge location, by renting or licensing it to a third‑party organisation whose work fits with YMCA’s mission. However, they are cautious that such an arrangement might affect their existing charity relief on business rates, which is important for their financial sustainability.

They are therefore seeking pro bono legal advice on:

• How letting or licensing part of their property could impact their entitlement to charity business rates relief.
• How best to structure the agreement (e.g. licence to occupy, tenancy at will, or another form) so as to minimise the risk of losing or jeopardising relief.
• Guidance on drafting terms, safeguards, and strategies around flexibility, control, and termination rights—all consistent with preserving their charitable status and rate relief.

To date, the organisation notes that they have received interest from a prospective educational provider but have paused further negotiations until they understand the legal and tax implications. They’re prepared to share more detailed site plans, valuation or floor area information, and any prior rate assessments with the legal team engaged.

From the charity’s perspective, securing this advice means they can unlock additional revenue from leased or licensed space, without endangering a crucial cost‑saving measure, supporting their wider mission.

Timeline

As soon as possible

About the organisation

YMCA Trinity Group is a registered charity (No. 1069810) and company (No. 03561613), operating across Cambridgeshire and Suffolk. Their work supports young people, families and communities through integrated services in the areas of family & youth work, health & wellbeing, housing, training & education, and support & advice. They deliver, for example, youth engagement programmes, mental health and resilience services, OFSTED‐rated early years education, supported accommodation, and community wellbeing initiatives (such as “Shine” in Lowestoft).

Over time, they have invested in physical infrastructure (e.g. new housing units, theatre refurbishments under their Cresset venue) and committed to environmental goals (e.g. net zero target for Scope 1 & 2 by 2041). Their impact includes meeting increasing demand in youth mental health services, providing safe and supportive housing for vulnerable young people, and fostering community initiatives in areas facing high social need.

https://ymcatrinitygroup.org.uk