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HMRC updates guidance for charities
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Under the rules of the gift aid scheme, donations may not be repaid under any circumstances.
Gift aid donations cannot be repaid under any circumstances

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have updated their guidance for charities to clarify that admission fees cannot be refunded in full or in part where donations give right of admission to properties.

Admission fees charged by charities to visit their property do not qualify for gift aid. In some cases, however, the fee may be eligible if the charity asks for a voluntary donation in return for viewing the property.

To qualify for gift aid, fees must be voluntary, and not required to gain admission. The donation must also be at least 10 per cent above the normal admission fee, or allow admission for at least one year. For further information about admission fees that qualify for gift aid, visit HMRC's website.

HMRC has updated its guidance to clarify the terms and conditions relating to these types of donation. Under the rules of the gift aid scheme, donations may not be repaid under any circumstances, so donations that allow admission to property do not include the right to a full or partial refund of the admission payment.

Types of admission covered by gift aid rules include admissions to view charity land and buildings, animals, artefacts, art, plants and scientific property.

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.