This guidance provides additional clarification on how Branch and Serving Community Team (SCT) funds may be used in line with SSAFA Regulations 2026. It outlines financial responsibilities, spending authorities and approval processes to help ensure funds are used appropriately and in support of SSAFA's charitable objectives.

Key points to note:

• Branch and SCT Chairs are responsible for the effective management and oversight of local funds.
• SSAFA funds must not generally be used for gifts, grants or donations to other organisations or individuals, except in specific circumstances permitted by the Regulations.
• Branches and SCTs may support third-party community engagement activities that align with SSAFA's objectives, subject to the conditions set out in the guidance - mainly This third-party expenditure should not exceed £1,500 per annum per branch or SCT
• Expenditure exceeding £5,000 for a single activity or project requires a business case and approval through SSAFA's governance process before any spending takes place.
• Trust and special funds must be used strictly in accordance with any restrictions placed upon them.
• Branches and SCTs should not submit grant or trust funding applications independently and should seek advice from SSAFA staff teams before proceeding.

Volunteers are encouraged to review the full guidance before committing SSAFA funds to any activity or project and to seek advice from their Community Engagement Manager, Regional Manager or Serving Community Manager if they are unsure about any proposed expenditure.