I have just accepted a post of treasurer of a (locality) Community Partnership. I was approached via the county Voluntary Services, I knew of the organisation and of some of their local activities. It was all done in a bit of a hurry since the current treasurer is moving a distance out of our area by the end of this month - in just two weeks time. 

I have now discovered that the organisation is not registered as a charity, it appears not to have a written constitution, set of objectives, trustees' guidelines or many of the other documents that I was expecting to receive. However, they appear to be well recognised by the local Borough Council, the local Housing Association, the County Volutary Services, a local church and a number of businesses (small, local to large, national). 

I have many years involvement with different charities, from being treasurer of a registered charity of just over £10k turnover, to being a manager in a national educational charity with a turnover in excess of £12m. I have taught business studies and run my own Limited Companies in business advice and consultancy. The set of accounts I received (on Excel) are, to say the least, somewhat basic. They show a turnover of just over £24k. 

I am wondering whether I should pull out and apologise or bite the bullet and try to persuade the committee to register as a CIO. Sorry to ramble, but any thoughts will be appreciated.