Plunkett’s Community Business Manager, Alison Macklin, offers valuable insights on what your community business should prioritise as we enter 2026

January can feel like a pause button for many businesses. After the festive rush, people are busy finishing off Christmas leftovers, embracing Dry January, or bracing themselves for credit card statements. For community businesses, this quieter period is a golden opportunity to tackle those essential tasks that often get pushed aside during busier months.

January isn’t just a quiet month – it’s a strategic one. Use this time wisely, and you’ll set your community business up for success in 2026 and beyond.

Here are my top tips of what you need to focus on in 2026:

1. Get your accounts in order

Most Community Benefit Societies (CBS) have just closed their financial year or will do so by March. Now is the time to ensure your accounts are ready, complete with all the paperwork your accountant will need. A little preparation now saves a lot of stress later.

Visit the Member Hub to get our Top Tips.

2. Register for your annual return

Don’t wait until deadlines loom! Make sure you’re registered on the Mutuals Society Portal so you’re ready to submit your AR30 and accounts. Registration can be done any time – and doing it early means one less thing to worry about.

3. Update policies and procedures

Policies and procedures should evolve with your business. Review and refresh them to ensure they’re up to date.

4. Review contracts

Take a moment to check your contracts. Are any ending soon? Check out Plunkett’s recommended suppliers, tried and trusted by other community business members.

Read Utility Aid’s helpful Guide to Supplier Selection for some key things to consider too.

5. Look ahead to special events

Are there any big milestones in 2026 – local celebrations, national events, or your own anniversaries? Start planning now to make the most of these opportunities.

Going to the press? Remember to tell Plunkett – our communications team is here to support you!

6. Plan your Annual Members’ Meeting

Your Annual Members’ Meeting (AMM) is just around the corner. Start thinking about committee nominations and how to encourage members to get involved.

Need help? Check out our resource on Running a Successful AMM on the Member Hub.

7. Refresh staff and volunteer manuals

Make sure your team has the latest information. Updated manuals keep everyone aligned and informed.

Refer to our example staff and volunteer handbook on the Member Hub.

8. Refresh your financial forecast

If you haven’t already, update your budget and cashflow forecast. A clear picture of your finances helps you make informed decisions for the year ahead.

9. Offer refresher training

With business quieter, it’s a great time to invest in your team. Refresher training boosts confidence and keeps skills sharp.

As a member, you and your team get free tickets to all our online training and events. Make sure they’re subscribed to our emails so that they hear about them too!

Also, find out more about our forthcoming training and events.

10. Come to Make the Most of Membership on Thursday 15 January

Plunkett membership saves you time and money by giving you access to resources, training, and expert advice. Make sure you’re taking full advantage of everything we offer.

Join us online for a quick 45-minute run-through of all your membership benefits and how to access them on the Member Hub.

We are here to support you!

Plunkett UK is an expert in supporting community businesses set up, thrive and survive, and we have advisers with practical experience who understand the limitations on time and money. If you are having problems whether financially, operationally, governance or anything else please do ask for support, the sooner you ask; the sooner we can help.

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