List of organisations with a British royal charter Facts for Kids

A royal charter is a special document given by the King or Queen to an organisation. Think of it like a very old, very important permission slip from the monarch! This document gives the organisation special rights, powers, or a unique official status. It makes them officially recognised and often helps them do their work better.

Organisations that have received a royal charter can be found in the United Kingdom and sometimes in other countries that have historical ties to the British monarchy. These charters have been given by English, Scottish, or British monarchs throughout history.

What is a Royal Charter?
Why Do Organisations Get Charters?
Famous Organisations with Charters
See also

What is a Royal Charter?

A royal charter is a formal document issued by the King or Queen. It's like a special rulebook that sets up an organisation and gives it certain powers. For example, it might allow an organisation to own property, make its own rules, or use a special title like "Royal".

Why Do Organisations Get Charters?

Organisations seek royal charters for several reasons.

Official Recognition: A charter makes an organisation officially recognised and respected. It shows they are important and trustworthy.
Special Powers: Charters can give an organisation unique legal powers. This might include the right to grant degrees, regulate a profession, or manage certain lands.
Long-lasting Status: Once an organisation has a royal charter, it usually lasts for a very long time. It's a sign of stability and importance.

Famous Organisations with Charters

Many well-known organisations have received royal charters over the centuries. These include famous universities, important charities, and professional groups.

Oldest Charters

Some of the very first royal charters were given a long, long time ago.

The Mayor and Commonalty and Citizens of the City of London received a charter in 1067. This made the City of London Corporation very powerful.
The University of Cambridge got its charter in 1231. This allowed it to become one of the world's leading universities.
Soon after, the University of Oxford received its charter in 1248. These early charters helped these universities grow and become famous.
Many of the old 'Livery Companies' in London, like the Mercers' Company (1393) and the Grocers' Company (1428), also received charters. These companies were important groups of tradespeople.

Important Historical Charters

Throughout history, many significant organisations gained charters.

The East India Company received its charter in 1600. This company became very powerful in trade around the world.
The Royal Society, a famous group of scientists, got its charter in 1662. This helped them promote science and discovery.
The Bank of England received its charter in 1694. This made it the central bank for the country.
The Hudson's Bay Company, a trading company in Canada, was chartered in 1670.

Modern Charters

Even today, new royal charters are sometimes granted to important organisations.

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) received its charter in 1926. This charter sets out how the BBC should operate as a public service broadcaster.
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), which saves lives at sea, was chartered in 1860.
Many professional bodies, like the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (1880) and the Royal College of Nursing (1928), have charters. These charters help them set standards for their professions.
More recently, organisations like The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (2005) and the Marylebone Cricket Club (2012) have also received charters.

List of organisations with a British royal charter facts for kids

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