Also, what are the steps we have to take to becoming a
charity - can we
similtaneously form and register?
See
http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia_and_UK_charity_law
and
http://www.charitycommission.gov.uk/publications/cc21.asp#3
I think the first step should be to start working on the bylaws, and
then see what needs to be included to ensure the chapter will be
eligible for charitable status.
The Italian bylaws would be an excellent starting point. They've
picked the best parts from the French and German bylaws, learning from
the experiences those chapters have already had, and these were
recently approved by the Foundation. There's an English version at
http://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Italia/bylaws#English_version
Angela.