The reasons cited for the decision were a “combination of personal, professional and parliamentary factors”, including her Parkinson’s Disease, her recent engagement to a Canadian citizen, which will mean a move to Canada, and the “slower-than-hoped for” progress of the Charities Bill.

Peacock, who joined as a charity commissioner in July 2003 and was appointed Chair a year later, says that although she is disappointed at not being able to take forward the implementation of the Bill, she believes it is the right decision for the regulator. She said: “I believe that if you do a job you should do it well. Given my health and personal circumstances, I think it’s strategically important for me to move on, ensuring a new Chair is ready to go full throttle when the Bill is enacted.”

Andrew Hind, the commission’s chief executive said: Geraldine has had a huge impact on the commission and we’ll all miss her. From steering us through our wholesale review of the way we work to passionately defending the much needed Charities Bill her legacy is immensely significant. On behalf of us all, I’d like to thank her for the innovation and flair she’s brought to the role and wish her every success for the future.

Home Office minister, Paul Goggins, said: “Geraldine has been instrumental in turning the commission into a modern regulator, increasingly engaged with the sector and the donating public. She has brought innovation and commitment to her role and her energy has been a strong force in driving the commission forward and setting it on its new path.”