THE Fundraising Regulator has published a blog for faith-based charities, clarifying that religiously-motivated giving, such as in-service collections, offerings, and tithings, is considered charitable giving and thus subject to the Code of Fundraising Practice (the code).
The Fundraising Regulator’s recent Casework Insights and Trends Report showed that many faith-based charities did not realise that fundraising carried out as part of worship, volunteering, or community life constituted charitable fundraising, and as such, did not always govern those activities in accordance with the code.
Regardless of what language is used and where the request is made, the code covers any appeal for money for charitable, philanthropic or benevolent purposes where donations are given freely and donors receive nothing in return.
The blog cites a recent example where a faith-based charity breached the code by launching a one-off appeal to fundraise for a new church, without explaining what would happen if the target was not met. The charity also failed to have a proper fundraising complaints process in place.
The case highlighted that all members of a church who donate are considered members of the public and any fundraising campaign is a public fundraising campaign, requiring the code to be followed and any concerns to be addressed.
Recent casework also showed the risks that can arise where personal difficulties or adversity are discussed alongside requests for offerings, underlining the need for clear systems to identify and support people who may be in vulnerable circumstances, especially when large or spontaneous donations are made.
The Fundraising Regulator is committed to helping faith-based organisations and smaller charities meet their responsibilities under the code. It offers practical support, including an introductory guide to the code, a free and confidential Code Advice Service, and a monthly newsletter with updates on its regulatory work, guidance, research, investigations and events. By seeking advice early, trustees can make informed decisions and apply the code consistently and with confidence.
Nikki Renken, the Fundraising Regulator’s Head of Casework, said:
“The Fundraising Regulator can help faith-based organisations understand when fundraising activity falls within the scope of the code and to make sure the right safeguards are in place so that fundraising is carried out openly, respectfully and with appropriate support for those who may be in vulnerable circumstances.
“The Fundraising Regulator works to support organisations to fundraise in a way that reflects their values, builds trust and gives trustees confidence that they are meeting their responsibilities.”
Charities can access the blog, which contains further examples from recent casework, here.
