Fundraising Advice
Fundraising and the law
Whilst raising funds for your event you will obviously want to stay on the right side of the law - here's some tips to make sure that you do:
- Tickets may NOT be sold by under 16's
- You need to apply to your local authority or council for a license for any public lottery or raffle.
- If it is a private event, for example if the tickets are sold to members of a private club or only your work colleagues, then a license is not required.
If this event is deemed by the local authority to be for charity then they should provide the license required free of charge.
You will need permission for alcohol to be sold at any event under the Licensing (Occasional Provisions) Act. It is possible for a local Landlord to apply for the license for you and then run the bar at your event.
It is very important that the your charity's Charity Registration Number appears on all printed documents and that you ask their permission before using their logo.
The legal minimum age for collecting money is 16, although in London it is 18 years of age.
In order to make a collection in a private area, for example, your local shopping centre or supermarket, then you will need the permission of the owner.
In order to make a street collection you will need to contact your local authority for a license and be prepared to submit a final total.
Your safety is paramount.
Most charities will recommend that you do NOT raise money for your event by collecting on the street.
Please do not do anything unsafe or illegal – everything you do will reflect on the charity and their reputations are very important to them. If in doubt ask their permission first
When holding events in public areas please make sure you are covered by the local authority public liability insurance and that you have the appropriate licences
The Institute of Fundraising is an organisation whose objective is to promote the highest standards in fundraising in the UK. As part of this mission they have produced a code of practice which all event organisers and charities are encouraged to adhere to. This code of practice covers various aspects of event organisation including consideration to local residents, impact on the environment, gaining all necessary permissions and other organisational and fundraising matters. Experienced charity event organisers will adhere to these codes to ensure successful events for all those involved. Sensible and responsible events are the practice of good event organisers.
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