About Fundraising regulator
Fundraising Regulator: Improving Fundraising Standards and Building Public Trust
Fundraising is an essential aspect of any charity organization. It helps to raise funds for various charitable causes, which can make a significant difference in the lives of people who need it the most. However, fundraising activities must be conducted ethically and transparently to maintain public trust and confidence in charities.
This is where the Fundraising Regulator comes into play. The Fundraising Regulator is an independent body that regulates charity fundraising in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Its primary objective is to improve fundraising standards and build public trust by ensuring that charities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and best practices.
The Fundraising Regulator was established in 2016 following a series of high-profile scandals involving charity fundraising practices. These scandals had eroded public trust in charities, leading to a decline in donations. The government recognized the need for an independent regulator to oversee charity fundraising activities and restore public confidence.
Since its establishment, the Fundraising Regulator has been working tirelessly to achieve its objectives. It has developed a Code of Fundraising Practice that sets out the standards expected of all charities when conducting their fundraising activities. The code covers various aspects such as transparency, accountability, data protection, consent requirements for direct marketing communications (including email marketing), handling complaints effectively etc.
Charities are required by law to adhere to this code when conducting their fundraising activities; failure to do so can result in sanctions or penalties imposed by the regulator.
The Fundraising Regulator also provides guidance on specific issues related to charity fundraising such as online giving platforms or crowdfunding campaigns etc., which can help charities navigate complex regulatory requirements more easily.
In addition to regulating charity fundraising activities directly through its code of practice and guidance notes; The regulator also operates a complaints process whereby members of the public can raise concerns about any aspect of charity's conduct during their fund-raising activity with them directly or via their website. The regulator will investigate the complaint and take appropriate action if necessary.
The Fundraising Regulator is funded by a levy on charities that spend more than £100,000 per year on fundraising activities. This funding model ensures that the regulator is independent of government and the charity sector, allowing it to operate impartially and effectively.
In conclusion, the Fundraising Regulator plays a crucial role in improving fundraising standards and building public trust in charities. Its code of practice sets out clear standards for charities to follow when conducting their fundraising activities, ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct. The regulator's guidance notes provide additional support to help charities navigate complex regulatory requirements more easily. By regulating charity fundraising activities effectively, the Fundraising Regulator helps to maintain public trust in charities and ensure that they can continue to make a positive difference in people's lives.