The Fundraising Regulator has published new guidance to help members of the public who are launching their own online fundraising appeals.
The guidance comes in light of what the regulator called in a statement “the extraordinary fundraising efforts and generosity displayed by the British public” during the coronavirus crisis.
It had been designed to support the public to ensure their appeals are legal, ethical and as effective as possible, the statement said.
The guidance, which is available on the regulator’s website, sets out 10 steps that people should consider when setting up a fundraising appeal, including considering whether their appeal is needed, being specific about what the money raised will be spent on, being transparent and using a trusted payment system.
It also urges fundraisers to work with existing charities where possible and to consider whether they might inadvertently be setting up a charity by launching their appeal.
Gerald Oppenheim, the regulator’s chief executive, said: “The generosity of the British public during this crisis has been heartening, and it has been inspiring to see innovative new ways of fundraising emerge, resulting in huge amounts of money being raised for worthy causes.
“As the nation continues to respond to the pandemic, we hope that our new guidance equips the public with the know-how they need to set up a successful fundraising appeal, while also ensuring it meets the standards that are set out in the Code of Fundraising Practice.”