Fundraising from the public

Fundraising directly from the public is a popular way of raising money and can also help to raise the profile of the work you do. In many cases, it can also provide a worthwhile way for volunteers to support your work.

Fundraising from the public can be done in many different ways.  Here are some common examples:

• fundraising events such as sponsored activities and jumble sales
• encouraging donations, for example through street collections and campaigns
• legacies – people leaving your group money in their will
• payroll giving

Who can fundraise from the public?

Any organisation can fundraise from the public, but you may need a license to do so if you are fundraising in a public place. 

The right method for you
Some methods of fundraising will be better suited to your group than others. When planning to fundraise from the public, think about:

• How much money do you need (your target)?
• How much time, skills and resources will a method take?
• Are the public likely to respond?
• Does the fundraising activity complement your work, or detract from it?
• What are the risks? Could the weather spoil your plans, are you taking much needed resources away from your group’s work, or could you even lose money on the expense of setting things up?

Is your group a registered charity?

Giftaid is a tax scheme that allows you to reclaim income tax the donor has paid on the money they have donated.  Remember to display the charity number on all fundraising materials and explain what practical difference donors can make.  Promoting other ways that members of the public can help, such as in-kind donations or volunteering works well for most groups.

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