The Institute of Fundraising has launched a campaign to raise awareness of the importance of the use of cheques by charities both large and small.

It is also to put pressure on the Payments Council, urging the body not to begin the phasing out of cheques earlier than 2018, and before a viable alternative has been found.

There are many charities - in particular, but not exclusively - those who rely heavily on an older supporter base, which receive more than 70% of their income by cheque.

These charities have expressed real fears that those who currently donate this way may stop giving altogether if they are no longer able to do so by cheque.

The Institute considers that the Payments Council's proposal to phase out cheques may also give a 'green light' to banks to begin the process of the phasing out of cheques before the specified date of 2018.

It argues that without proper consultation with those most likely to be affected by the change, this move should not go ahead.

Institute members are encouraged to add their voices to the campaign, and to contact the Payments Council directly to express their view

Louise Richards, director of policy and campaigns at the Institute of Fundraising, said: "There has been insufficient consultation on this move, which has seemingly been designed entirely as a cost-cutting measure for the banks. We believe there has been scant consideration of the disastrous effect this could have on charitable income."

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