The Institute said it would now be able to begin implementation of the scheme, as laid out in its business plan presented to the Home Office last year, with the recruitment of a chair and director. The anticipated launch date of Self-regulation is June 2006.

The scheme intends to formalise a complaints system for donors while promoting best practice in charitable fundraising. It will comprise of a Regulation of Fundraising Unit for promotion and administration; an Independent Complaints Reviewer; and a Council, including the chair and lay members, to oversee the scheme.

The Home Office and Scottish Executive were asked to proportionally fund the first five years of the scheme, after which it will become self-financing. The scheme will be independent from the Institute, which will continue to develop Codes of Practice as well as continuing its work in advocacy, professional development, networking and advice.

Responding to the announcement, Claudia McVie, director of income generation for CLIC Sargent, said: “Providing the public with a quick, clear and accessible complaint-handling system is key to building their confidence in the charity sector. Establishing this self-regulatory system will also ensure that charities are not hampered by unnecessary bureaucracy, so the public can be sure donations to CLIC Sargent will go directly to children’s cancer care.”

The Institute intends for the part-time chair and full time director to be installed by February 2006, with recruitment now underway. Job descriptions and application information can be found at
www.institute-of-fundraising.org.uk