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| FUNDRAISING
FROM PUBLISHING PARTNERSHIPS CARRIES RISKS |
08/12/03 |
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Trustees
are being warned to tread warily before allowing publishing companies to
use their charity's name in marketing activities due to the risk of financial
exploitation.
A Charity Commission study of ten charities, "Charities And Publishing
Companies", which shows that some companies charge up to £700
for advertising space but may pass on as little as 6% on to the charity.
It also claims that a number of firms selling adverts in charity publications
are using aggressive tactics and even breaking the law.
The study examined publishing companies which fundraise on behalf of specific
charities, outlining how the companies generally approach small businesses
asking them to support named charities by buying advertising space in diaries,
calendars, and other printed material.
It highlights cases of sales staff implying a business had already agreed
to buy space when this was untrue, and then threatening legal action if
they did not pay.
The research stresses the need for charities working with publishing companies
to be careful their reputation is not tarnished by the association.
They need to ensure these companies are complying with the law and make
sure that the contract between themselves and the company is clear and offers
a good deal.
Simon Gillespie, director of operations at the Charity Commission says:
"A charity's name and reputation are precious assets which trustees must
protect and make sure they are not associated with underhand practices.
"Working with reputable publishing companies can be an effective way
for charities to raise funds, but as with any commercial partnership, thorough
homework is a must."
The "Charities And Publishing Companies" is available at www.charitycommission.gov.uk,
under the section "Meeting Our Requirements".
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