The Fundraising Regulator has published new guidance clarifying that religious giving such as collections, offerings and tithes is subject to the Code of Fundraising Practice.

The regulator said such donations count as charitable fundraising regardless of where or how they are requested.

This clarification follows findings that many faith-based charities did not realise activities within worship or community life fall under fundraising rules, highlighting gaps in compliance among these organisations.

The guidance, which comes in the form of a blog, points to a case where a faith-based charity breached the code during a one-off appeal for a new church.

The charity failed to explain what would happen if its fundraising target was not met. It also lacked a proper complaints process for fundraising activities.

The regulator said the case demonstrated that church members who donate are considered members of the public. This means any such appeal is treated as a public fundraising campaign under the code.

Further casework revealed risks where personal hardship is discussed alongside requests for donations. The regulator warned this can increase the need to identify and support potentially vulnerable donors, emphasising the importance of safeguards, particularly where large or spontaneous donations are made.

“The Fundraising Regulator can help faith-based organisations understand when fundraising activity falls within the scope of the code and to make sure the right safeguards are in place so that fundraising is carried out openly, respectfully and with appropriate support for those who may be in vulnerable circumstances," the regulator's head of casework, Nikki Renken said.

"[It] works to support organisations to fundraise in a way that reflects their values, builds trust and gives trustees confidence that they are meeting their responsibilities.”

The blog includes further examples from recent casework and is available on the regulator’s website.

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