The Fundraising Regulator has warned the public to 'look out' for the Fundraising Regulator badge before donating to charity as in-person fundraising resumes.

The warning comes as a reminder to charities to ensure the Fundraising Regulator badge is always visible during face-to-face fundraising, enabling the public to 'give with confidence'.

Public fundraising methods were paused at various times over the past 18 months, as restrictions on person-to-person contact were brought in by the government.

However, an easing of restrictions means sponsored events, community bake sales, fundraising in shopping centres and on streets, plus more, may all resume in some parts of the UK.

The regulator has welcomed the return to face-to-face fundraising, but has expressed concerns around the risk of fraudulent activity and fundraising for unregistered charities.

The Fundraising Regulator badge means a charity has agreed to fundraise in a way that adheres to the standards in the Code of Fundraising Practice, which applies to all charitable fundraising across the UK.

Displaying the badge is also a beneficial tool for charities. Research commissioned by the Fundraising Regulator has found that people are more likely to give to organisations who have registered with the Fundraising Regulator and display the badge to show their commitment to fundraising standards.

Fundraising Regulator CEO, Gerald Oppenheim said: “It’s fantastic to see charities returning to public fundraising activity again, but it is vital that the public feel confident when donating.

"Looking out for the Fundraising Badge should always form a key part of the public’s checking process when giving to charity. This will help them to give safely and know that their generous donation is going to a cause they care about."

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