The Fundraising Regulator’s new Code of Fundraising Practice
· Posted on: May 16th 2025 · read
The Fundraising Regulator has issued its new Code of Fundraising Practice, which is set to come into force on 1 November 2025.
Key changes include:
- Relaxing the instructions around paying fundraisers “excessive amounts” with the broader direction to “give appropriate consideration to the approach you choose for paying fundraisers and whether this fits the values of your charitable institution”.
- Removing the rules regarding paying charity trustees for fundraising and instead suggesting charities refer to other guidance and legislation.
- Removing the previous requirement to maintain a privacy policy or statement to monitor the personal data of donors.
- Shortening its guidance regarding legacies, payroll giving and statutory funding.
The Regulator has also modified the requirements surrounding the behaviour of fundraisers, stating that fundraiser’s activities must be “carried out in a way that reflects positively on fundraising in general”, and that fundraisers must not “upset or cause anxiety to potential donors” or behave in a way that is “dishonest or manipulative, or tries to make potential donors feel guilty; or could damage the reputation of the charitable institution or fundraising in general”.
The Regulator’s new “principles-based” rules were set following a three-year-long consultation period with fundraisers.
Gerald Oppenheim, chief executive of the Fundraising Regulator, said:
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“the new code is designed to remain relevant and responsive to future changes while maintaining rigorous standards to help fundraising organisations raise much-needed funds.”
Claire Stanley, director of policy and communications at the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, welcomed the new code.
“We recognise this more streamlined, principles-based code marks a significant shift in fundraising regulation, which for many charities presents both challenges and opportunities … as new approaches emerge from this, we will work closely with members to ensure they have the knowledge and tools they need to carry out safe and successful fundraising.”
