Our Business & Fundraising Code
Our Business & Fundraising Code is a comprehensive set of standards designed to promote ethical, transparent, and responsible practices across all operations.
This code provides clear guidelines for businesses and fundraising organisations to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements while fostering trust with stakeholders.
It covers critical areas such as financial accountability, marketing integrity, data protection, and fair treatment of customers and donors.
By adhering to our code, organisations demonstrate their commitment to excellence, build stronger relationships with their audience, and set themselves apart as leaders in their respective fields.
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Use the links below to navigate through the code and make sure you read the using the code section first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fundraising Code
- What is the Fundraising Code of Practice?
The Fundraising Code of Practice sets standards that charities and fundraisers in the UK must follow to ensure fundraising is ethical, transparent, and respectful of donors.
- Who oversees the Fundraising Code of Practice?
The code is overseen by independent bodies including HRBR that ensures fundraising standards are upheld in the UK.
- Is it mandatory for charities to register with HRBR?
Registration is not mandatory but is highly recommended to demonstrate commitment to ethical fundraising and to use the HRBR Award Badge.
- Who needs to comply with the Fundraising Code?
All charities, professional fundraisers, and third-party fundraising agencies involved in raising money from the public are expected to comply with the code.
- What are the key principles of the Fundraising Code?
The code is based on four main principles:
- Legal compliance: Fundraisers must follow all relevant laws.
- Open and honest: Transparency with donors is essential.
- Respectful: Respect the rights and preferences of donors.
- Accountable: Charities must take responsibility for their fundraising practices.
- Do all fundraising activities fall under the code?
Yes, the code covers a wide range of activities, including face-to-face fundraising, telephone fundraising, digital campaigns, events, and lotteries.
- How can a charity demonstrate compliance with the code?
Charities can demonstrate compliance by registering with HRBR, following best practices, and maintaining transparency in their fundraising activities.
- How can charities ensure ethical fundraising?
Charities should train their staff, monitor fundraising activities, and ensure all practices align with the principles of the Fundraising Code.
- What happens if an organisation breaches the code?
If the HRBR identifies a breach, it can issue recommendations, demand compliance improvements, and, in some cases, publicly name the offending organisation.
- What does the code say about street and door-to-door fundraising?
Fundraisers must adhere to location-specific rules, clearly identify themselves, and respect the rights of individuals not wishing to engage.
- Are there guidelines for fundraising with children?
Yes, the code provides strict guidelines to ensure that children are protected and not exploited during fundraising activities.
- What are the rules around asking for donations?
Fundraisers must ensure their requests are clear, not misleading, and free of undue pressure. Donors should be given sufficient information to make an informed decision.
- How often is the Fundraising Code updated?
The code is reviewed regularly to ensure it reflects changes in law and fundraising practices.
- Can members of the public report a breach of the code?
Yes, the public can file complaints with the HRBR if they believe a charity or fundraiser has breached the code.
- Does the code address data protection?
Yes, the code emphasizes compliance with data protection laws such as GDPR. Charities must respect donor privacy and avoid sharing data without proper consent.
- What does the code say about protecting vulnerable people?
Fundraisers must take extra care to protect people in vulnerable circumstances. This includes avoiding undue pressure and ensuring clear, easy-to-understand communications.
Business Code
- What is the purpose of this code?
This code provides businesses with a framework to operate ethically, responsibly, and in compliance with UK laws, building trust and fostering excellence.
- Who does this code apply to?
The code applies to all businesses operating within the UK, regardless of size or sector.
- What are the benefits of adhering to this code?
Adherence to the code helps businesses build trust, strengthen relationships, enhance their reputation, and achieve long-term success.
- Is compliance with this code mandatory?
Yes, compliance is mandatory for businesses that adopt this code as part of their operational standards. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary actions, or other consequences.
- What is the role of third-party audits?
Third-party audits provide independent assessments of a business’s compliance with the code, enhancing accountability and identifying areas for improvement.
- Can employees or customers report violations?
Yes, confidential reporting channels should be established to allow employees, customers, and stakeholders to report suspected violations without fear of retaliation.
- What are the environmental responsibilities outlined in the code?
Businesses are encouraged to adopt sustainable practices, reduce waste, and optimize resource efficiency in line with the UK’s environmental goals.
- How are data protection requirements addressed?
The code emphasizes GDPR compliance, robust data security measures, and transparency in data use to protect personal and sensitive information.
- How can businesses demonstrate compliance?
Businesses can demonstrate compliance by implementing internal policies, conducting audits, and maintaining transparency in their operations.
- What happens if a business violates the code?
Violations may result in warnings, suspension from industry registers, public disclosure, or legal action, depending on the severity of the breach.
- What are the main areas covered in the code?
The code covers legal compliance, ethical conduct, customer protection, data protection, workplace standards, environmental responsibility, compliance monitoring, and consequences of non-compliance.
- How often is the code updated?
The code is reviewed and updated regularly to reflect changes in legislation, industry standards, and societal expectations.
