Fundraising and the law

Collections

• Collections held in private locations such as pubs or shops require the permission of the owner or manager.
• Collections held in public spaces will require a permit from your local authority.
• Collections tins and buckets must be sealed and correctly labelled and we can provide these for you.

• For your own safety you should not collect money on your own and money should always be counted with another person in a secure environment.

   

Lotteries and raffles

A raffle held as part of another fundraising event such as a summer fair or ball will not require a licence providing there are:

• No cash prizes
• No more than £500 is spent on buying prizes
• Tickets are only sold during the event
• The draw takes place at the event.

If you want to sell tickets to a wider audience over a longer period, you will require a licence from your local authority. We would also advise you to refer to the Gambling Commission website where you can find more information.

Entertainment and alcohol

If you are holding an event with entertainment or alcohol you need to ensure that the correct licences are in place. Your chosen venue may have them but if not, you will need to obtain the relevant licences from your local authority. You should contact them well in advance of your event as failure to obtain the correct licence may invalidate insurance cover.

Food hygiene

Food safety laws apply when food is available, whether it’s for sale or not. Ensure you follow food hygiene procedures. Contact your local council for food hygiene regulations at events or see the Food Standards Agency's website. 

Insurance

By organising your own event you are responsible for taking adequate steps to make sure the event poses no risk to others. You should check that buildings and suppliers have sufficient Public Liability insurance and if necessary, arrange additional cover.

Health and Safety and Risk assessment

Events need to be adequately risk assessed to find, reduce and control the risks to those taking part and members of the public who may be attending. Some useful information about organising an event can be found at www.institute-of-fundraising.org.uk. Help for completing a risk assessment can be found at www.hse.gov.uk. 

Data protection

You must make sure that any records you keep comply with the Data Protection Act. Simply, information must be kept securely, not shared with others without permission and not kept longer than is necessary. If you have any queries about holding an event please contact your local Community Fundraising Manager. Please remember you are responsible for the activity and Hearing Dogs for Deaf People cannot accept liability for any fundraising activity or event you undertake. We are happy to provide support, please contact events@hearingdogs.org.uk 

Paying in donations

For your own protection, if possible, make sure you count the money you've collected with another person present and have them verify the total amount raised. Ask people who want to make a donation by cheque to make it payable to Hearing Dogs for Deaf People rather than you personally. Make sure any cash donated is kept in a secure place and is banked as soon as possible. 

Monies you raise can be paid in here: Our Pay in money you've raised page