The Fundraising Regulator has recently published the new Code of Fundraising Practice, it’s first major update since 2019. Fundraising organisations should review the new code and support guides and begin preparing to ensure compliance.
The new code, which will come into effect on 1 November 2025, follows a review process which started in September 2022. Its aim is to provide a clearer and more flexible set of rules for charities to follow, which better suits the modern world of fundraising.
In a blog post discussing the new code, The Fundraising Regulator’s Chair of Standards Committee, Suzanne McCarthy described how: 'Since its last major update in 2019, the landscape for charitable fundraising has continued to evolve.
'Technological developments, societal change, and updated legislation all meant that a fresh approach was needed to ensure the code continued to meet its purpose.'
What’s changing?
Particularly of relevance to finance professionals will be Section 2.4 (on page 18 of the new code) which provides guidance on paying fundraisers, Section 7.5 (on page 53) which discusses convenience giving and unstaffed collections.
The six-month transition period (from May to November 2025) which follows the announcement of the new code aims to provide fundraising organisations with enough time to review and update their internal policies and processes, train their staff and volunteers and seek additional support if necessary.
To support with this, the Fundraising Regulator will be providing a ‘Code Advice Service’ and has published a set of support guides which cover three key areas: due diligence, documenting fundraising decisions and monitoring fundraising partnerships.
The ‘due diligence’ guidance provides particular advice for charities on avoiding fraud, theft, bribery and corruption, money laundering, tax evasion, abuse, exploitation or other forms of illegality and unethical behaviour.
Suzanne McCarthy explains that these resources: 'are practical tools designed to help fundraising organisations understand how to meet the code’s standards confidently and effectively. Over the coming months we intend to publish further helpful guidance.'
In addition to this, the Fundraising Regulator will also be running webinars and events which with the ultimate goal of making sure all organisations feel equipped to apply the new code to their own charity.
You can register for these events using the links below:
The Fundraising Regulator has also confirmed that an engagement event is also due to take place in Scotland, though details are yet to be confirmed.
You can find more information about the New Code on the Fundraising Regulator’s website