Fundraising and the law

When fundraising for the Alzheimer's Society there are a number of guidelines that need to be followed in order to ensure that the Institute of Fundraising Codes of Fundraising Practice are adhered to.

A brief guide to rules and regulations for some common fundraising activities is listed below but if you are doing street collections you must contact us first to gain further information.

Raffles and Lotteries

There are three kinds of lottery or raffle and each has different rules and regulations. These are governed by The Lotteries and Amusements Act 1976 (as amended). See Gambling commission website for guidance on regulations or contact us on 020 7423 3500 for a fact sheet.

Collecting money with tins

Please contact us on 020 7423 3500 before you embark on fundraising with collection tins.

Food and drink

There are many regulations governing the use of food and even if you are only providing food on a one-off basis you must still comply with these. For specific advice on food safety legislation please contact the Environmental Health Services dept at your local council.

We recommend that you contact your local authority before your event to discuss with them what you plan to do.

Every person involved in the preparation and serving of food to the public must have a basic understanding of food hygiene.

If you plan to sell alcohol, you need to have a liquor licence. You get this from your local Magistrates Court.

Entertainment

If you are planning to have some form of entertainment (this means two or more people performing or dancing) in a building, which does not already hold a Public Entertainments Licence, you need to get one. This licence is provided by your local authority.

Finally…

If in doubt about the legal implications of anything you are proposing to do, please do check with us and we will be able to advise you. 

Always think about safety, both yours and others 

Depending on what you are organising, think about whether you need insurance or a licence 

Enjoy yourself while fundraising but don't take risks or cause distress to other people.

Good luck with your fundraising.