The new Code of Fundraising Practice came into effect in November last year and the Fundraising Regulator recently clarified that religious giving does fall within its remit.

Recent case studies have highlighted instances where the code has not been followed as the organisation did not recognise the activity as charitable fundraising. 

Collections, offerings, appeals, tithing or legacies are all considered to be fundraising.

Clear guidance from the Regulator now shows that all members of the public are entitled to the standards and protections of the code and that includes members of a faith community.

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The Government is keen to strengthen links between donors and places and has launched a new plan ‘Our Place to Give’. Published by the Department for Media, Culture and Sport the scheme aims to make it easier for high net worth individuals to give back to the community they came from.

The trend for place based funding is set to grow. ‘Our Place to Give’ follows on from the ‘Pride in Place’ programme launched last year and expanded to another 40 places in February. 

Areas with the greatest need do not always have the capability of accessing philanthropic investment and conversely philanthropists are not always aware of areas with the greatest need. Place based giving seeks to address this.

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On the occasion of the centenary of Queen Elizabeth, the ‘Queen Elizabeth Trust’ has been formed to honour her lifelong commitment to public service. 

With the government providing a one off £40m endowment, the trust will provide a lasting legacy, with the focus on regenerating shared spaces that bring people together.

Whilst details of the funding criteria is not yet available, funding will be will be for community spaces, with an emphasis on restoring, renovating or updating existing spaces.

It is planned the first grant will be made in Spring 2027.

See more here.