New Fundraising Code of Practice

Fundraising Code of Practice – What You Need to Know

The Fundraising Regulator  is the independent body that oversees charitable fundraising across England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and for some charities in Scotland.

The new Code of Fundraising Practice comes into effect on 1 November 2025.

What the Code is for

The Code sets the standards all charities, community organisations, and fundraisers must follow. It aims to:

• Promote high and consistent standards of fundraising.
• Ensure fundraising is legal, open, honest and respectful.
• Protect the public, including children and people in vulnerable circumstances.
• Build trust and confidence in charitable giving.

Who it applies to

• Registered charities and community organisations.
• Fundraising platforms, professional fundraisers, and commercial partners.
• Volunteers and third-party suppliers.

It does not apply to fundraising for personal causes (e.g. raising money for a pet’s vet bill).

Key principles

Fundraising must always be:

• Legal – meeting the requirements of the law.
• Open – transparent and willing to explain processes.
• Honest – acting with integrity, without misleading donors.
• Respectful – treating people fairly and protecting their rights.

What’s new in 2025?

The Code has been simplified compared to earlier versions:

• Fewer, clearer rules.
• A shift from strict lists of “do’s and don’ts” to principles-based guidance.
• Greater flexibility, so charities of different sizes can apply the rules in a way that’s appropriate and proportionate.

You can read the Fundraising regulator’s guide to planning and carrying out fundraising events, including challenge events, to help you meet the Code of Fundraising Practice (2025) here.