Institute of Fundraising publishes guide on acceptance of donations

The Institute of Fundraising (IoF) has released guidance which says that whilst value and ethics are important when considering whether to accept donations, they are not decisive.

Donations to charities should only be refused in exceptional circumstances and if it is in the best interests of the charity. Examples of where this is likely to arise is where the acceptance of the donation will have a negative effect on the charity and will be more detrimental to the advancement of the charity’s objects then if it were to reject the donation. The IoF’s guide sets out the legal and practical considerations for charities when deciding whether they should accept donations in various situations and says there is often no straightforward right or wrong answer. All matters should be considered on a case by case basis.

The Policy manager of the IoF, Stephanie Siddall commented:

“Fundraisers understand the importance of making sure there is enough money and resource for their charity to be able to carry out its work. But sometimes other considerations can be more important. The value of donation may not always be worth the cost in terms of a potential loss of public trust and confidence, reputational damage or a conflict with the charity’s ethics, values and vision.”

The guidance can be viewed here.