Keeping it Legal!

We want you to have fun when arranging and holding your fundraising events, however, there are some legal aspects to consider.  We’ve covered the main ones below but if you are unsure about anything or have any queries please contact the Community Team.

Promotional Materials

When producing promotional material about your fundraising event you must always mention your chosen charity’s name and registration number.  For example Cancer Research UK is a registered charity No. 1089464.  If you are planning on using the charity’s logo please contact them for permission and to obtain a set of their guidelines.

Collections and Collecting Tins

It is perfectly legal to collect sponsorship money from friends, family and colleagues, and on privately owned premises such as pubs, as long as you have permission from the owners or managers.  At least two people should be present when collecting boxes are emptied and the money should be banked straight away using a Charities Trust paying in slip, available from your Community Champion.

Please ensure when holding collections that you use a sealed collecting tin, your chosen charity should be able to provide these for you.  It is illegal to use a collecting tin without a seal.

Please also ensure that tins on display such as within reception areas etc, are displayed securely. 

Public Collections and Outdoor Events

If you want to collect in a publicly owned place, for example a street collection or local shopping centre then you will need a local authority licence from the local council.  This can be obtained by contacting the licensing department at your local council and you should allow approximately three months to obtain this.

You will need a public entertainment licence for any outdoor event which the public will attend if there is any sort of music, performers or dancing,

Raffles and Lotteries

Legally, all raffles and tombolas are classed as lotteries and are governed by strict guidelines.  If you are planning a raffle or tombola as part of your event please contact the Community Team on 0151 794 1052 for guidance.