We are deeply saddened by the news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. In response the Fundraising Regulator and the Chartered Institute of Fundraising have released the following statement to support charities and donors at this time:
We advise all charitable organisations and fundraisers to refer to the government guidance on national mourning.
Events
Carefully consider any planned events, including large scale fundraising events that are due to take place during the period of national mourning, and in particular on the day of the State Funeral. In addition to government guidance the decision on whether to continue with planned events should sit with Trustees and senior leadership teams.
Online, social media, and email fundraising
Carefully consider any digital campaigns or email activity that was due to take place during the period of national mourning, considering whether it is still appropriate to post or send and being sensitive to the public mood.
In-person activity
Consider how activity taking place around Royal Residences and in other key ceremonial locations may be affected, particularly in the areas around Westminster and Windsor. Please also refer to guidance from the Devolved Administrations and Local Authorities on their websites.
Patronages
Charities with links to the royal family, including those with royal patronages, will be advised by the Royal Household of any changes in due course.
Commemorative activity
Charities wishing to arrange any commemorative activity should make sure their activity is in line with existing standards and guidance provided by the Fundraising Regulator and be alert for any updated information.
Commemorative giving
People may wish to pay tribute to The Queen’s remarkable legacy, by supporting one or more of the charitable causes that she championed during her lifetime. This includes donating to one of Her Majesty’s many patronages. More information can be found on the Royal Website.
By supporting registered charities, the public can be assured that their donations will be regulated in line with the charity law framework. Donors can check the Charity Register at gov.uk/checkcharity and are advised to look out for the Fundraising Badge – the logo that says ‘registered with Fundraising Regulator’. They can also check the Fundraising Regulator’s Directory of organisations which have committed to fundraise in line with the Code of Fundraising Practice.
Further guidance on giving safely to charity is available on the Fundraising Regulator’s website.