Reminder: Fundraising Regulator’s reach extends to non-charitable organisations

The recent investigation by the Fundraising Regulator (FR) into We R Blighty serves as a reminder that its regulatory reach extends to non-charitable organisations like community interest companies (CICs) carrying out public fundraising. 

Multiple complaints about the CIC had been received by the Regulator from the public, local authorities and other organisations. The complaints covered alleged fundraising without the necessary licences or permissions as well as the behaviour of its fundraisers.

The FR found nine breaches of the then Code, including fundraising without the correct licences. It concluded that the CIC had likely mislead the public by confusing messaging and fundraising material and that there had likely been unprofessional conduct towards potential donors and public officials. The Regulator also found that, although the CIC had agreements in place with its fundraisers, these were not fully compliant with the Code and there was insufficient monitoring to ensure fundraisers kept to the Code. 

The Regulator has made several recommendations for future fundraising by the CIC. These cover its training and onboarding of fundraisers, monitoring and complaint handling and ensuring permissions and licences are in place. The CIC has accepted the findings and has confirmed it is taking steps to engage with the recommendations. Meanwhile, the Regulator has said it will continue to liaise with the CIC to ensure compliance.