The DofE Charity relies on generous support to keep doing what it does best, and we’re committed to raising funds in a way that’s safe, respectful and transparent.

Our responsible fundraising policy is designed to underpin this approach in order to:

• Ensure the safety and wellbeing of all DofE supporters, volunteers and staff
• Help us secure the funding required to sustain and advance the charity’s work and mission
• Protect the charity’s reputation and minimise any other risks that could reduce its ability to achieve its goals.

Responsible Fundraising Policy

• DofE adheres to the Fundraising Regulator’s Code of Practice and it pays the annual voluntary levy that is applied to fundraising charities, by the Fundraising Regulator.
• As members of Chartered Institute of Fundraising (CIOF), DofE follows all guidance and best practice set-out by the CIOF. This includes the specific guidance on treating donors fairly and donors in vulnerable circumstances.
• All fundraising activities delivered by DofE will comply with all relevant laws and regulations that could apply to fundraising activity. This includes, but is not limited to laws and regulations set-out by: The Charity Commission, the Information Commission’s Office (ICO) and The Gambling Commission.
• All members of DofE’s fundraising team are made aware of their obligations to follow the Fundraising Code of Practice and other relevant regulations.
• DofE fundraisers will act with integrity at all times and in a manner that does not knowingly mislead or provide inaccurate information.
• DofE’s fundraisers are not incentivised by commission or performance related bonuses.
• We will provide supporters and potential supporters with a range of options for donating to the DofE and in accordance with what is most relevant to their interests, giving capability and communication preferences.
• We respect the privacy and contact preferences of all donors and respond promptly to any requests to cease contact.
• We will respond promptly to all complaints, acting as best we can to address the cause of the complaint and use feedback received to inform future practice or identify training needs.
• We will keep accurate records of our fundraising activities, decisions and the donations we receive.
• Donations explicitly given for a specific purpose will only be used for that purpose, unless permission has been given to loosen or remove the stated restriction. If a financial restriction cannot be accepted, this will be made clear prior to receipt of the gift or at the point of receipt, if the gift was unsolicited.

In addition:

• Decisions to accept or decline offers of support will always be informed by Charity Commission Guidance. This includes the requirement to conduct due diligence on prospective donors and partners and assess any financial and reputational impacts associated with accepting (or declining) an offer of support.