While creating a fundraiser is a wonderful way of supporting our hospice, it’s important to make sure that your event is safe and legal. We’ve put together a list of some tips to help ensure you’ve got everything covered for a successful and safe fundraiser!

 

Risk Assessments

 

Take time to identify any potential risks involved in your fundraiser and think about how to manage them safely. This includes considering the size and type of your event, and ensuring you have suitable first aid provisions in place. If you’re unsure about what’s required, it’s a good idea to contact your local council for guidance and support.

 

Raffles

 

If you're planning to hold a small raffle during your event, you usually won’t need a licence—as long as all ticket sales and the draw happen at the event itself. This still applies even if your event runs over more than one day. You’re allowed to offer ticket bundles, like “buy four, get one free,” to encourage more entries. Just make sure it's clear who is organising the raffle. To make sure everything is above board, check the most up-to-date guidance from the Gambling Commission and Chartered Institute of Fundraising.

 

Collections

 

Carrying out collections in public spaces or going door-to-door requires a licence from your local authority. If you’re planning to collect donations in this way, make sure you apply for the proper permissions in advance. If you’d prefer to support us through an organised Teesside Hospice collection, get in touch with our fundraising team to help you get involved safely and legally.

 

Licences

 

Before organising your fundraiser, it's important to find out whether any specific licences are needed. This could include things like licences for serving alcohol, hosting entertainment, or collecting donations. If your event is taking place in a public space, you’ll also need to get approval from the relevant local council or landowner to ensure everything is in line with local regulations.

 

Food Hygiene

 

If you're serving or handling food at your event, whether it's being sold or given away, food safety regulations still apply. Make sure you're following proper hygiene practices to keep everyone safe. For full guidance, check with your local council or visit the Food Standards Agency's website for the latest food hygiene advice relevant to events.

 

Insurance

 

As the organiser, you’re responsible for making sure your fundraising event is safe and appropriately insured. Teesside Hospice can’t accept liability for events run in our name. If your event involves members of the public, it’s important to consider public liability insurance. This can be arranged through most insurance providers. If you’re using a venue such as a hall or pub, check that they have valid insurance in place and confirm it covers your specific activity.

If you need anymore tips or support from our fundraising team, contact us today at fundraising@teessidehospice.co.uk or call us on 01642 811145

Check out our fundraising page and start your own today!