The new Code of Fundraising Practice will apply from 1 November 2025, Martin Price, the Fundraising Regulator’s Board Member for Wales tells us what to expect.
This weekend marks an important milestone for charities in Wales and across the UK. From 1 November 2025, the new Code of Fundraising Practice takes effect, following a six-month transition period.
The code sets the standards for charitable fundraising across the UK. It is the first major review since 2019 and the most significant update since the Fundraising Regulator was established.
MAKING THE CODE EASIER TO USE
Charities in Wales told us they wanted a code that was clearer, easier to navigate and adaptable to modern fundraising. The new code is 45% shorter than the previous version and is organised around principles with improved signposting to legal and sector guidance.
Importantly, while the code is shorter and easier to use, it maintains the same strong protections for the public that were already in place.
This approach makes it easier for organisations of all sizes to apply the standards in practice and to find the right detailed guidance when needed.
WHAT’S NEW IN THE CODE
Today’s fundraising includes a wide range of unstaffed methods, from contactless donation points and QR codes to clothing banks and charity bags. The new code sets consistent expectations so that donors always have access to clear and accurate information about who they are supporting and how their donation will be used. If a third party is involved, their details and role must also be made clear.
For the first time, the code also makes clear that charities must take reasonable steps to protect fundraisers from harm and harassment. This applies wherever fundraising takes place, whether face-to-face, online or by phone. It means having clear processes for reporting issues and making sure they are addressed. The rule covers everyone fundraising on a charity’s behalf.
SUPPORTING CHARITIES IN WALES
Many charities in Wales are looking at new ways to raise money, including through donor fundraising. Smaller charities, in particular, often face extra challenges in finding the time and resources to do this.
A shorter, clearer code will make it easier for trustees and staff to understand their responsibilities and apply the standards with confidence. For those organisations that are new to fundraising regulation, we will soon publish an introductory guide to using the Code of Fundraising Practice.
RESOURCES FOR WELSH ORGANISATIONS
The code and accompanying code support guides are available in Welsh as well as English. These guides cover areas such as documenting fundraising decisions, due diligence and working with partners. For organisations with specific questions about how to apply the standards, our free Code Advice Service is available to provide tailored, one-to-one support.
We have already engaged widely with the sector in Wales on the changes to the new code. This has included a webinar in partnership with WCVA and attendance at a number of in-person and virtual events in Wales, including gofod3. We understand that charities in Wales operate in their own unique circumstances, and we will continue to make sure our outreach and support services remain accessible to them.
LOOKING AHEAD
The introduction of the new code this weekend is an important step forward for fundraising standards. It reflects the realities of how fundraising is carried out today, while ensuring existing protections for the public remain firmly in place.
For charities in Wales, the new code provides a practical framework to guide ethical fundraising in a changing environment. Applying the standards will help you to build stronger relationships with donors, safeguard your organisation’s reputation, and contribute to public trust in the wider sector.
Read more about the new code at www.fundraisingregulator.org.uk.