Fundraising Advice
We are so grateful to those who raise money on behalf of the Niamh Louise Foundation.

Please be assured that we will do our best to provide you with as much support as you need every step of the way so that your efforts will be as successful, rewarding and memorable as they can be.

Here are some top tips for making your event fun, successful and stress-free.

Try and keep it simple. Ask friends, family or work colleagues for some help or support.  Try to link it in with something you love – that makes it easier and more enjoyable!

Please always let us know that you are planning to organise a fundraising event. We can help support you with information and guidance to help make it as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.  You can call our team on 028 8775 3327 or email info@niamhlouisefoundation.com.

Try to have your event date scheduled in well in advance of the event. Look at the calendar and ensure it doesn’t clash with other big events that may be important to your potential supporters.

Put together a plan including expenses and costs that you may have to pay up front. Think about how much you would like to aim to raise for The Niamh Louise Foundation, though please remember we appreciate every donation, no matter how big or small.

If you organise an event that involves the public in any way you will need to ensure that you or the venue has Public Liability insurance. Be sure to check with the venue as they may well already be covered.

Publicise your event. This is an important aspect of organising an event for a charity.  As a charity, raising our profile is an important way for us to help the public know we are there- and also a great opportunity to let people know about your event!

After the event, don’t forget to thank everyone involved. Who knows you might need their help at your next event! We can help you with thank you letters to any supporters/donators.

Lastly, we want you to have fun and enjoy your fundraising experience!

Some Legal Advice

Take some time to consider any risks that your activity might present, and also any regulations you should abide by. This quick guide highlights some of the areas you’ll need to consider, but don’t rely solely on these tips; it’s best to check with your local council to check you’ve got everything covered.

Food Hygiene

Food safety laws apply when food is available, whether it is for sale or not. Ensure you follow food hygiene procedures. Contact your local council for food hygiene regulations at events or see the Food Standards Agency’s website.

Licences

Ask your local authority whether or not you need to obtain any special licences (such as public entertainment, collection or alcohol licences). If you are holding the event in a public place, you must have permission from the council or landowner.

 

Risk Assessments

You are responsible for identifying any hazards and assessing any risks at your activity that will need considered. Ensure you have adequate first aid and insurance cover available for the scale of your activity. If you’re not sure, check with your local council.

The Money

For your own protection, if at all possible, make sure you count the money you’ve collected with another person present and have them verify the total amount raised. Ask people who want to make a donation by cheque to make it payable to Niamh Louise Foundation, rather than you personally. Make sure any cash donated is kept in a secure place and is banked as soon as possible.

 

Insurance

Please remember, you are responsible for the activity you organise and The Niamh Louise Foundation cannot accept liability for any fundraising activity or event you undertake. If you are planning an activity that involves the general public you’ll need to budget for public liability insurance, which can be obtained from any insurer. If you are holding the event in a venue which has liability insurance (such as a village hall, pub, or nightclub) ensure they have the appropriate insurance and that it covers your activity.

Remember

Keep records of everything you do for future reference. Visit the Institute of Fundraising’s website for extra advice and to ensure everything you are doing is legal.

Get Consent

You will need to get parental permission if children are helping at your event or if you’re taking photographs of children. If your event is on private property, get permission from the owner or manager.

Collections

It is illegal to carry out house-to-house or public street collections without a licence.