If you notice that your Stripe account is restricted, don't worry – this is usually straightforward to resolve.

At Give as you Live Donate, we sometimes see Stripe Connect accounts restricted when they can't complete the verification checks required by financial regulations. Below are five common reasons restrictions happen and how to fix them.

Contents:

• Missing verification document
• Personal ID is required
• Required sections are incomplete
• Restricted jurisdictions
• Additional compliance checks

1. Verification document is missing or rejected

Stripe must verify your organisation to receive payments. To do this, you will need to share a document that confirms your charity name and address. You can upload this to the 'Business details' section on your Stripe authorisation form. This will look like this:

Why verification documents can be rejected:

Stripe may reject documents if:

• The document has expired
• The organisation name does not match the name used on your Stripe account exactly
• The document is cropped or incomplete
• The file is a screenshot rather than the original document
• The image is unclear or unreadable
• The file format is incorrect (documents should be PDF, JPEG or PNG)
• Only one side of a document was uploaded when both sides are required

Source: https://stripe.com/docs/acceptable-verification-documents

2. Stripe requires personal identification

Stripe must verify the identity of at least one individual connected to your charity. This is required under anti-money laundering regulations (KYC – Know Your Customer).

What ID does Stripe accept:

Stripe accepts the following:

• Passport
• Driving Licence
• National ID
• Government-issued ID that shows your face

If you have already uploaded your ID, it is possible that it could not be verified. If this is the case, you will see the following once you click on the individual under ‘Management and ownership’ on the Stripe form:

Source: https://stripe.com/docs/connect/identity-verification

3. Required sections of the Stripe form are incomplete

Stripe might restrict an account if required sections of the authorisation form are missed. Even small details can trigger a restriction.

Common sections that can be missed include:

• Charity number – You can upload this in the CRN box within the 'Business details' section
• Personal ID – Stripe requires at least one person to be assigned to the account to upload their ID
• Job title – Stripe needs this to verify the individual's role within your organisation
• Address - Stripe needs this to verify an individual's address

If required information is missing, Stripe will mark the section as incomplete until the information is provided, e.g.:

If you do not see sections showing as incomplete, please check each section to see if you have missed uploading an ID or a company verification document. If you are unsure, you can reach out to our charity team for support.

4. Your charity is linked to restricted jurisdictions

Stripe operates under international financial regulations and sanctions rules. Because of this, Stripe does not allow accounts connected to certain high-risk jurisdictions.

If Stripe sees references to these regions on your website or activities, your account may be restricted.

Examples include:

• Cuba
• Iran
• North Korea
• Syria

You can find the full list here: https://stripe.com/gb/legal/restricted-businesses

Restrictions may apply if your charity operates in these regions, sends funds to these regions or promotes activities connected to them.

5. Stripe needs additional compliance checks

In some cases, Stripe may request additional information before allowing payouts. This is part of Stripe’s compliance checks to prevent fraud and financial crime.

Examples include:

• Additional documentation confirming the organisation
• Verification of individuals associated with the charity
• Clarification of your charity activities

These checks are standard for payment platforms handling financial transactions.

Source: https://stripe.com/docs/connect

What to do if your Stripe account is still restricted

If your charity account is restricted, you can usually resolve the issue by completing the missing verification steps:

1. Go to your Stripe authorisation form
2. Check each section for missing information
3. Upload any requested verification documents
4. Submit the form again for Stripe review

Stripe typically reviews submissions within 2–3 business days. Once Stripe can verify the information, the restriction will usually be lifted. If your account remains restricted after following these steps, please reach out to our charity team here.

The post What To Do If Your Charity Stripe Account Is Restricted appeared first on Give as you Live Donate Blog.

Are you hosting an event to raise funds for charity? Picture this: someone at your bake sale says 'I'd love to donate, but I haven't got any cash.” You hand them your phone. They tap their card. Done. The donation is on your Fundraising Page before they’ve finished their brownie.

That’s exactly what our free Tap to Donate app makes possible - no card reader, no hardware, no faff.

What is the Tap to Donate app?

The Tap to Donate app turns your smartphone into a contactless donation terminal. Supporters tap their card, phone or digital wallet against yours, and the donation lands on your Fundraising page instantly.

It works wherever you are - at events, in workplaces, at schools, out in the community. It’s available on iOS and Android, and it takes about two minutes to set up.

Why contactless donations?

Fewer people carry cash these days. If you’re only set up to accept notes and coins, you’re leaving money on the table. Contactless giving removes the friction - no more “I’ll donate to your page later” promises that get forgotten. When it’s easy to give, people give more. It really is that simple.

How to get started in four steps:

1. Create your Fundraising Page on Give as you Live Donate - you can support up to 6 charities at once.
2. Download the Tap to Donate app for free from the App Store or Google Play.
3. Log in using the same details you used to set up your account
4. Select your Fundraising Page, and you’re ready to start collecting contactless donations.

That’s it. You’re ready to go.

See it in action: real fundraisers, real results

The best way to understand how powerful this is? See how our members are already using it:

Jude held a bake sale for East Anglian Air Ambulance. Rather than passing around a tin, she passed around her phone and raised over £300. See Jude’s page here.

Margaret wanted to raise money for Dementia UK. Her Soup and Pudding fundraiser brought the community together.

With the Tap to Donate app ready on her phone, no one had to worry about having the right change. She raised over £700. See Margaret’s page here.

Kelly organised a charity quiz night, auction and raffle to support Motor Neurone Disease research. On the night, a tap was all it took to help her raise over £500. See Kelly’s page here.

A soup lunch. A bake sale. A pub quiz. Three very different events, one very easy way to collect donations.

It’s not just for big events

You don’t need to be running a sponsored marathon to make the most of this. The app works just as well for smaller, everyday moments:

• Collecting sponsorship after a training session
• Taking donations at school pick-up
• Raising funds at a community club or faith group
• Accepting last-minute donations from friends and family

How will it work on my phone?

The app uses NFC (Near Field Communication), which is the same technology that lets you tap your own card at a till. It’s built into most modern smartphones already, and it’s what makes the tap-to-donate experience possible.

The app is available on iOS and Android. Not sure if your device is compatible? Get in touch with our team, and we’ll point you in the right direction.

Is it safe?

Yes. All payments are processed securely through Give as you Live Donate. Supporters can give using contactless debit or credit cards, Apple Pay or Google Pay, and every donation goes directly to your Fundraising Page. We’re registered with the Fundraising Regulator, so you and your donors can give with complete confidence.

Supporters can also add Gift Aid to their donation when they tap, meaning charities can claim an extra 25p for every £1 given, at no extra cost to the donor.

Ready to start collecting contactless donations?

If you already have a Give as you Live Donate Fundraising Page, you can be up and running in minutes. Download the Tap to Donate app, log in, pick your page, and start collecting.

No hardware. No complicated setup. Just you, your phone, and a lot more donations.

The post How to Collect Contactless Donations For Fundraising From Your Phone appeared first on Give as you Live Donate Blog.

As the cost of living continues to rise across the UK, food banks provide essential support for those struggling to afford food. This guide will help you understand how to effectively support your local food bank through donations, volunteering and raising awareness.

The importance of food banks:

Food banks provide emergency food supplies to individuals and families facing financial hardship in the UK. There are currently over 1,300 food bank centres offering support, with many seeing record demand in recent years.

According to The Trussell Trust, 3.1 million emergency food parcels were distributed by their food banks in 2023-2024. This has increased by 94% over the last five years, and more than 1.1 million of these parcels were distributed to children.

Each of these food banks relies heavily on community donations and volunteer support to meet this growing need. Here at Give as you Live, we offer alternative ways you can support your chosen food banks by raising free donations via your online shopping, direct donations or Fundraising Pages.

What your food bank needs most:

Every food bank has a list of needed items to create their food parcels. While specific needs may vary between locations, these items are typically most requested:

To stay up to date with what your food bank needs the most, you can download the BankTheFood app and follow your local food bank for real-time updates of which items they need.

How to find and support your local food bank:

Locating and supporting your local food bank can be done in many ways:

1. Find your nearest centre: Use The Trussell Trust's food bank finder or search "local food bank near me" to identify locations in your area.
2. Supermarket collection points: Many major supermarkets like Sainsbury's, Tesco and ASDA have collection points where you can donate items to food banks while you shop.
3. Direct donations: Most food banks accept donations directly at their premises during operating hours.
4. Community collection points: Churches, community centres and schools often act as collection points for food banks, especially during special drives.
5. Fundraise for them: You can make a direct donation or set up a Fundraising Page for your local food bank through Give as you Live Donate.

Volunteering at food banks:

Food banks rely on volunteers to operate effectively. Donating your time can be just as valuable as food donations. Volunteer opportunities typically include:

• Sorting and organising donations
• Assisting with food parcel preparation
• Helping with distribution
• Administrative support
• Driving and delivery services
• Fundraising activities

Most food banks also offer flexible volunteering schedules to accommodate various availability. Contact your local food bank directly to learn about their specific volunteer needs and application process.

How businesses can support food banks:

Organisations and businesses can make a significant impact by supporting a food bank through:

• Organising workplace food collection drives
• Sponsoring food bank programs or events
• Offering matched giving for employee donations
• Providing volunteer time off for employees
• Creating long-term partnerships with local food banks

You can also set up a corporate fundraiser to support your chosen food bank via Give as you Live Corporate here.

How to start supporting your local food bank:

Supporting your local food bank doesn't mean you have to volunteer every week or donate items every day. Even small, regular donations can help provide vital services for people around the UK!

Here are three ways to start:

1. Find your nearest food bank centre through The Trussell Trust website or independent food bank directories
2. Check their specific needs and donation guidelines
3. Start with whatever level of support you can provide - whether that's volunteering weekly or raising free donations from your online shopping via Give as you Live Online.

Supporting your local food bank is a great way to help those in need within your community. Whether you donate food or raise free donations from your online shopping, your contributions play a vital role in providing essential support to families in need.

What is Give as you Live?

Since 2010, Give as you Live has helped raise over $grandTotalRound for UK charities through online shopping, Fundraising Pages, direct donations and more. Get started now and turn your everyday actions into free donations.

The post A Guide To Supporting Your Local Food Bank appeared first on Give as you Live Donate Blog.

If you’ve been hearing about AI and wondering if it could help your charity, you're not alone. While it might sound technical, there are many AI tools charity teams can use to make tasks like writing content, designing graphics, and saving time on admin easier. The best part? You don’t need a big budget or tech background to give these AI tools a go.

There are some brilliant free tools and guides available to help you get started, including Give as you Live’s AI Hub in your Marketing Toolkit. In this blog, we’ve rounded up our top picks so you can explore what works for your charity.

Contents:

• What is AI, and why are charities using it?
• 3 AI tools your charity should consider
• Useful AI guides for charities
• Give as you Live's free AI Hub
• AI Prompts to try
• Make the most of Give as you Live

What is AI, and why are charities using it?

Put simply, artificial intelligence (AI) is technology that can help you complete tasks faster or more creatively, like writing, planning, analysing or designing.

For charities, that could mean:

• Drafting supporter emails or social posts
• Coming up with ideas for a new campaign
• Summarising a report or funding application
• Automating small admin jobs

You don’t need to be technical to try it - just open to experimenting with the right tools. For more information, be sure to check out our free practical guide to AI.

3 AI tools your charity should consider

These free or discounted digital tools for charities can help you explore AI safely and productively, even if you're just getting started.

1. Canva

2. ChatGPT

Great for: Writing emails, campaign ideas, and supporter messaging.

ChatGPT is a tool that can generate copy, suggest campaign themes, and help brainstorm ideas. Nonprofits can get up to 50% off premium plans, giving you access to more powerful features and faster responses.

3. HubSpot

Great for: Donor management, email campaigns, supporter journeys.

HubSpot’s CRM includes automation, AI marketing tools, and analytics, and charities can save 40% on all products. It’s ideal for managing supporter relationships and boosting your digital comms.

Useful AI Guides for Charities

Whether you're brand new to AI or looking to expand how you use it in your charity comms, fundraising or admin, these resources are packed with practical advice, examples, and easy-to-follow support.

🔗 Charity Digital: AI Resources
Case studies, guides, and tools tailored to the third sector.

🔗 CharityComms: AI Hub
A brilliant roundup of articles, expert insights, and ethical AI discussions.

🔗 Give as you Live: Useful Links & Resources
A free collection of training links, tools, and articles to help your charity explore AI confidently.

Our free AI Hub, built for charities like yours

We’ve created our own AI Hub - a free space inside your charity account packed with everything you need to explore AI with confidence.

Inside the Hub, you’ll find:

• A simple guide to using AI in your charity
• Real prompt examples you can copy and tweak
• A jargon-free glossary of common AI terms
• Links to free AI training and articles
• A guide to avoiding bias and using AI ethically

Whether you’re curious or confident, either way, it’s a great place to learn, explore, and use AI for good.

Make the most of Give as you Live

Whether you're already signed up or just getting started with digital fundraising, here are a few tips to help you get the most from your account, including more ways to access our AI hub and free resources.

Download the Tap to Donate App

Collect donations in person at events, in the office, or on the go - no kit required. Available for you and your supporters to use, for free.

Download Now >

Subscribe to our Fortnightly Resources

Get fresh marketing resources, handy guides and webinar invites sent straight to your inbox. Subscribe for updates!

Subscribe >

Browse your Charity Toolkit

From social posts to ready-made fundraising assets - spend 5 minutes exploring your toolkit and discover time-saving resources.

Browse Now >

Customise your Donate Button

Add a branded donate button to your website to take one-off or repeat donations, all tracked and secure.

Add Now >

AI can help any UK charity work smarter – from writing content to managing comms and saving time on admin. With the right AI guides and tools, it’s easier than ever to get started. That’s why we’ve built the Give as you Live AI Hub – packed with resources, tips, and real examples to help your charity explore AI with confidence.

The post Free AI Tools And Guides Every UK Charity Should Know About appeared first on Give as you Live Donate Blog.

What Hope & May want charities to know:

Understanding your legal requirements

Hope & May work with charities and not-for-profits that are deeply committed to making a difference, but often uncertain about their legal responsibilities under UK GDPR. One key question they help many organisations answer is:

Does your charity need a DPO?

According to official guidance from the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), if your organisation engages in certain types of data processing activities, you are required to appoint a DPO. This isn't just a recommendation - it's a legal requirement.

When must charities appoint a DPO?

The ICO states that organisations must appoint a DPO if any of the following apply:

1. Your core activities involve large-scale processing of special category data
2. Your core activities require regular and systematic monitoring of individuals on a large scale.

Charities may often fall into one or both of the above categories.

Examples that require a DPO appointment:

You would be required to appoint a DPO if your organisation carries out activities such as:

• Tracking behaviour on your website or through digital fundraising tools
• Operating CCTV or surveillance systems at scale
• Maintaining large databases of service users, volunteers, or donors
• Collecting and storing special category data (such as health, ethnicity, or religious beliefs)
• Running long-term support, casework, or programme monitoring involving personal data
• Processing personal data across multiple locations or at high volume

If you answered “yes” to any of these, the ICO response is as follows: “Your organisation will need to appoint a data protection officer.” Based on the answers given, you probably need to appoint a data protection officer (DPO).

The full guidance is available on the ICO’s website, but for most charities, the message is simple: a DPO may not be optional, and should be appointed for good governance in the organisation.

Why it matters

Having a qualified DPO in place helps your organisation:

• Stay legally compliant and avoid regulatory fines
• Protect sensitive data relating to supporters, beneficiaries, and staff
• Manage risks with confidence
• Respond effectively to Subject Access Requests and potential data breaches
• Demonstrate accountability and good governance to funders, partners, and the public

Hope & May: DPO Services for Charities

Hope & May specialise in outsourced DPO services for charities, foundations, and community organisations across the UK. Their tailored support means you get:

✅A named expert acting as your official DPO
✅Ongoing guidance and hands-on support
✅Policy reviews, risk assessments, and compliance checks
✅Staff training and process improvement
✅Peace of mind knowing you’re fulfilling your legal obligations

Need help determining your status?

If you're unsure whether your organisation’s activities meet the threshold, or you're ready to appoint a DPO but don't know where to start, Hope & May are here to support you.

Contact the team at Hope & May today for expert guidance at info@hopeandmay.com.

Give as you Live's Trusted Partners

Give as you Live's Trusted Partners connect charities with vetted, expert-led businesses that understand the sector. Whether you need legal support, digital tools, or fundraising services, Give as you Live's partners are here to help you thrive.

The post Does Your Charity Need A Data Protection Officer? appeared first on Give as you Live Donate Blog.

Winter may bring colder weather, but it also warms hearts with its spirit of giving. The festive season provides excellent opportunities for charity fundraising, while January and February offer chances to capitalise on New Year’s resolutions and Valentine’s Day.

At Give as you Live Donate, we help charities make the most of seasonal fundraising with tools and platforms that simplify donations and boost engagement. Whether you're planning a festive fundraiser or looking for creative ways to inspire supporters in the new year, we’re here to support you. Here are some winter fundraising ideas to keep your supporters engaged during the chillier months.

December

Festive Market

Host a festive market with local vendors, food, and seasonal activities. If you’re worried about resources to organise your own event, why not partner with a venue already hosting a festive market, and appeal to them to donate a portion of the proceeds?

Friendly tip: You can use our free Tap to Donate app to take contactless donations on the go!

Christmas Jumper Competition

Host a festive jumper contest where participants compete for titles like "Most Creative" or "Most Festive" with an entry fee donation.

Friendly tip: Create multiple categories to encourage diverse participation. Approach local businesses to sponsor prizes for different categories.

Santa Fun Run

Organise a 5K run where participants dress as Santa Claus. Provide hats with registration.

Friendly tip: Choose a route through populated areas to attract attention and potential spontaneous donations. Consider a shorter distance option for families with young children.

Christmas Carolling

Arrange for groups to sing carols or festive classics door-to-door or at local shopping centres.

Friendly tip: Provide song sheets and rehearse popular carols or songs beforehand. Partner with a local choir or music group for professional guidance.

Gift Wrapping Station

Set up a gift-wrapping service at a shopping centre or a market during the festive season.

Friendly tip: Offer various wrapping paper options and ribbon styles at different donation levels. Create a rota of volunteers to ensure consistent service throughout the busy shopping period.

January

New Year's Resolution Challenge

Launch a month-long challenge tied to common resolutions (fitness, learning, etc.) where participants gather sponsorships.

Friendly tip: Create weekly check-ins to maintain momentum and engagement. Offer small prizes for milestone achievements to keep motivation high during a traditionally difficult month.

Quiz of the Year

Host a quiz focusing on events from the previous year to test who was paying attention! If you’re not able to host the quiz yourself, why not partner with a local pub and ask them to donate a portion of the proceeds from the evening?

Friendly tip: Structure questions chronologically by month to help trigger memories. Include multimedia rounds with news clips or music from the past year. Create team challenges where groups must arrange events in the correct timeline for bonus points.

New Year Clear-Out

Encourage supporters to declutter after Christmas and donate quality items. Supporters can donate items in person, but also get involved online by selling their items on Vinted or eBay.

Friendly tip: Provide guidelines on what can be donated and arrange collection services for larger items. Share upcycling ideas for unwanted Christmas gifts.

Winter Warmer Event

Host a soup kitchen or hot chocolate stand to bring warmth to your community while raising funds.

Friendly tip: Partner with local cafés or restaurants to donate ingredients or expertise. Create a digital recipe book of the soups served as an additional fundraising item.

February

Valentine's Day Bake Sale

Organise a sale of heart-shaped and romance-themed treats. You could ask any baking enthusiasts in your community to help, or partner with a local bakery and ask them to donate a portion of the proceeds from Valentine’s treats.

Friendly tip: Package items attractively with ribbons and personalised messages to increase their perceived value. Offer delivery to local businesses for an additional donation.

Random Acts of Kindness Day (17th February)

Challenge supporters to perform and document random acts of kindness while collecting sponsorships. Quick and easy ideas include calling a friend, sending flowers, picking up groceries for an elderly neighbour, offering to babysit for friends and family, spending time with animals, or taking items to a charity shop.

Friendly tip: Create a social media hashtag and offer prizes for the most creative or impactful acts. Share stories throughout the day to inspire others.

Winter Charity Walk

Arrange a winter walking event through scenic landscapes (weather permitting). Don’t forget, there’s a ready-made Walking Challenge campaign available to download from your Marketing Toolkit!

Friendly tip: Provide hot drinks at the finish line as an incentive. Create a shorter route option in case of challenging weather conditions.

Indoor Games Tournament

Host charity board game competitions, quiz nights, or indoor sports events to bring people together during the cold months.

Friendly tip: Partner with local sports facilities or pubs for donated or discounted venue use. Create themed game nights like "Retro Board Games" or "Family Quiz Night" to appeal to different audiences.

Winter fundraising often happens in challenging weather conditions, making digital tools essential. Online ticketing simplifies management for events like the Indoor Games Tournament. For sponsorship activities like the Santa Fun Run, Fundraising Pages allow supporters to gather pledges without braving the cold. Contactless donation is particularly valuable at Festive Markets and Gift Wrapping Stations, where people may not carry cash but still wish to support your cause.

New to Give as you Live?

Since 2010, we’ve helped raised $grandTotalRound for UK charities. Our platform is completely free to use, and gives you access to:

Give as you Live Online: Earn free donations when your supporters shop online at over 6,000 retailers.

Give as you Live Donate: Take direct donations, create Campaign Pages, and collect in-person donations with our Tap to Donate app.

Give as you Live Instore: Supporters raise funds while shopping in supermarkets or high street stores via our e-gifts and vouchers.

The post Winter Fundraising Ideas For Charities appeared first on Give as you Live Donate Blog.

As the leaves change colour and temperatures cool, autumn provides a cosy backdrop for community-focused fundraising activities. This season of harvest and tradition offers numerous opportunities to bring people together for your cause.

At Give as you Live Donate, we help charities make the most of seasonal fundraising with easy-to-use tools and platforms that boost donations. Whether you're planning an Autumn event or looking for creative ways to engage supporters, we're here to support you. Here are some Autumn fundraising ideas to inspire your charity’s efforts.

September

1. Back-to-School Supplies Collection

Collect essential school supplies and donations to support children in need at the start of the school year.

Friendly tip: Create specific "shopping lists" of needed items at different price points. Partner with local schools to identify genuine needs in your community.

2. World Book Day Alternative

Host a book swap and reading event to coincide with the start of the school year, encouraging literacy and recycling.

Friendly tip: Sort books by age group and genre to make browsing easier. Create themed reading corners with volunteers doing storytelling sessions.

3. Harvest Festival

Host a harvest-themed event with local produce, crafts, and seasonal activities.

Friendly tip: Incorporate apple bobbing, pumpkin carving, and other traditional harvest activities. Invite local food producers to showcase their Autumn offerings.

4. Autumn Charity Auction

Host an auction featuring donated items, experiences, or services as families prepare for the new season. You could do this in person or as a virtual event!

Friendly tip: Include a mix of price points so everyone can participate. Create themed gift bundles to increase the perceived value of smaller items.

October

5. Halloween Party

Throw a spooky celebration with costumes, games, and themed refreshments.

Friendly tip: Host a costume competition with various categories to encourage participation from all ages. Consider a family-friendly early session and an evening event for older children/ adults.

6. Seasonal Webinars

Create an Autumn-themed educational webinar on topics like seasonal cooking, getting the house ready for winter, or craft projects. You could even do a whole series!

Friendly tip: Record sessions for those who can't attend live and send participants materials lists in advance for interactive sessions. If you’re hosting a series, consider a season pass option offering a discount for those who sign up for multiple webinars!

7. Pumpkin Carving Contest

Run a competition for the best-carved pumpkins with entry fees and prizes.

Friendly tip: Display entries in a public space to attract attention to your charity. Offer templates for beginners and hold short workshops for children.

8. Combined Sponsored Walk

Organise a community-wide sponsored walk where participants collectively aim to walk the equivalent of a significant distance. This event could be hosted in person, or as a virtual challenge – check out the free Walking Challenge campaign in your Marketing Toolkit for inspiration and ready-made assets!

Friendly tip: Create an online tracker showing progress toward the collective goal to build excitement. For in-person events, design a route that showcases Autumn colours or local landmarks.

9. Charity Haunted House

Create a spooky experience in a suitable venue and charge admission. If there’s a local venue already hosting a Haunted House event, you could appeal to them to donate a portion of their ticket sales.

Friendly tip: Recruit teenage volunteers who often enjoy creating and participating in haunted houses. Offer different "scare levels" so families with young children can also participate.

10. Autumn Raffle

Run a seasonal raffle with prizes donated by local businesses such as restaurants, shops, and artisan sellers.

Friendly tip: Approach businesses 4-6 weeks in advance and offer to promote their brand in exchange for donated prizes. Secure a few high-value prizes to feature prominently in promotional materials.

November

11. Bonfire Night Event (5th November)

Host a Bonfire Night celebration with food stalls, games, and supervised fireworks. Like the Haunted House idea back in October, this idea could work even with limited resources - try partnering with a local venue already hosting a fireworks event and ask them to donate a portion of their ticket sales to your cause.

Friendly tip: Check local regulations regarding bonfires and fireworks well in advance. Safety must be your priority - consider partnering with a local fire service for safety advice and supervision.

12. Autumn Craft Fair

Host an early Christmas market with local artisans selling handmade items.

Friendly tip: Offer gift-wrapping services for an additional donation. Provide artisans with charity information to share with customers.

13. Winter Preparation Challenge

Challenge supporters to prepare for winter (home insulation, garden winterising, etc.) while raising sponsorship money for those who can't afford winter preparations.

Friendly tip: Provide practical winter preparation checklists and partner with local businesses for discounted supplies. Share energy-saving tips that benefit both participants and the environment.

Autumn events often require more complex administration, so having free tools and resources in one place is essential. Online Campaign Pages can effectively tell seasonal stories for Back-to-School collections or Winter Preparation challenges. Fundraising Pages work well for sponsor-based activities. For larger events like Harvest Festivals or Autumn Craft Fairs, combining ticket sales with contactless donations maximises revenue opportunities while providing a smooth experience for attendees who increasingly prefer cashless payments.

New to Give as you Live?

Since 2010, we’ve helped raise $grandTotalRound for UK charities. Our platform is completely free to use, and gives you access to:

Give as you Live Online: Earn free donations when your supporters shop online at over 6,000 retailers.

Give as you Live Donate: Take direct donations, create Campaign Pages, and collect in-person donations with our Tap to Donate app.

The post Autumn Fundraising Ideas For Charities appeared first on Give as you Live Donate Blog.

Summer offers the perfect opportunity to take your fundraising outdoors. With longer days and warmer weather, people are naturally more inclined to participate in community events.

At Give as you Live Donate, we provide charities with the tools and platforms to maximise their fundraising efforts, making seasonal campaigns even more effective. Whether you're planning an outdoor event or looking for easy ways to collect donations, we’re here to help. These summer fundraising ideas will help you make the most of the season while raising vital funds for your cause.

June

1. Summer Fête

Organise a traditional summer fête with stalls, games, and entertainment that brings the whole community together.

Friendly tip: Create a detailed site map and schedule activities throughout the day to keep visitors engaged. Approach local businesses for raffle prizes 6-8 weeks in advance, offering recognition in event programs and social media in return for their support.

2. Father's Day Golf Tournament (3rd Sunday in June)

Organise a charity golf tournament with an entry fee, refreshments, and prizes for participants.

Friendly tip: Approach local businesses to sponsor individual holes with signage. Create fun categories beyond the traditional scoring, such as "most improved" or "best sporting attitude" to engage players of all skill levels.

3. Summer BBQ Fundraiser

Encourage supporters to host summer BBQs for friends and family, collecting donations per plate served.

Friendly tip: Provide hosts with digital invitation templates, suggested donation amounts, and simple recipes. Create a hashtag for hosts to share their BBQ photos on social media.

4. Summer Solstice Celebration (21st June)

Mark the longest day with an outdoor evening party featuring music, food, and activities.

Friendly tip: Solar-themed decorations and activities tie in nicely with the solstice theme. Consider hosting a sunset yoga session or a midnight feast to make the most of the extra daylight.

July

5. Charity Dog Walk

Organise a sponsored walk specifically for dog owners and their pets. Consider adding a pet costume contest or agility demonstrations.

Friendly tip: Partner with local vets or pet stores for prizes and promotion. Have water bowls and treat stations for four-legged participants. Check out your Wagathon campaign in your free Marketing Toolkit for ready-made social media posts!

6. Outdoor Movie Night

Set up an open-air cinema screening in a park or garden. Charge admission and sell refreshments.

Friendly tip: Choose family-friendly classics that appeal to a broad audience. Offer blanket and chair rentals for an additional donation.

7. Car Wash Fundraiser

Organise a charity car wash during the summer when people are more likely to want their cars cleaned after dusty summer drives.

Friendly tip: Create an efficient system with separate stations for washing, rinsing, and drying to minimise wait times. Offer refreshments for sale to waiting customers.

8. Mini Music Festival

Arrange performances by local musicians at an outdoor venue. Sell tickets and refreshments.

Friendly tip: Approach music schools for young performers who would appreciate the exposure. Create different "stages" or performance areas to accommodate various music styles.

August

9. Craft-Making Workshop

Host summer-themed craft workshops teaching skills like flower pressing, natural dyeing, or outdoor photography.

Friendly tip: Partner with local artisans who might donate their time in exchange for exposure. Provide take-home materials so participants can continue practising their new skills. Consider a follow-up exhibition of created works to showcase participants' achievements.

10. Community Sports Day

Host a day of traditional sports day activities like sack races, egg-and-spoon races, and tug-of-war competitions.

Friendly tip: Create team categories for families, businesses, and community groups to encourage group participation. Offer a trophy for the most spirited team to encourage friendly competition.

11. Summer Supper Club

Organise a themed dinner party or picnic with an entry fee. Consider a specific cuisine theme or decade.

Friendly tip: Source decorations from supporters to keep costs down. Ask local cooking enthusiasts to volunteer their skills for preparing special dishes. You could also partner with a local restaurant and appeal to them to donate a portion of their costs for the meals.

12. Sponsored Cycle Ride

Set up a cycling event with routes of varying difficulties. Participants can collect sponsorships based on their chosen distance and track their progress using fitness apps like Strava.

Friendly tip: Ensure you have clear route maps, first aid provisions, and bike repair kits available. Partner with a local cycle shop for technical support on the day. Don’t forget, there’s a ready-made Cycling Challenge campaign available to download from your Marketing Toolkit!

13. Charity Ice Cream Stand

Run an ice cream stand at local events or parks during hot weather. Or, partner with a local ice cream vendor willing to donate a portion of each sale on the day!

Friendly tip: Approach local ice cream suppliers for donations or discounted stock. Offer unique toppings or flavour combinations to stand out from regular vendors.

Summer events benefit from mobile-friendly tools. Digital ticketing solutions work well for larger events like the Father's Day Golf Tournament or Mini Music Festival. For community events like the Sports Day or Cycle Ride, Fundraising Pages allow supporters to collect sponsorships easily. Contactless giving via Tap to Donate is perfect for outdoor venues where taking card payments might be challenging.

New to Give as you Live?

Since 2010, we’ve helped raise $grandTotalRound for UK charities. Our platform is completely free to use, and gives you access to:

Give as you Live Online: Earn free donations when your supporters shop online at over 6,000 retailers.

Give as you Live Donate: Take direct donations, create Campaign Pages, and collect in-person donations with our Tap to Donate app.

The post Summer Fundraising Ideas For Charities appeared first on Give as you Live Donate Blog.

Spring is a time of renewal and growth, making it perfect for launching fresh fundraising initiatives. As the weather improves and people emerge from winter hibernation, they’re often eager to participate in community activities.

At Give as you Live Donate, we help charities maximise their fundraising potential year-round, offering tools and platforms to make seasonal campaigns even more successful. Whether you're looking for inspiration or a seamless way to collect donations, we’re here to support you. Here are some Spring fundraising ideas to help your charity bloom.

March

1. International Women's Day Event (8th March)

Host a women's empowerment panel, lunch, or workshop. Charge a small entry fee and invite inspiring local women to speak - such as business owners, community leaders, charity founders, campaigners, and women involved in arts or music.

Friendly tip: Give speakers at least 4-6 weeks' notice to secure their availability. Partner with local women-led businesses for sponsorship and cross-promotion.

2. Spring Clean for Charity

Encourage supporters to declutter their homes or organise a community cleanup day. Participants can ask to be sponsored for each bag of items they donate or rubbish they collect. They could also donate the proceeds from any items they sell, perhaps at a local car boot sale, or online via Vinted or eBay.

Friendly tip: Provide participants with branded bags and create a central drop-off point. This is also a great opportunity to collect quality items that can be donated.

3. St. Patrick's Day Fundraiser (17th March)

Host an Irish-themed party or dinner with traditional food, music, and games. Sell tickets in advance and offer additional activities like raffles during the event.

Friendly tip: Local Irish pubs may be willing to host or sponsor this event. Consider offering them advertising space during the event or featuring their logo on promotional materials to strengthen the partnership. Or, if you have a venue in mind that's already hosting a themed event, they may be willing to donate a portion of their ticket or event sales.

4. Mother's Day Celebration (Last Sunday in March)

Host a special Mother's Day brunch, high tea, or spa day. Share stories about how your charity impacts mothers and families.

Friendly tip: Offer tiered ticket pricing with different perks at each level, and consider creating a keepsake gift that attendees can take home or give to their mothers. You can also do this on a smaller scale, by appealing to local pubs or restaurants to donate a portion of the cost of their Mother's Day meals.

5. Picnic in the Park

Organise a community picnic with a small entry fee. Combine with other simple activities like face painting, lawn games, or a mini bake sale.

Friendly tip: Always have a backup indoor venue in case of rainy weather, and secure any necessary permits from your local council at least a month in advance.

April

6. Easter Egg Hunt

Host a family-friendly Easter egg hunt in a local park or community centre. Charge per child or per family.

Friendly tip: Ask local businesses to donate eggs or prizes to maximise your fundraising margin. Consider having a separate hunt area for different age groups.

7. Sponsored Spring Walk

Organise a sponsored walk through local scenic routes. Participants can collect sponsorship based on distance completed and track their progress using fitness apps such as Strava.

Friendly tip: Mark the route clearly and have water stations staffed by volunteers. Create a beautiful route that showcases Spring flowers and greenery. If you're not sure about hosting an in-person event, a virtual challenge where supporters walk in their own time is a great alternative.

8. Sponsored Quiz Night

Host a Spring-themed quiz night with fun questions about seasonal traditions, flowers, and trivia.

Friendly tip: Create different rounds to appeal to various knowledge bases - nature, sports, pop culture, and local history. Don’t be afraid to mix it up with a practical round – how about a quick challenge like potting a plant or identifying flower types?

9. Garden Produce Sale

Set up a community plant and seedling exchange where gardeners can sell or swap their extra plants and seedlings, with proceeds going to your charity.

Friendly tip: Encourage participants to start growing seedlings 6-8 weeks in advance. If you’re a creative type, you could make plant care instruction cards to add value to purchases. Social butterflies may want to partner with local garden centres for expert advice or donations of materials.

May

10. Community Lunch

Host a community lunch or picnic that brings people together. Charge for entry and offer additional food and drink for purchase.

Friendly tip: Source food donations from local markets, restaurants, or grocers to reduce costs.

11. Charity 5K Run/Walk

Organise a 5K run/walk event with registration fees. Create different categories for various fitness levels. You can also run this as a virtual event, with participants taking on the challenge at their own pace, in their own time.

Friendly tip: Partner with local fitness centres for cross-promotion and potential sponsorship. Participants can set up their own fundraising pages to raise additional funds from friends and family.

12. Art Project Auction

Commission or collect spring-themed artwork from local artists or school children and host an auction event.

Friendly tip: Display the artwork in a local venue for a week before the auction to build interest. Create a digital catalogue with artist statements to add value and context to each piece. Consider having some pieces available through silent auction to accommodate different price points.

For Spring events, consider using Give as you Live Donate to streamline collection. Online Campaign Pages work well for events like the International Women's Day celebration, while your supporters' Fundraising Pages can boost participation in the Spring Clean and Charity 5k Run/ Walk activities. For in-person events like the Easter Egg Hunt or Community Lunch, using Tap to Donate for contactless donations can increase giving and simplify the collection process.

Even better, you’ve got access to a myriad of free, ready-made resources in your Marketing Toolkit – including a Spring Events Printables campaign, with everything you need to promote your fundraising events over this bright and cheery season!

New to Give as you Live?

Since 2010, we’ve helped raise $grandTotalRound for UK charities. Our platform is completely free to use, and gives you access to:

Give as you Live Online: Earn free donations when your supporters shop online at over 6,000 retailers.

Give as you Live Donate: Take direct donations, create Campaign Pages, and collect in-person donations with our Tap to Donate app.

The post Spring Fundraising Ideas For Charities appeared first on Give as you Live Donate Blog.

Running a charity means wearing many hats, and one of the most important is maintaining relationships with your donors. Getting new donors is exciting, but keeping existing donors engaged is just as crucial - and often more cost-effective. According to recent data, it takes the average UK charity two years to recoup the acquisition costs of a £5-a-month donor*. Here, Give as you Live Donate’s Annabelle Risdon explores straightforward ways to keep your donors connected to your cause. 

Make Giving Easy and Accessible 

The first rule of donor retention is simple: make it as easy as possible for people to support you. Today's donors expect convenient giving options that fit their lifestyle; at Give as you Live Donate, we already see around a quarter of donations made using Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Convenient giving means removing every possible barrier to donation. Consider these key elements of a modern, donor-friendly giving experience: 

• Mobile-friendly donation pages: Ensure your donation forms work perfectly on smartphones and tablets, with large buttons and simple input fields 
• Multiple payment options: Support card-free payment methods like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal to match how people prefer to spend online 

• One-click giving: Allow returning donors to save their payment details for faster future donations 

Consider offering contactless donations through services like Give as you Live Donate’s free app. The Tap to Donate app allows you to collect donations anywhere - from event stands to your office reception. Contactless giving removes barriers and makes spontaneous donations possible, helping you maintain connections with donors who might otherwise walk away.  

TIP: Check out our recent blog post, where we explore the importance of contactless giving in an increasingly cashless society! 

Say Thank You - Promptly and Personally 

A prompt thank you goes a long way. Within 48 hours of receiving a donation: 

• Send a personal thank-you email or letter 
• Address the donor by name 
• Mention the specific amount they gave 
• Explain how their donation will help 

You don't need fancy software - a simple spreadsheet can help you track donations and ensure no thank-you note falls through the cracks. If you use Give as you Live Donate for donations, personalised thank-you messages are sent automatically via email within minutes of the donation being made. 

Show Your Impact 

Showing your impact isn't just about reporting numbers - it's about keeping donors emotionally connected to your cause and giving them a reason to continue supporting you. When donors see the real-world difference their contributions make, they're much more likely to: 

What should you share to boost donor retention? Focus on: 

• What specific projects donations have supported 
• Concrete numbers of people helped through their contributions 
• Real, personal stories from beneficiaries 
• Authentic photos of your work in action (with appropriate permissions) 

Keep these updates simple and focused on the human impact. A monthly email newsletter is perfect for this - just make sure to collect donor email addresses when they give. When donations are made via Give as you Live Donate, supporter email addresses are available to view in your Reports tab - but of course, only if the donor has opted in to share that information, in line with GDPR.

TIP: Check out our AI hub for free resources to help you work smarter, not harder – our 5 Minute Marketing Magic guide includes a prompt to create inspired emails in no time! 

Make Regular Giving Simple 

Regular donors are the backbone of most charities. Give as you Live Donate makes setting up recurring donations simple and beneficial for both donors and charities. 

With Give as you Live Donate, donors can: 

• Set up monthly donations in just a few clicks 
• Choose their preferred donation amount 
• Automatically add Gift Aid at no extra cost to them  
• Easily pause or adjust their giving if their circumstances change 

For charities, the benefits are significant: 

• No setup fees 
• Predictable income streams 
• Reduced administrative work 
• Automatic Gift Aid claiming 

By making regular giving straightforward and transparent, you give donors a hassle-free way to support you. Explain to potential recurring donors how their steady support helps your charity plan long-term projects, cover essential running costs, and create lasting impact. 

TIP: When you ask for a recurring donation, always emphasise the tangible difference regular giving makes. For example: "Your £10 monthly donation could provide weekly meals for a family in need" creates a much stronger connection than simply asking for money. You can add Custom Messages for amount-specific donations in your Charity Admin system.  

Stay in Touch (but don't overwhelm) 

Good communication builds lasting relationships with donors. Try to: 

• Send updates every 1-2 months 
• Mix up your content (success stories, upcoming events, behind-the-scenes glimpses) 
• Running a fundraiser or campaign? Share videos, photos and text updates... etc 
• Keep messages short and focused 
• Always include a clear way to get in touch with questions 

Track What Works 

You don't need complex analytics to understand your donors. Start simple: 

• Keep a record of when people donate 
• Note which events or appeals brought in donations 
• Ask donors how they prefer to be contacted 
• Record when donors stop giving and try to understand why 

Give as you Live Donate's tools include reporting features that can help you track these patterns without extra work. 

Make Events Count 

When you hold events, make the most of the opportunity: 

• Use Tap to Donate for easy, contactless giving 
• Collect contact details from attendees 
• Take photos to share in future updates 
• Thank attendees within a day of the event 

Use Give as you Live Donate’s Ticketed Events solution, and you can do most of these things automatically! You can set up events in minutes (even with custom ticket types), use the Check-in tool to manage attendance on the day, and easily track ticket sales. 

When Donors Stop Giving 

If a donor stops giving, don't be afraid to reach out: 

• Send a friendly message checking in 
• Ask if their circumstances have changed 
• Thank them for their past support 
• Keep them on your mailing list (unless they ask to be removed) 

Sometimes donors just need a break, and keeping in touch means they're more likely to return when they can.   

TIP: With Give as you Live Donate, you can see a full list of active and inactive donors in your Reports tab – be sure to check this regularly! 

Getting Started 

You don't need to implement everything at once. Start with: 

1. Setting up easy giving options through Give as you Live Donate 
2. Adding or updating your Custom Messages 
3. Planning regular updates to donors 

Remember, donor retention is about building relationships. Keep it personal, show your impact, and make it easy for people to support your cause. With these basics in place, you can gradually add more sophisticated approaches as your charity grows. 

Need help getting started? Give as you Live offers free support to help you set up donation tools and plan your donor retention strategy. Reach out to our Charity Team at charities@giveasyoulive.com to learn more. 

 
*Source: https://www.thirdsector.co.uk/average-charity-takes-two-years-recoup-acquisition-costs-5-a-month-donor-says-ken-burnett/fundraising/article/1300972

Give as you Live Donate: Take direct donations, create Campaign Pages, and collect in-person donations with our Tap to Donate app.

The post Simple Steps To Keep Your Donors Coming Back: A Guide For Charities  appeared first on Give as you Live Donate Blog.