From 1 November 2025, the UK charity sector turns a significant corner. The newly updated Code of Fundraising Practice, hailed by Stephanie Peacock (Minister for Civil Society) as introducing “clearer requirements around digital giving” — comes into force.
This isn’t just a cosmetic tweak.
With changes to reflect QR codes, contactless giving and third-party platforms, alongside strengthened safeguards for both fundraisers and donors, this Code marks the most significant update since the regulator’s inception.
For charities operating across the UK, especially those adapting to the digital fundraising era and tighter data-governance demands, this is a moment to pause and align your digital communications, supporter journeys and privacy practices with a regulatory framework now built for the future.
1. A Code That Puts People First
The new code is simpler, but tougher where it counts. It asks every charity to show that their fundraising is legal, open, honest, and respectful not just in theory, but in every click, call, and campaign.
For small teams already juggling compliance, creativity, and connection, it might sound like one more hoop to jump through. But in reality, it’s a chance to prove what you’re already doing right: putting people first.
2. Consent and Clarity: Building Trust the Right Way
At the heart of the code lies a principle that will sound familiar to anyone working in digital: informed, active consent.
Supporters should always understand how their data will be used, what they’ll receive, and how to change their mind. That means avoiding any confusing privacy small print, and carefully considering any use of things like pre-ticked boxes, especially for electronic communications (which are subject to quite different rules under PECR).
It’s worth noting that the ICO is actively consulting on guidance for charities using the ‘soft-opt-in’, so watch this space as the Data Uses and Access Act is rolled out in January 2026.
If your charity uses tools like CiviCRM, now’s the time to review your supporter journeys – from newsletter sign-ups to donation pages – and make sure they’re as transparent and easy to use as possible. A well-designed form with clear privacy information isn’t just compliant; it’s an act of respect.
3. Protecting Vulnerable Supporters
The new guidance goes further than ever before in recognising vulnerability — whether that’s financial, emotional, or situational. Charities must have clear procedures for spotting and supporting vulnerable people during fundraising.
That means reviewing tone, timing, and frequency of contact, not as a box-ticking exercise, but as part of creating ethical, human-centred digital experiences.
4. Digital Transparency Matters
Social media campaigns, email drives, and online fundraising platforms now fall explicitly under the new code. Charities must clearly identify when posts are sponsored or paid-for, and make sure any third-party platforms meet the same ethical standards.
Think of it as the digital equivalent of a clear shopfront: supporters should never be left wondering who’s behind a message, or where their money is going.
5. What This Means for You
If you’re already following good Data Protection practice — clear consent, accessible privacy statements, and respectful data use — you’re ahead of the curve.
Now’s the moment to:
- Audit your data capture forms and consent statements.
- Refresh your “How we fundraise” and “Privacy Policy” pages in plain English.
- Train staff and trustees in ethical digital practice (we can help with that).
- Align your communications so that fundraising, marketing, and web teams all speak the same language of trust.
Every donation, every sign-up, every click, it all starts with trust. The new Fundraising Code isn’t just a rulebook; it’s an invitation to show your values in action.
Let’s make transparency the heart of digital kindness.
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