All Things Fundraising
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 are as successful, rewarding and memorable as they can be.
Here are some top tips for making your event fun, successful and stress-free.
Top Tips for Fundraisers
Whether it's your first fundraiser or your fiftieth, these tips will help you make the most of your event.
Keep Us in the Loop
Let us know about your planned event so we can offer support and guidance every step of the way.
Start Out Simple
Keep it simple and involve friends, family and colleagues. Link your event to something you enjoy — bake sales, walks, sponsored runs, or even fancy dress!
Get the Date in Diaries
Schedule your event well in advance so people can plan to attend. Check there are no clashes with other local events.
Get the Calculator Out
Plan for expenses and costs, and set a realistic fundraising goal. Every penny counts and all donations are greatly appreciated.
Pick the Venue Wisely
Choose a suitable venue and make sure it has appropriate public liability insurance to cover your activity.
Advertise, Advertise, Advertise
Publicise your event through social media, local press, and word of mouth. It raises awareness for both your event and the charity.
Write Thank You Letters
Send thank you letters to everyone involved — sponsors, helpers, donors and attendees. We can help with this!
Put the FUN in FUNdraiser
Most importantly, enjoy yourself! The best events are the ones where everyone has a great time. That energy is contagious and people will want to come back.
Our Amazing Fundraisers
Taking the plunge for NLF
Community charity run
Fancy dress motorcycle fundraiser
Some Advice
Take some time to consider any risks 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.
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.
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.
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. Contact your local council for guidance.
Money Handling
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.
Ready to Start Fundraising?
We would love to hear about your plans. Get in touch and we'll support you every step of the way.
Get in Touch