New development: Fundraising in UK charities—stepping back from the abyss

Abstract

Fundraising techniques used by charities can enhance or diminish public trust. The dangers of questionable and over-aggressive fundraising practices are very real. In particular, in the UK, the ‘Olive Cooke affair’ in 2015 triggered a highlevel examination of fairly widespread dubious practices. In this article, the reflections of a key actor on the events surrounding the affair, and subsequent fallout, are examined. It is argued that this whole saga has the potential to encourage the development of a charity sector that is more trusted by the public; a sector that has stepped back from the abyss.

Keywords:

• Charity fundraising
• charity regulation
• public trust in charities

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Andrew Hind

Andrew Hind is Professor of Charity Governance and Finance at Cass Business School, University of London, UK. Previously, he was Chief Executive of the Charity Commission for England and Wales, and Chair of the Fundraising Standards Board.