Charity regulator urges people to help the victims of the humanitarian disaster in Gaza
As is its normal practice in response to a national appeal such as the Disasters Emergency Committee Gaza appeal, the Charity Commission is providing guidance to the public on giving safely to charity. The Commission is encouraging the public to help the victims of the humanitarian disaster in Gaza by donating to registered charities with experience of working in high-risk areas and conflict zones.
The regulator says that most fundraising is genuine, but warns the public to guard against unscrupulous people who exploit the generosity of the public by fundraising fraudulently.
The Commission says there are simple steps people can take to help ensure they give to genuine registered charities. The tips include:
• check for a registered charity number, and check that against the charity's entry on the Commission's online charity search tool - if you want to give to the DEC appeal, its registered charity number for England and Wales is 1062638
• check whether collectors are wearing a proper ID badge and that any collection tin is sealed
• if in doubt, ask the collector for more information - a genuine fundraiser should be happy to answer questions and explain more about the work of the charity (please see below for further safer giving tips)
The regulator is urging people not to attempt to send cash or aid out directly themselves and not to forget that there are other ways of supporting registered charities if they cannot afford to or do not want to donate. For example, people can take part in fundraising events and activities organised by a registered charity.
The Commission is also reminding charities working in conflict zones such as Gaza, that they must:
• ensure they have robust due diligence and monitoring procedures in place when using local partners on the ground - know your partner
• remain impartial and politically independent
• ensure the humanitarian response is based on need
• ensure the charity's activities are in line with the charity's objects
For further information, visit: www.charitycommission.gov.uk/news/donate-to-registered-charities-experienced-in-working-in-gaza/