Alzheimer’s Society responds to the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee Report on Charity Fundraising
In a report out today (Monday 25th January), the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee (PACAC) says it is the failure of Trustees to fulfil their responsibilities which lies behind the causes of last summers charity fundraising scandals, and warns that the Etherington proposals represent the last chance for self-regulation of charity fundraising.
The report also provides a series of recommendations for best practice going forward.
Jeremy Hughes, CEO at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “We welcome the publication of the Committee’s report and recommendations of the Etherington Review to protect the vulnerable in society, including those with dementia. Public generosity is the life source of charities, enabling them to carry out their vital work and it is paramount supporters are safeguarded.
“Alzheimer’s Society is committed to leading the way in good practice and supporting the rest of the charity sector to do so. Our involvement with the new Commission for Donor Experience will place us at the heart of the sector’s commitment to making charitable giving a positive experience for everyone. Through our Trustee Advisory Group we will continue to keep our Board assured that the activities we undertake, and suppliers with whom we work, are beacons for best practice in the sector. Alzheimer’s Society has also created a telephone fundraising training package to ensure telephone fundraisers handle contact with individuals in a way that is sensitive to their individual needs in any charity.
“It’s positive to see that the report refers to our work with The Prime Minister’s Champion Group on Dementia Friendly Communities, who should be consulted by the new regulator on how people living with dementia should be treated. Good practice protects the rights of people to give to charities of their choice, as well as protecting them from inappropriate approaches.
“We look forward to working with the new fundraising regulator to make sure the voice of people with dementia is heard, creating a safe giving environment where their needs and rights are understood and upheld. The Committee’s report is vital affirmation of the measures that are currently being implemented and that must be actioned by the sector without exception. As a fundraising charity, and a representative of the most vulnerable people in society, we cannot afford for the lessons of the past to go unheeded any longer.”
