Organise your own (social distanced) fundraiser!
We’re right beside you every step of the way. Whether you’re planning an activity of your own or joining another event, we’re here with ideas, inspiration and support.
We also have loads of fundraising goodies like shirts, balloons and posters to help you with your efforts.
As soon as you’ve decided on your event, let us know, and we will do what we can to support you. Just get in touch with the Fundraising Team on: 01229 580 305 or email us via fundraising@stmaryshospice.org.uk
Turn your ideas into action!
Decide on your event
Are you a planner or a doer? If you are a natural baker, build on that, or if you’re a sporty person then do something physical. Our advice is to go with an event that’s right for you and that you will enjoy… the rest will follow. If you’re stuck for ideas, download our help sheet or list of fundraising ideas.
The location
Are you planning something small outside or will you embrace the virtual world and go online?
The date
Will you have your event at the weekend or during the week? Make sure you consider special dates such as national holidays or religious holidays and give yourself enough time to plan and prepare.
The fundraising
How are you going to raise the most money? Will you hold a raffle or auction alongside your event? Who will donate? Will you charge for attendance? Set yourself ambitious but achievable targets.
Marketing
Make sure everyone knows about your event…
Advertise it on your social media accounts- The internet is an amazing promotional and fundraising tool – make sure you use it.
Follow the links to download our Sponsor Form
If you’d prefer to create your own materials be sure to include St Mary’s Hospice logo and the registered charity number (517738) on all marketing material.
Contact us and tell us what you are planning so we can post it on our social media and website.
Stay Safe
The new guidelines are regularly adapting and it might seem a little confusing at times, if you are hosting an event, please follow the current guidelines. Here are some ways to keep your event as safe as possible:
Keep up good sanitation practices
If your event requires meeting other people, make sure you wash your hands regularly and use hand sanitiser when you can. Maybe provide hand sanitiser stations for your guests? Restrict the use of shared equipment where possible and if it must be shared, it must be cleaned.
Keep to social distancing guidance
Keep to the minimum distance with your guests. When you are moving positions, be more aware of how close you will be with your guests, can this be avoided?
Be respectful
At this time, it is likely that some people are more anxious than normal. Please be mindful when interacting with others and be aware of their personal space.
The Legal Part
It’s important to make sure that your fundraising event is safe and legal as well as fun and successful! We don’t want to make it daunting, but here are a few things you need to know.
And remember, we are here to support you through your fundraising adventure, if you need any help just ask!
Contact us (The Fundraising Team) on: Telephone- 01229 580 305
Email: fundraising@stmaryshospice.org.uk
Your responsibilities
Please understand that if you do something that threatens or damages the name or reputation of St Mary’s we will ask you to stop fundraising.
Lotteries and raffles
The legislation surrounding lotteries and raffles can sometimes be confusing. Make sure you check the latest information and advice at gamblingcommission.gov.uk
If your raffle lasts longer than 24 hours you will need a lottery licence and printed tickets, which must have certain details on them. Please contact our fundraising team for help with this.
You’ve raised the cash, now what?
• Collect and store all money raised (particularly cash) safely and securely.
• Keep accurate records of all monies received or pledged
• Now you can send in the money you raised. Simply choose one of the options below:
Online: By using Just Giving, the money comes straight into our bank account. Follow this link to find a Step to step guide to create a JustGiving page.
By Post: Pay all the money into your account and then send in a cheque made payable to St Mary’s Hospice to St Mary’s Hospice, Ford Park Crescent, Ulverston, Cumbria. LA12 7JP. Don’t forget to send in your completed sponsorship forms if applicable.
In person: Pop along to St Mary’s Hospice where a member of the fundraising team would be delighted to see you. The fundraising office is staffed from 9am – 4pm, Monday to Friday- if you’re not camera shy then perhaps we could take a quick pic of you and the amount you have raised, this way we can let all our social media followers know what you have been up to!
BACS: If you would like to pay through BACS then please contact us
An easy way to increase your donation? GIFT AID
Gift Aid: If your supporters are UK taxpayers and allow us to claim Gift Aid on their donation, we can make an extra 25p from each £1 raised, at no cost to them (It’s a no brainer)
TOP TIP: Offer donations back to your supporters should your event be cancelled, but if anyone declines their refund – or if you are unable to trace the donor – you’ll need to send this money to St Mary’s.
