# Charity regulators wish the public a #SafeXmas when donating

- Link: https://fundraising.co.uk/2014/12/08/charity-regulators-wish-public-safe-xmas-when-donating/
- Published: 2014-12-08T12:00:42+00:00
- Author: Howard Lake

The Charity Commission, the independent regulator of charities in England and Wales,
and the Fundraising Standards Board (FRSB) are encouraging the public “to give safely”
to charities this Christmas. They are issuing advice on how people can ensure that
they avoid any cons or fraudsters that say they are collecting for charity.

Paula Sussex, Chief Executive of the [Charity Commission](https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/charity-commission),
said:

> “It’s great to see that people are still extremely generous to charities at Christmas,
> and throughout the year. We’d like to remind the public that by taking a few small
> steps when donating, you can ensure that your money goes to the right place.
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> “Whilst incidents of fundraising fraud are rare, they do sadly occur. Don’t be
> put off from giving – instead, help keep charities accountable by using the resources
> available to make checks when giving this season. Use the Online Register, ask
> questions and have a ‘Safe Xmas’ this year knowing you’ve made a difference.”

 

## #SafeXmas

To make it easy, the two organisations are promoting the “SafeXmas” acronym:

**SafeXmas**

**S**earch for a charity’s name, registration number and landline on fundraising
materials

**A**sk to see a collector’s ID badge and don’t be afraid to ask questions

**F**ind the FRSB tick logo, showing that the charity’s fundraising is regulated

**E**nsure the collection device is sealed

**X**tra information about charities can be found at www.gov.uk/charity-commission.

**M**ake sure clothing collection bags are clearly branded with a charity’s details

**A**lways check email and web links are genuine before donating

**S**till unsure? Contact your favourite charity direct and donate

Alistair McLean, Chief Executive of the [Fundraising Standards Board](http://www.frsb.org.uk/),
added:

> “Don’t be afraid to ask questions or to contact the charity with your queries.
> “Above all, keep on giving. Your donations could make a critical difference to
> the good causes you care about this Christmas.”

 

The Charity Commission has also issued a video guide to giving safely at Christmas.
It’s on our list of [20 ways to fundraise at Christmas](https://www.fundraising.co.uk/2014/12/08/20-ways-raise-funds-christmas/).