New Fundraising Code: what’s changing?

The revised Code comes into effect on 1 November 2025, allowing charities and fundraisers time to familiarise themselves with the changes and integrate them into their operations.

1. Principles-based framework: the new Code adopts a principles-based approach, focusing on overarching standards rather than prescriptive rules. This shift allows for greater flexibility, enabling fundraisers to apply the Code's principles across various contexts and emerging fundraising methods.
2. Streamlined content: to enhance clarity and usability, the Code has been condensed, removing redundant or outdated sections. It is now 45% shorter than the previous version, with improved signposting to legal requirements and external guidance.
3. Strengthened protections for fundraisers: organisations must now take reasonable steps to protect fundraisers from harm and harassment during fundraising activities and ensure fundraisers feel supported and able to raise concerns safely.
4. Support for innovation: the updated Code is designed to support, not restrict, innovation. It can be applied flexibly to new technologies and fundraising methods, ensuring high standards are maintained while allowing charities to explore new ways of engaging donors and raising funds.

Charities should begin reviewing their fundraising practices in light of the new Code and ensure a smooth transition to the updated standards.

To help charities apply the new Code, the Fundraising Regulator has published a set of practical support guides focussing on three key areas: conducting due diligence, documenting fundraising decisions, and monitoring fundraising partnerships. Additional guidance is planned for release over the coming months.

• Access the full text of the updated code and related guidance

For more information and to access fundraising resources, visit the Fundraising Regulator's website.