Ethical Fundraising Policy

Introduction

At Technology Books for Children, we believe in inspiring the next generation through stories that celebrate curiosity, diversity, and the power of technology. To continue our work, we rely on fundraising that is rooted in integrity, respect, and transparency. This policy sets out the principles and standards that guide all of our fundraising activities.

Our approach to fundraising upholds our charitable aims and reflects our responsibility to donors, supporters, partners, and the families and children we serve.

Our Fundraising Principles

We are committed to:

• Honesty – We will be truthful about what we do, how we are funded, and how donations are used.
• Transparency – We will communicate clearly with supporters and report on the impact of donations.
• Respect – We will respect donors’ wishes, privacy, and individual circumstances.
• Accountability – We will comply with relevant UK laws and regulations, including the Code of Fundraising Practice.
• Child-Centred Communication – We will ensure our messaging protects and respects the children we aim to support through literacy and technology education.

How We Work with Supporters

• We provide clear and accessible information about how funds will be used.
• We thank donors appropriately and provide regular updates where requested.
• We manage data responsibly and in accordance with data protection laws (UK GDPR).
• We respect communication preferences and act promptly on requests to stop contact.
• We never use pressure tactics and will always give individuals space and time to decide.

Protecting Vulnerable People

We take particular care when engaging with individuals who may be vulnerable. We:

• Do not knowingly solicit or accept donations from individuals who may not have the capacity to give.
• Train our team to recognise signs of vulnerability and respond appropriately.
• Ensure language used in fundraising is clear, inclusive, and free from manipulation.

Communicating with Integrity

In all fundraising communications, we:

• Represent our work and our beneficiaries truthfully and respectfully.
• Avoid using imagery or language that causes distress or reinforces negative stereotypes.
• Seek consent before sharing personal stories or photographs.

Gifts and Donations

We welcome donations that align with our values and mission. When accepting gifts:

• We assess donations for ethical suitability and potential reputational risk.
• We welcome restricted donations (where funds are given for a specific purpose) as long as they support our charitable objectives.
• We retain the right to decline donations that conflict with our values or which may compromise our independence.

Corporate and Commercial Partnerships

We work with businesses that share our commitment to children’s education, literacy, and inclusion. Before entering any agreement:

• We assess potential partners for alignment with our values.
• We ensure clear mutual expectations and written agreements.
• We disclose commercial partnerships transparently in our annual reporting.

Complaints and Concerns

We welcome feedback and are committed to learning from any concerns raised. If someone is unhappy with any aspect of our fundraising:

• They can contact us directly via info@technologybooksforchildren.org
• We will acknowledge all complaints within ten working days and aim to resolve them within 21 working days.
• Complaints are handled sensitively, and outcomes are documented for continuous improvement.

Governance and Responsibility

• Our trustees oversee all fundraising activity and ensure it meets legal and ethical standards.
• All staff and volunteers involved in fundraising are trained in this policy.
• This policy is reviewed annually to ensure it remains current and effective.

Version Control and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually and as needed to ensure effectiveness and compliance.