Getting started with fundraising

Our top tips are full of inspiration and practical advice to help you get started

By raising money for Girlguiding, you're making an incredible investment in girls' futures

Follow our useful tips on getting started and make sure your fundraising is a success. 

1. Find a great idea

There are lots of different ways to raise money, so think about how much you need, what you’re raising money for and check out our fundraising ideas for inspiration

2. Keep it safe and legal

All fundraising activity should be carried out within the Fundraising Regulator Code of Practice as well as following our Fundraising policy. These are designed to make sure that any fundraising that happens is legal, open, honest and respectful.

Always remember to carry out a risk assessment and check for any regulations or licensing laws that apply to your event on the Fundraising Regulator website. If you’re doing any sort of raffle or games nights then extra rules apply, see our advice here.

Whatever you are doing, it is important to be clear about where money raised will go, and what you’ll do with any excess money if you raise more than you need. For example, ‘We are fundraising for [insert unit name]’s trip to [destination]. Any funds raised beyond the cost of the trip will be donated to support the ongoing running of [insert unit name].’

Remember: if you’re fundraising locally (for your unit or district), you mustn't use Girlguiding’s national charity number. Money raised using this number has to be used for projects to benefit girls in guiding all over the UK. Get in touch with your local country or region office for advice on which local charity number you can use.

Plus, check out these essential guides make sure your fundraising stays safe, legal and fun:

3. Plan your event

Make sure you think carefully about all practicalities including, venues, dates, and costs as well as anything like catering, toilets or wheelchair accessibility. There’s a helpful risk assessment here. Put together a simple budget to make sure you keep track of how much you spend, and how much you raise.

4. Spread the word

Advertising is key to a successful event, so spread the word as far as you can. Put up posters in local shops, libraries and doctor's surgeries – we have some downloadable templates for you. Tell your friends, family, workplace and schools. Some companies will even match the amount you raise.

As you’ve chosen to raise money for Girlguiding, we’re willing to bet you’ve got a great guiding story to tell. Your personal experience is a powerful way to encourage people to give, so think about how you can share the impact guiding has had on your life or the life of people you know.

Social media is a great way to share your fundraising, and you never know who’ll donate or be able to help in another way.

5. Boost the proceeds 

Before you run an event or send round the sponsorship form, check to see if you can claim Gift Aid on the donations you receive.

6. Manage the money 

Any cash you’ve raised in-person should be banked as quickly as possible. Keep it in a safe and secure location until you can get to the bank. And make sure two unrelated people count the cash and keep a record of what was raised.

More advice on the right way to handle cash, cheque and card donations can be found on the Fundraising Regulator website.

7. Say thank you

When you’ve reached your target or wrapped up your fundraising, don’t forget to thank the people who helped and donated. Let them know how much you raised and how the money will be used to support the girls and young women in guiding.

Need help with your fundraising?

Read our fundraising procedure for more information.

Get fundraising help