The Charity Pages Issue 6

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Charitable thoughts...

Abolishing VAT on wills that contain a charitable bequest may seem an insignificant move. The amount involved would hardly seem sufficient to trigger a sudden desire to contribute to charity. It’s not, however, the amount involved that is significant: it is the opportunity it affords the legator’s advisor to point to the possibility of making such a gift. Explaining the difference in VAT would make mentioning charitable gifts a matter of course for a will-writer or solicitor. It can only help, and it is a move recommended by the Charity Tax Commission.

• The report by the commission follows the second report from the Office of Tax Simplification, which reiterates its belief that the reduction in IHT for charitable bequests should remain. The focus of the second report, however, is on lifetime gifts, whether to charity or to other sources. The thrust of the report is on simplification of the rules – the raison d’ètre of the body – as most people simply do not understand them.

• Both reports were welcomed by the umbrella

body for promoting charitable bequests, Remember A Charity. That organisation is behind the annual Remember A Charity Week, which this year takes place from 9 – 15 September. The campaign is known for its quirky use of age-themed spectaculars to raise the issue of leaving a legacy – and, crucially, making a will in the first place. We will be reporting on some of the highlights in our next issue.

• The increasing role played by charities in UK society, together with the accompanying need for effective regulation of their activities, were highlighted by the chief executive of the Charity Commission, Helen Stephenson CBE at an international conference in London. She pointed to the community’s response to the Grenfell fire as exemplifying both.

That also brings to the fore the on-going importance of gifts in wills to enable that work. With charitable legacies now worth around £3bn, that importance cannot be overstated.

In this issue...

CONTENTS 13

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OTS publish second report on IHT

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Legacy campaign promises ‘something wonderful’

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Will notification: interim arrangement reached

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Reform proposals include abolition of VAT on wills

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Probate delays cause concern

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Voluntary sector seeks clarity on no-deal Brexit

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Charity tax set to go digital

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Fundraising code to come into effect in October

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Website grants come to an end

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IoF chair calls for the profession to champion inclusiveness

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Fundraisers gather to bestow awards

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Third Sector looks forward to its own awards

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Charities welcome rise in lottery limit – but carry on lobbying for more

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Commission CE addresses world’s non-profit academics

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Deal or no deal: charities brace themselves

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GETTING FROM THIS

TO THIS

TOOK MORE THAN T.L.C. Friends of the Animals is a practical and caring charity that works to alleviate the suffering of stray and unwanted animals. They specialise in ‘preventative’ work such as spays and neuters.

The charity was founded by Helen Sinclair MBE, who was honoured for services to animal welfare in 2014. She explained: “Neutering is the only humane way to reduce the numbers of unwanted animals and it improves the lives of animals already here. We work hard to ensure the areas we cover are kept stray-free and that in turn has a hugely beneficial effect on the whole community.”

The charity has negotiated much reduced ‘charity’ rates at a total of 38 veterinary practices in various parts of the country. They can also further subsidise those prices, making the cost of previously-unaffordable veterinary treatment attainable for those owners on even the lowest of incomes.

Helen Sinclair continued: “Since the charity’s inception in 1990 we have done well over 38,000 spays or neuters, and are willing to help anyone genuinely struggling to finance the cost of this vitally-important surgery: as long as they can reach one of ‘our’ vets.”

Veterinary treatment is their biggest outgoing and, dependent on funds, they also help with the cost of veterinary treatment for sick, injured and neglected animals – often finding they are an animal’s very last chance of life. They even operate a voluntary driving service that

transports owners and their animals to and from vets.

Said Helen: “Our wonderful drivers give freely of their time; all we ask is for service users to cover the cost of the driver’s mileage.”

They also help the public by loaning out equipment, such as carrying baskets and crates, free of charge. That eliminates the risks of transporting animals in cardboard boxes – which owners do all the time. They also check on owners who are struggling financially and help by donating items such as pet food and bedding.

Helen explained: “We were moved to tears when we discovered one elderly, recentlywidowed man. He had no food in the house and was feeding his much loved dog on the 'Meals on Wheels' intended for him.”

In addition, by utilising a network of capable foster homes, Friends of the Animals are able to provide a pet re-homing service. Foster carers look after mainly dogs and rabbits until a permanent home can be found. They also serve as a lifeline to the elderly and to people in hospital, or in short-term care in homes, as they provide a fostering service for their pets free of charge – usually for up to a month.

Helen concluded: “We truly appreciate that people have many choices of charities to support, but no one appreciates it more, or tries harder than we do to get the very best possible from every penny donated. Thank you for your consideration.”

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Health and disability care for the world’s most vulnerable – without discrimination [HOPE HEALTH ACTION (HHA) have been working in Haiti to improve

maternal, infant and disability healthcare since 2007. Haiti has the worst rates of maternal mortality in the Western Hemisphere and has suffered numerous natural catastrophes in recent years, worsening the cycle of poverty that exists.

HHA works to empower local groups to develop sustainable healthcare solutions. They partner closely with a hospital in the north of Haiti to ensure everyone in the region has access to quality healthcare without discrimination. HHA focuses on building the hospital’s capacity with recent projects including a new emergency department, a radiology facility and continual improvements to the solar, electric and water filtration systems.

The charity also delivers community based projects to ensure the most marginalised have access to healthcare. The current priority in Haiti is to build new neonatal and maternity wards to tackle the huge need for better maternal and infant healthcare in the region.

Since 2016, HHA has also been working in East Africa to provide aid and healthcare to South Sudanese refugees now living in Ugandan settlements. Working in one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises, HHA are focussing on providing emergency food aid, agricultural training and resources, and community based healthcare for the most vulnerable groups in the refugee settlements.

HHA stands up for those who have been left behind. A gift in your will could ensure HHA can be there to care for the most vulnerable communities in the world for years to come. q • Contact the HHA team to find out more about their work and how to leave a legacy on info@hopehealthaction.org or 020 8462 5256.

A lifeline for sick and injured swans [

SWAN LIFELINE is the longest-established charity entirely devoted to the care and needs of sick and injured swans. Their main aim is to rescue and treat swans and wherever possible release them back to the wild.

The charity was formed in the 1980’s by a group of dedicated people who had worked with Save Our Swans.

Kay Webb, one of the original committee, is current chairman of the trustees. She said: “The trustees are actively involved with the day to day running of the charity. In 1992 Eton College offered us a lease on ‘Cuckoo Weir Island’ on which to build a rescue headquarters and treatment centre.

“We have been operational on the site since 1993. It is possible for us to care for up to 190 birds at any one time in ponds and pens. We also have a specialist bird washing sink and an intensive care unit.”

The mute swan, the largest and best loved of British wild birds, which has thrived from its close proximity to human beings, suffers badly from man’s activities. Swans fly into bridges, hit power cables and land on motorways, mistaking them for water. There are also incidents involving attacks by dogs and deliberate vandalism.

Although much of the danger from anglers’ lead weights has been averted – thanks to the work of the charity, supported by government legislation and the angling community – swans still become entangled in discarded fishing tackle and plastic can holders. There is always a danger from chemical and oil pollution and collisions with rivercraft.

During the past thirty-three years many thousands of swans have been rescued and treated by Swan Lifeline. The majority are released back to the wild after treatment and the most disabled go to sheltered homes. “Our aim is to maintain a treatment centre in perpetuity, not dependent on any one person or group of people,” said Kay Webb, “legacy gifts can help us continue with our work.” q

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OTS publish second report on IHT [THE OFFICE OF TAX SIMPLIFICATION (OTS) has published

its second report into Inheritance Tax (IHT), following a consultation process which generated an unprecedented level of interest – and made it clear that many people had limited understanding about the way Inheritance Tax works.

Introducing its report, the OTS stated: “Inheritance Tax applies primarily on death, but also to gifts made to individuals within seven years of death and to lifetime gifts other than to individuals, charities and qualifying political parties.”

The report contains 11 recommendations to deliver a more coherent and understandable structure of the tax – in particular as it applies to lifetime gifts.

Bill Dodwell, OTS tax director, said: “The taxation of lifetime gifts is widely misunderstood and administratively burdensome.

We recommend replacing the multiplicity of lifetime gift exemptions with a single personal gift allowance, to be set at a sensible level and incorporating an increased lower threshold for small gifts. The exemption for regular gifts should be reformed or replaced with a higher personal gift allowance.

“We recommend that the sevenyear period be shortened to five years – significantly reducing the workload on executors – and abolishing the tapered rate of Inheritance Tax which many find works in a counter-intuitive way. Data made public for the first time shows the tax paid on gifts six or seven years before death is low.

“Where there is Inheritance Tax to pay on lifetime gifts, the OTS recommends the government explores options for simplifying and clarifying the rules on who is liable to pay this tax, and how the £325,000 threshold is allocated between different recipients.”

The OTS consultation also highlighted complexity in the interaction between Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains Tax, as well as in relation to the reliefs available for businesses and farms. Aspects of the regime

distort the decisions families face when passing assets to the next generation, where there are different tests applying to what is broadly the same activity. The report makes recommendations to address these distortions and reduce complexity and asks the government to consider whether the reliefs are targeted most effectively at the policy objectives.

Kathryn Cearns OBE, OTS chairman, concluded: “Although only a small number of people pay Inheritance Tax each year, a far greater number worry about it. The OTS’s packages of recommendations

would go some way to achieving the goal of making the tax easier to understand and simpler to comply with.”

On the issue of tax relief on charitable bequests, the OTS makes no recommendation for change – a move welcomed by Remember A Charity, the umbrella body for legacy giving.

Its director Rob Cope said: “People leave a legacy because they care about the cause and they want to leave the world a better place.

But tax relief is critical. It can be a powerful incentive for supporters – particularly for those whose estates lie close to the IHT threshold – and, most importantly, it gives solicitors a reason to open up conversations about legacies, massively increasing the chances of a charitable donation being made.” q

Help for those with failing sight

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FAILING EYESIGHT is nothing short of a personal catastrophe.

Do you have a family member, friend or neighbour who is gradually losing their sight?

Reading, recognising friends and living skills are all affected as your sight is going – and it’s much harder if you live alone.

The National Federation of the Blind of the UK (NFBUK) keeps its members in touch with general information, help and updates on what’s going on.

The charity produces bi-monthly news magazines and circulars in audio, braille or electronically, which members can read independently. It also encourages blind and partially sighted people to play a fuller part in society. q • For further information contact NFBUK on 01924 291313, email admin@nfbuk.org or visit www.nfbuk.org.

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How science can help restore the dawn chorus [DO YOU REMEMBER the dawn chorus? Spring mornings when the

cacophonous beauty of bird song wakened you early; the summer sky filled with swooping swallows and glorious skylarks; the evening air punctuated with thrush and nightingale song. Where have all the songbirds gone?

Songbird numbers have crashed in only one generation. Woodland birds have halved and farmland birds have fared worse. But is this is all down to farming techniques and loss of habitat? Much has already been tried, but numbers of these beautiful birds are not getting any better.

Birds are a good indicator as to how well our environment is coping with the stresses of modern life: if birds are not doing well then everything else is not doing well. What sort of world are we creating for future generations?

SongBird Survival is funding new research to find out more about the problems our songbirds face and hopes to find ways to reverse the worrying decline in their numbers. The research is highlighting many areas of wildlife management we need to improve.

But that is only the tip of the iceberg: there is so much more we need to learn. Georgina Bradley of SongBird Survival explained: “We need your help to continue our vital work to save songbirds. Your gift, either now or in your will, can make a world of difference to the wildlife legacy we leave to our children and grandchildren.” q • For more information email dawn-chorus@songbird-survival.org.uk or visit www.songbird-survival.org.uk

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Surgeons in England save lives in East Africa [AMONG THE PROJECTS funded by the Royal College of Surgeons

Legacy campaign promises ‘something wonderful’ [ THIS YEAR’S Remember A Charity Week runs from 9 to 15

September. A decade on from the first such week, the focus of the public message is shifting from raising awareness about gifts in wills to building understanding and inspiring supporters into taking action – actually writing a gift into their will.

Over 200 charities will come together with 1,300 campaign supporters – solicitors and will-writers – to challenge the public’s biggest misconceptions about gifts in wills, through a humorous and nostalgic, 1970s-inspired campaign. The content will reflect an era that its audience will remember fondly, while inviting them to Pass on something wonderful by leaving a gift in their will.

With video footage developed in conjunction with a BAFTA award-winning comedian, the campaign will explore common myths about legacy giving, encouraging the public to ask their own questions and breaking down the barriers that can prevent people from leaving a gift in their will. It will include addressing concerns that legacies have to be particularly large, that they are complex to arrange and that they might prevent people from passing on their estate to their families.

Rob Cope, director of Remember A Charity, commented: “Raising more than £3bn for good causes annually, legacies are a critical part of the UK fundraising landscape; but we shouldn’t be afraid of injecting a little humour into the way we talk about them with supporters. Legacies have a huge impact on the world and the more approachable we can make the topic the better.

“This year’s campaign is all about enabling conversation around legacy giving, addressing any misconceptions people might have and, ultimately, taking us even further along the behavioural change spectrum from awareness to taking action.”

The change in focus reflects the umbrella body’s mission to inspire behavioural change and grow the proportion of charitable estates at probate to reach 18% by the end of 2021 – up from 15.8% in 2017.

The most recent consumer tracking studies indicate that only 10% of over 40s are unaware of the opportunity to leave a bequest in their will, with 40% saying that they would be happy to donate in that way. That is up from 35% a decade previously. During that time, charities’ annual legacy income has grown from around £1.8bn to £3bn.

Over the past 10 years, Remember A Charity Week campaigns have included the launch of a pirate radio station in 2017, top British stuntman Rocky Taylor taking a death-defying leap from Battersea Power Station in 2011 to make it into the Guinness Book of Records, and the comedic Take A Moment campaign of 2013, which was shown in cinemas across the country. q

of England is the first surgical high-dependency unit in eastern Uganda.

The college has been involved with international surgical work in resource-poor areas for well over 100 years and continues to expand and increase its impact in several of the neediest parts of the world. Its commitment to establishing timely surgical interventions worldwide, to reduce death and disability from operable conditions, has never wavered and remains steadfast for 2019.

Serving a population of over 4.5 million, Mbale Regional Referral Hospital in eastern Uganda had no high-dependency unit (HDU) for intensive care following surgery. Adult and paediatric trauma and postoperative patients were cared for together, on one 50-bed ward with only one nurse on duty.

Thanks to the generous support the RCS Christmas Appeal received, over £24,000 was raised and the Grand Opening of the HDU took place in spring of this year. It was well attended by local government officials, hospital administration, leading nursing and medical staff and a representative from the Ministry of Health.

The first round of training took place in March and went smoothly, with 35 nurses and intern doctors trained in the basics of high-dependency care. With the first few nurses assigned and the shelves stocked with all the essential drugs and sundries, they started things slowly to allow time to manage any early difficulties, and the unit started accepting patients at the end of March. q • Full details of the appeal are on the college’s website at www.rcseng.ac.uk/donate

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Daring rescue mission saves dozens of animals

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AT THE BEGINNING of this year the oldest zoo in Gaza – Rafah Zoo – attracted worldwide attention. It emerged that over 40 animals were suffering in terrible conditions, prompting over 150,000 people to demand immediate action. Fortunately, international animal charity FOUR PAWS were able to respond to that call.

A 14-month-old lioness had been permanently mutilated. The lioness (above left) had endured excruciating pain as her claws were removed with garden shears, leaving her mutilated forever. To make matters worse, four newly-born lion cubs had frozen to death. There was no proper

nutrition, medical care or shelter, leaving the animals severely neglected.

The zoo, in the Gaza Strip, had suffered frequent damage from bombings and other military action during the on-going conflict there. Some animals had even been killed by rocket fire, and many others had died from malnutrition and disease. The team at FOUR PAWS knew they had to act.

In its largest ever rescue, and after several months of careful preparation and negotiations, the FOUR PAWS team entered Gaza. A total of 47 animals – including five lions, monkeys, wolves and foxes – were brought to safety.

The declawed lioness and many other animals were brought to the Al Ma’wa Sanctuary for Nature and Wildlife in Jordan – a partnership between the Princess Alia Foundation and FOUR PAWS. Two lions made the long journey to the five-acre FOUR PAWS LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary in South Africa (below): years of pain and neglect finally behind them.

Gifts in wills can enable FOUR PAWS to continue their groundbreaking rescue missions and help animals worldwide. q • To receive your legacy information booklet please call Lydia Francis on 020 7922 7954 or email Lydia.francis@four-paws.org.uk

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Aiming to bridge the gap for those with clefts [CLEFT is a charity focused on providing permanent, sustainable

ways to improve cleft care both in the UK and overseas. Its tagline ‘Bridging the Gap’ illustrates the three aims of physical joining, improving information and linking care across countries.

A cleft is a congenital birth defect which happens in the womb when the component parts of the upper lip and the palate fail to join properly.

There may be a cleft just of the lip, just of the palate, or both. They can be one-sided (unilateral) or double-sided (bilateral).

It is known that one in 700 babies in the UK are born with a cleft. The figure is higher in Asia – particularly so in people from the Far East. It is estimated that 250,000 babies throughout the world are born each year with a cleft.

A core principle of CLEFT is to invest in research projects that study the cause and treatment of clefts. When it comes to clefts, there is still so much that is unknown.

The progression of knowledge and understanding of clefts is therefore a key component in improving the methods used by surgeons, speech therapists and other medical professionals, to treat and provide quality, long-term care for all those born with clefts, both in the UK and overseas.

All donations and gifts in wills help to further that research. q

Charity is expanding to meet growing need for dementia support [

ESTABLISHED IN 1993, Dementia Concern supports people living with dementia and their carers, helping them to live as independently as possible by providing dementia care services and practical help.

The charity has 68 staff and works across the London Borough of Ealing and beyond, working closely with local partners, GP surgeries and wider health organisations. It’s a unique charity with specialist expertise in dementia developed over 26 years.

Direct services offered are: Dementia Link Workers, supporting acute health needs; information and advice through Dementia Advisers; a Call & Care respite service; weekend social clubs at two venues; a community support service for people with dementia living on their own; Dementia Cafés; a Thursday group for those more active or in early stages of the disease; carers support groups and a Carers Voice newsletter.

Dementia Concern currently serves 1,120 people living with dementia and 920 carers. They work with people living with dementia with a spouse or carer, those living alone with no carer, those living alone with a carer living elsewhere, or those living in long-stay care.

Over the past 3 years Dementia Concern supported 35% more people living with dementia and 27% more carers than 2017, and the charity has continually developed its services to support that growing need. By 2025 the number of Ealing residents with late-onset dementia is projected to rise to 3,729 – a 10-year increase of 34%. Further funding will enable the charity to expand its services more widely and respond to the growing number of queries and need for support. q

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Will notification: interim arrangement reached [

IT HAS BEEN revealed that HMCTS and Smee & Ford have been able to agree on a sustainable arrangement for the wills notification service to continue until new, long-term arrangements can be put in place.

In an open letter about the arrangements, HMCTS CEO Susan Acland-Hood wrote: “Ensuring continuity of service to charities has been our key goal and I am pleased to say that this has been made possible by the decision of the Lord Chancellor to amend a number of fees, including significantly reducing probate copy fees. These changes – contained in a Statutory Instrument laid before Parliament this week – are due to come into force on 22 July 2019.

“However, while the cost to anyone applying for a copy of an individual will or grant will reduce as a result of this change in fees, Smee & Ford’s operating costs will increase from August as they will be obliged to pay the statutory fee for all wills and grants. We understand that participating charities will be asked to pay more for each notification received but that the service will be enhanced by the inclusion of a copy of the relevant will itself.”

The interim arrangement is expected to last for at least the next 12 months, she said, adding: “HMCTS is acutely conscious of both the importance of legacy income in supporting charitable work and the value of an effective notification service to charities themselves.

I hope the solution I have outlined gives reassurance to the sector

that the existing services will continue uninterrupted and that we can work together to help ensure a longer-term solution that works for all.”

It was announced in January that the government was terminating its existing arrangement with Smee & Ford that notifies charities of bequests in wills.

Since then a working party comprising the ILM and other organisations has been working to ensure a smooth transition and a workable interim arrangement.

A statement from the ILM said: “We are very grateful for the large amount of work by all parties that has gone on behind the scenes to make this possible, and to HMCTS for listening to our concerns about the consequences of a break in service and acting upon them.”

Responding to the announcement, Rob Cope, director of Remember A Charity, said: “Ensuring the continuity of a reliable wills notification service is an absolute priority for the charity sector, so we would like to thank HMCTS for their collaborative approach to resolving this matter.

“The will-writing environment is rapidly changing, which presents huge challenges and opportunities for good causes who rely on the public’s generosity of gifts in wills. We look forward to continuing to work together with HMCTS and across government to ensure that any longer-term arrangements will build on these foundations and better support the needs of smaller charities and a wider range of causes.” q

Adoption charity has faith in families

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THOSE WHO LEAVE GIFTS in their wills to Faith in Families help to support vulnerable children across the East Midlands. Faith in Families is a children’s charity which specialises in adoption. They find and train families to become parents for children who are in care – enabling them to provide a stable, loving home.

A child in foster care lives day-to-day: not knowing where they will end up; not fully belonging while recovering from the trauma and neglect of their birth family. Faith in Families are there to help ensure that those children don’t have to wait in the system any longer.

Once a family has been found for a child they continue to support and advise both the adoptive parents and the child through therapeutic play and courses. They also support adopted adults to trace their birth families, and in some cases reunite with other family members. That’s because they understand the importance of family and identity.

A donation goes directly towards that work, helping children to have a brighter future. q • To find out more about leaving a legacy, or the work they do, visit the website www.faithinfamilies.org or call 0115 9558811.

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Reform proposals include abolition of VAT on wills [THE CHARITY TAX COMMISSION has

published a number of recommendations for tax reforms that could boost charities and unlock a ‘wave of giving’. According to the group, convened by the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) in 2017 and led by the former chairman of the Inland Revenue Sir Nicholas Montagu, tax reliefs offered to UK charities urgently need an overhaul.

Sir Nicholas said: “It’s been 20 years since charity tax reliefs were last reviewed, and many of the rules were written for an analogue era. With people giving by text message and contactless payment, and with many donors themselves increasingly mobile, we need a system fit for the digital age if we are not to see the UK’s natural generosity held back.”

The report, Reforming charity taxation: towards a stronger civil society, also proposes a central database like the NHS Organ Donor Card, which would enable people to complete a single, enduring universal declaration covering all their subsequent gifts to charities.

That would mean fewer forms and would make giving simpler for everybody.

It also recommends making offering ‘Payroll Giving’ schemes mandatory and the simplification of Value Added Tax. The commission says complicated rules surrounding VAT on facilities, equipment and

buildings shared with other organisations mean many charities pay out money they cannot recover.

A small but potentially significant recommendation is to remove VAT from wills that include a charitable donation. That would give solicitors a greater incentive to raise the question of whether someone wants to leave a gift to a charity in their will.

It is estimated that if all professional advisers referred to the potential of legacy giving, this could generate a further 15,000 charitable legacies a year. q

Probate delays cause concern [

THE INSTITUTE OF LEGACY MANAGEMENT (ILM) has reported that many of its members have been experiencing on-going delays with applications for a Grant of Probate.

In some cases, the ILM says, it is taking up to 12 weeks – rather than the week to 10 days that used to be the case.

The ILM said: “We have spoken with HMCTS and they have assured us that they are doing all they can to cope with the backlog, including employing 30 extra members of staff, and taking additional legal advice to help with the authorisation of grants.

“The reasons that HMCTS are experiencing these issues are a sharp rise in applications for a Grant of Probate in March and April of this year, as well as the introduction of a new case management system, which required staff training and therefore caused further delays.

“HMCTS is aware of the impact that these delays are having on charities, including our members, and as a result are prioritising this work and have told us that they hope to catch up with the backlog by the end of August, if not sooner.” q

Helping the forgotten people of Zimbabwe [

ZANE: ZIMBABWE A NATIONAL EMERGENCY is a UK registered charity working to help the most destitute, vulnerable and impoverished people in Zimbabwe. It is the largest supplier of financial aid to elderly people in Zimbabwe who lost their life savings and pensions in the economic collapse and subsequent hyper-inflation.

This includes over 600 frail veterans and their widows who fought for the Crown. ZANE assists with rent, medical bills and food – and, crucially, also provides comfort, advice and support.

In addition, ZANE funds a clubfoot correction programme, successfully treating over 3,550 children to date. It funds the provision of prosthetic limbs for victims of landmine explosions and assists people with hearing loss. ZANE also funds education programmes including the provision of pop-up classrooms in highdensity townships for children who would otherwise not receive an education. It runs creative therapy workshops for women living in extreme poverty who are victims of political violence and trauma.

Zimbabwe remains in a state of crisis. The economy teeters on the brink of collapse. Fuel shortages are commonplace and with food prices escalating, ZANE’s aid is needed more than ever by the most destitute people in Zimbabwe. q • To find out more about the work of ZANE visit www.zane.uk.com

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Help give future generations the power to prevent cancer

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A STAGGERING one in two of us will develop cancer during our lives, yet we know that around 40% of cancer cases are preventable. That’s 144,000 cases in the UK alone every year that could be prevented through our lifestyle choices.

For over 25 years World Cancer Research Fund has been a pioneer in vital worldwide scientific research into the links between our lifestyles and cancer prevention. Demonstrating that eating a healthy diet, being active each day and maintaining a healthy weight are, after not smoking, the most important ways you can reduce the risk of cancer for you and your family.

World Cancer Research Fund founder Marilyn Gentry is passionate about preventing cancer. She said: “Almost all of us are affected one way or another, yet we are not powerless. Our work couldn’t be more urgent, especially when we know that around 40% of cancers could be prevented. We hope that by spreading this good news, along with our cancer prevention recommendations, many thousands of lives will be saved.

“But there is so much more we need to do and leaving a gift in your will to World Cancer Research Fund could be your special way of rewriting the future and making a memorable contribution to cancer prevention and survival in the years to come.” q • To learn more about how you can give future generations the power to prevent cancer visit www.wcrf-uk.org/legacy

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Voluntary sector seeks clarity on no-deal Brexit [ THE National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO)

“As the Chancellor makes decisions about government spending in order to mitigate the consequences of a no-deal EU exit, this should explicitly be open to charities as well as business and the public sector.

“There is also a strong case for the Office for Civil Society to call for a ‘resilient communities fund’, set up specifically for charities working with and supporting local communities.

“Although we do not yet know the precise impact of a no-deal EU exit, the government will want to prepare for a range of potential scenarios. Charities may well be on the front line in terms of supporting communities in some of these scenarios, but will need resources to do so.”

The letter, from NCVO CEO Sir Stuart Etherington, points out that charities may have particular skills to bring to bear post Brexit.

“In the longer term, charities will have the NEW TAX RULES imposed by HMRC will soon be implemented for charities. The expertise to provide advice and support to changes are part of HMRC’s Making Tax Digital programme, which applied to businesses people and communities which may benefit from from April, and come into force for charities that are not companies from 1 October. support to increase their resilience and have the Writing in Charity Digital News – the online information site – its author Chloe Green said: greatest chance of succeeding post Brexit, for “Whether you’re a major corporation or a tiny two-person charity, tax is unavoidable. The example in employment and skills training. way organisations process their tax is changing, and this is unfortunately also compulsory.

“While business investment is crucial, to be “Under these new rules it will no longer be good enough to store and submit your tax truly effective it must go hand-in-hand with information on paper or even in standard spreadsheets – financial information such as the social support that many families and tax returns will need to be done through HMRC compliant software to be accepted. They individuals need in order to improve their lives will need to be submitted online and organisations will also need to keep digital records and tackle the underlying, often longstanding of their taxes.” q problems. Often it is community groups and volunteers who can best deliver this.” q

has sent a letter to the new Minister for Civil Society, Baroness Barran, asking for clarity regarding the effects of a no-deal Brexit on charities.

The letter says: “Charities should not be overlooked as the government prepares its operational and financial plans. In the event of a no-deal EU exit, it is very likely that many charities will be front and centre, not only in providing an immediate response, but also in supporting communities up and down the country in the longer term.

Charity tax set to go digital [

Legacies – the gift of life [

ANIMAL CHARITY Wild Futures rescues and offers sanctuary to monkeys who have suffered abuse and neglect. They are dedicated to protecting primates and their habitats worldwide – primates are endangered due to climate change, habitat destruction and the bush-meat and pet trades.

For some species, it is too late. The future of all that remains lies in our hands, so leaving a legacy to Wild Futures is the gift of life and a future for primates and our wonderful planet.

Wild Futures’ holistic approach makes them unique – providing sanctuary to rescued

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monkeys, supporting projects overseas, campaigning for primate welfare, educating to protect primates worldwide and promoting a sustainability and ethical ethos.

They receive no government funding, so the generosity of those that remember Wild Futures is essential to enable them to continue their work. A legacy can be the gift of a life worth living and a wild and safe future for all. q • For more information call 01503 262532, email giving@wildfutures.org or visit the webiste at www.wildfutures.org.

Charity campaigns against environmental abuse [

INVESTIGATING AND CAMPAIGNING against environmental crime and abuse is the 35-year struggle of charity Environmental Investigation Agency UK. Its undercover investigations expose transnational wildlife crime – with a focus on elephants, pangolins and tigers – and forest crimes such as illegal logging and deforestation for cash crops such as palm oil. The charity works to safeguard global marine ecosystems by addressing the threats posed by plastic pollution, by catch and commercial exploitation of whales, dolphins and porpoises.

More generally, they help to reduce the impact of climate change by campaigning to eliminate powerful refrigerant greenhouse gases, exposing related illicit trade and improving energy efficiency in the coolant sector.

The findings of their investigations are used in hard-hitting reports to campaign for improved governance and more effective law enforcement – such as its latest Running Out of Time report, which examines the fast-growing role of Vietnam as a hub for illegal wildlife trade and the country's failure to respond to the crisis.

Their field experience is used to provide guidance to enforcement agencies and they form partnerships with local groups and activists to support their work through hands-on training.

The scale of the problems they face can be disheartening and the truths they uncover can be shocking. Their programmes of work build on decades of nail-biting undercover investigations by a small group of tenacious activists. From documenting the slaughter of pilot whales

in the Faroe Islands, to securing a global ivory trade ban at CITES, the Montreal Protocol on climate change and the adoption of the EU Timber Regulation to protect forests.

A gift to EIA in your will is an investment in wildlife and habitat conservation. They have already achieved so much, with your help they will continue to keep the pressure on for generations to come. q • For further information tel 0207 354 7960 or visit the website at eia-international.org

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Giving hope to the

one in six

[ONE IN SIX PEOPLE in the UK has a neurological disorder: that

amounts to 14.7 million mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, friends and colleagues – more than those affected by coronary heart disease, cancer and diabetes combined. It might be there from birth, be due to a slowly developing illness or the result of a brain injury.

Improving the outcome and quality of the lives of those affected is the driving force behind The National Brain Appeal, which funds pioneering research and provides access to the very latest technology for clinicians and researchers working in the field.

The charity supports projects at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in London. The hospital is an international centre of excellence for treating conditions such as brain tumours, multiple sclerosis, strokes, Parkinson’s, motor neurone disease and dementia – all of which have no cure as yet.

Legacies represent up to half of The National Brain Appeal’s annual income. “They are crucial to the fundraising work we do,” said chief executive Theresa Dauncey. “We’re extremely grateful for every legacy left to us. Leaving just 1% of your estate can make a very real difference and is an investment in the future. The more money we receive, the more support we can give to the National Hospital, which in turn improves the prospects for those affected by neurological disorders.”

Meta Wells-Thorpe has made The National Brain Appeal a major beneficiary in her will “The lack of a cure for so many debilitating neurological conditions is a strong motivator for me to want to help,” she continued, “and by leaving a legacy I can be part of something that will provide hope for others.

“I would love my legacy to be used for research – this would feel as if I am making a positive move against something that has had a huge impact on the people close to me.”

You make the choice

The National Brain Appeal’s chief executive Theresa Dauncey Meta Wells-Thorpe, 75, is a former National Hospital patient. She had successful surgery for a benign brain tumour there in 1988. Since then both her husband and sister were diagnosed with neurological conditions.

“My husband was diagnosed with Parkinson’s five years ago and passed away just a few months ago,” Meta explained. “My sister has multiple sclerosis – she’s been living with it for more than 25 years now.

These are cruel diseases for which there is no cure and little hope.”

With that in mind Meta has made The National Brain Appeal a major beneficiary in her will.

Now more than ever, benefactors to The National Brain Appeal can control where they would like their money to go. There are six specific funding areas for which individuals can make a legacy pledge: • Neurology: funding initiatives to improve diagnosis and treatment, • and provide facilities for those with on-going neurological conditions • Neurodegeneration: supporting projects which help people with • conditions where there is progressive degeneration • Neurosurgery: providing state-of-the-art equipment and facilities for • the UK’s largest neurosurgery unit • Technology and innovation: supporting projects which translate • ground-breaking ideas into better results for patients • Education and staff development: investment to provide the best • opportunities and attract the best people in the field • Queen Square: new facilities and staff-led projects at the National • Hospital and the Institute of Neurology For those who do not specify a funding area, their gift can be put towards that part of the hospital with the most urgent need. Without the generosity and foresight of those who leave a legacy, the charity simply could not support the number of vital projects that it is currently able to. q • For more information about legacies and The National Brain Appeal email info@nationalbrainappeal.org, call 020 3448 4724 or visit the legacy section of the website at nationalbrainappeal.org

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If you Will, we will [LEGACIES MEAN SO much to the team at Last Chance

Animal Rescue. These wonderful gifts have helped them to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home so many abandoned, abused and unwanted dogs, puppies, cats, kittens, rabbits and guinea pigs who otherwise would have had no future.

The charity understand the wishes of its kind benefactors who have considered them in their Wills. A spokesperson said: “We know they want their generous gift to us to be used directly to save lives, provide the very best of care and to find loving homes.

“Legacies really do provide the gift of life and Last Chance Animal Rescue can now, after much planning and prudent use of funds, offer our life saving services to so many more needy pets. We are delighted to announce we now have a second rescue and re-homing centre in Kent, giving hope and a true A new friend for Alan last chance to so many.

“Sadly we cannot thank those who have enabled this wonderful achievement but are extremely grateful to all those who are currently considering helping us now and in the future to continue our work.” q

Re-homing is their mission [THE MISSION of Three Counties Dog Rescue is to accept, care

for and find homes for unwanted, lost and stray dogs and cats of all breeds – and to ensure their wellbeing afterwards. The charity was founded in 1972 and since then over 7,000 dogs and cats have been successfully re-homed.

Before re-homing, all animals are vet checked, neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. Rehabilitation costs are therefore a major part of the charity’s annual expenditure of over £200,000.

Healthy animals are never put down. As part of that non-destruction policy, several elderly dogs are kept in long-term foster care.

Every penny raised goes to improving the lives of dogs and cats.

Three Counties Dog Rescue is run entirely by voluntary and unpaid helpers, who also meet their own expenses. q

Saving lives one sniff at a time [

HYPO HOUNDS provide a viable health care alternative for children and their families by using their family pet – training their best friend to detect the subtle changes in the child’s blood sugar levels.

The dogs are trained to alert sleeping parents when the child’s sugar levels drop dangerously low or rise too high. This not only impacts on the child but also on the family’s ability to function as a unit, with the registered carer becoming the dog.

Hypo Hounds work is becoming nationally recognised and is literally saving the lives of children – one sniff at a time. q

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Fundraising code Website grants come to an end to come into effect in October [THE NEW Code of Fundraising Practice, published by the

Fundraising Regulator, will come into effect in October. The changes are designed to make it easier for fundraisers, charities and third-party organisations to understand the standards expected of them when fundraising, the regulator says. The new code will also be easier for the public to use, so they can know what to expect from ethical fundraising.

The changes include adding the rulebooks and legal appendices to the code, so that all standards can be found in one place. A new structure will aid navigation – the standards are in three parts, making it easy to know which ones apply depending on the type of fundraising.

The new code uses transparent, jargon-free language, having been given the Crystal Mark standard by the Plain English Campaign, and is clear about the differences in law in England and Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland.

The changes follow a consultation last autumn, which focused on the style, presentation, clarity and accessibility of the current code.

Complaints will continue to be considered against the version of the code in effect at the time of the incident. That means the new code will be used as the basis for making decisions about any incidents that take place from October onwards.

The regulator’s website is currently being redeveloped so that the code is easy to navigate online, and will be re-launched in October. q

[THE END OF AUGUST saw the final deadline for applications

to the Transform Foundation’s website funding programme for nonprofit organisations.

Since 2016 the programme has funded the creation of over 500 websites, which in turn have generated over £25m in online income since going live. The programme has had a ‘truly incredible impact’ on the sector, and one that has revolutionised the way the beneficiaries interact with their audiences online.

The funding covered the strategy, design, build, training and launch of new, mobile-optimised websites, with winners covering on-going support fees for a minimum of 12 months. The websites have been built

by Raising IT, the technology partner for the programme.

One recipient of a grant was the charity Brainwave. Its digital media co-ordinator Melanie Relffe-Arnold wrote: “Our new website has created a new focus for the charity on digital media. It has enabled us to possess a website that is fit for purpose and provides our target audience with an exceptional user experience. The new site has allowed us to cut costs. It has also been utilised to save employees time and offered our users the opportunity to more easily obtain information online.”

Applications for the final round of grants needed to have been submitted by the end of August. q

This sanctuary helps donkeys from across Europe and beyond [ESTABLISHED IN 1990, NEDDI offers care and safety to donkeys –

and to a lesser degree, ponies – in Britain and Europe who have suffered neglect, cruelty or maltreatment or who are at risk of such treatment.

In addition to rescuing such animals from undesirable situations, within the financial and practical constraints prevailing at the time, they work to try to change attitudes and to educate donkey owners into better practices. For example, since 2016 they have been assisting associates in Kenya to achieve those aims for the working animals there.

Since its establishment in Cornwall, NEDDI has operated a sanctuary specifically for distressed donkeys. In 2001 the sanctuary moved to just the other side of the channel, where the resident donkeys enjoy more space and pasture than would otherwise have been possible.

Its policy is to try to offer actual, hands-on help to the animals in need, and to restore them to the maximum possible degree of fitness.

Once brought back to full health, new homes are sometimes sought for the fit animals.

Where full health cannot be achieved a safe home is offered to the donkey for the duration of its life.

NEDDI is a comparatively small organisation with limited resources, and relies heavily on support from animal-lovers. A bequest will enable more donkeys to be freed from pain and misery. q

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Sending out an SOS for the owls [

ESTABLISHED IN 2001, the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary – known, appropriately, as S.O.S. – operates a comprehensive facility for the rescue, care and rehabilitation of owls across East Anglia.

It also promotes the need for the conservation of endangered owl species throughout the UK and beyond with its Saving Britain's Owls initiative.

The S.O.S. owl and raptor hospital at Stonham Aspal is unique in the region. It is specially equipped for the care and treatment of the many injured wild owls and other birds of prey that are brought there every year. The reasons for their being there include road traffic accidents, mishap, starvation, trauma, disease, poisoning and sometimes even shooting or trapping.

Many of the birds can be given a recuperative, short-term pick-me-up before being re-released into the wild. Those that are more seriously injured but stand a chance of recovery are given medical aid and/or surgery, as determined by their vet. The birds are then allowed space and time to fully recuperate in one of the secluded recovery aviaries, before being carefully returned to the wild.

S.O.S. also operates a wild owl nest box scheme, in conjunction with volunteers from the Thornham Owl Project. That includes building and locating long-lasting, environmentally-friendly nest boxes in appropriate locations, to replace the gradual erosion of natural nesting sites. It also involves the careful monitoring of nesting activity within the scheme, for the annual reporting of raptor population information to regulatory authorities.

S.O.S. is funded purely by donation, and like many small charities faces an on-going, uphill struggle to survive. q

Charity carries on the work of its founder [

FOR OVER 30 YEARS the famous animal hospital known as Tiggywinkles has been working to rescue, treat and rehabilitate sick, injured and orphaned British wildlife. Over that time they have proved beyond doubt that most wild animal and bird casualties can be saved and returned to the wild.

Although they specialise in hedgehogs – indeed, they derive their name from St Tiggywinkles, the name of their specialist hedgehog ward, inspired by the animal character created by Beatrix Potter – their wealth of expertise in the care of a wide range of species can now be passed on to others.

In addition, their commitment to practical education plays a vital part in the conservation of wildlife. As an accredited centre, opportunities are available for students aged 16 and over to gain a City and Guildsapproved qualification via their Apprenticeship in Animal Care scheme.

Tiggywinkles was founded by Les Stocker, who sadly passed away in July 2016. In a tribute, Les was described as ‘…a steadfast ambassador, achieving his goal to turn wildlife rehabilitation into a profession’. In another he was referred to as the ‘the spiritual heart of Britain’. He was awarded an MBE by The Queen and given the title Laureate in the 1990 International Rolex Awards for Enterprise, for his work in wildlife conservation and establishing Europe’s first wildlife teaching hospital. More recently, he gained the prestigious Honorary Associateship of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.

The charity is happy to commemorate all who generously remember the Wildlife Hospital Trust in their will by inscribing their name on a plaque in its Remembrance Garden. Gifts are also welcome in the form of a donation or by becoming a Friend of Tiggywinkles. q

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IoF chair calls for the profession to champion inclusiveness [

THE 2019 Fundraising Convention at The Barbican opened with a clarion call from the chair of the Institute of Fundraising, Amanda Bringans (pictured), to ensure the IoF plays its role to the fullest extent to create a safe and inclusive profession.

“We have to get our house in order,” she said. “There is no place for sexual harassment in our community, our sector, our profession.

“We are the community that fights against injustice and champions equality and helps give a voice to the voiceless. But we have heard all too many stories recently of fundraisers, women in particular, who have faced sexual harassment within our profession. We need to get our house in order.”

Amanda stated that one of the things that she was most proud of as chair of the institute was the continued priority given to making the fundraising profession more equal and diverse.

Her call followed the IoF’s Manifesto for Change and came ahead of the new Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy launched in July.

In the manifesto, the IoF and the Board of Trustees identified four key inequalities to be addressed in the strategy. They are the underrepresentation of BAME and disabled fundraisers, the fact that LGBT+ fundraisers are not always able to be open in the workplace

and, although women form the majority of the profession, they are not proportionately represented at a senior level.

In other remarks she acknowledged that it was a tough external environment for fundraisers. She said: “It feels like we read a new report about giving going down, or being stagnant, or being challenging, almost every week. But the next three days of convention will show you that we’re all working harder on innovating in different ways.”

She said that the difficult, new normal is opening up other opportunities and challenges. Younger people continue to be as engaged in causes and giving as ever and lots of charities are working hard to provide a truly fantastic supporter experience.

The keynote speech was followed by an opening plenary from British racing driver Nicolas Hamilton, who shared his experience of racing with a specially-modified car due to his cerebral palsy. q

Supporting the maritime community [

SEAFARERS UK has been helping people in the maritime community for 100 years, providing vital support to seafarers in need and their families, as well as to those in education or training who are preparing to work or serve at sea.

They do this this by giving grants to organisations and projects that make a real difference to people’s lives, across the Merchant Navy, Fishing Fleets, Royal Navy and Royal Marines.

Last year they gave grants totalling £2.5 million to 50 maritime welfare charities. Seafarers UK receives no government funding and is heavily dependent on public donations and legacies to maintain its grant-making. q • To support Seafarers UK or to find out more about their work, visit the website at www.seafarers.uk or email seafarers@seafarers.uk

Promoting Christianity changes lives [FOUNDED IN 1698, the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge

(SPCK) is a small charity, but it punches above its weight in changing people’s lives. Its Patron is HM The Queen.

It has a vision of a world where everyone is transformed by Christian knowledge; its mission is to lead the way in creating books and resources that help everyone to make sense of faith.

Its school assemblies website (www.assemblies.org.uk) helps children to have a moment of spiritual reflection. For many children, that might be the only time they get a chance to think about their inner lives and relationships with others.

SPCK also gives away specially-written easy-to-read novels in prisons.

They have helped prisoners to find a love of reading, improve their skills and employability and also to change their thinking about how they behave towards others. q

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Fundraisers gather to bestow awards [ON 1 JULY members of the fundraising

community gathered at The Brewery in London for the National Fundraising Awards – taking place during the Fundraising Convention.

The awards were presented by comedian Francesca Martinez (pictured), and the keynote speaker was Amanda Bringans, chair of the IoF. This year the awards included special recognition for Gary Richardson, who was presented with a Convention Superstar award for his commitment to the Fundraising Convention over the past 20 years.

The awards recognise and reward excellent fundraising and best practice, celebrating the truly great work carried out by fundraisers every single day.

Showcasing the most remarkable fundraising achievements of the past 12 months, they recognise the very best in fundraising excellence.

The awards’ chair Howard Lake commented: “The awards celebrate

Third Sector looks forward to its own awards [

ANOTHER OF THE YEAR’S major awards for charities is the Third Sector Awards – a great opportunity for charities, not-forprofits and voluntary organisations of all sizes to celebrate their work and the real difference they make to society.

A spokesperson for the awards said: “Championing innovative and impactful campaigns has never been more important, but we also want to use Third Sector’s platform to thank the individuals and teams working their hardest to deliver results.”

Chairing the awards this year is Sarah Lindsell, chief executive of the Brain Tumour Charity, which won Charity of the Year last year. She will be leading over 40 sector leaders, including a selection of past winners and industry experts, in reviewing and judging this year's entries.

In addition to the Charity of the Year category, there will be a full range of awards for all areas of charitable work and fundraising.

The winners will be announced on 19 September at Marriott Grosvenor Square, marking an annual highlight and celebration in the sector's calendar. q

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the best of the best in fundraising and we’ve had a superb field of entries for the 2019 applications, covering a range of vital causes and fundraising fields. A massive congratulations to everyone – our award winners, all the nominees and to our 20 Years Convention Superstar Gary Richardson!”

The awards included recognition in a wide range of categories that included individuals and organisations, both established and newcomers.

Charity winners ranged from Chester Zoo and the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain to Marie Curie and Greenpeace. There were individual awards for Rising Star, Young Fundraiser and Volunteer Fundraiser.

The award for Legacy Campaign of the Year went to the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. q

The dream continues to offer sanctuary to abandoned animals [

THE YEAR IS 1983 and it is the coldest winter for 20 years. Many stories about horses and ponies being abandoned by their owners on Rainham Marshes in Essex were hitting the headlines.

Paula Clark, who was involved in raising money for a number of sanctuaries, was sitting at home in tears after reading the story of those poor horses. When her husband Ernie returned home from work, Paula showed him what was happening and they vowed to take action and help the animals that needed them.

Some of the horses were already dead and others were starving when the couple got to the marshes. They weren’t having their basic needs met; they had no water or food. Paula and Ernie took tanks of water to them and bales of hay and feed. They even got a vet to examine some of them. No-one was looking after the horses’ basic needs – let alone enriching their lives.

Paula and Ernie embarked on fulfilling their dream and the story of Hopefield Animal Sanctuary began. They began taking horses with the intention of fostering. They would bring them back to health and then find them nice homes.

The first horse they fostered out was Pye. Soon after they heard that the fosterers were trying to sell him, so Ernie took them to court at a cost of £4,000. Ernie finally got Pye back in a terrible state, so both Paula and Ernie promised they would never rehome again – the animals had a home for life.

As Paula and Ernie found fostering animals didn’t work out they decided to provide homes for life to their animals. One beneficiary is Juliette, a thoroughbred horse who arrived in a terrible condition.

Because of her home for life at Hopefield, and the daily care and attention she receives, she is now physically transformed.

Paula and Ernie have both now sadly passed away. Since their passing the work has been taken over by new trustees and a dedicated team of staff and volunteers look after the resident animals, old and new. Many animals arrive in a terrible condition and are completely transformed by living at the sanctuary.

The sanctuary has now been running for 35 years – it has over 50 regular volunteers, a huge amount of local and loyal support and over 20,000 followers on Facebook.

CEO Dave Schlaich explained: “We have continued to rescue horses and farm animals, but have found that over the years the type of animals we are having to help has greatly changed, with people getting more and more into exotic species through the pet trade.”

The sanctuary is now open the public from Friday to Monday each week. It has become a visitor attraction with a small tea room. All activities generate funds that go directly to the animals, making the future more secure.

Said David: “You can support us by becoming a regular donor, visit us, sponsor an animal or leave us a legacy in your will, knowing that your donation goes towards providing a home for life for one of our animals.” q

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Just imagine…

[IMAGINE A WORLD where your sight is blurred and

sounds are muffled, where everyday things like finding information, cooking, leaving the house – even talking to family and friends – are exhaustingly difficult. Imagine not being able to see your children’s faces or hear their voices.

Imagine being afraid because your two main senses are disappearing, with little chance of them ever coming back.

Deafblindness is the loss of sight and hearing to the point where someone’s communication, mobility or ability to access information are impacted. Living with deafblindness can be frightening, lonely and confidence-draining. It can quickly lead to feelings of isolation and depression.

Without the right support, people who are deafblind can become socially isolated and lose their independence and confidence. This leaves them vulnerable to further mental or physical ill health.

Jean’s story

Jean is 90 years old, her sight and hearing have been deteriorating for the past 40 years. Now, she can only see shadows and she uses two hearing aids. She said: “I was diagnosed with glaucoma when I was 49. I suppose my life is quite lonely at times.

It wasn’t until eight or nine years ago that things really hit me. I couldn’t walk around the corner and get on the bus and go to town – that is when life began to get a bit unhappy.

“There are so many things that I miss that I have forgotten about – and then I realise that these things are still there, but I just can’t see them anymore! I miss having people to talk to and I miss them talking to me. I miss sewing – even mending clothes, funnily enough! But most of all I miss gardening, I loved my garden.”

Jean was introduced to Sharon through Deafblind UK’s befriending service – and they have been the closest of friends ever since. She said: “Whenever I need her, she’s there and it has totally changed my life. I get up in the morning and I think ‘I wonder what Sharon’s doing’ and I’ve got something else and someone else to think about. Every single day I say the world would be a far better place if there were more people like Sharon!”

Without Deafblind UK, Jean would still be alone and living a very different life.

Deafblind UK

For the past 90 years, Deafblind UK has been providing vital support to people who are deafblind, helping them to live the life they want.

The charity helps people like Jean to build their confidence and

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independence, continuing their lives beyond sight and hearing loss.

They are there every step of the way to reassure and advise – or just to be someone to turn to if there is no one else.

They do this by: • Providing companions to lighten the darkest days • Teaching people how to use digital technology to connect with the • outside world • Running social groups to give people a chance to get out of the • house and meet others • Resolving personal issues with benefits, care and support, and • access to health services • Simply being there when people want to talk Deafblind UK’s work impacts on over 23,000 people who are affected by deafblindness in the UK. Legacy gifts help them to make the world a better place for these people.

Living with deafblindness can be lonely and difficult to come to terms with. A legacy gift could pay for someone to have a befriender to take them out of the house once a week; it could help with the running of more social groups to give people with deafblindness some much needed social interaction; or it might help to keep the charity’s Information and Advice Line open, allowing them to be there in someone’s darkest hours. q • For more information about the difference that a legacy could make, contact Deafblind UK’s friendly team on 01733 358100.

Charities welcome rise in lottery limit – but carry on lobbying for more [

ON 16 JULY the government announced that the annual sales limit for society lotteries – those run by charities – will be raised from £10m to £50m.

The limit on sales for each draw will also be increased – from £4m to £5m – while the amount that can be given as prizes per draw will rise from £400,000 to £500,000.

The increase was in response to a consultation run by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, launched last year by former Secretary of State Tracey Crouch and implemented by her successor Mims Davies (right).

A number of charities, together with the People’s Postcode Lottery and the IoF, had been campaigning for the annual limit to be raised to £100m.

Trust works to alleviate condition’s worst effects [A SMALL CHARITY with a big heart: that’s how the Childhood Tumour Trust (CTT) has been described. It is the only charity established to support just children, young people and their families affected by the genetic condition Neurofibromatosis Type 1.

It is a very isolating condition and can affect any family. Tumours grow on nerves which can cause a lifetime of pain. Symptoms are varied and can include learning difficulties, amputations, blindness, ADHD, bone deformities, cancer, facial disfigurements and many other problems.

There is no telling how a child will be affected and as it is progressive it causes a lifetime of worry. CTT works hard to raise awareness among the public and healthcare professionals, to support families and provide special family days out and camps for children – for whom it is often the first time they feel accepted and are the only friendships they have. q

Responding to the announcement, IoF head of policy and external affairs Daniel Fluskey commented: “We are glad to see that the long-awaited change to society lottery limits will finally be brought in, and the rise in limits will enable charities to raise more money through their lottery programmes.

“However, the incremental increase could have gone further and it is disappointing that the opportunity to enable society lotteries to do even more for good causes hasn’t been taken up. It is likely that society programmes will reach the increased limits soon and therefore experience the same problems that they do now.”

Mims Davies expressed sympathy with the calls for a higher limit.

In her Executive Summary to the government’s response, she wrote: “Having considered the evidence, I am sympathetic to calls from the largest society lotteries to raise the annual sales limit even further.

“However this is a significant increase, and I am concerned that the regulatory framework is not currently sufficiently rigorous for societies raising funds at this scale. It is therefore my ambition to launch a further consultation looking at giving large society lotteries the choice of a £50m or £100m annual licence, with regulatory requirements in proportion to their size.”

Fundraising by charity lotteries is the only type of charity fundraising which has limits imposed on it by law. Hitherto each charity lottery can only sell £10m of tickets every year. q

Caring for chelonia [THE BRITISH CHELONIA GROUP publishes six newsletters

a year containing details of meetings, short articles, news items and veterinary notes. Their journal Testudo is published annually and contains original articles and reviews on all aspects of turtles, terrapins and tortoises – their biology, conservation, welfare, veterinary care and husbandry. The group also organises symposia.

As well as the yearly appeals in aid of specific international causes in chelonia research and survival, the BCG assists other worthy causes in support of its aims with grants. They invite grant applications from organisations and individuals engaged on the work of chelonia conservation – such as zoos, universities, zoologists and students in this country and overseas. q

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From accident victims to abandoned pets, all are cared for [ANIMALS IN DISTRESS is a charity founded in 1967 to alleviate the

suffering of sick and injured animals: and that is still the main aim today.

It is achieved through a number of methods, including 24-hour rescue, veterinary treatment, neutering and a microchipping scheme. The work involves strays, abandoned animals, cruelty cases and road traffic accidents – plus, with its new retirement home they are able to offer longterm care for older animals.

The 24-hour emergency service at the Animals in Distress sanctuary in Irlam, Manchester, carries out what is perhaps the most important part of its work – and also the most difficult, costly and unpredictable.

The majority of cases stem from road accidents involving animals, and owners are rarely found. Most animals are treated and kept while they convalesce, before being neutered, chipped and re-homed. That can be expensive: a broken leg can cost well over £300 and one x-ray around £80.

A spokesperson explained: “The telephone is on the go 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The police, social services,

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dog warden service, public and other animal societies call us out. Because many animals are passed on by other organisations, we feel that we are the end of the line – and we are reluctant to refuse any call that is an emergency.

“From experience we know that, if we refuse people, they may merely abandon animals – leading to a bigger problem.

Due to that we are taken advantage of regularly, often by use of emotional blackmail.

However, our concern is for the animals and if we can help, we will.”

The sanctuary in Littleborough, near Rochdale, is different. It takes in old or deserted and injured horses, wildlife, all types of birds, pet goats, sheep, pigs, reptiles and unusual or bigger animals that cannot find a place in society. They need feeding, bedding and someone to help and care for them. Unfortunately, smaller charities are struggling to survive and Animals in Distress is one of them.

The charity encourages anyone who wants to help to look on the website, Facebook or visit its sanctuaries. The spokesperson explained: “We need your help; we cannot survive without public funding. If everyone wrote out a standing order for £2 a month this would help enormously.” q

Commission CE addresses world’s non-profit academics [THIS YEAR the biennial conference of

the Non-profit Academic Centers Council – an international membership association comprising academic entities that focus on the study of non-profit and voluntary organisations – took place in London. The welcome plenary address was delivered on 16 July by the Charity Commission’s chief executive, Helen Stephenson CBE. In her address she focused particularly on the issue of regulation of charities in light of two developments: increasing expectations on the part of the public of how charities operate and an increasing role for charities in public life.

In setting the scene she said: “We are living through a period of particular challenge for charity and civil society – and it is a time I believe that will be of academic interest to you and your successors in the years ahead. The term ‘turning point’ is perhaps overused, but nonetheless I think that’s what we’re seeing.”

She went on to describe how public perception of the inherent trustworthiness of charities has changed.

“Charities are subject to far greater public scepticism, and consequent scrutiny. The latest extensive independent research we

commissioned into public trust and confidence, published last year, showed that there is now no premium in being a charity – charities are no more trusted than the average person on the street.

“Public expectations of charity meanwhile remain high. The public still believe, fundamentally, that charity should mean something special; be a reflection of our better nature, of high standards of behaviour, decency and humanity.”

The increasing role of charities in everyday life is illustrated by the fact that there are 168,000 charities on the Charity Commission’s register – and there are many thousands more that are unregistered due to their tiny size, and others that are exempt charities. The combined

income of registered charities exceeds £79bn and around 700,000 people are involved directly in their management as trustees.

The Grenfell tragedy was an example of that increasing role of charities. “Charities played a crucial role in the immediate response to the disaster,” she said, “not least because many local charities had a legitimacy and standing in the community that local authorities and national institutions lacked.

“Charities’ role also rested on an overwhelming generosity shown by the public at large, who donated many millions of pounds and vast quantities of goods in kind, and also many hours of their time helping as volunteers.

“At times corralled by us as regulator, charities worked together to ensure the immediate needs of people were being addressed, but also that funds were set aside and carefully allocated to help meet longerterm needs and requirements, including psychosocial support.

“Charities here were not providing a little bit of extra on top of a quick and effective government response. They were crucial in meeting the needs of those affected in the hours, days and weeks following that terrible tragedy.” q

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Holidays help boost confidence of young cancer patients

“

It’s a great experience to meet other people who have been through similar experiences in such a positive and upbeat setting, away from hospitals and cancer centres.

[

”

THIS QUOTE FROM Kate sums up the value of the work undertaken by the Youth Cancer Trust. The organisation provides free therapeutic activity holidays for teenagers and young adults – those aged between 14 and 30 – from the UK and Ireland who are suffering from cancer.

Cancer can tear a patient’s world apart, and at an age where everyone else seems to be moving on with their lives – with university, relationships and careers – the diagnosis of cancer can bring all of that to a halt.

The Youth Cancer Trust helps reduce the sense of loneliness, which often accompanies long stays in hospital and time off school. Long term friendships are formed and families are given a much deserved break, knowing their child is having fun and being looked after.

The charity receives no government funding and relies entirely on donations, such as those from legacies, to help support the needs of young cancer patients like Kate. q • For more information visit www.youthcancertrust.org.

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Deal or no deal: charities brace themselves

[IT IS PROBABLY finally safe to assume that, by the time the next

issue of The Charity Pages is published, the UK will no longer be a member of the EU. After much guessing, it looks as if the deed will finally be done.

What that means for civil society – the charitable backdrop to an ever-shrinking government – is still a matter of guesswork, however.

Charity leaders have been quick to let the new Prime Minister know what they wish for. Nobody, almost certainly not even Boris Johnson, knows for sure what we’ll get.

The government did get its probate fee change, sort of. While there is still no sign of the root and branch overhaul promised – or threatened, depending on your viewpoint – there had to be a tinkering at the edges to allow HMCTS to devise an interim arrangement with Smee & Ford to allow it to continue providing its valuable will notification service.

In the next issue we may well be reporting that the new fee structure has been revived. We may be reporting on momentous events following Brexit. What is pretty certain, however, is that we will be reporting on the notable efforts of people to promote the value of leaving gifts in wills. q

The range of charities which depend on legacies to carry out their valuable work is a broad one. Those that are represented in this publication are listed below, grouped according to the area of activity in which they operate.

ANIMAL WELFARE

INDEX

MEDICAL RESEARCH

Friends of the Animals 4/5

Prostate Cancer Research Centre 1

Swan Lifeline 6

Pain Relief Foundation 2

SongBird Survival 8

Royal College of Surgeons 9

FOUR PAWS 10

CLEFT 12

Wild Futures 16

World Cancer Research Fund 15

Environmental Investigation Agency 17

The National Brain Appeal 18

Last Chance Animal Rescue 20

Brain Research UK 30

Three Counties Dog Rescue 20 The New European Distressed Donkey Initiative Ltd 21 The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary 22 Tiggywinkles 22

CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE

Hopefield Animal Sanctuary 25

Faith in Families 13

British Chelonia Group 27

Hypo Hounds 20

Animals in Distress Field of Dreams 28

Childhood Tumour Trust 27

Pet Rescue Welfare Association 29

Youth Cancer Trust 30

Heartbeat Home for Horses 30

HEALTH & DISABILITY

SUPPORT & ADVICE Victim Support 8

Seeing Dogs 2

Seafarers UK 23

National Federation of the Blind of the United Kingdom 7

Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge 23

Dementia Concern 12 dDeaflinks Staffordshire 24 Deafblind UK 32

OVERSEAS AID Hope Health Action 6 ZANE: Zimbabwe A National Emergency 14

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