Support Through Court is committed to fundraising in a way that is legal, open, honest, and respectful, in line with the Code of Fundraising Practice issued by the Fundraising Regulator. We are grateful for the generosity of our donors and recognise the trust placed in us to use donations responsibly and ethically.
This Code of Conduct sets out how we work with donors and the standards that guide our fundraising relationships.
Our commitment to donors
Support Through Court commits to:
- Fundraise in a way that complies with all relevant laws, regulations, and regulatory guidance
- Be open and transparent about our work, our finances, and how donations are used
- Communicate honestly, clearly, and accurately, ensuring information provided to donors is not misleading
- Treat all donors fairly, with respect and courtesy
- Respect donors’ privacy and handle personal data in accordance with data protection legislation
- Take particular care to identify and appropriately support donors who may be in vulnerable circumstances
- Ensure that fundraising activities, including those carried out on our behalf by third parties, reflect our values and standards
- Decline or return donations where acceptance would compromise our mission,
independence, or reputation
Our expectations of donors
We ask donors to:
- Respect the independence of Support Through Court and its decision-making
- Understand that donations do not confer influence over our policies, services, staff, volunteers, or governance
- Refrain from seeking preferential treatment, access, or outcomes in exchange for financial support
- Engage with our staff, volunteers, and beneficiaries in a respectful and appropriate manner
- Recognise that Support Through Court works with individuals who may be vulnerable and that their dignity, privacy, and safeguarding are paramount
Ethical standards and independence
Support Through Court will not knowingly accept donations that:
- Conflict with our charitable purposes or values
- Could reasonably be perceived as compromising our impartiality or independence
- Are linked to illegal activity, discrimination, exploitation, or harm
- Would expose the charity to undue reputational, legal, or operational risk
We reserve the right to refuse, decline, or return donations where these standards are not met. Decisions will be documented and made in line with trustee oversight and due diligence processes.
Transparency, recognition and influence
- We will recognise donors in ways that are appropriate, proportionate, and consistent with our values
- Donors may choose to remain anonymous
- Any public acknowledgment or use of a donor’s name or logo will be agreed in advance
- Donations will not be accepted on the basis of conditions that seek to influence the charity’s activities, priorities, or decision-making
Safeguarding and dignity
Support Through Court supports people navigating the justice system, many of whom may be in vulnerable circumstances. Donors must not seek direct contact with beneficiaries, access to personal information, or involvement in service delivery unless explicitly agreed and appropriate safeguards are in place.
Concerns and complaints
We welcome feedback and take concerns seriously. Any complaints relating to fundraising or donor relationships will be handled promptly, fairly, and in accordance with our complaints procedure and the Fundraising Regulator’s complaints process.