Should the three fundraising bodies (IoF, PFRA and FRSB) merge?
Our fundraising experts share their views on Lord Hodgson’s call for a single body to replace the three organisations that oversee charity fundraising.
Pauline Broomhead, chief executive of The FSI
The first question is, is the IoF a regulator or a professional body? And the second, can it be both?
If we are to maintain public trust in the charity sector - and specifically in fundraising - it seems to me that an independent IoF, with a clear remit to represent the interests of sector members (both corporate and individual) with a responsibility to set and maintain standards is a good thing. However, a single independent regulatory body, i.e. a merged FRSB and PFRA with the remit to regulate ‘all things’ fundraising, would also be a good thing. If all three were to merge there would be economic efficiencies, but who would the new body represent - paid members, or members of the public?
Lisa Buckley, head of individual giving at Tenovus
I’m not convinced a merger between all three is the way forward. Donors need an independent regulator to represent their views and uphold their rights, so there is a strong case for the FRSB to retain its independence. It’s understandable why the current set-up might confuse the public, so greater clarity about the role each body plays would be welcome. As bodies representing fundraisers, there is scope for the IoF and PFRA to work more closely to raise their members’ standards. It is essential that all organisations across the industry strive equally to improve public confidence and professional standards. But merging the regulator and regulated would be like the foxes guarding the hen house. The FRSB should retain its distinct status in the sector.
Lowri Turner, fundraising manager at Kidscan
While the existence of three separate fundraising bodies may seem unnecessarily confusing, it is important to remember the real benefits of this system. The IoF, PFRA and FRSB all have very distinct responsibilities within the sector, and do work collaboratively when needed. Having more than one governing body means that there are a large number of checks and balances in place, which helps to ensure that our fundraising activities are of the highest standard. Whilst the three organisations are working to further strengthen the clarity and coordination of their systems, I see no reason for them to merge just yet.
Sam Butler, fundraising acquisitions and communications manager at St John Ambulance
Yes, I would welcome this. Having one authority for the public to go to, for the media to interact with, and for charities to find support and advice from would simplify things greatly. It would improve on the interaction professional fundraisers have with these organisations, and allow knowledge that is perhaps at times ringfenced within one of them due to the field it covers, to be shared across the sector far more freely. I would hope that the merge would bring with it, a review of existing membership fees and levies imposed on income streams, handing the charities cost savings so that we can increase our charitable output and help more beneficiaries directly.
