Thank you choosing to support Abbeyfield Living Society.
Established nearly 70 years ago, Abbeyfield prioritises companionship for older people. Our diverse housing options - from sheltered housing, independent living, dementia care homes to residential care homes - create a sense of belonging and security where residents can thrive in a friendly and welcoming home while retaining their independence. This focus on community remains our core value.
By raising money for Abbeyfield, more older people can get the support they need, so thank you.
Here are some key tips to help you achieve your fundraising goals.
First and foremost, fundraising can be fulfilling! Make the most of the experience and enjoy the process of making a difference.
Fundraising events, large or small, can be a fantastic way to bring your community together, raise funds for a charitable cause, and have some fun.
Planning your event
Decide on your event: Let your passions guide your plans! Often, the most successful fundraisers centre around activities you already enjoy or excel at. If you're looking for ideas, our A-Z of fundraising ideas is packed with plenty of suggestions to help get you started.
Once you've decided on your event, give yourself enough time to plan.
Finding a venue
If you're organising an event or challenge, securing the perfect venue will help set the stage for your fundraising event. Once you've got the ideal space, you can finalise the date and spread the word. If you let the venue know you're fundraising for Abbeyfield, their generosity might surprise you with a discount or even a donation!
Promoting your fundraiser
Asking people to sponsor your fundraising event can be a great way to raise awareness of your favourite Abbeyfield house or project, have fun and raise some money.
However large, small or unusual your fundraising event, from a themed bake sale to sitting in a tub of cold baked beans for the weekend, to a major sporting challenge, there are two main methods to collect and record pledges of support:
- Sponsorship forms
- Online donation sites
Sponsorship forms can be used to record and collect donations from family and friends and neighbours. All forms must clearly state the name and charity number of the organisation that you are raising funds for. Remember to ask people if they are able and willing to contribute Gift Aid (they must be a UK tax payer to do this) which will allow Abbeyfield to claim an extra 25% from the UK government.
Online donation sites are a great way to reach a wider number of people who could support your cause. Sites vary slightly in the services offered and the fees charged, so it’s worth checking the guidelines and frequently asked questions before registering with one.
Abbeyfield Living Society is registered with the following sites so any donations raised through them can be transferred directly to the Society. If you are raising funds for a particular House please inform the Fundraising team and we can ensure that any donations received are transferred to that House.
Wonderful online donation pages do not charge any fees (as they are supported by the Co-op Bank) so 100% of the money raised, and any Gift Aid contribution, will go to your chosen charity.
Just Giving has lots of useful information about fundraising ideas and opportunities, and guides on how to use their site.
Spread the word in your community: Think beyond social media by leveraging the power of local media to reach a wider audience in your area. Pitch your fundraising story to local newspapers, radio stations, and even community TV channels. These outlets can be fantastic partners in raising awareness for your fundraiser.
Additional tips for promoting your fundraising
- Regular updates will also keep your supporters informed about your progress and how close you are to reaching your goal.
- Create content that people will want to share with their networks.
- Say thank you to everyone who donates or shares your fundraiser.
Fundraising strategies
- Think outside the box and get creative with fundraising ideas like cake sales, car washes or taking part in a charity run or walk.
- See if your employer offers matching gift programs to double the impact of your donations.
Advice to keep everything legal and safe
Please keep everything safe and legal – it is your responsibility to ensure your event is run safely and legally, and that you have obtained any necessary consents, permits or licences for your activity, or event. A handy checklist of things to consider can be found at:
Organising a voluntary event: a 'can do' guide - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Code of Fundraising Practice | Fundraising Regulator
Community Fundraising and Events | Fundraising Regulator
Chartered Institute of Fundraising - Tips on planning a fundraising event (ciof.org.uk)
Our Fundraising Team are here to help – if you have any questions please contact them fundraising@abbeyfield.com
Don't forget to tell us about your fundraising event
We're excited to hear about your fundraising plans! Tell us about your ideas, if you need support or resources, and let us know about how it goes. We'd love to see photos capturing the fun (with everyone's permission, of course!), and we'd love to share your story with the Abbeyfield community, as your story can help motivate others!
