Our Code of Practice explained

Professional standards of practice matter.  Did you know Craigmyle’s team of fundraising consultants work to a Code of Practice? In fact, we helped shape the Code of Practice used by the Association of Fundraising Consultants and signed up to by all AFC members, including Craigmyle Fundraising Consultants.

This blog takes a look at 1) why fundraising consultants need a specific Code of Practice 2) what is included in the Craigmyle Code of Practice and 3) what it means for our charitable clients.

Why do we fundraising consultants need a Code of Practice?

As fundraisers we already have the Fundraising Regulator’s Code of Fundraising Practice. Much of this applies to fundraising consultants but there are a number of key differences, including, as noted by the AFC: Fundraising consultants act for not-for-profit organisations in an advisory capacity and do not normally directly solicit or receive funds. It is these distinctions in the way that consultants work and the nature of the client-consultant relationship that make a separate Code of Practice for consultants important.

So, what does the Code of Practice mean for charities working with Craigmyle consultants? What can you expect?

The Craigmyle Code of Practice

1. A Commitment to the ideals of charitable giving:

We are committed to the ideals of charitable giving and seek to bring credit to the profession by our public behaviour.

2. Service to charities with worthy aims and honourable intentions:

We will only serve those charities which, to the best of our knowledge, have aims which are worthy and intentions which are honourable – and for which we believe we can provide an effective service.

3. Backing up our claims of experience, qualification, and achievement:

We make only those claims of experience, qualifications, and achievement which can be substantiated, and will neither guarantee results nor promise to raise sums which are unrealistic.

4. No inducements to secure contracts:

We will acquire clients by fair means only, and will not offer inducement to prospective clients or apply undue pressure in order to secure contracts.

5. Professional fundraising techniques:

We will not knowingly employ fund raising techniques which might be harmful to the public or could bring the client or the profession into disrepute.

6. Training and support of consultants:

We are committed to professional development, have a record of continuous relevant fundraising experience and are committed to supporting each other professionally.

7. Agreed terms of contract:

Every service we provide is based on an agreed contract which covers:

• the service to be provided
• the fees to be paid
• the method of payment
• the duration of service
• arrangements for termination or revision of contract.

8. Fees are based on the service to be provided, not commission

We do not work on commission. Fees are based on the service to be provided and are not related to the size of target or to amounts raised.

9. Confidentiality:

We take great care to honour the confidentiality of information to which we are privy when serving clients, and to avoid conflicts of interest when seeking new business.

So, what does this mean for charities considering working with a fundraising consultant?

Selecting a consultant who works to a Fundraising Consultant Code of Practice can

1. provide peace of mind by ensuring the highest professional standards
2. build shared understanding/clarity of the role of fundraising
3. encourage discussion of ethical issues and solutions.

For example, whilst supporting cultivation and relationship building with prospects and donors, fundraising consultants need to do so in a sustainable way that centers and builds the relationship between the prospects/donors and the charity client.

Having a code of practice is a good starting point. If you’re considering working with a fundraising consultant and want to discuss how Craigmyle works and how we might be able to help you, get in touch today.