Fundraising safely

Most people who fundraise for British Horse Society do something simple, like a sponsored activity, a small event, or asking for donations to mark a special occasion or remember someone.

This page is here to help you check anything that applies to your fundraiser, so it is safe, legal and enjoyable for everyone involved. You don't need to read everything in detail. Just use it as a guide.

Before you start

Take a moment to check the basics:

Choose an activity that suits your ability and experience
Make sure you have suitable insurance where needed
Follow the rules of any organised event you take part in
Get permission if fundraising on private land or in public places
Don't put yourself, others or horses at risk

Most fundraisers will only need to think about some of the points below.

The legal bit

Please make sure your fundraising activity is safe, legal and responsible, and follows the Fundraising Regulator’s Code of Fundraising Practice.

You must make it clear that your activity is “in aid of British Horse Society” and not organised by us.

Our registered charity numbers are: 210504 (England and Wales), SC038516 (Scotland), and 1382 (Isle of Man). Include these on printed materials where possible.

Health and safety

Please put safety first at all times.

British Horse Society can’t accept responsibility for any loss, damage or injury that may occur as a result of fundraising activities organised by supporters.

You may find it helpful to include this wording on publicity: “This fundraising activity is organised by [your name] in aid of British Horse Society. British Horse Society accepts no responsibility for any liability arising from this activity.”

Planning your fundraiser

Risk assessments

A quick check to spot and reduce risks.

Ask your venue if they already have a risk assessment. If not, carry out a simple one yourself, especially for public events or activities involving horses.

Insurance

Some events may need extra cover.

If your event is open to the public, you may need Public Liability Insurance. Many venues already have this in place, so check first.

Horses and riding activities

Safety comes first for people and horses.

Any activity involving horses should be suitable for the rider’s experience and follow good safety practice.

Licences and permissions

• Public collections – You may need permission from your local authority
• Alcohol – Check if you need a licence and do not serve alcohol to under 18s
• Food – Prepare and store food safely and list all ingredients
• Raffles and lotteries – These are regulated by law and may need a licence. For guidance, visit the Gambling Commission website

Using our name and logo

Please say your fundraiser is “in aid of British Horse Society”.

If you'd like to use the BHS logo, contact us first so we can advise.

Gift Aid

If you fundraise online, platforms such as JustGiving will ask donors if they are eligible for Gift Aid automatically.

If collecting donations offline, Gift Aid can only be claimed if donors provide their full name, home address and confirm they are a UK taxpayer.

Looking after money

• Keep money secure at all times
• Count funds with another person present
• Bank cash as soon as possible
• Online fundraising pages are usually the safest and easiest option

You can find out how to set up a JustGiving page.

Fundraising with children

Anyone under 18 must have permission from a parent or guardian to take part.

Children should be properly supervised at all times. No adult should be left alone with a child on a one-to-one basis.

Data protection

If you collect personal information (such as names or email addresses), keep it secure and only use it for the purpose it was given. Do not share details without permission.

Sending us the money

The easiest way to send donations is through an online fundraising platform such as JustGiving, where funds are transferred automatically.

Please send cheques to BHS made payable to ‘The British Horse Society’, for the attention of the Finance Team. Post to: British Horse Society, Abbey Park, Stareton, Kenilworth, Warwickshire, CV8 2XZ

Thank you for taking the time to fundraise safely and responsibly. Your support helps protect the future of horses and the people who care for them.