Today, the Institute of Fundraising (‘Institute’) has published a new Code of Fundraising Practice: ‘Best Practice for Fundraising Consultants’ which clarifies how consultants should conduct their operations in working with charities.
Providing guidance on best practice in all aspects of consultancy working from the perspective of both charity and consultant, the Code outlines that consultants ought not to act as an employee member of staff but rather should work outside the client’s management structure.
Whilst they should be accountable for their contracted services, within agreed terms, to the charity’s trustees, management and staff, consultants need to operate as independent agents.
The Code also describes the stages of consultancy and the appropriate conduct for consultants – for instance, consultants ought to advise potential clients of the strengths and weaknesses of their case and objectives when acquiring and promoting business and ought not to guarantee results, making completely clear all fees, expenses and other associated costs.
Other issues covered by the Code include:
- The use of contracts;
- Consultant fees;
- Conflicts of interest;
- Confidentiality;
- Copyright;
- Data protection.
By addressing these issues at the outset, the Code seeks to ensure a robust and effective relationship, whereby both parties are confident of their roles and expectations.
Commenting on the Code, Redmond Mullin, Consultant and Chair of the Consultants Code Working Party, says:
'The Consultants' Code looks in two directions: to consultants, suggesting what is expected of them; and to their clients, suggesting what they should expect.
'There are many kinds of consultants but all should have the experience and skills, the intellectual discipline and objectivity, the sensitivity to their clients and those the client serves, to help clients to a fresh appreciation of their potential, for service and hence for funding. The Code guides behaviour and implies apt modes for a consultant's invisibility.'
Megan Pacey, Director of Policy & Campaigns at the Institute of Fundraising adds:
'It is increasingly common for charities to work with fundraising consultants – who may act in a number of ways. This Code puts in place a best practice framework for those charities that work with consultants as well as a guide for consultants themselves, to formalise a working relationship for mutual benefit.'
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For further information please contact:
Diana Mackie Tel. 020 7840 1027
Institute of Fundraising
Email Diana Mackie
