A hospice manager has reassured residents over the fundraising tactics used by volunteers after a scathing report from a committee of MPs on some charities.
Jane Frame, director of fundraising and marketing at Saint Francis Hospice, Havering-atte-Bower, has addressed concerns highlighted by the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee this week.
She said: “There are lots of assumptions being made thanks to regular stories in the media about some fundraising tactics a minority of charities are using.
“We are keen to address any concerns you may have about what do here at Saint Francis Hospice.
“We’ve identified a number of the key criticisms that have been highlighted, so that we can set the record straight about the reality of what we do.”
Fundraising organisations came under scrutiny last year when one of Britain’s longest-serving poppy sellers 92-year-old Olive Cooke killed herself after complaining she had been inundated with donation requests from fundraisers.
Although this did not contribute to Olive’s death according to her family, charities’ persistent tactics were brought to light.
Saint Francis Hospice is keen to show donors that the charity’s main focus are those with life-limiting illnesses. Jane said: “We do not, have not, and will never sell, swap or share your data.
“We do not undertake any cold telephone calls as part of our fundraising activity.
“It goes without saying that without you, we wouldn’t be here. As a result, it is of fundamental importance to us that we get our communications right and protect the relationship we have with you.”
If you have any concerns call 01708 723593
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