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Event guidance

Key information about joining an event and fundraising for Shelter.

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Minimum fundraising pledge

Please make sure you're confident in reaching the minimum fundraising pledge before signing up. We invest in places at charity events and need to raise as much as possible to defend the rights of people facing homelessness or unfit housing.

You can reach your pledge through sponsorship from family, friends and colleagues. You can also organise an event such as a bake sale or quiz – be as creative as you like!

We're here to support you with your fundraising as much as possible. Get in touch by emailing running@shelter.org.uk or call us on 0344 515 1190.

Where your money goes

A proportion of your registration fee and fundraising contributes towards costs, including your event place and branded Shelter vest or t-shirt.

The remaining funds go towards directly supporting people through advice, advocacy and campaigning. The money you raise won't be restricted to a single project but will be used wherever it's needed most to help those fighting for their right to a safe home.

Visit our impact page to find out more about how your support makes a difference.

Fundraising deadline

The deadline for sending in the funds you've raised is six weeks after event day.

Gift Aid

Please encourage your supporters to include Gift Aid in their donations where possible (they must be a UK taxpayer). This means Shelter can claim an extra 25p from the government for every £1 donated. The easiest way to claim Gift Aid is fundraising through an online giving platform, such as JustGiving.

However, Gift Aid does not count towards your fundraising target.

Signing up for a charity place

A charity place is one that Shelter have purchased through the event organiser. When you sign up for a charity place, you'll pay a registration fee and pledge to reach a minimum fundraising target. Most event organisers require you to complete an additional form, which will be sent by email after you register.

Please note that charity places are non-transferable.

Signing up with your own place

You have your own place if you've paid a fee directly to the organisers to enter the event. You can still fundraise for Shelter, but you won't have a minimum fundraising pledge (just raise what you can). You'll get the same communications, perks and support as charity place participants.

To let us know you have your own place in an event, please complete this form.

Participating in an unlisted event

You can still fundraise for Shelter if you're taking part in an event that isn't listed on our website. Once you've signed up, please complete this form to tell us more about your event. You'll still get all the perks of being part of Team Shelter, although we won't be able to support you on the day.

Alternatively, if you haven't found an event yet, see our event partners for inspiration.

Contact us

Still have questions?

Email us at running@shelter.org.uk or call us on 0344 515 1190.