Fundraising in a public place
You may need permission from your local council to collect money in public places.
Use the government postcode finder to check if you need to apply for a street collection license.
Children under 16 are not allowed to collect money through public collections. They can be present but are not allowed to hold a bucket or can.
Raffles and lotteries
You do not need a licence if your raffle starts and finishes on the same day.
You must charge the same price for each ticket and draw the name of the winner before the event is over. Cash prizes are not allowed.
You must take extra care and consideration about how you will protect children and people who may be vulnerable.
The Gambling Commission has strict rules that you must follow. Follow their guidance on how to run a fundraiser with lotteries or raffles at events.
If you plan to run a prize draw over multiple days or sell tickets at more than one venue, please email community@shelter.org.uk for guidance.
Health and safety
Complete a risk assessment for your event. This is to make sure everyone who attends your event is safe.
Visit the St John Ambulance website for advice if you think you'll need first aid at your event.
Food and drink
Follow the Food Standards Agency rules for safe food preparation, storage, display, and cooking.