Making it safe and legal

Please take extra time and care to plan fundraising activities involving children. Any fundraisers under the age of 18 should have their parent or guardian’s permission to take part. Make sure children are properly supervised and that you’ve made plans of what to do if any children are lost at events. Remember to check if you need Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks for individuals looking after children.

Always ensure any food you’re providing has been stored at an appropriate temperature, hygienically prepared and thoroughly cooked. Check food.gov.uk if you are unsure. If you want to sell alcohol at your party, you’ll need a licence. If the venue already has a licence, then you’ll be covered, but do check. 

Remember to check the legal requirements with your local authority or venue provider before holding an event. If your event is in a public place, you will need permission from the council or landowner. You need permission from your local authority before doing door-to-door or street collections. You will also need to check if you need permission to hold a raffle. 

Lumos cannot accept liability for third-party events, losses, damage or injury as a result of fundraising for us. Please ensure your venue has been checked for health and safety hazards: 

• Have a backup plan in case of bad weather or a problem with the venue. 

• Make sure there is adequate access for people with disabilities.

• Confirm that first aid supplies, fire-fighting equipment and emergency evacuation procedures are in place. 

• Cleary mark fire exits and ensure that everyone knows where the assembly points are. 

• Check what public liability insurance the venue has and that it covers owners’ liability risks.

If you have helpers volunteering at your event, make sure they are all fully briefed on the event, health and safety and have a list of key contact phone numbers in case of an incident. Make sure you have enough volunteers to help you in case of an emergency.

If you need any more information to help you on your way, please don't hesitate to contact us on fundraising@wearelumos.org.