Here are some top tips to help you with your fundraising.

1. Set up an online fundraising page and use sponsorship forms

Once you’ve decided what you’re going to do to fundraise for Willen Hospice, whether that’s taking on a challenge, signing up to one of our events, or doing something yourself, the next thing you need to do is set up a fundraising page.

This is really simple to do and can be done on websites like JustGiving, Enthuse, Go Fund Me, or Facebook Fundraising. Some of these pages will auto-fill a description for you, but you’re likely to get more donations if you explain what you’re doing, when you’re doing it, and why you’ve chosen to support Willen Hospice. Another handy tip is putting in some money yourself to get the ball rolling.

You can also download a paper sponsorship form and money collection box from our website. A paper sponsorship form is handy for relatives and friends who may not be confident donating online, or to pass around a classroom, or put up in a communal area in your workplace.

2. Set a fundraising target

By setting a target, you’ll motivate people to support your fundraiser. We love ambition but keep your target realistic, and set an amount that you think will be achievable. Or, if you have a specific fundraising target as part of your challenge, set it as that.

If you don’t reach your target by the time the event comes around, don’t be disappointed – you’ve still done something amazing. Plenty of donations will come even after the challenge is over – you just have to follow the next step.

3. Tell everyone you know

Make sure to shout loud and proud about your fundraiser. Share it on social media, email it round to your colleagues, and get in on those hundred+ family and friend Whatsapp groups.

4. Gift Aid it

Make that that anyone eligible ticks the ‘Gift Aid’ box on your fundraising page or sponsorship form. This will mean that the government will add an extra 25% at no extra cost to you or your donors. Bonus!

5. Share your story

If you’re fundraising for Willen Hospice for a personal reason then, if you’re comfortable too, share your story. Showing a personal connection will encourage people who know and love you to support what you’re doing – they’ll see that it means a lot to you.

6. Keep people updated

Make sure to share any progress about your challenge. These can be training updates or milestones, and can be added to your fundraising page and shared on social media. This will remind people about what you’re doing, and encourage them to donate.

7. Match funding

If you work for a company, then they might be able to match fund the total amount you raise. In simple terms, this means that if you raise £200, they’ll double it. It’s worth an ask! They may need some documentation from Willen Hospice so please just get in touch and we’ll be happy to provide anything needed.

8. Thank people

This is a small but important part of fundraising. Make sure to thank people when they donate and share it on your fundraising page.

9. Do something extra to top up your funds

If you find that your donations have plateaued, then it’s time to get creative. Boost your funds by holding a bake sale, selling plants or flowers, holding a games night… anything you want. Just ask for donations to your fundraiser in return.

10. Tell us you’re fundraising

Make sure we know that you’re fundraising – we’ll be happy to help you every step of the way. We can give you banners, collection buckets and pots and for an additional fee, your own Willen Hospice t-shirt to wear when training and completing your challenge. Just email challenges@willen-hospice.org.uk

You can find more helpful tips and templates on our Fundraising Resources page. Haven’t decided on a challenge yet? Have a read of our ideas for 2022/23.