Updates to the RNLI’s fundraising constitution
The RNLI has recently made some changes and updates to our Community Fundraising Constitution, that outlines the principles that govern the way we carry out fundraising activities across the charity.
1. A new approach to fundraising group structure
An RNLI fundraising group is a group of volunteers who run fundraising activities on behalf of the RNLI. These can be one of the following: a Fundraising Branch, Guild, Group or Crew.
We will continue to sustain and support existing Branches/Guilds, but no new Branches/Guilds should be set up – with us moving to fundraising Crews/Groups.
Fundraising Branches exist to raise funds for the general purposes of the RNLI and to promote the RNLI within their local area. Many Fundraising Branches remain in existence but have the option to become a Group or Crew as part of the RNLI’s future fundraising plans. It is no longer possible to form a Fundraising Branch.
Lifeboat Guilds were historically formed by the wives and families of lifeboat crew. It is no longer possible to form a Lifeboat Guild, however, several guilds remain in existence. We are extremely thankful to all the hard work our branches and guilds continue to give.
To continue attracting new volunteers and ensuring the future success of our fundraising and engagement efforts, we recognise the need for a more flexible and inclusive approach. That’s why we are introducing Fundraising Crews & Groups, a less formal structure designed to engage a wider range of volunteers and supporters. This approach will help us connect with new communities and create more opportunities for people to get involved in ways that suit their time and interests.
Fundraising Groups and Crews are being established to continue fundraising in the community. Any new fundraising groups will need to be called a Fundraising Group or Fundraising Crew.
Please note: it doesn't matter what the structure / name of your fundraising team is – all processes and ways of working will be the same.
All Fundraising Branches, Guilds, Groups and Crews must follow the guidance set out in this Constitution. Fundraising Branches, Guilds, Groups or Crews do not need their own constitution.
2. Open recruitment for all roles to replace voting in
The RNLI has an open recruitment policy and as such, new volunteers and volunteers transferring roles will need to follow the volunteer application, selection, and recruitment process.
Volunteers should not be voted into their roles.
3. Removal of any reference to memberships or paying to volunteer
In the past, some volunteers were asked to pay a membership fee to be part of a fundraising group. That’s no longer the case – volunteering should be accessible to all.
4. Annual review meetings to replace AGMs
Fundraising groups are no longer required to hold an Annual General Meeting (AGM). Instead, it is recommended that fundraising groups hold an annual review meeting.
This is to create a less formal meeting structure and allow for groups to celebrate successes and plan for the future.
At this meeting it is suggested that they have the following agenda points:
(a) Review the previous year including financial accounts
(b) Set fundraising targets for the upcoming year
(c) Review the purpose of the group and consider some non-financial targets for the year
(d) Review current roles and tenures for forward/succession planning
(e) Deliver volunteer and supporter recognition
We know many groups have already adopted these ways of working, but we wanted to make sure everything is formally updated. If you have any questions, then please do reach out to your Community Manager or contact the Volunteer Experience Team at [email protected]
Finally, we want to thank all of our amazing volunteers whose commitment and incredible efforts ensure the RNLI continues to save lives every day.