​Public are engaging with new service says regulator

In its first month of operation the Fundraising Preference Service (FPS) received 6,305 suppression requests, it has been revealed.

Operated by the Fundraising Regulator, which launched last month, the FPS received the requests from 2,617 people.

The FPS enables members of the public to block phone, email, text and mail communications from named charities via suppression requests.

It is available online or by phone and individuals can use it on behalf of a friend or relative.

Although Scotland has a separate regulatory agreement, the regulator said a number of requests were made by Scots concerning cross border charities.

Stephen Dunmore, chief executive of the Fundraising Regulator, said: “The launch of the FPS was an important moment for the Fundraising Regulator and a significant step in re-building trust between the sector and the public.

"The service allows the public to have greater control of which charities contact them and by what means.

“Although the numbers indicate there is still some way to go in terms of charities’ communications with individuals, we are encouraged by the progress that is being made by the charity sector in ensuring that fundraising is ethical and transparent.

"We look forward to continuing to work closely with charities and, as always, greatly appreciate their cooperation and positive response to the introduction of FPS.”