How charities can make their school fundraising more inclusive of pupils living in poverty

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In this guest blog, Child Poverty Action Group share some of their findings from their latest report ‘'The Cost of Having Fun at School' and highlight steps fundraisers can take to make sure all students can participate in fundraising activities.

Charity and fundraising days at school are an opportunity for children to learn about important causes and issues that affect the world around them. Many pupils look forward to these days and enjoy taking part in fundraising activities. However, our research with over 8,000 pupils in England, Scotland and Wales has shown us that children from poorer families often experience shame, anxiety and embarrassment on these days.

Being asked to donate money on charity days can be a source of financial worry for pupils and their families, especially if they're already struggling to get by. Money is often collected in person at school, making it obvious to everyone which pupils have donated. One 10-year-old pupil told us:

You would know if someone didn't have money. Everyone stands up and the teacher goes round for money and they sit down

Children have also told us that they sometimes feel sad because they can't afford to buy charity merchandise (such as poppies or red noses) or items from bake sales. Another 10-year-old pupil told us what it was like to have to miss out:

Some people cried because they didn't get one. They just sat there looking at the cakes. They looked sad.

Non-uniform and dress-up days are popular fundraising activities, but they can cause great anxiety for some pupils. There are cost pressures associated with needing specific items (e.g. clothes of a specific colour for a colour-themed day), and children can feel embarrassed or be picked on if they can't afford the 'right' clothing. Teachers have told us that they've noticed attendance dropping on these days.

Sometimes on non-uniform days you can tell [who lives in poverty]. They wear the same clothes every time.

Year 6 pupil

With these issues in mind, how can charities ensure that the way they engage with schools is not proving detrimental to children from low-income families?

First, charities can make sure that their communications with schools demonstrate an awareness of the financial pressures many families are facing. Charities can encourage schools to give plenty of notice to families before a fundraising event, and to use anonymous online donations instead of collecting cash in school. One parent told us they appreciated their school's approach to fundraising during the pandemic:

There's no pressure to donate. They're sending e-newsletters now with Justgiving link. I think they should keep that going after covid.

Charities can also rethink the way they show their appreciation and recognition of pupils taking part in activities. Instead of encouraging competition or championing those who raise the most money, how about thanking children for their time, creativity and enthusiasm?

Another area for charities to explore is helping pupils engage and connect with the cause, instead of focusing on raising money. They can introduce children to different types of activities, with raising money being just one option. For example, they can encourage pupils to write letters or postcards to their MPs about a campaign, or to raise awareness within their community by making posters or running assemblies.  It can be helpful to research the school in advance and discuss activities with the teacher or main point of contact to identify what would work best for the school's pupils and whether any tweaks are needed.

Charities can form a meaningful part of children's school experience. By taking steps to ensure no pupils are unintentionally excluded or further disadvantaged, charities can make sure that their fundraising activities in schools are inclusive and enjoyed by everyone.

You can read Child Poverty Action Group and Children North East's 'The Cost of Having Fun at School' report here.

 

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