How to give safely
Everyone wants to do their bit to support those who have been forced to flee their homes because of the invasion. If you are looking for ways to support Ukrainian refugees, you can find out about what to consider when donating, where to donate, and the government’s plans for a sponsorship program on the GOV.UK website.
The Charity Commission and Fundraising Regulator have urged the public to ‘give safely’ to registered charities helping and supporting those affected by the invasion of Ukraine.
By giving to a registered, regulated charity, the public can have assurance that their funds will be accounted for in line with the charity law framework. Established charities with experience of responding to disasters are usually best placed to reach victims on the ground.
If you are looking to donate to causes working in Ukraine and neighbouring countries, you should make a few simple checks before giving.
- Check the charity’s name and registration number on the GOV.UK charity register.
- Make sure the charity is genuine before giving any financial information.
- Be careful when responding to emails or clicking on links in them.
- Contact or find out more about the charity online, get an understanding of how they spend their funds.
- Look out for the Fundraising Badge on charity fundraising materials. This is the logo which shows that a charity has committed to fundraise in line with the Code of Fundraising Practice.
More information on giving safely
Ukraine organisations and appeals
Here are some of the charities helping and supporting those affected by the invasion of Ukraine.
Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) – Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal
The Red Cross – Ukraine Crisis Appeal
UNICEF – Donate to protect children in Ukraine
The UN Refugee Agency – helping refugees fleeing situations of war.
The Ukrainian Embassy has set up a support platform to provide humanitarian support to Ukraine.
Polish Humanitarian Action – providing humanitarian aid including food and other support to people who had to leave their homes.
Care International – providing emergency food, water and more to the people of Ukraine.
Choose Love – Ukraine Crisis Fundraiser.
London’s Ukrainian Institute – More ways that you can support or donate.
UN Women – Support women in Ukraine.
What you should consider if crowdsourcing funds for Ukrainian guests
We know that many people will be considering how they can support the needs of guests who are arriving, which may include financial donations. We have consulted with the Department for Work and Pensions and they have advised that, if you are considering crowdsourcing funds, that the funds could be used for supermarket vouchers, material goods, or other vouchers.
If funds are paid directly into a Ukrainian guest’s bank account or gifted to them directly, they may need to declare this to the Department for Work and Pensions and this could have an impact on their Universal Credit application.