A self-regulatory body, hoping to become “the Corgi of the charity world”, was launched in the UK today (Monday, February 12).

The Fundraising Standards Board is designed to breed more confidence in the integrity of altruistic organisations, by monitoring complaints about charity fundraising.

More than 250 charities have already signed up to the voluntary code of practice, which demands that organisation treat the public with “respect, fairness, honesty and clarity” when seeking donations.

Members must also adopt an “independent, robust and transparent” complaints system.

“For the first time, there is an independent body you can go to if you are unhappy about how a charity raises money,” said Jon Scourse, chief executive of the new board.

Charities that sign up to the body’s code of practice will be entitled to display its tick logo.

The RSPCA, NSPCC, Shelter and Barnardos are among the organisations to have signed up to date.

“We’re here to help you give with confidence, so the next time you put money in a tin, sponsor someone to run a marathon, or receive a mailshot in the post, look for the tick - it’s your mark of reassurance,” Mr Scourse continued.

The British public donated nearly £9 billion to charitable causes last year.

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