There are many incredible charities in the UK that support a wide range of good causes and deliver life-changing services and support.
It might be that you already donate each month or regularly take unwanted belongings and clothes to your local charity shop. No matter how much money you want to raise, donate or give to charity shops, there are plenty of ways you can financially support a charity. Read on to get inspiration on what you can do today to help those in need.
How best to donate to charity
Set up a recurring monthly gift
Recurring gifts by direct debit are very important for charities as they provide sustainable, on-going income, no matter how big or small your regular gift is. It’s the most cost-effective form of donations for charities and once set up, you don’t need to do anything else. Don’t forget that if you’re a UK taxpayer, please Gift Aid your donations if you’re eligible, as it means charities can claim an additional 25% from the government at no cost to you.
Play the Age UK charity weekly lottery
Did you know that when you play the Age UK charity weekly lottery, over 54% of the funds generated go straight to supporting older people? Since 2005 we’ve raised over £58 million through our lotteries. Playing our lottery is a win-win as you could be in with a chance of winning some money or great prizes too.
The Age UK lottery costs just £1 per week to enter and it’s easy to set up your monthly payment online. There are no roll overs in the Age UK lottery which means there are 1,000 guaranteed winners each week. There is also a Superdraw 4 times a year with a guaranteed 5,000 winners winning anything from £10 to the top prize of £25,000. Just remember that you should always gamble responsibly.
Set yourself a challenge
Challenges are a great way to raise money for charity. They usually involve an activity such as walking 10,000 steps a day, and asking friends and family to donate to help you reach your fundraising goal. Then the rest is down to you! Whether you choose to do 50 squats a day for 30 days, run a marathon, do a skydive or bake a cake, it’s a great way to raise money for a good cause. Your challenge doesn’t have to be strenuous either. You could shave your head, set up a virtual quiz night, and more! To get inspiration for your next challenge, visit our fundraising ideas page.
Leave a gift in your will
A will generally involves leaving things to your most loved ones, but you can also give to charities. Just like regular gifting, leaving a gift in your will is another way for you to continue supporting charities that are important to you. When you give to a charity such as Age UK, you’re leaving something for the thousands of older people in the UK who need additional help. It’s completely up to you how much you choose to give and whatever the size of your gift, you should know that it could make a big difference.
Why is it important to give to charity?
If you’re able to afford to give to charity, or can fundraise in some of the ways outlined above, you could help to make a real difference to the lives of people most in need.
Giving to Age UK means you’re helping older people who may not be able to afford proper housing, care or home heating or who are experiencing chronic loneliness. Between January 2019 and February 2020, Age UK responded to more than 233,332 enquiries via the Age UK Advice Line which provides expert information, 365 days a year, on the range of issues older people can face.
If you are able to, supporting a charity financially is something that many people do because it makes them feel good. If you feel that you could be making a difference to someone else’s life, you’ll likely experience pride and happiness at the prospect of giving back.
Play the Age UK Lottery today!
Every Friday you'll be in with a chance of becoming one of our 1,000 guaranteed winners!