The Public Fundraising Regulatory Association, which represents various charities, has backed Murdo Fraser’s call for tougher regulation of high street charity fundraisers and has written to Perth and Kinross, Fife, Stirling and Clackmannanshire council to express their desire to set up a partnership agreement.
Murdo has backed the move which comes in the wake of the death of Olive Cooke and has called on the industry to improve its image.
The PFRA already works with over 100 UK local authorities to ensure that fundraisers respect the code of conduct at a local level and the Conservative MSP is backing an extension to councils in his electoral region.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“I am pleased to see that the charity fundraising sector has taken immediate action to curb overly aggressive fundraisers and I would encourage Mid-Scotland and Fife Councils to work alongside them. I firmly believe that ‘chuggers’ who use high-pressured sales techniques should be subject to greater regulation.
“The vast majority of charity fundraisers work to the highest standards but there is a small minority who do not and ensuring that these individuals receive the proper training will be central to restoring confidence in the sector.
“High streets across Perth and Kinross, Fife, Stirling and Clackmannanshire are in need of support and anything that acts as a barrier towards people shopping on the high street should be tackled.
“Vulnerable members of the public often feel uncomfortable when being approached by fundraisers and we must ensure the industry is properly regulated to ensure it works for shoppers, charities and businesses.”