Donation Policy

1. Purpose

This Donations Policy outlines the principles and procedures that govern the acceptance, use and management of donations made to Murray’s Initiative. Our aim is to ensure transparency, accountability and responsible stewardship of all donated funds and items in line with our mission and values.

2. Our Mission

Murray’s Initiative exists to improve health and wellbeing across Scotland by providing evidence-based, trauma-informed support to individuals and communities affected by alcohol, drugs and trauma. We provide free, non-judgmental counselling, education and community services to help people recover, reconnect and rebuild their lives.

3. Scope

This policy applies to:

• Monetary donations (one-off or recurring)

• Gifts-in-kind (goods or services)

• Legacy gifts (bequests in Wills)

• Corporate donations or sponsorship

• Fundraising income from third-party events

It applies to all individuals, businesses, organisations and institutions who wish to support Murray’s Initiative through giving.

4. Guiding Principles

We commit to the following principles in all donation activity:

• Integrity – All donations will be used in line with our mission, values and charitable objectives.

• Transparency – Donors will receive clear, accurate information about how their donation is used.

• Respect – We respect the wishes of donors regarding anonymity, recognition, or use of funds where appropriate.

• Accountability – We will keep accurate records of all donations and report annually on fundraising and expenditure.

• Compliance – We will adhere to all relevant laws, regulations and guidance from the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) and the Fundraising Regulator.

5. Acceptance of Donations

Murray’s Initiative welcomes donations that:

• Align with our values and charitable objectives

• Are made voluntarily, without coercion or expectation of undue influence

• Do not compromise our independence, reputation, or ability to act in the best interests of our clients

We reserve the right to decline donations that:

• Are derived from sources or activities that conflict with our mission (e.g., businesses involved in alcohol, illegal drugs, or unethical practices)

• Could damage our reputation or integrity

• Require us to act in a way that is inconsistent with our values or strategic goals

All legacy gifts, large donations and corporate partnerships will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by senior management and, where necessary, the Board of Trustees.

6. Use of Donations

Unless specified by the donor, all donations are treated as unrestricted and will be used where the need is greatest to support our services.
Where a donor requests that funds be directed to a specific project or purpose (i.e., restricted donations), we will honour this wherever feasible and ensure clear documentation of the terms. We are committed to using all donations efficiently and effectively to maximise impact.

7. Donor Recognition

We are grateful for all donations, large or small. Recognition may include:

• Thank-you letters or emails

• Named acknowledgements in publications or events (with donor consent)

• Certificates of appreciation or other tokens of recognition

We fully respect the wishes of donors who prefer to remain anonymous.

8. Confidentiality & Data Protection

We treat all donor information with the highest level of confidentiality and in accordance with the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018.
Donor data will never be sold, rented or shared with third parties without consent.

9. Refunds

Donation Policy October 2025 – v1 – last reviewed 2025
Donation Policy October 2025 – v1 – last reviewed 2025
In line with UK charity law, donations are generally non-refundable. In exceptional circumstances (e.g., error in amount or unauthorised transaction), refund requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis by senior staff.

10. Fundraising Practices

Murray’s Initiative is committed to ethical fundraising. We:

• Do not engage in aggressive or intrusive fundraising tactics

• Will never pressure or mislead potential donors

• Provide clear opportunities to opt out of communications or fundraising requests

All fundraising staff, volunteers and third parties representing Murray’s Initiative will be trained in responsible giving practices.

11. Monitoring & Review
This policy is reviewed every two years, or sooner if legislation or organisational needs require.

Contact Us
For any questions about this Donations Policy, or to discuss a gift or donation, please contact:

Murray’s Initiative
14 North Claremont Street 2nd Floor
Glasgow
G3 7LE