To help you decide whether or not to support a charity, here are some easy checks you can make.
Look for websites or blogs directly associated with the group or charity to gain an understanding of their aims, activities, volunteering opportunities and who runs the group. You can also find information by using Google or Yahoo; or search social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. YouTube may also provide information.
You can check if a body is registered as a charity in Scotland through the Scottish Charity Register, and in England and Wales with the Charity Commission. A registered charity will display a registration number.
If you are seeking further assurance about how your donations will be used or what will be required of you if you want to volunteer, you should contact the charity directly. If you are unable to find contact details, the charity’s Register entry will include a means of contacting the charity.