Gift Aid Essentials

Gift Aid is the easiest form of income diversification for charities — and it’s already yours, but many organisations still miss out this money. This session helps to make sure you don’t. 

Open to both NICVA members and non‑members, and suitable for registered charities, this in-person session begins with a clear overview of Gift Aid — what it is, how it works, and the practical steps and legal requirements your organisation needs to understand and have in place.

Working together through a range of practical, group activities, the session will also focus on the important role of donor education in helping your supporters see how their gift goes further at no cost to them and is one of the easiest ways they can support you. 

Agenda

1. What Gift Aid Is — and Why It Matters: A clear, practical overview of Gift Aid and the essentials every organisation needs to understand.
2. What Counts and What Doesn’t: Straightforward examples of which donations qualify for Gift Aid — and those that don’t.
3. What You Need in Place Before You Claim: The declarations, records, and supporter information that make Gift Aid claims smooth and compliant.
4. When and How to Claim Gift Aid: A practical walk‑through of claiming Gift Aid across regular donations, small donations, memberships, events, and community fundraising. We’ll demystify HMRC processes too.
5. Why Donor Education Closes the Gift Aid Gap:  A focused look at donor understanding, common misconceptions, and simple ways to help supporters feel confident about Gift Aid — especially in NI’s community‑based fundraising landscape.
6. Questions & Answers: Your chance to ask questions, find out more and get follow‑up guidance.

Facilitators:

• Jocelyn Horton, Fundraising Advice Officer, NICVA
• Tony Clarke, Clarke&Co. Accountants