Top tips for collectors

If this is your first time collecting for us, or even if you’re a pro, we’ve gathered some handy tips on how to prepare for the day and make the most of your collection.

Volunteer together

Look at how you can recruit other collectors, such as friends, family, or colleagues. We recommend doing this with at least one other person. It makes it more enjoyable and you’ll be doubly visible, have double the fun and might raise double the funds, too. You’ll probably be pleasantly surprised how, once you explain why you’re fundraising, people will be excited to get involved in one way or another.

Pick the perfect location

Pick a date and time for your charity collection. The venue you choose will be the most important factor in the success of your project. Think about footfall in the locations you’re considering. Think about places where a lot of people go or pass through. Popular choices are supermarkets, football grounds, and busy shopping streets.

Be prepared

Anticipate the weather turning nasty or nice: bring layers, waterproofs and, if needed, a hat and gloves. And don’t forget warm socks. If bad weather is forecast, see if there’s somewhere under cover you can stand.

Be approachable

Smile and make eye contact – people are more likely to approach you if you look friendly and as if you are having fun. Carry the collection permit in case anyone asks to see it. Put all donations into the collection tin. Putting money into a bag or pocket might concern people.

Licensing and policy

Speak to whoever’s responsible for the venue you would like to use, and check if there are any policies about collecting money for charity there.

You’ll need licensing. Plan for this in good time. It can take up to 6 weeks to get a licence from the council. Bring any necessary documentation you receive along with you when you’re collecting.

Keeping it safe and legal

It’s important that you are safe and legal while fundraising in aid of Group B Strep Support.

Get kitted out with buckets and bucket labels

Complete the form below to order your collection buckets and then we will be in touch with regard to additional materials and t-shirts to wear on the day.

Get snap happy and share your story

We’d love you to share your favourite collecting moments with us, so don’t forget to take some photos on your phone or camera. Post them on Facebook or Tweet us at @GBSSupport.

During your fundraising collection

Here are a few things you’ll want to do when you’re out collecting:

• Make sure you have the correct permissions to have your collection
• Make yourself as visible as possible
• Create a great impression with everyone, even if they don’t donate – they may next time!
• Say thank you to the venue and let them know how much you raised. They may let you in again!
• Know where to direct people
• Do not open your collection bucket unless you are authorised to do so.
• Do not shake your bucket or put any pressure on people to donate – it is illegal.
• Do not cause an obstruction.
• Stay happy and enthusiastic on the day, a smile goes a long way!
• Do not smoke or consume alcohol while collecting on our behalf.

After your collection 

There are a number of things to do once your bucket fundraiser itself is over:

• Bank your money as soon as you can and as safely as possible. Get two people to count it
• Send documentation back to any authorities that gave you licensing
• Send your bucket back and any unused kit. 
• Thank your volunteers and the venue that has given you space. Send out a thank you on social media to all who have donated. If your collection was at a supermarket, put up a message on their community board.

Pay in your fundraising 

Thank you for holding your collection. If you’re wondering how to pay in the collection money, you can do so in a number of ways. Take a look at our Paying in your fundraising page.