In October 2011, PFRA introduced new rules for doorstep face-to-face fundraising. As with the new rules on street F2F that came into force in August 2011, these rules – published in the PFRA Rule Book (Door) – are binding on all PFRA members.
Much of the content of the doorstep Rule Book mirrors the street Rule Book, but omits rules that pertain exclusively to street fundraising, such as the three-step rule. New rules specifically about doorstep F2F are:
- Fundraisers ought always knock or ring at a property’s main entrance and not use side entrances or back doors, unless a resident gives permission to do so
- Fundraising may only take place between 9am and 9pm (10am on Sundays and public holidays) unless fundraisers have permission to visit outside these hours
- Fundraisers should take extra care when calling once darkness has fallen so as not to cause alarm or distress to householders.
The Rule Book does not replace or supplant the Institute of Fundraising’s code of practice and PFRA members should always read in conjunction with the IoF code of practice as they will not be able to gain a full understanding of their responsibilities from reading the Rule Book alone. PFRA members must be fully cognisant with the underlying IoF code of practice.
There will be a six month review of the operation of the rule book.
PFRA’s penalty points regime also applies to the new doorstep F2F rules. This is explained in the relevant section on the website.