The two organisations are using technology to make it easier for consumers to donate and find out more about charities via packaging and products.
Payroll and donations management organisation the Charities Trust has linked up with mobile payments platform Thyngs to boost smartphone giving among consumers during the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
The partnership has developed a free technology tool that enables brands to raise funds for charity when selling their products.
It works by helping consumers to donate while at home during the current lockdown, using smartphone-enabled adjustments to packaging and products to allow the collection of mobile payments for charities.
The move comes as leading charity organisations estimate the voluntary sector will lose £4.3bn of income over the next 12 weeks as physical donations from high street shops and collection tills dry up.
Dr Neil Garner, Thyngs Founder and CEO, said: “We’re entering a really difficult time for everyone, but for charities especially. We were shocked to hear the level of impact that charities may face and the charities that we work closely with have echoed this concern.
“This is why we are putting in our greatest efforts to ensure we help, alongside the Charities Trust.”
Euan Imrie Chief Operating Officer at Charities Trust, said: “At a time when all charities are facing unparalleled challenges to keep funds flowing in to maintain their charitable activities, we are pleased to be working alongside Thyngs, making the best use of current payment/donation technology to provide whatever assistance we can.”
Mobile giving
Businesses or fundraisers that sign up will receive a pack of interactive images with a unique QR code. These can then be applied to products, packaging and deliveries to create branded donation points.
Brands can also include near field communication (NFC) so consumers can tap their phone on a sticker to find out more about the good cause, as well as donate via Apple Pay, Google Pay or bankcard.
The Charities Trust will distribute funds and claim Gift Aid on behalf of the good cause.
Thyngs and Charities Trust will also be promoting the fundraising technology among large firms.
A Thyngs spokesperson added: “It’s free to setup and use for brands and fundraisers, however, there is a transaction fee to cover payments & processing costs on donations.
“Also, if a brand wanted to use NFC chips/sticker or do something bespoke like use the platform for additional services a charge would be incurred for that. But it’s important to note that the core charity service is free to setup and run aside from the processing fees.”