Ripple Effect

Regular gift

Start a ripple today so families in rural Africa can fight hunger and the climate crisis.

FAQs

Why am I being asked to cover a processing fee when I donate online?

When you donate online, you’ll see a tick box giving you the option to cover the processing fee. This small additional cost helps ensure that your full intended donation goes directly towards Ripple Effect’s work, rather than being reduced by transaction fees.

Do I have to cover the fee?

No — covering the fee is entirely optional. If you choose not to, Ripple Effect will cover the processing cost ourselves. Either way, we are deeply grateful for your support.

How do I opt out of covering the fee?

The donation form includes a tick box that is pre-selected. To opt out of covering the fee, simply untick this box before completing your donation. Your donation will still be processed, and Ripple Effect will receive the full amount you chose to give.

How do you determine the fee?

The donation form is powered by Blackbaud, a trusted platform we use to securely process online donations. The transaction fee is set by Blackbaud and may vary depending on the donation amount. Ripple Effect does not set or receive any part of this fee.

We continually review our platforms to ensure we are using the most effective and cost-efficient systems available, while keeping your donations secure and easy to make.

Why is this option included?

This approach gives you the choice: you can choose to cover the fee if you’d like your full gift to go towards our work, or opt out and allow Ripple Effect to pay the processing cost on your behalf. This flexibility helps us continue making the best use of the donations we receive while respecting each donor’s preference.

Can I donate in a different way if I prefer?

Absolutely. If you’d rather not use the online form, we’re always happy to take donations over the phone. Just call our team on 01225 874222 / 01225 688222 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm), and we’ll be glad to help.

I want to make a regular gift. What’s the difference between a recurring card payment and a Direct Debit?

A recurring card payment is taken from your debit or credit card each month, while a Direct Debit is taken directly from your bank account.

Direct Debits are often more reliable for long-term giving as they are not affected by expired or replaced cards.

Can I choose the date my regular gift is taken?

Yes. When setting up a regular gift online, you can choose the date of your first payment and your ongoing monthly payment date.

Can I change or cancel my regular gift?

Yes. You can change or cancel your regular donation at any time by contacting us or using this form: Ripple Effect | Regular Giving change.

To help us process your request in time, please give at least 5 working days’ notice before your next payment date - this may differ if you made a regular gift by post or phone so please give us as much time as possible to make any changes.

Is there a cost to Ripple Effect if a payment fails or I cancel my Direct Debit without telling you?

If a Direct Debit payment fails after being requested, Ripple Effect may be charged a £5 bank fee.

To help avoid unnecessary costs, we encourage supporters to let us know as early as possible if they need to make changes or cancel their gift.

Is Direct Debit safe?

Yes. Direct Debits are protected by the Direct Debit Guarantee, which means you are fully protected by your bank or building society.

Can I set up a Direct Debit another way?

Yes, if you don't want to set it up online then you can contact our Supporter Care team who can set it up for you over the phone or send you a form in the post to return. Please do get in touch with the contact details below.