Mobile Network Comparison

For-profit giving service JustGiving has redeemed itself a little by working with :Vodafone: to launch “the UK’s first free text donation service” called JustTextGiving. And about time too – in the past, mobile networks frequently scraped off huge percentages of donations to charity in service fees making the whole altruistic giving aspect a bit of a farce. Already, twenty one charities, including Cancer Research UK and the Anthony Nolan Trust, have signed up, but all of the Britain’s 184,000 charities can register to use their personalised six-character shortcodes or VICs (Vodafone Individual Code).

The service charges no set-up or running costs for charities, there are no network charges for people making donations. This means that and charities receive 100% of the amount donated (plus Gift Aid if applicable).

Vodafone is already supporting over 1,000 UK charities through its World of Difference programme. It is also investing £5 million to provide support for charities in publicising their new codes with an online pack offering free marketing materials and advice.

It’s just a shame that JustGiving make money off other people’s donations in their regular service while Vodafone make money off oppressive dictators and rip-off UK taxpayers.

Still, let’s hope that JustTextGiving takes off.