Charity adverts

Some charity advertising campaigns are about raising awareness of important information, such as how to spot someone having a stroke or how to keep your heart healthy. Others are aimed at finding new supporters, who are vital to helping charities continue their work.

For some charities, TV advertising can be a cost-effective way of reaching many potential supporters. Charities normally go for cheaper slots during the daytime, rather than more expensive prime-time slots.

Sometimes charity adverts can be hard-hitting, but charities are always conscious of the viewer and think carefully about what they air. There are things happening in the world that people will feel uncomfortable about but part of charities’ role is to show things how they are and to shed a light on difficult problems. However, charities also make sure that they balance this with positive images of the people they help and show the difference their donors are making.

Charities’ TV and radio advertising is regulated by the Advertising Standards Authority, the charity Fundraising Regulator.