We have put together a simple summary (below) of some of the things that retailers could consider when responding to the war in Ukraine, based on conversations with members about actions currently being taken, both in terms of the impact on products, and finding legitimate sources to donate to.
For updates about the impact on food and drink, the Food and Drink Federation have resources available at https://www.fdf.org.uk/fdf/what-we-do/trade/ukraine-crisis/#signup . For any concerns about other issues in store relating to the war in Ukraine, please get in touch with us.
An easy way to support the humanitarian appeal in Ukraine is to donate to the Disasters Emergency Committee. Donations can be made directly here: https://donation.dec.org.uk/ukraine-humanitarian-appeal
You may want to consider displaying a poster that makes it simple for customers to donate.
If you would like to donate to a different charity that is supporting the humanitarian effort in Ukraine, you can check to ensure that they are on the register of charities here: https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search
If you are fundraising by holding an event, you can download a form to help ensure that donations benefit from Gift Aid. The Gift Aid sponsorship form is available here: https://dechelp.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/208243725-Gift-Aid-Sponsorship-Form-for-Community-Events
Gift Aid is a government scheme that allows charities to reclaim the tax you have paid on your donation at no extra cost to you. If you are a UK taxpayer, the value of your gift can be increased by 25% under the Gift Aid scheme at no extra cost to you. This means a donation of £10, for example, could be worth an extra £2.50 to the charity.
Routes to Donate Food to Ukraine
Working with the government we have identified three main routes for businesses wanting to contribute food and essentials to Ukraine and to refugees near the border. These are: CBI, Ukraine Embassy and the UN. Members can contact these organisations direct. DEFRA are consolidating lists of products that are particularly needed.
