Charity Commission for England and Wales CEO David Holdsworth has hailed Britain’s religious charities for a streak of raising money for noble causes. The Charity Commission CEO noted that charitable giving will surge in Ramadan and Lent, warning the public to remain cautious over rising scam incidents.
Ramadan and Lent spurs surge in charitable giving
According to a statement by the Charity Commission CEO, Britain’s faith communities are on course to raise impressive sums from nonprofits in the coming weeks. Holdsworth noted that the surge comes as Muslims brace for Ramadan and several Christians prepare to observe Lent.
Holdsworth disclosed that each year, millions of pounds go to charitable causes during Ramadan and Lent. Following the funds raised in previous years, Holdsworth confirmed that it powers funding for food banks, supports refugees, and provides clean water across the UK.
“Every year, millions of pounds are donated during Ramadan – a remarkable contribution that speaks to the deep-rooted traditions of zakat and sadaqah, and to the commitment of millions of people to help those in need,” said Holdworth.
As #Ramadan begins, we’re celebrating the extraordinary generosity of Britain’s Muslim community.
Read our CEO David Holdsworth’s blog thanking donors for their remarkable contributions and explaining how to give safely all year round: https://t.co/2D68HS2KFk
— Charity Commission (@ChtyCommission) February 17, 2026
Despite the expected increase in giving for charitable causes, the Muslim Charities Forum warned that nonprofits in the UK are staring at funding cuts in 2026. The forum warned that rising costs, slowing public donations, and growing demand for aid are putting a heavy burden on local charities.
Charity Commission CEO issues public advisory against scammers
As the non-profit sector braces for an increase in charitable giving linked to Ramadan and Lent, the Charity Commission CEO has issued a public advisory against bad actors. He warned that criminals will seek to take advantage of the season to receive donations for their fake charities.
In his advisory, Holdsworth noted that the bad actors operate like legitimate non-profits with realistic-looking websites and unsolicited messages requesting donations. To stifle the operations of scammers, Holdsworth confirmed a partnership with the Muslim Charities Forum and the Fundraising Regulator to raise public awareness for religious charity scams.
Holdsworth urged givers to confirm a charity’s registration status before donating. Furthermore, the Charity Commission added that individuals should remain wary of unsolicited messages and pay close attention to the Fundraising Badge on the websites of charities.
“Giving intentionally helps maximize spiritual reward and ensure donations make the greatest impact,” said Fadi Itani, CEO of the Muslim Charities Forum. “Checking a charity’s registration and how you donate helps support genuine, effective organizations.”
Meanwhile, the Charity Commission has opened investigations against several religious charities over financial impropriety in 2026.