Sign up to E-News
Frequently asked questions
Is WDM a registered charity?
WDM is a limited company and hence is not encumbered by the rules that fetter the campaigning activities of charities. British charity laws currently impose restrictions on political activity by organisations with charitable status.
The law prohibits charities from having overtly political objectives, charities must exist for the public benefit and the Courts have consistently refused to determine whether a political object is for the public benefit or not. The definition of 'political purposes' is broad and includes campaigning for or against changes in the law or government policy.
Whilst much of WDM's work constitutes non-charitable political activity, its research and educational work clearly falls within the scope of permissible charitable activity. In order to retain freedom to campaign at a political level, yet enjoy the fiscal benefits of charitable status for its research and educational work, WDM has two distinct legal personalities: WDM Limited and WDM Trust.
What is the difference between WDM and WDM Trust?
The World Development Movement (WDM) was established in 1970 as a not-for-profit company, enabling us to take an uncompromising stance on some types of campaigning which are restricted under charity law.
You can support the campaigning work of WDM limited by becoming a member or donating online.
At the same time, WDM Trust was established as a registered charity, funding WDM's core work on research, public awareness and publications.
WDM Trust enables us to use charitable income from individuals, churches and charitable trusts to fund our research and education work, whilst leaving WDM free to campaign at a political level. The Trust funds the key research and publications which underpin our campaigns.
Through the WDM Trust, you can support WDM's work 'tax effectively' - if you are a UK tax-payer. This means that we can claim back from the Inland Revenue the tax you have already paid - making your gift worth 28% more at no extra cost to you. Find out more about supporting WDM Trust.
What is a Direct Debit?
WDM needs regular financial support to help us plan ahead in the fight for justice for the world's poor. A direct debit allows you to give a monthly donation of your choice, directly from your bank account, and allows us to cut our administration costs so that more of the money you give goes directly to our campaigning work.
Our Action magazine will also be delivered to your door, with campaign news you won't find in the papers. And you will have the satisfaction of knowing that your regular support is achieving real change.
What is CAF?
The biggest organisation offering charity giving accounts is the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF). You can make donations to WDM Trust using CAF Vouchers, CAF Charity Cards and CAF Standing Orders. You make a Gift Aid declaration to CAF who reclaim the tax and add it to your account, so you have more to give. You can also add to your account through payroll giving.
For more information about setting up a CAF account telephone 01732 520 000
How much are WDM membership fees?
£24 entitles you become a voting member of WDM for one year, or if you are unwaged it costs just £12.
As a member, you will receive a quarterly magazine Action, packed with news and background to our campaigning work
If you live overseas you can still become a member and receive Action magazine but the joining fee is £36 to cover the extra postage costs.
Print this page
