Information Request Form

The front of a commitment card is the vehicle that expresses the heart of giving; the Information Request form section is about the how of giving. It is used by church members who wish to request additional information on Gift Aid, standing orders, etc.

Planning Group members need to take a view on whether to make use of Information Request forms, or not. The Planning Group may feel that the routine procedures within their church (for managing recruitment to Gift Aid, planned giving and so on) are sufficiently robust to not require the use of Information Request forms. If the Planning Group does not have this level of confidence, then Information Request forms should be seriously considered.

• Information Request forms make it easy for people to respond. They can simply tick the box that reflects their interest and pass responsibility for action to the church.
• If Information Request forms are used, the church should be prepared to make personal follow up a priority. Don't use them if personal follow up cannot happen.
• The Information Request form would normally be added to the back of the commitment card, when required. However, they can be supplied as a separate document, if appropriate.
• Always use Information Request forms rather than lose the clarity of the message by including additional literature, such as Gift Aid declarations or legacy information leaflets. However, this may be a counsel of perfection for overstretched churches and inclusion of additional literature may be the only realistic option.
• The inclusion of specific additional literature could be justified as part of a particular strategy. By way of an example, imagine a church where the potential for standing order giving, particularly amongst tax efficient givers, is recognised. This group only, made up of both Core and Congregation, would receive a Standing Order form and nothing else with their letter and brochure.