Stay Safe: School Event Scams During Christmas

School charities work very hard to raise money for their schools, provide fun activities and opportunities for children and build upon community spirit. Over years trusted relationships are built and sadly this is threatened as we lead up to Christmas.

One of the largest events for our school which covers both aspects of our charity goal is our Christmas Fair which has unfortunately already been tainted by scammers trying to cash in on small local businesses and charities who would want to attend the event.

We want to bring this to everyone’s attention to ensure that people consider what they’re signing up to when they come across opportunities online.

Social media is an amazing way for us to publicise our events and connect with our school community, but it would be naïve of us to think the pro’s don’t also come with some cons – scammers being the biggest.   

Christmas should be a time of giving and support, not feeling like you need to be guarded. But as we all know this is something which rears its ugly head each year. So our message is whilst the festive season is quickly approaching, enjoy everything your local area has to offer, but also keep your wits about you.

For small businesses and charities, we know how vital it is to sign up to the correct event, and we want to be sure that local vendors feel safe working with us and other local schools.

5 tips to selecting the school to work with:

1. If you come across an event you are interested in, find the source of the event before contacting the person who shared it online, especially if you don’t know them.
2. If they ask for money upfront or into a personal account without any vetting of your business, do not engage with them, this is a massive red flag.
3. Contact the school or business directly to confirm the details of the event. This will put your mind at ease and the school can also give you the correct details of the event organisers.
4. There will be a number of events open to you to exhibit at. Whilst, of course you want eyes on your business, consider if it’s the right audience for you.
5. If it doesn’t feel right – walk away

We hope all local schools have a successful festive season and raise lots of money for their charities. Don’t let the atrocious actions of a few affect the impact you have on your community.

For full information on Parkwood Schools Association Christmas Fair, please contact us directly.