FAQs
What is My Garden for MS?
My Garden for MS is a great opportunity to invite people to an open day in your garden to share your enjoyment of it, whilst raising money to fund the vital work of the Multiple Sclerosis Trust.
What if my garden is small?
It doesn't matter. Any size of garden, from rolling acres to a small urban plot, can be interesting. Even if you don't have a garden yourself, you could encourage another family member, a friend or anyone else you know with a garden to host the event.
When should I open my garden?
Any time that suits you - whenever you think it looks at its best.
How do I get people to come?
Invite friends, family, colleagues, neighbours, and ask them to spread the word to other people they know. Put up posters in local shops or the library and talk to your local newspaper. They will usually advertise events in the community section for free.
How can I raise money?
Ask visitors to make a donation at the gate. You can also sell refreshments and plants, or decorated plant pots if you are artistic, or any other garden-related items that you can think of.
What do I do with the money I raise?
If you have one of our My Garden for MS event packs, use the donation form supplied and return it to us with the money you've raised. Otherwise, read our web page about sending in your donation.
What is Gift Aid? How does it work?
The Gift Aid scheme enables charities to reclaim the basic rate tax from HMRC on donations from UK taxpayers, at no extra cost to the donor. Gift Aid can make a big difference to the value of donations to the MS Trust, adding 25% extra. You might not want to ask everyone who comes to do this, but if anyone wants to give a large donation you could offer them a Gift Aid form. It is crucial that the donor fills in their own details on the form - you cannot do it for them as it needs to be a personal declaration from the donor. We will not add your donor's details to any mailing lists; the information provided will only be used for the Gift Aid claim.
What support can the MS Trust give me?
As well as all the tips you can find online here, our fundraising team are on hand to answer any further questions you may have. We can also provide any support materials you need such as posters, balloons, collecting boxes, gift aid forms etc. Call our team on 01462 476707 or email fundraising@mstrust.org.uk.
How do I get started?
Once you've read through all the open garden information just pick a date, decide how you want to ask guests for donations, advertise your opening times and get on with the weeding! Don't forget to let us know your planned date.
- To register your interest, please email our fundraising team, write to us at MS Trust, Spirella Building, Letchworth, Herts SG6 4ET or call our team on 01462 476700.
