Give shares to Aid to the Church in Need (UK)

Why Donating Shares Is a Powerful Way to Give

Gifting shares (or other securities) to ACN is a highly tax-efficient and deeply impactful way to support persecuted Christians and suffering communities around the world. By transferring publicly traded shares directly, you can maximise the value of your gift and make a real difference — without triggering capital gains tax.

Tax Benefits in the UK

• When you donate shares directly to a registered UK charity, you do not pay Capital Gains Tax on any increase in value.
• You can also claim Income Tax relief on the full market value of the donated shares.
• These tax benefits apply when your shares or securities are “qualifying investments” — for example, those listed on a recognised stock exchange, units in authorised unit trusts, or shares in open-ended investment companies (OEICs).
• You should keep a record of the transfer (e.g., a signed transfer form) and note the value of the shares on the date you donated, for HMRC purposes.

How to Donate Shares to ACN

1. Contact ACN UK - 
Let us know of your intention to gift shares so we can provide you with our broker details, share-transfer form, and other relevant information.

Email: [email protected]/ Phone: 020 8642 8668

2. Speak to Your Broker or Financial Advisor - 
Provide them with ACN’s share donation details so they can initiate a securities transfer. Your broker may ask you to complete a “Letter of Direction” or a transfer form.

3. Transfer the Shares -
Once instructed, your broker will transfer the shares to ACN’s brokerage account.

4. We Sell the Shares -
After ACN receives the securities, we will typically sell them at market value. The proceeds will be used for our vital work: pastoral care, rebuilding, catechesis, emergency relief, and more.

5. Receive a Tax Receipt -
After the transfer, we will issue you with a receipt showing the market value of the shares on the date of the gift. Use this when claiming relief on your Self-Assessment.

What Your Gift Supports

Your generosity makes a real, tangible difference. Through your gift of shares, ACN can:
 

• Provide emergency aid to Christians in conflict zones
• Rebuild churches, convents, and community centres
• Train and support priests and religious sisters
• Supply catechetical materials and faith formation resources
• Support missionaries in remote and oppressed regions

Important Things to Know for UK Donors

• Gift Aid does not apply to gifts of shares.
• The value for Income Tax relief is the market value of the shares on the transfer date.
• Maintain clear documentation: keep a signed copy of the transfer form and note the value/date of transfer for your records.
• If you’re unsure about your tax situation, you may want to consult a tax adviser or financial planner.

Sample Wording for Your Broker or Adviser

“Please transfer [number] shares of [company / fund name] from my account to the charitable securities account of Aid to the Church in Need UK. This is a gift to charity.”

Contact Us

We’re here to help you make this process as smooth as possible. Whether you have a question about setting up the transfer, the tax implications, or anything else — feel free to reach out. 

Email: [email protected]/ Phone: 020 8642 8668
 

Thank you for considering a gift of shares. Your generosity empowers ACN to serve vulnerable Christians and support faith communities around the world — and your gift can go further thanks to its tax-efficient structure.