Giving FAQ

How do I make a contribution?
It’s easy. You can make a donation from anywhere in the world using PayPal.

Or use your mobile phone to donate up to £10 via JustTextGiving. Simply text BEAG00 £5(or £10) to 70070.

If you would like to make a regular donation, contact support@hmsbeagleproject.org.uk.

You can also help by purchasing HMS Beagle Project goods from our online shop. A percentage of all proceeds goes towards Project efforts.

Where does my contribution go?
The new Beagle will be funded mostly by corporate and foundation sponsors, who can make large working sums available at critical project development stages. You are welcome to join this effort, but individual, business, and foundation gifts are also critical to support core project costs. In particular, we are raising money to fund:

  • staff (both overhead and outreach)
  • learning and science programmes and materials
  • scholarships for participating students from underprivileged backgrounds

Can I choose a specific part of the project to support?

Yes, the HMS Beagle Trust allows donors to select specific parts of the project to support through Paypal. However, the HMS Beagle Trust may use any directed donation for other purposes.

Can I donate through my workplace?
The HMS Beagle Trust does not currently operate a payroll giving scheme. If you want to explore this option, please contact support@hmsbeagleproject.org.uk. You can find out more about payroll giving schemes in general from the Payroll Giving Centre.

Is my contribution tax-deductible?
Yes, if you are a UK taxpayer. The HMS Beagle Project is managed by the HMS Beagle Trust, a registered UK charity (Reg No: 1126192, Reg Office: Yelverton House, St John Street, Whitland, Wales, SA34 0AW.

We have also established a charitable foundation in Chile, which will accept tax-deductible donations there, and are investigating 501(c)3 non-profit status in the US. If you’d like to find out more contact support@hmsbeagleproject.org.uk.

What is Gift Aid?
If you are a UK taxpayer, Gift Aid increases the value of your donation by allowing us to reclaim basic rate tax on your gift, usually 20%, so if you give £100 and agree to Gift Aid, the charity receives £125. If you pay higher rate tax you can claim extra relief on your donations. If you claim age-related allowances or tax credits, Gift Aid donations can sometimes increase your entitlement. All you need to do is agree to participate. For more information, please visit HM Revenue & Customs.

What if I don’t live in the UK?
You can still donate via PayPal, but your gift won’t be tax-deductible.

How often will you contact me?
You will receive a receipt from PayPal and an official tax receipt from The HMS Beagle Trust via email. We hope you’ll want to keep in touch, but we will not be sending frequent fundraising requests.