Dogs Trust launches debit card with fintech Currensea to boost donations
Dogs Trust, one of the UK’s largest animal welfare charities, has launched a debit card in partnership with Currensea, enabling members to make a charitable donation every time they spend at home or abroad, helping to raise vital funds for the charity to help dogs in need.
Using open banking, the new Dogs Trust by Currensea card links to existing bank accounts and will be available to anyone who wants to support Dogs Trust by choosing to donate to charities when they spend in the UK and abroad. Donations can be made by rounding up expenses to the nearest 50p or £1 in the UK, and also for expenses abroad.
Currensea allows users to save at least 85% – and up to 100% – on every transaction abroad by removing the normal fees charged by banks and other card providers, and Dog’s Trust supporters can donate some or all of these savings. For example, a user who spends $1,500 while visiting the US can choose to contribute 50% of their savings – which would equate to more than £20 – while still saving money.
All donations made using the new Dogs Trust by Currensea card will help the charity care for dogs in need of a loving home. The UK’s largest dog charity cares for around 14,000 dogs each year, and also provides support and guidance from training and behavior experts to dog owners who need a helping hand.
Owen Sharp, chief executive of Dogs Trust, said: “We have always been incredibly grateful to our supporters who enable us to be there for dogs and we understand that in the current climate donating to charity can be an extra financial stretch .Through the new Dogs Trust by Currensea card, our supporters have the opportunity to donate easily by rounding up their expenses, without having to push for a regular contribution.
“This new way of giving from small change will make a huge difference to dogs’ lives, ensuring we are here to offer the advice, training and support dog owners need to care for their dogs, and to help dogs in need of new homes .”
James Lynn, co-founder of Currensea, comments: “The cost of living crisis is putting pressure on charities like Dogs Trust – forcing desperate owners to give up their beloved pets due to financial struggles, while seeing existing donors reduce their donations. This partnership will be crucial in driving funding to support the charity’s welfare and rehabilitation work, while acting as a useful benefit for supporters ensuring they can both save money and donate to a cause they care about.
“As a nation we love our dogs – there are an estimated 12 million in the UK, so we know they hold a special place in the hearts of many. This is a great opportunity for dog lovers to support dogs in need through donations to the Dogs Trust, while saving money.
“Supporters can donate to Dogs Trust when they use their Currensea card at home and abroad – by rounding up UK transactions and donating part of the currency savings they make on overseas transactions. Importantly, as the card links directly to existing accounts, users can simply choose to donate savings to charity instantly and automatically. Partnering with Currensea’s powered by program is an innovative option for charities looking to increase engagement with their existing supporters, increase donations and attract donors.”
Dogs Trust is the latest charity to partner with Currensea’s unique ‘powered by’ programme, launched in Q4 2021, which allows charities to issue branded cards to supporters and boost donations. Other partners include:
• Royal Society of Medicine – a global membership organization with 20,000 healthcare professionals
• Royal Trinity Hospice – the oldest hospice in Great Britain
• St Martin-in-the-Fields Trust – which works with many of London’s most vulnerable communities
