In today’s fast-changing world, places of worship such as mosques and churches are facing a new challenge — keeping up with the way people give. While the spiritual mission remains timeless, the tools used to support that mission must evolve. One technology making a significant impact in the UK is the Donation Tablet — also known as a Donation Terminal or Donation Kiosk — which allows worshippers to give using Tap to Pay and other cashless methods.
This article explores why every UK mosque and church should consider investing in a donation tablet, the benefits and trade-offs, the challenges in adoption, and the long-term impact on fundraising.
1. Understanding the Shift in Donation Habits
The first step in understanding why donation tablets are so essential is to look at how giving has changed.
Decline of Cash
Over the past decade, the UK has experienced a sharp decline in cash usage. According to UK Finance, cash now makes up less than 15% of all payments in the country. Worshippers who want to give often don’t carry coins or notes — especially younger generations who rely entirely on contactless cards or digital wallets.
Rise of Contactless Giving
Tap to Pay technology has become second nature to most people. Whether paying for groceries, travel tickets, or coffee, contactless is faster, safer, and more convenient. Applying this same principle to donations is a natural step forward.
2. What is a Donation Tablet?
A Donation Tablet (or donation terminal/donation kiosk) is a small, touchscreen device that enables people to give money electronically. It usually includes:
A contactless card reader for debit/credit cards and digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.).
A touchscreen display for selecting donation amounts.
Optional QR codes for mobile payments.
It’s designed to be placed in prominent, accessible areas within a mosque or church — such as the entrance, foyer, or fundraising desk.
3. Benefits of a Donation Tablet for Mosques & Churches
A. Increased Donations
When people don’t have cash but still want to contribute, a donation tablet removes the barrier. By offering Tap to Pay and other cashless options, you open the door for more spontaneous giving.
Example: A worshipper attending Friday prayers at a mosque or Sunday service at a church might feel inspired to donate but only has a contactless card — the donation tablet makes that possible instantly.
B. Convenience for Donors
Nobody likes the feeling of being unable to give because of payment limitations. A donation tablet offers:
Instant payment in under 10 seconds.
No need to queue for change or count coins.
Easy preset donation amounts (e.g., £5, £10, £20).
C. Secure & Transparent
Cash donations require counting, safekeeping, and banking — all of which involve human handling and potential security risks. A donation terminal processes payments directly to your bank, ensuring:
No risk of loss or theft.
Automatic record-keeping for transparency.
Easier reporting for charity compliance.
D. Adaptability for Campaigns
Donation kiosks can be customised with different campaigns — for example:
Ramadan fundraising drives.
Church renovation projects.
Emergency aid appeals.
Digital displays make it easy to update messages instantly without reprinting posters or banners.
4. Trade-Offs & Considerations
While the benefits are clear, it’s important to consider the trade-offs and plan for them.
A. Cost vs. Return
Donation tablets require an upfront investment and possibly a small monthly service fee.
However, in most cases, the increase in donations outweighs the cost within a few months.
B. Digital Literacy
Some elderly members may be less familiar with contactless giving.
Solution: Place volunteers nearby to guide them in using the terminal.
C. Maintenance & Internet Connection
Tablets require occasional software updates and a stable Wi-Fi or mobile network.
This means someone must take responsibility for monitoring and maintaining the device.
5. Challenges in Implementation
1. Overcoming Tradition
In some communities, physical cash giving is deeply tied to the spiritual experience. Leaders need to communicate that a donation tablet is an addition, not a replacement for traditional giving methods.
2. Technical Reliability
A donation terminal that stops working during a busy service can lead to missed opportunities. Choosing a reliable supplier with good support is crucial.
3. Awareness & Education
Not everyone will notice a donation kiosk the first time they visit. Using clear signage, announcements during services, and visible placement is essential for maximising use.
6. Tap to Pay: The Game Changer
The rise of Tap to Pay technology is perhaps the biggest reason donation tablets are succeeding in the UK. This method is:
Faster — No PIN entry for payments under £100.
Hygienic — Minimal contact compared to cash handling.
Familiar — Everyone from teenagers to pensioners now uses it daily.
Integrating Tap to Pay into a mosque or church removes friction from the giving process — and friction is the number one killer of potential donations.
7. The Local UK Perspective
Mosques
Many UK mosques rely heavily on Friday prayer donations and special fundraising during Ramadan.
Challenge: Worshippers often attend straight from work or during lunch breaks without carrying cash.
Solution: A donation tablet at the entrance ensures no missed opportunities.
Churches
Churches often collect donations during Sunday services or special events like weddings and Christmas services.
Challenge: Visitors and occasional attendees may not be prepared with cash.
Solution: Donation kiosks allow quick contributions from both regular members and guests.
8. Long-Term Impact on Fundraising
A. More Consistent Giving
Regular attendees may set a weekly habit of tapping their card before or after the service.
B. Broader Donor Base
Donation tablets make it possible for visitors, tourists, and occasional attendees to contribute — boosting total donations over time.
C. Data & Insights
Modern donation kiosks can track:
Which campaigns are most successful.
Peak times for giving.
Average donation amounts.
This data helps leaders make better fundraising decisions.
9. Tips for Successful Adoption
Place the Tablet Strategically
Put it in a high-traffic area where people naturally pass.Promote It Regularly
Announce it during services, put it in newsletters, and post signs.Offer Multiple Amount Options
Let people choose from small, medium, and larger donation amounts.Combine with Traditional Giving
Keep cash donation boxes for those who prefer it — but make the tablet the easier option.
10. Final Thoughts
In the UK, the way people give is changing — and mosques and churches that embrace this change will thrive. A Donation Tablet, Donation Terminal, or Donation Kiosk with Tap to Pay functionality is more than just a convenience — it’s a bridge between traditional giving values and modern financial habits.
By removing the limitations of cash, increasing security, and offering instant giving options, donation tablets can transform fundraising for places of worship. Yes, there are costs, training needs, and small technical challenges — but the benefits far outweigh these hurdles.
If your mosque or church wants to future-proof its fundraising, now is the time to consider adopting a donation tablet. In a world where fewer people carry cash, it might just be the most important investment you make this year.