A British association of fund raisers is asking its members to become whistle-blowers when it comes to unethical direct-mail solicitations.

According to Third Sector, a British publication about nonprofit groups, the Institute of Fundraising, in London, last week sent a message to its 5,000 members that asks them to tell the organization, even anonymously, about campaigns that violate its direct-mail code of conduct.

As part of its code, the institute encourages charities not to use “shock tactics,” limit the use of inserts and other items enclosed in the pitch letters, and not overwhelm potential supporters with mail.

Kevin Brennan, who oversees charities for the British government, had told the institute that poorly managed direct-mail efforts threaten to erode the public confidence in charities, reports Third Sector.

What do you think? Should American fund raisers play a similar role?