Channel 4 News reports that Everything Everywhere has suspended its 10% handling charge for text message donations to charities. The company, which is responsible for the Orange and T-Mobile UK networks, says it's unlikely to reinstate the charge.

UK networks started cutting the costs of SMS donations in 2009, with O2 and Vodafone removing all admin charges last summer. This move was followed recently by Virgin Mobile and Three.

A number of blogs on the World of Difference programme - a charity-focussed initiative from The Vodafone Foundation - were taken over today by protesters from the UK Uncut action group. UK Uncut claims Vodafone has taken advantage of what it describes as "a £6 billion tax dodge".

The site has since been restored.

Vodafone UK has set up a commission-free text donation number for customers wishing to donate to the Red Cross New Zealand earthquake appeal.

UK Vodafone customers can make a £5 donation to the Red Cross by texting NZQUAKE to 70801. The donation will be taken from the customer's 'pay as you talk' credit or added to their 'pay monthly' bill.

The Vodafone Foundation has agreed a three-year partnership with with disaster relief agency Télécoms Sans Frontières. TSF specialises in bringing wireless communications to affected areas, helping humanitarian relief agencies coordinate their efforts and enabling displaced families to call their loved ones.

As well as giving TSF €1 million towards its costs, Vodafone will also provide the agency with equipment and technical support in emergency situations.

Vir2, which specialises in providing SMS and other mobile technology services for charities, has helped the Charities Aid Foundation launch a text donation service.