Charities have a crucial role to play in responding to the cost-of-living crisis, however they need the funds are resources to do so. To make sure every fundraiser has the tools and support necessary to navigate this incredibly difficult period, we are working with the rest of civil society to highlight the important work charities are doing, whilst also providing members much needed advice on how to adapt their fundraising.
We are working with other civil society organisations to highlight the important role charities play in supporting people through this crisis and make sure charities received the appropriate support from government. Following the letter I signed alongside other civil society Chief Executives, we are pleased to see that measures have been included in the government’s measures to support organisations. This is a promising first step but we know there is still more to be done.
Going forward, my colleagues will continue to work in partnership with civil society organisations to look at how together we can best support and stand up for our members. Together, we will share insights on the impact that the cost of living is having on charities across the UK and what it means for individuals, communities, and causes. As part of this, we are working together to launch a one of the biggest surveys the sector has seen in years to understand the impact of the crisis on charities and community groups.
Our membership team has been providing forums for organisational and individual members to connect, discuss the difficulties they are facing and explore opportunities to grow giving. We were also pleased to welcome NCVO in August who spoke specifically about the challenges small charities are facing and how to overcome them. Our next event for members is on 29th September, where Pro-Bono Economics will host a webinar on the impact of the crisis on charities and what this means for fundraisers.
Going forward, we will continue to provide events with first-class speakers to help members at every stage of their career and charities of all sizes strengthen their fundraising activities. To make this as accessible as possible, we are making it easier for new members to join our community, as well as developing support packages for retired fundraisers and new parents.
To find out more, please email membership@ciof.org.uk. And to keep up to date with all our upcoming events, the latest policy bulletins and resources and receive the member newsletter, please log in to your CIOF online account.
Our Cost-of-Living Crisis Hub brings together our most relevant guidance and resources to help fundraisers adapt their activities so they continue to generate income whilst providing a great supporter experience. This will include guest blogs from charities of different sizes and causes, each sharing how the crisis has impacted their activities and what advice they have for fundraisers in similar positions.
We want to keep speaking to members as the crisis continues to find the best way to support you and provide opportunities to share knowledge across the fundraising community. If you would like to be involved or have any insights to share in support of the community, please get in touch with policy@ciof.org.uk