Useful information – June 2023

Events, training, charity news, surveys, research, feedback, reports, services and much more – in one handy place!

This page will be updated with new information as we receive it during June. Please check back regularly. (Last update: 23/06/23 – items added on this date are marked as [NEW])

You can view last month’s Useful Information here to catch up on new information added during May ’23.

If you’ve seen something you think we should be sharing, let us know! Email us: info@cumbriacvs.org.uk


Training and Events

Eden Dementia Friendly Communities Partnership – Launch Event

19 July – Penrith. Free drop-in event for people living with #dementia and their #carers with information stalls, talks, and a Dementia Friends Information Session.

Click on the thumbnail image for more information.

 

NAVCA Health and Wellbeing Forum

28 June, online. Join NAVCA for their next Health and Wellbeing Forum to share ideas and discuss current issues in the health and wellbeing field.

Prior to the meeting, they would like you to say what’s most important to you, so that the agenda and discussions can be valuable and member-driven.

Find out more and book here

 

Bid-Writing for Charities and Community Groups Course

Tuesday 25 July & Tuesday 1 August, online. Get Grants Online Bid-Writing Course will give you practical support to improve your grant fundraising success and inspire you to become a more confident grant fundraiser.

In attending our course, you will access expert insights, crucial information, and friendly advice that will help you increase your organisation’s income through grant funding.

 

Bid Writing in Sports & Physical Activity Workshop

Thursday 20 July, online. The Workshop is a two-hour online session aimed at organisations who are delivering sports and physical activity projects who are interested in growing their grant fundraising confidence and increasing their income through grant funding.

The workshop aims to benefit fundraisers with all levels of experience looking to hone their grant fundraising skills, as well as those who are looking to write their first application and don’t know where to begin.

 

Major Donor Fundraising Course

Tuesday 11 July & Tuesday 18 July, online. The Major Donor Fundraising Course offers a comprehensive overview of the major donor fundraising process and includes practical examples for you to apply to your organisation.

Major gifts fundraising is an income stream with one of the highest returns on investment and has been identified, along with legacies, as areas of fundraising growth for the coming years. For many fundraisers, major donor fundraising is out of their comfort zone. But don’t let the phrase ‘major gift’ scare you off! It is hugely beneficial for organisations to build major gifts programmes that fit their size and capacity.

 

Using Data to Increase Fundraising Success Course

Tuesday 11 July & Tuesday 18 July, online. This course will aid you in incorporating freely available data, simple analysis, monitoring, and evaluation into your fundraising efforts.

You will learn the importance including a range of data in your funding applications and implementing effective project monitoring & evaluation to improve your chance of fundraising success.

Find out more and book here

 

Trusts & Foundations Fundraising Course

Monday 3 July & Monday 10 July, online. Get Grants’ Trusts and Foundations Fundraising Course will equip you with the techniques and practices you need to increase your organisation’s income through Trusts and Foundations fundraising.

This course supports attendees to establish, deliver, and manage an effective Trusts and Foundations fundraising programme that works for your organisation.

 

Webinar: How to write for social media

17 August. In this webinar, explore what makes great writing for social media, how to find your “why”, how to inspire people into action, why accessibility remains important, and how to make your copy clear, concise, impactful, and inclusive.

 

VCSE Alliance Webinar – Embedding and Sustaining VCSE Partnerships

Weds 21 June, online. “VCSE partnerships should be embedded in how the ICS operates, including through involvement in governance structures, in population health management and service redesign work, in system workforce, leadership and organisational development plans” – NHSE ICS Implementation guidance.

This webinar aims to share learning on the topic of embedding and sustaining VCSE partnerships, identifying strategies and enablers and drawing on the experience of case studies.

Find out more and book here

 

Webinar: Nonprofit journeys toward digital transformation

28 June 2023. Discover the advantages of digital transformation, the possible challenges organisations may face, and how they can define their digital needs and areas where transformation is most advisable.

Find out more and book here

 

Introduction to Community Energy

22 June, Online. Join this online session on community energy from Ewan Boyd of Teesdale Environmental Consulting (TEC Ltd.) and VONNE’s Going Green Together programme, for a detailed and practical introduction to community energy.

This introductory session will cover the options available, where to begin, what the process involves, and how to make the most of community energy schemes. All voluntary, community, and social enterprises from the North East and Cumbria are invited to this session, which will involve a presentation followed by a chance to ask questions.

Find out more and book here

 

Dyslexia Awareness In The Workplace

15 June, Online. This free webinar from the British Dyslexia Association is aimed at employers and employees of dyslexic adults.

In this webinar, we’ll talk about the best ways to support yourself or your employee, including understanding the basics of what dyslexia is, workplace assessments, examples of reasonable adjustments and how the BDA can help and support you.

Find out more and book here

 

The future of population and migration statistics

On 29 June, the Office of National Statistics (ONS) will be launching a public consultation on their proposals for a transformed population and migration statistics system. Understanding the needs of all users will be essential in gathering evidence and creating a recommendation for Government.

To discuss the consultation and help you getting involved, they’re holding a series of tailored webinars, with voluntary, community and equalities representatives invited to attend on 12 July.

 

Celebrating Small Charity Week with Cranfield Trust

The Cranfield Trust are delighted to be collaborating with NCVO for this year’s Small Charity Week to deliver much needed support to small social welfare charities across the UK.

During the week, the trust will be specifically running two Charity Contact Days giving access to their popular On Call service for free, immediate help, advice and guidance. Appointments with team experts will be available on 20 and 21 June 2023 where you can ask questions on topics like financial planning, strategy, digital, governance and more.

 

Online Safety Digital Conference: Keeping Children Safe Online

Monday 25 September, 2023. The internet is an increasingly large part of children and young people’s daily lives, with 12–15 year-olds spending on average 20 hours a week online. Despite progress in technologies to keep children safe, the Internet Watch Foundation found 255,588 reports of online child sexual abuse in 2022 alone. Increases in peer-on-peer abuse online is also impacting young people’s mental health.

As we await the passing of the landmark Online Safety Bill, join Westminster Insight’s timely Online Safety Conference. Chaired by Susie Hargreaves OBE, CEO of the Internet Watch Foundation, we will explore what the future holds for the Bill with representatives of the UK Council for Internet Safety, Ofcom, and the National Crime Agency (NCA) Protect and Prepare Board.

Find out more and book here

 

Classic/Vintage Vehicle Show

Saturday 12 August, 2023. Maryport Rotary Club are holding their second Classic/Vintage Vehicle Show following last year’s very successful at Netherhall Rugby Club CA15 6NT from 10.00 am. All local charities are invited to bring a stall, stand, tent, marquee etc to raise funds for themselves FREE OF CHARGE.

As last year, this is the same day as the “Taste of the Sea Festival” so there will be crowds of people in town and Workington Heritage Transport will again be running Vintage buses around the town and out to the Rugby Club – again FREE OF CHARGE. There will be no clash with the “Taste of the Sea” since they concentrate on food. Admission to the public is £2.50 for adults, Children free.

Click on the thumbnail to view a poster for the event, and click here to download an entry form

 

Webinar: How to maintain fundraising revenue when times are tough

22 June. Learn how to identify what type of fundraising products you need and how to build them, how to understand your donor behaviour, and the ins and outs of paid digital marketing strategies.

Find out more and book here

 

Week of Action for Free School Meals for All

The Week of Action for Free School Meals for All will take place in the last week of June (Saturday 24 — Friday 30). It is a mix of national coordinated action, local activities and press moments that draw on the experience and expertise of this coalition to show the far ranging impact of Free School Meals for All.

Each day will have a different thematic focus, which ensures everyone has an opportunity to take part. The Week of Action will culminate with a major hand-in moment where the organisers will deliver an open letter, launched in September, to the Prime Minister at Downing Street.

Read more about how to get involved in this campaign here

 

Webinar: How charities can access free tech

6 July. This webinar will show you the best places to find completely free tech, the best discounted tech options on the market, the best free advice and support, the best free resources, and some digital life hacks that can save you money.

 

Webinar: Why your charity should embrace agile working

20 July. In this webinar, Charity Digital define Agile working and show precisely how it can benefit your organisation, including some best practice tips to get your started.

Find out more and book here

 

North of England criminal justice forum

28 June, Online. This criminal justice forum has been organised to bring together partners working across the criminal justice system in the North of England. The forum will provide an opportunity for people to hear about current and future developments and discuss policy and practice affecting their day-to-day work.

At this event, Craig Robson will present information about the Making Every Contact Count approach and training opportunities. A representative from the North West Probation team will provide an update about their commissioning plans for 2023/24.

Register for North CJS Forum

 

Harnessing the power of AI in charity communications

22 June 2023, online. AI is becoming an integral part of our daily lives. So, how is it changing the game in the world of charity communications?

AI offers charity marketing and communications professionals, a wide range of tools and capabilities to help analyse data, automate processes, produce content and create more personalised experiences. But there are serious ethical considerations and possible pitfalls to consider too.

Find out more and book here

 

Charity Brand and Creative Conference

13 July 2023, Online. Brand is more than a logo. Brand is your charity’s whole identity – its heart, soul and DNA. Brand conveys what your charity stands for, what (and how) it plans to deliver, and why it exists.

This conference will explore the important strategic and creative building blocks that make a strong brand. It will provide space for you to think about where to take your brand next. And it will share why brand matters and how you can make the case internally for investment in this area.

Find out more and book here

 

Barrow’s Heritage – Micro to Mighty Launch Event

Tuesday 13 June. A new programme to support heritage work in Barrow will be launched at Barrow Town Hall.

‘Barrow’s Heritage – Micro to Mighty’ will see Westmorland and Furness Council award grants of between £200 and £3,000 to groups and organisations to support heritage-related projects.

Find out more here

 

Webinar: The future of non-profit marketing — preparing for AI

8 June. Recent media coverage around artificial intelligence (AI) may be leaving charities both cautious and excited about the opportunities at hand.

But, despite the changing state of AI and the constant flow of new tools, charities are already taking advantage of AI, using machine learning and CRM data to improve donor experiences, gain insights into supporter behaviour, and streamline donor journeys. In this webinar with Salesforce.org, Charity Digital  share practical advice and simple ways that charities can use AI today to maximise their impact.

Find out more and book here

 

Doctor of Business Administration Information Webinar

Thursday 1 June, Online. Learn about University of Cumbria’s Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) which will equip you with the knowledge, skills and capability to undertake independent research within your professional context.

In a supportive and stimulating environment you will be led by research specialists as you widen your own expertise and gain knowledge that can transform your career, organisation and those around you.

Find out more and book here

 

Barrow Summer Events

Details of events happening in and around Barrow Town Centre from May through to October can be found in this new leaflet.

Hard copies are available from The Forum, Leisure Centre, Children’s Centres and local shops etc. If you would like any hard copies please pop into the Forum.

 

Virtual Fundraisers Networking

Thursday 29 June/Monday 24 July. These friendly sessions involve a Get Grants Expert providing an update on the current grant fundraising landscape, before facilitating discussions about how the grant fundraising world continues to change, and what opportunities and challenges this presents to you as fundraisers.

Find out more and book here

 

Storytelling for Fundraising Training Course

Tuesday 20 June & Tuesday 27 June. Get Grants Online Storytelling for Fundraising Training Course is designed to support fundraisers to improve their fundraising confidence and success through effective use of storytelling.

Telling stories is a powerful tool that is too often overlooked. Stories are used to engage, inform, persuade, and create connections between people. As a fundraiser, storytelling is a valuable skill that can be used to influence your potential supporters and maximise on your fundraising efforts.

 

Furness Carers – Carers Champion Training and Health and Wellbeing Information Event

Furness Carers would like to invite you to book with us on two events we will be hosting as part of our Carers Week Programme of Activities 2023, please find attached invitations including details for Carers Champion Training (Tues 6 June) and Health and Wellbeing Information event (Fri 9 June).

 

Great Big Green Week launches campaign film

Great Big Green Week takes place between 10 and 18 June. Thousands of people will take part in events organised across the country in a united stand towards a cleaner and greener future. Watch and share the new campaign film to inspire as many people as possible to get involved and show decision makers that action must be taken to tackle climate change now.

If you want to plan your own event to engage stakeholders and communities in tackling climate change and protecting nature, you can download event guidelines here.

 

The Future of UK Charities

20 June, Online. Public Policy Exchange are hosting a webinar, The Future of UK Charities: Responding to the Charities Act & Ensuring Sustainability During a Cost-of-Living Crisis to assess existing legislation affecting the charity sector and identify key challenges facing charities in the UK.

In addition, the event will evaluate the Charities Act 2022, examine the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on charities and discuss the support provided by government. Attendance costs are discounted for not-for-profit organisations.

Find out more and book here

 

Fundraising with Digital Marketing

Wednesday 7 June, Online. Beginners responsible for developing donors who are seeking to develop their practical digital marketing expertise and knowledge, this course will help you better understand the media available and how to adapt your messages to maximise the returns from each channel.

Find out more and book here

 

Community Fundraising Course

Wednesday 7 June & Wednesday 14 June. Community Fundraising is one of the oldest, best known, and most resilient forms of fundraising.

As well as a fantastic source of unrestricted income, Community Fundraising is a great way to build your supporter and volunteer networks and awareness of your work.

Find out more and book here

 

Management for Fundraisers Training Course

Tuesday 6 June & Tuesday 13 June. As organisations and fundraising teams grow, some fundraisers find themselves moving into management positions. Learn how to build confidence and develop the new skills required to help your fundraising team reach their potential.

Find out more and book here

 

Corporate Fundraising Course

Tuesday 6 June & Tuesday 13 June. Increasing your knowledge of Corporate Fundraising will help you to develop new business relationships and diversify your organisation’s potential income.

In doing so, you have the potential to increase your organisation’s financial sustainability, aiding you in meeting your organisation’s objectives.

Find out more and book here

 

Award in the Importance of Resilience & Grit Entry 3

Thursday 8 June, for 6 weeks at Kendal Library.

  • Learn ways to be strong and adaptable in the face of uncertainties
  • Discuss ways to remain positive and determined
  • Manage setbacks and stay focused on results

More information in the attached document

 

Engine Lonning Discovery Day

Saturday 3 June. Go ‘wild’ in your local woodland! Explore the nature and history on your doorstep with drop-in, free activities and taster sessions throughout the day.

Click on the thumbnail image for more information.

 

Fundraising Convention 2023

3-4 July, QEII Centre. Fundraising Convention is the largest in-person event for fundraising professionals in the UK, and the one time of year, we meet as a sector to feel part of a community that will support and empower us. This year’s Fundraising Convention theme is Connection.

We will provide a space to imagine what could be possible, a place to be inspired, discover the latest trends, learn best practices and network with others who understand the challenges and opportunities that a job in fundraising brings. It is a learning opportunity not to be missed.

Find out more and book here

 

Carbon literacy training for voluntary groups & social enterprises

21 & 28 June 2023. Take your organisation on its first steps to environmental sustainability by joining Cumbria Action for Sustainability’s accredited carbon literacy course. Half-price subsidised places are now available for employees and volunteers from organisations in Cumbria.

The course, hosted on Zoom, will give you the facts about the latest climate science. You’ll come away with the skills to calculate your carbon footprint and see where you can make improvements to reduce it. You’ll also explore the kinds of actions needed to put those improvements in place – in your organisation, community or at home.

Find out more and book here

 

Fundraising Convention 2023

3-4 July, London and online. Thinking of attending virtually? This year we are delighted to offer both in-person and virtual tickets for Fundraising Convention 2023. As a virtual attendee, you will access quality content specifically programmed for you to experience online. Across two days our virtual programme includes live plenary talks, interactive virtual workshops, speaker interviews and more.

When you attend Fundraising Convention 2023 you’ll be joined by hundreds of professional fundraisers from incredible charities across the UK, including RNLI, Dementia UK, East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices and St. John Ambulance.

 

Get Grants free introduction workshops

Following the success of Get Grants 10th Anniversary events, we are pleased to announce the return of our FREE Introduction Workshops! These workshops provide a taster session, filled with top tips and advice, of each of our training courses.

Thursday 8 June: Introduction to Major Donor Fundraising Workshop

Thursday 22 June: Introduction to Trusts & Foundations Workshop

Thursday 6 July: Introduction to Individual Giving Workshop

Tuesday 25 July: Introduction to Corporate Fundraising Workshop

Friday 29 September: Introduction to Using Data in Fundraising Workshop

Tuesday 10 October: Introduction to Storytelling in Fundraising Workshop

Friday 10 November: Introduction to Fundraising Strategy Workshop

 

Free MS awareness training

Wednesday 26 July, Wednesday 27 September, Wednesday 29 November. Are you a community-based professional or volunteer? Do you work in health or social care? Do you work for a charity, community voluntary organisation or social enterprise? Are you an employer looking to know more about multiple sclerosis (MS)?

We are hosting free MS awareness training sessions for you. Due to demand, additional dates are available.

Find out more and book here

 

Meet the Funder Events

Dates through until September’23. There has never been a greater need for fundraisers to get-together and share knowledge and experience. Get Grants FREE Virtual Events bring fundraisers across the UK together to share experiences and connect with other fundraisers.

In our popular Meet the Funder Virtual Events, Get Grants Funding Experts are joined by funders to talk about their funding programmes. These events give attendees the opportunity to speak directly to funders, take part in discussions, get unique insights, and ask questions specific to their project or organisation.


VCFSE News and Information

How to write an environmental strategy

It’s clear that we all need to take action to combat climate change. But how can charities organise themselves to improve their environmental impact?

Read the article here

 

Regulator explains lack of trustee diversity reporting requirements

The Charity Commission has explained why it has yet to introduce requirements for charities to report the diversity of their trustees.

A report commissioned by the regulator in 2017 called Taken on Trust recommended that the Commission should require all charities with an annual income in excess of £500,000 to report the diversity of their board of trustees in their annual return.

Read the full article here

 

Making websites more accessible could boost donations by £65m, charities told

The charity sector is potentially missing millions in online donations because of “poor website accessibility”, according to new research.

A recent OnePoll survey of 600 neurodivergent and physically disabled adults in the UK shows that nearly half of the respondents have been put off making online donations due to their needs not being met online.

Read the full article here

 

How trustees can drive digital

Explore how charity boards can manage digital transformation internally, from monitoring risk to developing skills.

 

Charities have ‘growing sense of worry’ about banking services, warns regulator

The Charity Commission has urged banks to take action to prevent existing banking issues faced by charities from “being prolonged any further”.

Speaking at an All-Party Parliamentary Group on Charities and Volunteering event, the regulator said that individual banks need to “step up their levels of customer service” and better understand the nuances and diversity within the charity sector.

Read the full article here

 

HMRC Charity Newsletter

HMRC published their first charity newsletter this month with advice on the future of Gift Aid, guidance updates and a charity compliance consultation.

Read the full newsletter and sign up to receive future email alerts here.

 

What you need to know about Charity Tax

There have been a number of key developments in the charity tax world that VCSE organisations should be aware of. Get all the latest developments in the Charity Tax Group newsletter here.

You can also sign up to become a member so that you’ll receive future Charity Tax Group updates directly to your inbox.

 

Small charities warn PM of closures as pledged £100m yet to be paid out

Representatives from small charities have warned the prime minister that “the tide of demand threatens to overwhelm” them as the £100m previously announced for the sector is yet to be distributed.

In a letter to Rishi Sunak, local charities said that they were “exhausted, burnt out” and that the mental health of their staff and volunteers was “suffering”.

Read the full article here

 

AI: data protection and privacy

Artificial intelligence offers charities huge benefits. But this is what you need to know before you let it access constituents’ personal or confidential information.

 

A charity guide to sustainable technology

Everything you and your charity need to know about environmental sustainability and technology, including what to look for to reduce the environmental impact of the tech you use.

 

Cumberland Council Newsletter

View the Cumberland Council newsletter from 18/06/23 here, including:

  • Our Community Panels
  • Drop in event for new Aspatria Community Hub
  • School children and TV academic visit the Roman dig

 

Westmorland and Furness Council Newsletter

View the Westmorland and Furness Council newsletter from 16/06/23 here, including:

  • We show commitment to Armed Forces by signing covenant
  • Cumbria Adoption invites prospective LGBTQ+ adopters to attend an information event during Pride Month
  • The latest job vacancies from Westmorland and Furness Council

 

 

Safeguarding improvements risk being hurt by ‘weaknesses’ in sector, warns regulator

The Charity Commission has said that “positive improvements” made to safeguarding policies are at risk of being “undermined” due to “continued weaknesses” in the charity sector.

It made the statement during a webinar on safeguarding in an international context in which the Commission’s engagement team set out expectations for charities working overseas.

Read the full article here

 

The importance of active listening

Charity staff need to be able to listen effectively to do their jobs well. In this article, Charity Digital explain what active listening skills are and why they’re important.

 

Charity law changes ‘provide a helpful reduction in bureaucracy’

The Charity Commission has published updated guidance as further changes from the Charities Act 2022 came into effect this month.

These include flexibility for trustees when seeking to dispose of charity land and new powers around the use of permanent endowment.

Read the full article here

 

Hot Weather Resources

There are a really comprehensive and useful set of resources on the UKHSA website, focussing on hot weather, and how to protect from both the direct impact (e.g. heatstroke) and indirect impact (e.g. wider system failure resulting from the hot weather).

The new weather alert system may be useful to give you warning of what is happening locally.

There is a set of guidance, including for vulnerable groups, here The guidance for health and social care professionals may be relevant in a VCS setting.

 

Four-day week law could prevent ‘culture of burnout’ at charities, say campaigners

Charities and think tanks have urged the government to amend existing law to reduce the maximum working weekly hours from 48 to 32 by 2030.

In a joint manifesto launched recently, Autonomy, New Economics Foundation and Common Wealth joined the 4 Day Week Campaign in calling for the implementation of a number of policies to ensure the transition to a four-day week across the economy.

Read the full article here

 

Podcast: What’s it like to work in the charity sector?

In this episode, Charity Digital’s guests discuss reasons people are attracted to working in the sector, the drawbacks of non-profits, problems they’ve encountered in their research, how charities can improve working life, and so much more.

Listen here

 

How your digital strategy can help fight climate change

Zoe Amar explores the role strategy plays in tackling climate change, with advice on building sustainability into tech choices, reviewing supply chains, collaboration, and much more.

 

Charity Bank lends record £54m and shifts focus from ‘balance sheet growth’

Charity Bank lent £53.9m to UK charities and social enterprises in 2022, its highest ever annual payout, the organisation has announced.

The bank also reported its highest ever profit of £2.7m in the year to December 2022, all of which it pledged to reinvest in furthering its mission and extending its reach to underfunded charities and social enterprises.

Read the full article here

 

Three ways charities can use AI in fundraising

Find out how charities are using some of the new AI tools available.

 

Cumberland Council Newsletter

View the Cumberland Council newsletter from 11/06/23 here, including:

  • More than 500 school children visit the Roman dig
  • Weather information
  • Find out about fostering at Cumbria Fostering’s online event

 

Westmorland and Furness Council Newsletter

View the Westmorland and Furness Council newsletter from 09/06/23 here, including:

  • Cabinet approves £5m of priority investments
  • Warm weather safety advice: Heat, water and fire
  • Become a voluntary coordinator

 

Over £6bn raised through JustGiving in two decades

More than £6bn has been raised through JustGiving for good causes around the world since its establishment in 2000, the fundraising platform has announced.

To date, over 14.9 million fundraising pages have been created on JustGiving to support charitable causes.

Read the full article here

 

UK Shared Prosperity Fund update

Delivered through the Levelling Up agenda, applications for funds for the Cumberland Unitary Authority area are still closed. These are likely to open over the summer.

Westmorland and Furness Council has now opened an application process for projects seeking funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF).

Full details including project call documents with further information on scope, criteria and requirements plus details of how to submit an application are available on the Council’s website at UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Rural England Prosperity Fund | Westmorland and Furness Council under Project funding calls for 2023/24 and 2024/25. The closing date for applications is 30 June 2023.

All potential applicants to closely read the project call documents and all supporting guidance and information to ensure that their proposed project fits within the scope of the call, can meet the requirements of the funding and is deliverable within the timeframe set.

 

Growing Well Mental Health support

Click on the thumbnail image to find out more about Growing Well’s free support at their organic vegetable farm near Kendal. Free minibus transport is available every Thursday from Barrow, Dalton, Ulverston, Grange and Lindale.

 

Government urged to reinstate energy saving materials tax relief for charities

Charity Finance Group (CFG) has urged the government to reinstate a tax relief available to charities that install energy saving materials (ESMs).

The government previously provided a VAT relief for the installation of ESMs in a building used for a charitable purpose but it narrowed this to exclude charitable buildings after discussion with the European Commission in 2013.

Read the full article here

 

Barrow Exercise and Therapy Scheme (BEATS)

BEATS is a highly supportive and appropriately supervised physical activity and healthy living scheme for patients with long term medical conditions who have been referred to Barrow Park Leisure Centre by medical professionals, and who would benefit from an increase in physical activity.

This scheme is now available for people in Barrow and surrounding areas, and they can be referred by speaking with their GP’s or Health professionals.

More info in this BEATS leaflet

 

Boosting productivity during the summer slump

A look at some of the best things your organisation can do over the summer months when engagement and productivity start to drop.

 

How to avoid rainbow washing during Pride Month

Pride month is a time to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, but when it comes to the workplace, employers should beware of “rainbow-washing”.

Writing in PinkNews, Erik Niewiarowski highlights some actions businesses can take to offer “honest support and commitment” to their LGBTQIA+ employees.

 

Tackling the cost of living crisis and impacts on health and wellbeing

This resource, by members of the VCSE Health and Wellbeing Alliance, discusses how the ongoing cost-of-living crisis is having a significant impact on health and wellbeing – with particularly acute challenges being faced by those who already experience health inequalities.

It identifies six key actions health and care policy makers, commissioners and provider organisations can take to mitigate the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on people’s health and wellbeing.

Find out more here

 

Changes coming to Charities Act 2022

Changes to the Charities Act 2022, including how charities sell land and access permanent endowments are expected to come into effect this month.

Additional provisions are expected to come into force by the end of 2023, including powers relating to appointments of trustees and Charity constitutions. As different provisions come into force, links to any new and updated guidance will be provided on the Charity Commission’s Charities Act 2022 information page. Click here for an indicative timetable for implementation of the Charities Act 2022.

 

DCMS launch VCSE Contract Readiness Programme and VCSE Action Plan

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) have launched the VCSE Contract Readiness Programme, a £900,000 support package to enable VCSEs in England to better compete for government contracts. The programme will run until 2025 and provides fully funded and tailored training to VCSEs interested in bidding for public contracts. If you are an interested VCSE organisation, sign up via the SSE webpage here.

In addition, DCMS have published a VCSE Action Plan outlining how the department will encourage charities and social enterprises to bid for contracts and sub-contracts. The plan is the first bespoke one in central government, which aims to create a foundation of best practice to be adopted and improved across government.

 

NLCF to double grants for smaller charities but retains project funding focus

The National Lottery Community Fund (NLCF) has announced it will be doubling the maximum amount of funding it offers to smaller charities in its new strategy, but will not be switching to more unrestricted funding.

Its grants programme for smaller charities, Awards for All, will be doubled so organisations can apply for up to £20,000 that can be used within two years instead of one.

Read the full article here

 

Charity Commission won’t ‘dance to the tune of media outlets’, says Orlando Fraser

The Charity Commission will “not dance to the tune of media outlets” when it comes to retaining independence, its chair has said.

Orlando Fraser was speaking at an Association of Chairs event, where he discussed the role of charity chairs and the Commission’s vision and plans.

Read the full article here

 

Mental Health Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors

Being outside is good for us. Whether it’s a gentle stroll through the park, enjoying nature from a bench or taking on an activity such as wild swimming or hiking, we should be looking for ways to enjoy time in the great outdoors more often. Our minds and bodies would thank us for it.

In this guide, Forest Holidays put together the latest facts, figures and statistics which reveal exactly why being in fresh air enjoying nature is good for us, as well as exploring things like how much time people currently spend outdoors and how you can embrace nature more in your daily life.

 

What makes a password strong?

Charity Digital look at the growing number of cyber threats in the charity sector and explore how better passwords can be the simplest way to prevent them.

 

Barrow Foodbank newsletter

You can view the May Barrow Foodbank newsletter here, including details of items needed urgently, and information on numbers supported during the month.

 

How charities are tackling ageism

Charities are being urged not to forget tackling ageism when developing their diversity policies.

 

How to write the perfect volunteer recruitment advert

Explore the key strategies for charities to recruit volunteers into their service delivery, fundraising, and operations.

 

Pride Month 2023: how charities can show support

Explore how charities can celebrate, champion, and support Pride in 2023.

 

Cumberland Council Newsletter

View the Cumberland Council newsletter from 04/06/23 here, including:

  • Green light for community investment
  • Volunteer and support your community in Cumberland
  • New exhibition explores Titanic story

 

Westmorland and Furness Council Newsletter

View the Westmorland and Furness Council newsletter from 02/06/23 here, including:

  • £9.4 million funding to support communities and businesses
  • Nominations for the 2024 King’s Award for Voluntary Service are now open!
  • Top up your immunity this spring!

 

Defining environmental, social and governance

While social care charities are, by definition, providing a solution to a social issue, like the rest of the charity sector many are increasingly aware of wider environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues too.

ESG reporting is becoming an important focus for many charities, but the exact definition of the term remains relatively unclear. It can be helpful to consider what each of the letters in this acronym means.

Read the full article here

 

Exploring AI for data and analytics

A look at how data analytics can provide huge benefits for charities when powered by artificial intelligence.

 

Mandatory Reporting – Call for Evidence

The Home Office has issued a call for evidence on the mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse. They are keen to get responses from VCSE organisations and charities working with children and young people.

Read more about the consultation here

 

NAVCA Conference write-up

Thank you to everyone who attended our conference in April. We’re pleased to share the write-up with you, with notes from the workshops and keynote speeches.

The next conference will be held in Birmingham on 16th May 2024. Please save the date, and we will announce more information at a later date.

 

The best CMS for charities in 2023

A look at the best content management systems (CMS) for charities in 2023, exploring the pros and cons, the cost, and other essential elements.

 

NPC calls for funding applications to become ‘collective intelligence’

NPC has urged foundations not to waste knowledge in funding proposals and use it as “collective intelligence” instead.

In a blog published recently, NPC’s director of innovation and development, Tris Lumley, called for a change in “the very structure of philanthropy” so that “our efforts with technology can succeed”.

Read the full article here

 

Cumberland Council Newsletter

View the Cumberland Council newsletter from 28/05/23 here, including:

  • Groundbreaking Community Panels begin to meet
  • Funding boost
  • Archaeological ‘finds of a lifetime’ in Carlisle

 

Charities working for climate justice

A look at what your charity can learn from five climate justice organisations.

 

NCVO project to offer paid internships for over 50s to boost charity recruitment

A project backed by NCVO will offer paid internships to the over 50s in a bid to boost recruitment in the charity sector.

The charity umbrella body recently announced that it is hosting the Charity Interns project for people aged over 50 who might not have any experience in the sector.

Read the full article here

 

Charities ‘silenced’ by increased reliance on state funding, warns Paul Streets

The charity sector has become less able to criticise the government in recent decades due to its increased reliance on state funding, the chief executive of the Lloyds Bank Foundation has warned.

Speaking at an event last month, Paul Streets said: “We are so in league with the state that actually we’re unable to call it to account.”

Read the full article here

 

CIoF plans to cut workforce by almost a quarter in restructure

The Chartered Institute of Fundraising is consulting staff on a proposed plan to “streamline its working model”, which could see its workforce cut by almost a quarter.

CIoF said the changes will enable “a more cost-effective delivery model” in the current “challenging economic environment”.

Read the full article here

 

Evaluation: where to start

Sometimes, it’s not possible to bring in an independent evaluator for your project. It might be something very small or the budget just isn’t there.

But there’s plenty you can do yourself. And if you bring in help at the end of a project, thinking about some of the things in this article from PS Research will make everyone’s lives easier and improve the quality of the evaluation.

Read the article here

 

Practical steps charities can take to protect themselves from reputational damage

Third Sector and NCSC have crafted a second insightful guide to further explore the impact of a cyber attack and the practical steps charities can take to protect themselves from financial and reputational damage.

Explore why charities are particularly at risk, how to prevent an attack, and why organisations of all sizes should consider Cyber Essential certification.

 

Funding Application Support from Power to Change

Power to Change’s Discovery Fund for up to £12k is open, giving community businesses the opportunity to meet challenges that communities and businesses face by exploring tech-solutions.

You can find out more about the Fund offer and eligibility criteria on Power to Change’s website.

 

Accreditation service launches to help charities win public contracts

A social enterprise has launched a free accreditation service to help charities win public sector contracts.

Go4Growth’s Public Sector Supply Ready accreditation (PSSR) is freely available to all voluntary organisations, community groups and social enterprises (VCSEs) as well as small to medium enterprises.

Read the full article here

 

National Lottery money to good causes down year-on-year despite sales increase

Last year, the National Lottery raised a total of £1.87bn for good causes, which is slightly down on the two years prior.

This takes the total raised for National Lottery projects since 1994 to more than £47bn.

Read the full article here

 

The risks of using content bots

Content bots are on the rise. But what are the risks of using AI-generated content?

 

Charities urged to contribute to umbrella bodies’ general election manifesto

NCVO and ACEVO have joined forces to create a manifesto ahead of the next general election and are asking charity sector professionals to help them develop it.

The infrastructure bodies will use the manifesto to engage with parties across the political spectrum, including at this year’s party conferences.

Read the full article here

 

Community Ownership Fund update

The Community Ownership Fund has published a new prospectus detailing positive changes to the eligibility requirements of the programme.

These changes will allow more assets to be saved across the UK and will come in from Round 3 onwards, which will open to main applications on 31 May 2023.

 

Second home and holiday let owners encouraged to give back to Cumbria’s communities

It has been a year since the Cumbria Home from Home Fund was set up to provide a way for holiday let and second homeowners to give back to the communities where their properties are located.

The initiative was developed by Cumbria Community Foundation in response to growing concerns about the impact of second homes and holiday lets in the county. As the 2023 holiday season gets underway, the Foundation explains why the Fund was created and how people can support it.

Find out more here

 

Charitable foundations reject call for mandatory payout rate

Charitable trusts in the UK have rejected a call for them to be required to pay out at least 5% of their assets each year in grants.

Analysis published recently estimated that UK charities could receive £1.3bn more a year if foundations were required to donate a minimum of 5% of their assets each year.

Read the full article here

 

Cumberland Council Newsletter

View the Cumberland Council newsletter from 21/05/23 here, including:

  • Top up your immunity this spring
  • Reminder on school transport applications
  • Aspatria Town Council election 

 

The main management challenges in 2023

Explore the management challenges faced by charities and how HR can best address them.

 

Unrestricted funding ‘should be the starting point’, foundations told

All funding offered to charities should be unrestricted unless there is a particular reason for it not to be, researchers have argued.

Institute for Voluntary Action (IVAR)’s briefing says that grantmakers tend to prefer offering restricted funding through “familiarity, not evidence” and urges their boards to consider making the case for unrestricted funding.

Read the full article here

 

LGA: Digital switchover partner toolkit

The LGA (Local Government Association) is launching a toolkit for partners to raise awareness of the digital switchover for their residents and communities. The telecommunications industry is replacing all old copper telephone lines in the UK, and it hopes to upgrade to a fully digital internet-based service by 2025.

The toolkit contains assets to use on social media, plus draft copy for websites and bulletins. This first wave aims to educate those around ‘telecare’ users. The next stage is to have a printable newsletter template for partners to distribute directly to residents who may be digitally excluded, or for voluntary, community, and faith organisations to have out in libraries, community hubs etc.

Access the LGA toolkit here

 

CIoF announces increase in membership fees by 5%

The Chartered Institute of Fundraising (CIoF) has announced changes to its membership structures, with most fees increasing by 5%.

It has increased rates for both individual and organisational membership fees, and will be removing new joiner fees and introducing an additional band for charities with less than £5m voluntary income.

Read the full article here

 

The ultimate guide to writing a content strategy

Find out how you can write an incredible content strategy, examining the best ways to set content goals, how to perform effective user research, the elements that you should include in your content strategy, the value of podcasts and webinars, the benefits of video and more.

 

Facts about content in 2023

Charity Digital explore the latest facts and stats about content, looking at consumption trends, the makeup of content teams, the rise of mobile content, the dominance of the written word and video, dependence on artificial intelligence, and more.

 

How to approach point of view in comms

Take a look at how point of view can help your charity to make its point.

 

‘Deeply concerning’ – charities respond as new protesting laws enforced

Charities have expressed concern over the police’s swift enforcement of new laws introduced to prevent public disruption from protests.

The Public Order Act 2023 received royal assent earlier this month, with police officers also given powers to “intervene against highly disruptive slow marching tactics” used by protestors.

Read the full article here

 

Cumberland Council Newsletter

View the Cumberland Council newsletter from 14/05/23 here, including:

  • Free school transport deadline
  • New Mayor of Carlisle voted in
  • £12.4 million secured for energy efficiency upgrades to 600 Cumbrian homes

 

The ultimate guide to artificial intelligence (AI)

Explore everything you need to know about artificial intelligence (AI), looking at the past, present, and future of AI, and exploring the various legal, ethical, and regulatory AI challenges on the horizon.

 

Average charity sector salary declines by 3% in three years, reports jobs site

The average salary for a charity sector job listed on a specialist jobs website has fallen by 3% in three years with the number of hybrid roles increasing by 2000%.

CharityJob reported this week that the average salary posted on its site last year was £34,800, compared to £35,700 in 2019.

Read the full article here

 

93% of £160m NHS Covid appeal fund has been allocated, charity says

NHS Charities Together has allocated £148m of the £160m raised through the Covid-19 Urgent Appeal, which is 92.5%.

The remaining £12m will be used for grants and programmes, it said.

Read the full article here

 

Charities’ legacy income forecast to remain at £3.9bn despite increasing gifts

Charities’ legacy income will remain flat at around £3.9m a year until 2027, according to consultancy Legacy Foresight, despite an increase in bequests.

The consultancy’s £3.9m forecast in its outlook for 2023-27 is lower than its previous prediction in October, which said that legacy income for charities would reach £4.2bn per year.

Read the full article here

 

Door-to-door fundraising sign-ups rose by 62% in 2022, CIoF figures show

Door-to-door fundraising sign-ups increased by 62% from 2019 to 2022, according to figures from the Chartered Institute of Fundraising (CIoF).

Figures provided by charities and agencies that work with the CIoF show door-to-door annual sign-ups were 199,576 in 2019 compared with 324,116 in 2022.

Read the full article here

 

AMAculturehive

As part of their MicroDigital programme, AMAculturehive have created a guide to the top tools and apps available to support your digital marketing and engagement.

The guide weighs up the pros and cons of each using simple language, and also lists which tools are free to use.

Read the full guide here

 

Does charity digital funding need a rethink?

In this article from Third Sector, Zoe Amar considers whether charities are getting enough support from funders to develop the digital skills needed to operate effectively.

With opinions from digital experts, the article looks at the importance of digital toolkits, funding and support for charitable organisations to understand how to build their approach to digital.

Read the article here

 

Should charities have royal patrons?

To mark the Coronation of HRH King Charles III last month, Third Sector Podcast discussed the royal patronage system including the application process, possible changes during King Charles III reign and the impact a decline in royal patron popularity could have on charities.

Listen now at Third Sector Podcast

 

How advanced is your digital marketing?

Digitally mature charities are 4 times more likely to achieve their mission goals. Learn more now about how to get started with improving your organisation’s digital maturity in marketing.

 

Funders should change their approach to risk to enhance DEI, says NPC

Funders need to reframe their approach to risk in order to embed diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) into their grantmaking, according to a think tank.

New Philanthropy Capital (NPC) and Civil Society Consulting (CSC)’s guidance says a more nuanced approach to risk is key to improved DEI.

Read the full article here

 

6.5 million people participated in the Big Help Out, organisers claim

Some 6.5 million people volunteered during the Big Help Out in celebration of King Charles’ coronation, according to organisers of the event.

The estimate was made by conducting a poll of 1,503 adults across Great Britain between 5 to 8 May which has then been scaled up against the UK population.

Read the full article here

 

Webinar: A charity guide to AI

In this webinar, Charity Digital explore the definitions of Artificial Intelligence (AI), the ethics and uses of AI, and what it means for the charity sector.

 

Why you should invest in green tech in the workplace

In the climate crisis, it’s time to embrace green tech. Not only are there environmental benefits, there are cost-saving ones too.

 


Surveys, Research, Feedback and Reports

How tackling the climate and nature crisis can improve people’s health

A new report from Groundwork highlights the connections between health inequalities and environmental impacts, stating that we are missing opportunities to improve people’s health while tackling climate and nature crises.

The report shows that people living in affluent areas typically benefit from good health for twenty years more than those living in deprived areas, who are more likely to be impacted by air pollution and access to nature.

Read the report here

 

Third Sector Trends release final report

Third Sector Trends have released their fifth and final report, focussing on people, places and policy within the VCSE sector. The report shows that 60% of VCSE organisations concentrate attention exclusively within the boundaries of the local authority where they are based, and half of these work at neighbourhood or village level.

The report identifies four broad areas of local impact, personal health, personal and social wellbeing, financial security and community wellbeing that third sector organisations work towards achieving.

 

Recruitment and Retention Challenges for Public and Social Sector

Surveys in Public Sector are calling on public and social sector organisations to take part in their latest survey, a study which aims to understand the challenges facing the public and social sector when recruiting and retaining talent. The study will consider the ways in which organisations across the sector are approaching their recruitment strategy in an increasingly competitive jobs market.

By completing the survey, you will receive an exclusive first look at the key findings report when it’s published later in the year, with a detailed look at views from across the sector.

 

The Status of UK Fundraising 2023

What are the fundraising opportunities you’re excited about and the challenges you’re facing in 2023? Are other organisations like yours having a similar experience?

Find out by adding your voice to Blackbaud Europe’s Status of UK Fundraising Report 2023 survey. Now in its sixth year, the report provides a comprehensive view of the UK fundraising sector, giving useful insights for non-profits looking to benchmark their performance.

 

£142m social investment fund increased charities’ resilience, says DCMS report

A £142m government-backed social investment fund increased charities and social enterprises’ financial growth and resilience, according to new research.

An analysis of the impact of the Futurebuilders England fund, the first of its kind in the UK, showed that the programme significantly reduced deprivation levels and boosted economic output and productivity in communities.

Read the full article here

 

Funding Call for Community-Led Research Projects Addressing Health Inequalities

The Health and Social Equity (HSE) Collective, based at King’s College London, is inviting UK community organisations with diverse sector partnerships to apply for up to £40,000 each to undertake quantitative research projects (or mixed methods projects with a quantitative element) that will analysis secondary data (such as survey, or service data) and address areas of health inequalities.

NIHR ARC NWC CoREN is calling for anyone interested who has an idea they could put together into a quick expression of interest, to get in touch asap for a chat. Contact Claire Selby, Stakeholder Research and Engagement Network Manager, Division Health Research, Lancaster University – c.selby@lancaster.ac.uk

Find out more here

 

Charity Shops Survey 2023 opens

The 32nd edition of the Charity Shops Survey 2023 is now open. For more than three decades, the survey has provided detailed benchmarking data for charities that operate in retail, giving them a better understanding of the sector.

Participants in this year’s survey will be entered into a prize draw for a chance to win a £100 John Lewis voucher.

Find out more here

 

Make it easier for volunteers to move between charities, says BHF

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) has made several recommendations to boost volunteering, including a call to make it easier for people to move between charities.

In a new report, BHF urges the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to support charities to develop systems “to enable volunteers to move more easily between organisations working in similar areas, such as charity retail”.

Read the full article here

 

VCSE Barometer, Wave 3 Report

Results from the third wave of the quarterly VCSE Sector Barometer survey, carried out by Pro Bono Economics (PBE) and Nottingham Trent University National VCSE Data and Insights Observatory are now out.

They show that, while a large majority of charities still expect demand over the coming months to increase, a growing proportion expect that they will be able to meet it. For the first time since the survey started in November 2022, more than half of charities of all sizes (51% of large charities, 52% of medium charities and 61% of small charities) expect to be able to meet demand for their support over the next three months.

Read more and access the report here

 

Age-Friendly Survey for South Lakeland

This survey is for individuals aged 50+ and will help understanding of the issues that residents face as they age.

The results of this survey will be shared with statutory bodies and other organisations to help make South Lakeland a place where people can age well. Click on the thumbnail image for more details.

Click here to find out more and take the survey

 

University of Cumbria Youth Work Apprenticeship survey

The University of Cumbria are exploring the feasibility of the Level 6 Integrated Youth Worker Degree Apprenticeship, to establish an understanding of what employers and potential apprentices would want from a programme, alongside trying to establish the demand for this in the sector and the capacity that the sector has, to support its delivery.

The Level 6 Integrated Youth Worker Degree Apprenticeship requires that organisations employ apprentices for at least 30 hours per week for the 3 year duration of the apprenticeship. Please see the NYA website with all the details and the NYA website for potential funding for support with Levy

Please can I ask you to complete this questionnaire to enable us to gather a brief overview of the sector, its capacity, and requirements for an apprenticeship.

 

Small charities increasingly concerned about volunteer recruitment, survey indicates

Volunteer recruitment is a rising concern, with 63% of small charities worried, according to a new survey by Pro Bono Economics (PBE) and Nottingham Trent University.

Nonetheless, the survey suggests growing optimism in the sector following months of financial hardship associated with the cost-of-living crisis.

Read the full article here

 

Opportunity for services to be included in the Healthier Together young person’s toolkit

The Child Health and Wellbeing Network have recently launched the Healthier Together website. Healthier Together is a locally developed NHS resource, providing consistent, accurate healthcare advice for parents and carers all in one place on a regional website and companion mobile app.

Healthier Together also has a dedicated young people’s section. They are currently reviewing and developing this section to include a helpful toolkit of services. If your organisation provides a service for young people and you would like it promoted on Healthier Together, please complete this survey.

 

Charity leaders asked for views after SCC and FSI closures leave ‘massive hole’

Leaders of small and medium-sized charities have been urged to shared their views on the sector’s management training capacity.

Cranfield Trust’s research project follows the recent closures of sector infrastructure bodies the Small Charities Coalition (SCC) and the Foundation for Social Improvement (FSI).

Read the full article here

 

Grassroots charities anticipate drop in income, survey suggests

The majority of grassroots charities expect they will raise less money in the future, a survey from easyfundraising suggests.

The survey reveals 62% of grassroots charities and causes reported that the cost-of-living crisis has had a severe or moderate impact on their fundraising income.

Read the full article here

 

Grantmakers shifted to unrestricted funding after the pandemic, says report

Funders have shifted from providing restricted funding to providing unrestricted funding since the pandemic, a new Third Sector Trends report finds.

In 2019, 46% of third sector organisations surveyed received unrestricted funding, which jumped to 60% in 2022.

Read the full article here

 

Grantmaking by largest foundations rose by 13% during pandemic, ACF reports

Grantmaking by the UK’s largest foundations rose by 13% in 2020-21 despite their incomes reducing, according to new research.

The Foundation Giving Trends 2022 report, released recently by the Association of Charitable Foundations (ACF), shows that the country’s 300 largest grantmakers distributed grants worth £3.7bn that year compared with £3.3bn in 2019-20.

Read the full article here

 

How community businesses can build future town centres

Power to Change recently launched their #TakeBackTheHighStreets report, ‘Community Powered High Streets: how community businesses will build town centres fit for the future.

The report warns of rising persistent vacancy rates across Great Britain, discusses the challenges facing high streets and sets out clear policy recommendations for government to help create community-led high streets of the future.

 

Actions to support partnership with the VCSE sector

The King’s Fund have released a report and framework about ‘addressing practical barriers to integration of the VCSE sector organisations’.

Released in late April, the report and framework takes a case-study based approach to identifying key actions which could improve the state of integration and involvement of the VCSE sector within the NHS ICS’s.

 

Transport Options in the Lake District Survey

ACTion with Communities in Cumbria is working with the Lake District National Park Partnership (LDNPP) to ask a wide range of people about their views on transport in the Lake District and especially people’s appetite for change.

We are starting from the perspective that change is necessary, due to – frustrations of visitors and locals, carrying capacity of the services, and the longer term impact on the environment that visitors – both local and wider come to see. But we recognise that change will be gradual due to resources and therefore needs a longer-term vision. This research forms part of a wider research programme, the results of which will be used to inform LDNPP policy development on sustainable travel and transport.

Please access the survey here

 

Cumbria LSIP (Local Skills Improvement Plan) Research

Cumbria Chamber of Commerce’s LSIP is collecting data for research on key areas including the employment of apprentices, skills provision, skills shortages, and recruitment. They would appreciate responses from the social care sector.

LSIPs are employer-led and locally owned. They set out the key priorities needed to make technical education and skills provision more responsive to the changing needs of employers and the local economy.

Complete the survey here

 

UK’s richest gave £1.1bn more to charities last year, says Sunday Times Giving List

Britain’s wealthiest have given £3.4bn to charity in the past year, up by £1.1bn on the previous year’s total, according to newly published data.

Hedge fund manager Chris Hohn is the most generous philanthropist in the UK, according to the Sunday Times Giving List in association with the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF).

Read the full article here

 

Digital Transformation and Your Board: Key Considerations

Digital transformation is more than just apps and online services. It’s about transforming the ways you operate to become a more agile workplace – and charity boards have a vital role to play in bringing this culture to life. Research has shown that the charities which invest in digital are demonstrably more likely to increase their fundraising, reach new supporters, and achieve their organisational goals.

The Digital Transformation and You report, from software providers OnBoard, offers charity boards practical advice on how to make the most of their digital transformation projects, including tips on setting the right pace, auditing skills, and much more.

 

Food bank charities fear having to cut support amid increasing need

Food bank charities in England, Scotland and Wales have reported increasing need for their services this year and have said they will have to reduce the support they provide if demand rises further.

An Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN) survey of its members found that nine-tenths of charities had seen an increase in need for their help from January to March 2023.

Read the full article here

 

Civil society is weaker in ‘places that need it most’, says think tank

Civil society in the UK is “weaker in the places that need it most, and the gap is widening”, a think tank has warned.

Charity expenditure per head in the poorest areas of the country is around “one third lower” than in the wealthiest regions, according to analysis by New Philanthropy Capital (NPC).

Read the full article here

 

Charity sector sick leave days up by 56% since 2019, report finds

The charity sector has seen a 56% rise in days lost to short and long-term illness since 2019, according to a new report.

The research found that the charity sector reported an average of 166 days lost to sick leave in 2022, a rise of 30% on 2021 which saw an average of 128.

Read the full article here

 

2023 Newton Charity Investment Survey

We are grateful to many of the respected UK charity leaders who have provided input to the Newton Charity Investment Survey over the last nine years, giving the sector unique insight and trend comparisons of its investment intentions.

Please help inform and make a difference to your sector by completing our 2023 survey by 30 June. We will publish the survey findings in the autumn, when we will reveal evolving trends, what they could mean for you, and how the sector might respond.

 

Making Research Inclusive with NIHR BioResource

Connected Voice Haref is partnering with NIHR BioResource, together with 8 community organisations across the country with one shared goal: to address health inequalities for ethnically marginalised communities by increasing the number of people who volunteer to take part in research with NIHR BioResource.

The communities we support are disproportionately impacted by health inequalities but under-represented in health research. This collaboration is working together to change that and has community voices at its core. Anyone, any age, can take part in research via the NIHR BioResource, which involves donating a blood or saliva sample and completing health and lifestyle questionnaires. You can find out more and register to take part here.

 

The long shadow of the cost-of-living emergency

New Carnegie UK research, based on a survey of 2,300+ people, reveals the wider impact of cost of living emergency.

The report warns that the long-term impact could cost the public purse much more than providing short-term support. Findings highlight why a wellbeing approach to government could bring about long-term and sustainable change.

Download the report here

 

Government needs to better understand faith, independent review claims

The report on how the government engages with faith by Colin Bloom was published on the government website recently. There are several articles on the web about this.

Buddhist Group of Kendal (Theravada) were amongst the organisations making a submission.


Disclaimer
The information above is provided in good faith. Whilst every care is taken to ensure that it is correct, Cumbria CVS cannot accept liability for any omissions or inaccuracies and does not take responsibility for the quality for any services or products mentioned.