• Charity Sector Insights

The charity and not-for-profit landscape is constantly changing and we are always developing new thinking, picking up good ideas and coming across valuable information that we like to pass on, in our mission to help our clients achieve even greater success.

This blog is our platform for sharing these insights as they arise, and engaging with the charity sector in the spirit of collectively striving towards excellence.

DavidBull
David Bull
Oct 10, 2024, 10:00 AM
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INGO structure models for a fast-changing world

The emerging “crisis” facing International Non-Governmental Organisations (INGOs) centres around the power relationships between INGOs and the communities they work alongside.
Read more...
AndrewMiddleton
Andrew Middleton
Oct 3, 2024, 9:00 AM
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When initiative becomes disruptive: the dangers of "doing it in my own time" for non-profits

Non-profits need to be cautious about allowing unofficial projects to take root, as they can undermine the very mission they are trying to achieve.
Read more...
LauraTreneer
Laura Treneer
Sep 26, 2024, 10:00 AM
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Research on Christian giving in the UK

Action Planning was at the launch of ‘The Generosity Report’, a new research report from Stewardship exploring Christian giving in the UK.
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KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
Sep 26, 2024, 9:15 AM
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Putting the Christ back into Christmas

It’s that time of year again when charities put the finishing touches on their Christmas fundraising campaigns – and for some Christian fundraisers, this season can feel bittersweet.
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AndrewRainsford
Andrew Rainsford
Sep 18, 2024, 8:00 AM
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Fundraising for a specific project? Why it pays to carry out a feasibility study

When you need to fundraise for a specific project, it may seem counterintuitive to begin by spending money.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Aug 20, 2024, 8:00 AM
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5 ways to improve your organisational planning

Good organisational planning covers a number of facets, from strategic planning to management, communications and evaluation.
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LauraTreneer
Laura Treneer
Jun 23, 2024, 8:00 AM
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Small charities need a louder voice

Since the pandemic, funding for grassroots charities has fallen by £4.6bn, while larger charities have seen an increase of £4.5bn. That means 85% of all charitable income is going to just 4% of the UK’s registered charities. So how can the smalls fight back?
Read more...
ClaireSmith
Claire Smith
May 22, 2024, 9:30 AM
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Legacy fundraising: now or never?

“We know we need to do legacy fundraising, but we don’t know where to start.” That’s a query I hear often, especially from small charities where one person is often responsible for multiple income streams. But what’s the answer?
Read more...
KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
May 22, 2024, 9:15 AM
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Lessons on what we leave behind

The concept of personal legacy is deeply embedded in not-for-profit consciousness, with many – including yours truly – choosing to leave corporate life in mid-life to work within the third sector in order to make a lasting difference.
Read more...
LauraTreneer
Laura Treneer
May 22, 2024, 9:00 AM
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Taking the long view on Christian charity leadership

We are all aware of the pitfalls and minefields of leading a Christian charity. As one put it, it can feel like there’s a target on your back.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
May 16, 2024, 9:00 AM
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Get that grant! How to add some bang to your bids

Funders receive tens, if not hundreds, of applications – how can you make yours stand out? We asked some of our experienced fundraising consultants for their tips on putting together winning bids.
Read more...
EmmaGoulds
Emma Goulds
May 16, 2024, 9:00 AM
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Big Give Christmas campaign – now is the time to start planning

Funders receive tens, if not hundreds, of applications – how can you make yours stand out? We asked some of our experienced fundraising consultants for their tips on putting together winning bids.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Apr 16, 2024, 9:00 AM
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Scrabble without the rules – It all spells creativity

Some individuals – and perhaps even more so some groups – find it difficult to be spontaneously creative. So I devised this game to use in strategic planning sessions.
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TracyMadgwick
Tracy Madgwick
Apr 16, 2024, 8:00 AM
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How to handle Flexible Working requests

How should you handle requests for flexible working? What are your employees’ rights in this area, and what are yours? Here’s everything you need to know.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Apr 9, 2024, 8:00 AM
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Action Planning and the Stephen Lloyd Awards – incubating brilliant ideas

Now in its 10th year, the Stephen Lloyd Awards is an invaluable catalyst for bright ideas.
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LauraTreneer
Laura Treneer
Mar 20, 2024, 10:00 AM
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Christian conferences - to go or not to go?

With Easter falling so early this year (fun fact – there will be another Valentine’s/Ash Wednesday mash up in five years’ time), there is more unbroken time in the calendar before the summer break.
Read more...
KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
Mar 20, 2024, 9:00 AM
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Charity boards that are short on women are missing out

How many women do you have on your board or senior leadership team? The answer for most charities is, not enough.
Read more...
ShelleyPoole
Shelley Poole
Mar 13, 2024, 8:00 AM
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How to stop repeating your recruitment mistakes?

In case you missed it, Friday 2nd of February was Groundhog Day, a date that has become synonymous with repetition, thanks to the film of that name starring Bill Murray.
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Mar 12, 2024, 8:00 AM
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International Women’s Day – What does it mean to you?

On International Women’s Day, we asked Action Planning Associate Consultants how the day resonated with them. Here’s what they said.
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Feb 15, 2024, 8:00 AM
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February freebie – what will you do with the extra day?

Get organised, Do that one thing, Learn something new, Ask questions, Take a day of rest, Recharge, Reconnect, Go walking, Volunteer.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Feb 14, 2024, 8:00 AM
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One from the heart – How to add some love to your fundraising campaigns

Is there any real advantage in pinning your fundraising on special days like Valentine’s?
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jan 24, 2024, 10:00 AM
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Top tips to set you on the road to net zero

It is becoming increasingly incumbent upon all organisations to have a net zero strategy for both regulatory and reputational reasons.
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LauraTreneer
Laura Treneer
Jan 23, 2024, 10:00 AM
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Telling research for reaching young people

This month Youthscape has published the first part of its ambitious ‘Translating God’ research, exploring how young people understand and respond to the Christian story.
Read more...
ClaireSmith
Claire Smith
Jan 23, 2024, 8:00 AM
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Five ways to improve your fundraising copy

You have an incredible opportunity this Easter – an opportunity to love your donors, remind them how amazing they are and grow your income.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jan 18, 2024, 9:00 AM
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Building on COP28 – next steps for the charity sector

And how can charities build on the outcomes of COP28 to continue driving forward measures to curb global warming and protect the natural environment?
Read more...
KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
Jan 18, 2024, 9:00 AM
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Planet friendly New Year’s resolutions

And how can charities build on the outcomes of COP28 to continue driving forward measures to curb global warming and protect the natural environment?
Read more...
AStrajnic
Andy Strajnic
Dec 19, 2023, 9:00 AM
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Good Governance

Discover the most important parts of what makes for good governance in a charity, along with an absolute top tip which never fails to deliver.
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DavidSaint
David Saint
Dec 18, 2023, 10:00 AM
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12 priorities for 2024

As you begin the new year, don’t forget to prioritise…”
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LauraTreneer
Laura Treneer
Nov 16, 2023, 10:00 AM
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Compelling findings from recent donor research

Compelling findings from recent donor research
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KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
Nov 16, 2023, 9:00 AM
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What does the Bible say about being a charity trustee?

What does the Bible say about being a charity trustee?
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FaithChrisp
Faith Chrisp
Nov 16, 2023, 8:00 AM
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Unlocking the power of customer experience (CX) for non-profit leadership

Unlocking the power of customer experience (CX) for non-profit leadership
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GuestBlog
Oct 19, 2023, 9:00 AM
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How charities can bridge the gap in Black and Asian representation on trustee boards

How charities can bridge the gap in Black and Asian representation on trustee boards
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LauraTreneer
Laura Treneer
Sep 14, 2023, 12:00 PM
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Christmas planning: plan like a church leader if you want to reach churches

If you’re a charity wanting to speak to churches, take into account their seasonal priorities.
Read more...
DrDiego
Dr Diego Arenas and Nicole Holgate
Sep 14, 2023, 9:00 AM
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Putting your charity on the map

For charities, mapping is a way to look at your services with a bird's eye view, in a way that needs less translation and can be more accessible than a written report
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TimJeffery
Sep 14, 2023, 9:00 AM
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The key to harmonious strategy development

Healthy, effective organisations have one vital thing in common: clarity of direction.
Read more...
KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
Sep 13, 2023, 9:00 AM
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A time for thanksgiving

There are so many reasons for organisations to celebrate their own ‘Harvest Festival’, and those that do put their busy missions on pause to reflect and give thanks reap numerous benefits.
Read more...
AndrewMiddleton
Andrew Middleton
Aug 16, 2023, 9:00 AM
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Navigating strategic change: Striking the balance in nonprofit organisations

Change, an undeniable force, shapes the journey of nonprofit organisations. While often a sign of progress, change for change's sake can be a perilous path.
Read more...
SeanTully
Sean Tully
Jul 20, 2023, 9:00 AM
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Practical steps for keeping your capital appeal spirits high

It’s funny how a fundraising target can so quickly draw focus from success to a perception of failure.
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jul 20, 2023, 7:00 AM
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Charity partner – how to make the most of other people’s events

I thought it might be useful to share my insights as a festival organiser to help charities like yours identify how they can make the most of all these summer events.
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EleanorMitchell
Eleanor Mitchell
Jul 12, 2023, 12:00 PM
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Strategic planning as a foundation for success

The core of a charity is made up of essential components: governance, management, systems, finance, fundraising and operations. Each component requires detailed planning to secure the best delivery and outcomes for its beneficiaries.
Read more...
KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
Jul 4, 2023, 8:30 AM
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Leadership and the dangers of hubris

Hubris is a puffed up and excessive version of the sin of pride that our creator so abhors because it denies the fundamental truth that we are made to be in relationship.
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LauraTreneer
Laura Treneer
Jun 21, 2023, 8:50 AM
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Analysing digital performance – tips for small charities

Small charities tend to have a healthy respect for digital communications. If you’re small, you know you need to punch above your weight, and you know that the right digital tools can enable you to do that.
Read more...
ShelleyPoole
Shelley Poole
Jun 14, 2023, 8:30 AM
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The lonely HR - Who’s looking after the person who looks after everyone else?

Workplace isolation is a hot topic in HR circles. As I write, it is Loneliness Awareness Week (12th-18th June 2023), so the questions will be high on everybody’s agenda.
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KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
May 19, 2023, 8:30 AM
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Kingdom KPIs – What the Bible tells us about measuring success

One of the most important parts of strategy development is the identification of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), against which we can measure our success. As management consultant Peter Drucker famously pointed out, you can’t manage what you don’t measure, and good KPIs are an essential tool for motivating and guiding your organisation.
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AndrewMiddleton
Andrew Middleton
May 18, 2023, 12:12 PM
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The art of attracting a Royal patron: tips and strategies for success

Gaining royal patronage can be a game-changer for a charity, bringing attention to its cause and providing a sense of credibility that can open doors and attract support.
Read more...
LauraTreneer
Laura Treneer
May 17, 2023, 8:50 AM
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New personas for UK evangelical Christians

Anyone who works in communications will know that before you can really connect with your audience, you need to understand who they are. Enter the world of personas – personality profiles that inform the way we speak, the references we use and the messages we convey.
Read more...
LauraTreneer
Laura Treneer
May 16, 2023, 2:19 PM
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The AI debate – Could ChatGPT be the extra resource your charity needs?

So how can AI platforms like ChatGPT be useful in the charity sector? Who better to put that question to than ChatGPT itself? We asked the computer how it could help with the kind of work we do.
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JeanCollingwood
Jean Collingwood
May 15, 2023, 10:25 AM
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The ultimate guide to working with Royal Patrons – Top tips for maximising the benefits, navigating the protocols and avoiding common pitfalls

Having a Royal Patron can bring huge benefits to a charity. It can help to raise your profile, change perceptions on important issues, increase your fundraising potential and boost credibility with stakeholders.
Read more...
CarolWard
Carol Ward
Apr 19, 2023, 7:15 AM
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Fundraising from the Marathon? How to make sure your runners cross the line

For small charities, especially those that had the foresight to invest in a Golden Bond (or two), it can be a lifeline.
Read more...
EmmaGoulds
Emma Goulds
Apr 13, 2023, 7:15 AM
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Fundraising review - is it time well spent?

If you’re in the throws of leading a charity or social enterprise, it can feel hard to justify carving out the space to pause and review your fundraising strategy or toolkit.
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KateGriffiths
Kathryn Griffiths
Apr 13, 2023, 7:00 AM
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How can small charities create bigger impact?

Impact can be a little Marmite: some embrace it as the core of everything they do; others push it away as a vague concept they find difficult to define.
Read more...
EleanorMitchell
Eleanor Mitchell
Apr 12, 2023, 12:00 PM
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Consultancy – When and how to make it work for your small charity

Navigating consultancy options is a potential minefield for any sized charity. When you’re small and money is very tight, it can seem like an unjustifiable gamble.
Read more...
JoyGascoigne
Joy Gascoigne
Mar 24, 2023, 8:30 AM
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Leading for the long haul – valuable lessons learned in life

Leadership expert John C Maxwell defines leadership as “influence, nothing more, nothing less”, but influencers are also influenced.
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KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
Mar 15, 2023, 8:30 AM
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Storytelling: Lessons from the parables

What does Biblical fundraising look like and can asking for funds ever be regarded as a ministry? Jesus, of course, had a great deal to say about money.
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LindaTrew
Linda Trew
Mar 15, 2023, 8:00 AM
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A.R.K. – three little letters that can make a big difference

As you go about your day today and the rest of your week, look out for the kindness shown to you and give thanks.
Read more...
ShelleyPoole
Shelley Poole
Feb 15, 2023, 9:30 AM
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How to help your people through the cost of living crisis

The cost of living crisis isn’t showing any immediate signs of improving, with the IMF predicting that the UK will be the only major economy to shrink in 2023.
Read more...
AndrewRainsford
Andrew Rainsford
Feb 15, 2023, 9:00 AM
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Unspent budget? Four dynamic ways to make it pay

We’re approaching the end the financial year, which may come as a relief if your annual budget has long since been spent.
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KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
Jan 16, 2023, 12:00 PM
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Investing in the Kingdom; Biblical fundraising

What does Biblical fundraising look like and can asking for funds ever be regarded as a ministry? Jesus, of course, had a great deal to say about money.
Read more...
SimonClaridge
Simon Claridge
Dec 15, 2022, 12:00 PM
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Appreciative Inquiry: a positive approach to problem solving

Problem solving is an important attribute for any charity leader, or indeed consultant.
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EleanorMitchell
Eleanor Mitchell
Dec 8, 2022, 12:00 PM
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Getting in shape for 2023 – three focus areas to add to your planning

Three focus areas to add to your planning. Where we cannot change difficult times ahead, we can be prepared and work collaboratively, supporting one another through them.
Read more...
FeliciaWillow
Felicia Willow
Dec 5, 2022, 12:00 PM
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Charity reviews – how to spot a good one

A good review isn’t as simple as pointing out the differences between best practice and reality.
Read more...
AndrewBarton
Andrew Barton
Nov 16, 2022, 12:00 PM
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Five fundraising priorities during the cost of living crisis

Look after yourself and your team. Stay positive. And celebrate every success that comes from your efforts.
Read more...
LindaTrew
Linda Trew
Nov 16, 2022, 10:00 AM
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Theos Think Tank reveals depth of economic insecurity among people of faith

Hannah Rich from Theos Think Tank has revealed the findings of new research on the impact of growing economic insecurity on faith communities and charities.
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LindaTrew
Linda Trew
Nov 16, 2022, 10:00 AM
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An update from the Charity Commission for England and Wales

Colette Bennett from the Charity Commission recently presented at Faith Charities Forum, an excellent event held by Civil Society.
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AndrewRainsford
Andrew Rainsford
Nov 9, 2022, 2:00 PM
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Warm Hubs; Warm Banks; Warm Welcome – is it the right thing for you?

One of the exciting things about the freelance world is the scope to challenge orthodoxy. Within the voluntary sector there is an embedded culture of “we must do something” and, by and large, this is good.
Read more...
ClaireMathys
Claire Mathys
Oct 3, 2022, 2:00 PM
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Meeting an MP? The one question you must be ready for

If you want to succeed in influencing policy, you need to put in the leg work. Here are some tips for making sure you make the most of the opportunity when the question comes.
Read more...
KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
Sep 22, 2022, 9:00 AM
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Having a God-sized vision: What the Bible tells us about strategy

How do you feel about strategy as a Christian? There are some within the Church who see strategy as an alien and purely secular concept – a no-go zone for followers of Christ.
Read more...
SimonClaridge
Simon Claridge
Aug 17, 2022, 9:00 AM
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What we really need are bicycles

This was the beautifully simple reply from the coordinator of a medium-sized Midlands Pakistani community organisation to the question.
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LindaTrew
Linda Trew
Jul 29, 2022, 9:00 AM
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Charities spend £900m a year applying for grant funding, new report reveals

Action Planning provides a trusts bid writing service for many charity clients, saving money, and time, by preparing carefully targeted, well researched and tightly written applications.
Read more...
ShelleyPoole
Shelley Poole
Jul 9, 2022, 10:00 AM
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Values in recruitment – How can charities find the ‘right’ employees?

Recruiting the ‘right’ people is an important part of managing a successful charity, but is not always as easy as we might hope. We may feel like we’ve hired the perfect candidate in terms of experience but find that they don’t fit into our organisation as seamlessly as we’d hoped, or we may struggle to attract the right candidates in the first place.
Read more...
markbillage
Mark Billage
Jul 8, 2022, 2:00 PM
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Trust crisis – are you meeting the fundamental needs of your team?

As I reflect on where we are as organisations, hopefully having weathered the storm of the pandemic, I am more convinced than ever of the significant part that trust plays in successful and effective leadership and, therefore, the teams they lead.
Read more...
KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
Jul 8, 2022, 9:00 AM
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Christian nervousness? How to bear witness authentically

Do you suffer from a level of nervousness when it comes to talking about your Christian identity as an organisation? If so, you are not alone. In an increasingly secular environment, being up front about the fact that you are followers of Christ can be quite a daunting prospect.
Read more...
MichelleLawrence
Michelle Lawrence
May 18, 2022, 2:00 PM
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A passion for collaboration – it’s just a case of joining the dots

I love the voluntary sector in this country. I’ve worked for and alongside charities for over 20 years and have infinite stories of the passion undertaken every day by people across the country.
Read more...
EmmaInsley
Emma Insley
May 5, 2022, 9:00 AM
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Developing a culture of monitoring, evaluation and learning

The benefits of building a culture that values monitoring, evaluation and learning in your organisation are huge.
Read more...
ShelleyPoole
Shelley Poole
Apr 11, 2022, 1:00 PM
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Key HR trends for 2022 and how to prepare for them

Over two years after the start of the pandemic, we still find ourselves in uncertain times. However, whilst we may not be able to predict the future, when it comes to Human Resources (HR) we are able to identify some current key trends which have the potential to impact upon employers. In this blog, we provide an overview.
Read more...
AndrewHumphreys
Andrew Humphreys
Apr 8, 2022, 1:00 PM
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Long-term planning: lessons for charity leaders from the pandemic

It’s that time again, to produce the next long-term plan for your organisation. We all know the drill: engage stakeholders, set objectives and milestones to be met at every critical stage, agree resourcing, delegate responsibilities and set the organisation off, like a well-oiled machine, to achieve everything we’ve planned for the next five years.
Read more...
LindaTrew
Linda Trew
Mar 16, 2022, 3:00 PM
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Planning a capital project? Where is the money coming from?

Do you need to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds – or perhaps millions – for a major project such as a new build, reordering or restoration work?
Read more...
AndrewRainsford
Andrew Rainsford
Mar 16, 2022, 1:30 PM
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How to look after everyone’s interests in the post peak-COVID future

There is a feeling in some places that the COVID Crisis has now passed and that normality has returned in full. Others take the view that there is still some way to go and, until global cases are reduced, it is foolish to relax our guard. There may be merit in both extremes.
Read more...
EmmaInsley
Emma Insley
Mar 16, 2022, 1:00 PM
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Giving responsibly to Ukraine – and what charities can learn

Sending your stuff or making an AirBnB booking isn’t the best way to make your support count. We see it time and time again: disaster strikes (or in this case, a brutal invasion) and people want to act. They feel powerless and are desperate to help.
Read more...
EleanorMitchell
Eleanor Mitchell
Mar 15, 2022, 1:00 PM
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Managing a hybrid workforce – how are your people coping?

When the world locked down in 2020, we were forced to abandon working practices that had been the norm and rapidly adapt to new ways of working – ways that had been pioneered by the more go-ahead organisations but were not as yet widely trusted.
Read more...
clarebamberger
Clare Bamberger
Mar 15, 2022, 10:00 AM
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Catching up? Pivoting? Radically rethinking? Why it’s worth getting advice on your organisation’s future

Your charity has survived the last two years. You have shown enormous resilience, quickly adapting to virtual services, a partly or fully home-working workforce, furloughs, new health and safety measures, changing your office space, seeking new funders and much more.
Read more...
SeanTully
Sean Tully
Feb 9, 2022, 1:00 PM
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High Value Grants fundraising: five big challenges in 2022

We identified five of the big challenges facing charities in 2022 – issues that are not always fundraising-specific, but which are, nevertheless, important to funders and, therefore, need to be factored into the grants fundraising strategy of organisations across all fields.
Read more...
PrimaveraMoretti
Primavera Moretti
Feb 1, 2022, 10:00 AM
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Adding clout to your fundraising – Six ways in which a consultant can help you get the most out of trusts and foundations?

Charity leaders often question the value of consultants. “We need to raise more money, not spend more!” This anecdote explains why fundraising consultants are worth their weight in gold.
Read more...
clarebamberger
Clare Bamberger
Jan 20, 2022, 1:00 PM
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Structure your strategic ambition in a well-monitored action plan

An organisational strategy sets the direction and ambition for the future N years. On a spectrum of “same as usual” right through to “complete change of our way to meet our charitable purpose”, most probably fall somewhere in the middle.
Read more...
MauriceAdams
Maurice Adams
Jan 11, 2022, 10:00 AM
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Will our organisation survive a(nother) crisis?

During the early stages of Covid disruption, there was a sense of “it will be good when we get back to normal”. This subtly changed to “we had better get used to the ‘new normal’”. Now it seems that even ‘normal’ is questionable.
Read more...
FeliciaWillow
Felicia Willow
Jan 11, 2022, 10:00 AM
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Crucial planning opportunity or annual waste of time? Five top tips for successful away days

Do an away day badly and you risk your efforts backfiring. You risk making the wrong decisions and setting the wrong path. You risk damaging relationships and trust. And you risk setting up your charity to fail.
Read more...
admin
Jan 5, 2022, 1:00 PM
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Leading from the emerging future – Choosing a strategic planning process that is fit for purpose

After 25 years working in NGOs, and for the past 13 as Executive Director of Women for Women International, I am now outside of any organisational structure. This has given me space and time to reflect on some of the great challenges that I believe our sector faces.
Read more...
clarebamberger
Clare Bamberger
Dec 20, 2021, 1:00 PM
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Inclusion – a liberating watchword for 2022

Trustees are there to guide, not take the day-to-day decisions. The last two years through the pandemic have made us, as a board, take a more involved role to support the Chief Exec and the staff in running the charity. So, how have we fared?
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AndrewBarton
Andrew Barton
Dec 8, 2021, 10:00 AM
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Fuelling the engine – End-of-year fundraising questions for CEOs

In late September we had a lovely week on holiday in Falmouth. But a couple of days before leaving home in Milton Keynes, I couldn’t be sure we were going. I was still desperately looking for fuel to be sure that I could make the journey without fear of running dry.
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AndrewRainsford
Andrew Rainsford
Dec 2, 2021, 8:00 AM
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2021 – the year that relevance re-emerged

The word “challenging” keeps coming up. If challenging means “different” then it has certainly been challenging. But does that necessarily mean difficult?
Read more...
ruthmulryne
Ruth Mulryne
Nov 23, 2021, 10:00 AM
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How to succeed as an interim CEO

Talented interim leaders will have a role to play in a range of organisations as we emerge into the ‘new’ future. Our sector, like many, is full of change and uncertainty and an interim CEO who can hold the reins long enough to establish stability and score some quick wins is invaluable.
Read more...
FeliciaWillow
Felicia Willow
Nov 23, 2021, 10:00 AM
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The pros and cons of being an interim CEO

I’ve led six charities through periods of crisis, change and transition – and I’m just about to step into my seventh interim leadership role. I love it. But being an interim CEO is not for everyone.
Read more...
DavidBull
David Bull
Nov 17, 2021, 10:00 AM
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10 key challenges for not-for-profit sector CEOs (and how to solve them)

Being the CEO of a charitable organisation is exceptionally rewarding, but also uniquely demanding. Many of the challenges we face may sound familiar to corporate leaders too, but the differences are of huge significance.
Read more...
AndrewMiddleton
Andrew Middleton
Nov 10, 2021, 1:00 PM
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3 reasons why charity CEOs need mentors

It is lonely and tough at the top. A charity CEO’s role requires tremendous reserves of resilience and can often leave the CEO feeling isolated without good personal support.
Read more...
PrimaveraMoretti
Primavera Moretti
Nov 9, 2021, 1:00 PM
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8 water cooler comments CEOs shouldn’t overhear about themselves

Although you’re a leader, you’re also a member of a team, so walk with your team. If you want everyone coming into the office to connect, then connect. If you work better at home, then they probably do too, so why are you asking them to come in?
Read more...
MauriceAdams
Maurice Adams
Nov 4, 2021, 9:00 AM
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Thinking of becoming a charity CEO? Beware your own shadow!

Even though our individual situation is our situation and there is no ‘one size fits all’ model for a CEO, there are some challenges most will have to handle. Maurice Adams will help you recognise these challenges.
Read more...
AndrewMiddleton
Andrew Middleton
Oct 29, 2021, 1:00 PM
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80% of charities are neglecting governance. Are you one of them?

Good Governance is not just a tick box exercise, it’s a way to show that you are well run and a good place to give support.
Read more...
FrankBennett
Frank Bennett
Oct 25, 2021, 9:00 AM
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The key to good governance in times of change

The past two years of disruption have caused much reflection on the way things were – the good old days – and how things will be in the future. One thing that has changed is the rapid adoption of technology to support new ways of working. “Let’s Zoom or jump on a Teams meeting," is now routine.
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AndrewRainsford
Andrew Rainsford
Oct 20, 2021, 11:00 AM
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Great minds and all that – How to create a shared vision for your charity

The relationship between the Chair and the CEO is crucial. Equally crucial is the relationship between the Chair and the wider board. I could not have wished for a more supportive Chair.
Read more...
TracyMadgwick
Tracy Madgwick
Sep 29, 2021, 9:00 AM
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Attracting top talent to your organisation – why employer brand matters even more than ever

Due to the impact of Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, today’s job market is highly volatile. Some industries face crippling labour shortages whilst others face numerous applications to a select numbers of roles...
Read more...
HalDavidson
Hal Davidson
Sep 8, 2021, 1:00 PM
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Recruiting volunteers for charities – How to make sure it works for everybody?

Whenever you’re considering recruiting a volunteer or multiple volunteers, it’s worth pausing and thinking about the need and whether you and your organisation are ready to recruit.
Read more...
ShaliniJain
Shalini Jain
Aug 16, 2021, 9:30 AM
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Charity marketing: two tools to help maximise your appeal

Before the word “pandemic” was a part of everyday conversation, you might have attended the odd IT skills course, learning how to create a better Excel spreadsheet or get the most out of your LinkedIn network. For many of us though, 2020/21 has been a crash course in becoming more digitally savvy, primarily learning on the job.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Aug 13, 2021, 10:00 AM
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7 Good Reasons for Hiring a Copywriter

How many times have you told yourself you’d write that piece of copy to kickstart a campaign or galvanise your support base… and never quite got round to it? A copywriter will push you through that mental barrier and get the job started.
Read more...
LindaTrew
Linda Trew
Jul 29, 2021, 1:00 PM
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The Christian recruitment challenge

We’ve all been there, haven’t we? – wanting the very best people for our organisation, but how do you find skilled staff who also have a heart for Jesus?
Read more...
ShaliniJain
Shalini Jain
Jul 28, 2021, 1:00 PM
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The art and science of fundraising

Fundraising for a project is both an art and a science – an articulation of the funding request and a logical explanation of the Theory of Change (how the project would achieve the desired outcomes with the relevant resources, including the financial resources being requested).
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SeanTully
Sean Tully
Jul 28, 2021, 1:00 PM
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Trusts Fundraising Strategy – learning from the funders

Early in 2021, Action Planning helped a national charity to rethink its grants strategy. The client had benefitted from the support of a small number of some of the larger UK trusts and was of the impression that this funding support was one-off, not to be repeated.
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kathrynkendall
Kathryn Kendall
Jul 13, 2021, 4:00 PM
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Five reasons why your grant application was unsuccessful

Kathryn Kendall explores five reasons why your grant application for your charity was unsuccessful... In an ideal grant funding world you would receive a helpful letter, perhaps even a phone consultation, from a funder after your application has been declined.
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LindaTrew
Linda Trew
Jun 30, 2021, 1:00 PM
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Can you really pray in the money?

We can often find ourselves in tricky positions within the workplace, whether it’s going through a time of change, such as a merger or restructure, financial difficulty or simply losing focus. Having someone come alongside you with the skills and experience to help you pick your way through the issue, to enable you to become a stronger, more resilient organisation, enabling you to better serve your beneficiaries, is a real blessing.
Read more...
NedWells
Ned Wells
Jun 21, 2021, 2:00 PM
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How to select the right web development partner for your charity

This article offers a process to help you select a development partner that’s right for your charity, maximising the chances of getting the best website to raise funds and further your mission.
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kathrynkendall
Kathryn Kendall
Jun 15, 2021, 1:00 PM
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Safeguarding in digital delivery

Before the word “pandemic” was a part of everyday conversation, you might have attended the odd IT skills course, learning how to create a better Excel spreadsheet or get the most out of your LinkedIn network. For many of us though, 2020/21 has been a crash course in becoming more digitally savvy, primarily learning on the job.
Read more...
KarenMorton
Karen Morton
Jun 9, 2021, 9:00 AM
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Virtual away days – making best use of digital tech in the hybrid workplace

I work as a facilitator (amongst other things). When we were first locked down, away days were postponed and instead I got busy with the Covid response in my local community. This was a great way to explore Zoom – endless meetings – and devise training for people who probably would have heard me if I had shouted out of the window.
Read more...
LindaTrew
Linda Trew
Jun 1, 2021, 12:00 PM
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Faithful fundraising

Fundraising can feel alien in a Christian environment. It feels a lot easier to ask people to pray for support rather than ask directly for money. Don’t get me wrong, prayer is vital and we need prayer support, but Jesus didn’t just pray, he acted, and he calls us to act too. So why is it so difficult to ask for money?
Read more...
SusieMullen
Susie Mullen
May 26, 2021, 1:00 PM
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The future of work in a post-COVID world – what the research tells us

Those in the business of spotting trends are predicting a summer of fun in 2021. On the 21st June, all legal limits on social contact are expected to be lifted. But have people missed working with others in an office? And do they really want to return to working with others in an office?
Read more...
TracyMadgwick
Tracy Madgwick
May 24, 2021, 1:00 PM
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Welcoming furloughed employees back into the workplace

Eighteen months is a significant period of time to be away from the workplace – even longer than traditional periods of maternity leave and shared parental leave. Those affected may be feeling anxious about returning due to fears about infection or concerns about job security and what the ‘new normal’ will look like.
Read more...
LucindaShaw
Lucinda Shaw
May 11, 2021, 4:00 PM
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What is coaching? And how can it help your charity work?

The term ‘coaching’ is used a lot, often incorrectly when people mean mentoring, but what is it exactly and how can it help busy professionals?
Read more...
EleanorMitchell
Eleanor Mitchell
Apr 26, 2021, 1:00 PM
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Is it possible to innovate within a standard charity model?

To innovate is to make changes within an established structure by introducing new meth-ods, ideas or products. Charitable organisations will change incrementally almost every time funding alters, as the structure shifts. These changes happen to ensure the charity is meeting the needs of its beneficiaries.
Read more...
AndrewHumphreys
Andrew Humphreys
Apr 16, 2021, 1:00 PM
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How a logic model can help you develop your strategy

Setting organisational strategy is often complex and can seem like an impenetrable task. Basic questions like “Where do we start?” and “Who should be involved?” can often prevent progress in getting going. Considering priorities, goals and long-term objectives without looking through the lens of the current operation can also be a challenge, which can limit strategy development to operational performance improvement.
Read more...
VanessaSwann
Vanessa Swann
Apr 16, 2021, 1:00 PM
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Too busy to look at the big picture?

Unsurprisingly at the moment, many charities are finding it hard to devote time and resources to undertake strategic reviews. They feel overwhelmed by the need to keep the present work going and consequently tend to make small tweaks rather than looking at the bigger picture.
Read more...
MauriceAdams
Maurice Adams
Apr 7, 2021, 10:00 AM
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The crucial role of leadership in the capacity development process

Read more...
MauriceAdams
Maurice Adams
Apr 6, 2021, 1:00 PM
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Capacity Development: what it really means and how to make if effective

Read more...
MauriceAdams
Maurice Adams
Apr 6, 2021, 1:00 PM
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The value of faith-based organisations

A common narrative is that our society is becoming less religious. Fewer people attend religious meetings, for example, and in the UK specifically, fewer identify themselves as practising Christians. However, this only tells one side of a story. Although some faiths may be witnessing a decline in attendance, others are experiencing growth.
Read more...
AmyShepherd
Amy Shepherd
Mar 24, 2021, 1:00 PM
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5 ways to build resilience as your people return to the office

Over the past year I’ve noticed that charities are starting to see the real value and importance of gathering insight and intelligence from their key audiences – whether they are beneficiaries, supporters or stakeholders.
Read more...
mateason
Mat Eason
Mar 22, 2021, 9:30 AM
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Solidarity – building employee resilience

The difference between just coping and thriving is determined by how healthy our relationships are
Read more...
admin
Mar 17, 2021, 2:30 PM
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Don’t rush head first into the future

The impact of the pandemic on your staff may be yet to kick in. Prepare now for a future full of surprises.
Read more...
markbillage
Mark Billage
Mar 15, 2021, 4:30 PM
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Realistic Optimism

How do we act as leaders so that we keep our heads up and maintain our authenticity at the same time? It is important that we set goals that spur us on towards a better future...
Read more...
MikeTaylor
Mike Taylor
Feb 24, 2021, 4:30 PM
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Changes to the Charity Governance Code: Diversity

“We need to continue the journey from seeing diversity as a ‘hygiene factor’ to striving for diversity as a ‘success factor’. The Charity Governance Code helps trustees understand how they can do this.”
Read more...
AndrewRainsford
Andrew Rainsford
Feb 24, 2021, 4:00 PM
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The future of the office and workspace

There is increasing recognition that the social interaction of the workplace is a key element in productivity
Read more...
AndrewBarton
Andrew Barton
Jan 27, 2021, 1:00 PM
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Response, recovery and reconstruction: 8 insights on adaptive fundraising during coronavirus

Andrew Barton is used to thinking about the three phases of humanitarian emergencies: response, recovery and reconstruction. Andrew worked on these insights in June 2020, but they are still as relevant in early 2021 as the crisis, like the virus itself, mutates.
Read more...
AndrewBarton
Andrew Barton
Jan 27, 2021, 12:00 PM
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Fundraising resolutions: coronavirus and beyond

Andrew Barton's six actionable fundraising resolutions that could pay dividends in 2021. Fundraising is so critical to your organisation that it does deserve some priority.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Dec 16, 2020, 10:43 AM
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The post of Christmas past

This year, as families and friends are forced to rethink Christmas, I’m pleased that we can uphold one of my favourite traditions: the Action Planning Christmas card.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Nov 25, 2020, 3:42 PM
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Action Planning’s Three Minute Survey for Charity CEOs

See the results here for Action Planning’s Three Minute Survey for Charity CEOs
Read more...
KarenMorton
Karen Morton
Oct 29, 2020, 11:09 AM
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Karen Morton – Future Gazing

"Karen Morton – Future Gazing" Seminar Video from Action Planning's 30th anniversary online party!
Read more...
CarolAkiwumi
Carol Akiwumi
Oct 29, 2020, 11:08 AM
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Carol Akiwumi – Challenge Your Most Cherished Fundraising Ideas

"Carol Akiwumi– Challenge Your Most Cherished Fundraising Ideas" Seminar Video from Action Planning's 30th anniversary online party!
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NickWilkie
Nick Wilkie
Oct 29, 2020, 11:07 AM
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Nick Wilkie – This Much I Think: Musings on Organisational Leadership and Life

"Nick Wilkie – This Much I Think: Musings on Organisational Leadership and Life" Seminar Video from Action Planning's 30th anniversary online party!
Read more...
TracyMadgwick
Tracy Madgwick
Oct 29, 2020, 11:06 AM
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Tracy Madgwick –Finding and Keeping Talent Remotely

"Tracy Madgwick –Finding and Keeping Talent Remotely" Seminar Video from Action Planning's 30th anniversary online party!
Read more...
LindaTurton
Linda Turton
Oct 29, 2020, 11:05 AM
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Linda Turton – Making Your Finance Funder Friendly

"Linda Turton – Making Your Finance Funder Friendly" Seminar Video from Action Planning's 30th anniversary online party!
Read more...
DavidBull
David Bull
Oct 29, 2020, 11:04 AM
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David Bull CBE – Top 5 Questions Trustees Should Ask Staff

"David Bull CBE – Top 5 Questions Trustees Should Ask Staff" Seminar Video from Action Planning's 30th anniversary online party!
Read more...
EmmaInsley
Emma Insley
Oct 29, 2020, 11:03 AM
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Emma Insley – Impact Accelerating Your Fundraising

"Emma Insley – Impact Accelerating Your Fundraising" Seminar Video from Action Planning's 30th anniversary online party!
Read more...
KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
Oct 29, 2020, 11:02 AM
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Kate Nicholas – Communicating for Recovery

"Kate Nicholas – Communicating for Recovery" Seminar Video from Action Planning's 30th anniversary online party!
Read more...
andrewjohnson
Andrew Johnson
Oct 29, 2020, 11:01 AM
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Andrew Johnson – Using Campaigns to Drive Engagement

"Andrew Johnson – Using Campaigns to Drive Engagement" Seminar Video from Action Planning's 30th anniversary online party!
Read more...
FeliciaWillow
Felicia Willow
Oct 29, 2020, 11:00 AM
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Felicia Willow – Managing Crisis Using an Interim CEO's Approach

"Felicia Willow – Managing Crisis Using an Interim CEO's Approach" Seminar Video from Action Planning's 30th anniversary online party!
Read more...
AnjaSonksen
Anja Batista Sonksen
Oct 28, 2020, 2:26 PM
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Cancel the Christmas Party?! No Way!

At the end of what has been a tough year for most charities and an existential one for some, it is all the more important to have some festivities planned for the team. Action Planning turned 30 this year and we had big plans for a roof-top party with socially enterprised catering in sunny May. Like so many other events, it was postponed...
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Oct 21, 2020, 5:00 PM
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Action Planning celebrates Pearl Anniversary with 10 seminars in 60 minutes

On Tuesday 20th October, 2020, we celebrated 30 years of service to the third sector with an online party, complete with wine, nibbles, party hats and over 60 guests assembled from our charity and not-for-profit clientele.
Read more...
FeliciaWillow
Felicia Willow
Aug 28, 2020, 2:26 PM
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Managing remotely with a team you’ve never met in an interim role

Felicia Willow is an experienced interim CEO but the lockdown has thrown up challenges that even she hasn’t had to deal with before. Watch Felicia’s short video highlighting five valuable tips for managing a team you’ve never met when you can’t get together in person.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Aug 27, 2020, 3:21 PM
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Capital appeals – an online catalyst

Churches looking to rekindle a capital appeal project in the wake of lockdown can increase their chances of success with the help of Action Planning.
Read more...
AndrewRainsford
Andrew Rainsford
Jul 30, 2020, 12:00 PM
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10 Top Tips for remaining professional and sane in the post-COVID remote working world

With polls showing a general reluctance among UK workers to return to their old commute and office-based routines, online video calls are clearly here to stay.
Read more...
AndrewRainsford
Andrew Rainsford
Jun 30, 2020, 1:00 PM
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10 tips for a successful review of giving?

The lockdown and absence from buildings will have hit some churches harder than others. Yes, some will have included a "give now" link in Zoom and YouTube services but many will not have done, and of those that have, some will have gained a greater response than others.
Read more...
AndrewBarton
Andrew Barton
May 27, 2020, 3:00 PM
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Fundraising Strategy during the twists and turns of the Coronavirus crisis – and beyond

There are many principles from the INGO world that can be helpful as you respond to coronavirus.
Read more...
DavidGreen
David Green
May 27, 2020, 3:00 PM
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Motivating your remote team

“Remember that not everyone is the same and that some team members may find remote working a challenge”... So, you have a very good team, all working from home. For much of the time, you can just let them get on with it. But there can be a fine balance between a hands-off approach and the very real risk that any one of them could feel left behind.
Read more...
LucindaShaw
Lucinda Shaw
May 27, 2020, 10:30 AM
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Creating the space to open up – why it’s important to really ask

I’ve been reflecting a lot on all that’s hidden at the moment, when we’re dispersed and working from home. How important it is to check in regularly with people. Conversations can only happen on Zoom or the phone or Skype, and I’m wondering how much important stuff about ‘how we are’ – how people are actually experiencing this and managing to work – is being missed.
Read more...
MichelleLawrence
Michelle Lawrence
May 26, 2020, 10:00 AM
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The Times They Are a-Changing, but will they change us?

The idea of the ‘impetus’ has been the elusive challenge that I have been grappling with. For some years now, my charity has been focusing on how we can change attitudes towards the ‘other’. How do we engage with those people and those views when there is nothing to persuade them to engage?
Read more...
SeanTully
Sean Tully
May 26, 2020, 10:00 AM
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Church development project? Why it pays to call for help at the start.

Action Planning recently had the privilege of working with three churches across Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire. Each church will modernise their building to become more accessible for the congregation and the community that they serve.
Read more...
ruthdwight
Ruth Dwight
May 7, 2020, 9:30 AM
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You're on mute, John...

I have picked up a few practical points from facilitating some Zoom-based workshops in the past few weeks, and I thought it might be useful to share them…
Read more...
AmyShepherd
Amy Shepherd
Apr 21, 2020, 11:00 AM
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How are you feeling today? The choice is yours

I’d like to talk to you today about dealing with uncertainty and ambiguity in the current crisis. In a lot of leadership development programmes we talk about navigating through a VUCA world – Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous
Read more...
IanOReilly
Ian O'Reilly
Apr 20, 2020, 11:00 AM
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Impact of supporter experience on fundraising

Part 2: Why we should be focusing on supporter experience more than ever. In the second of two articles, Action Planning Consultant Ian O’Reilly considers the importance of supporter experience in the light of COVID-19.
Read more...
KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
Apr 15, 2020, 10:15 AM
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Communicating in a crisis: remember your ABCs

As a not for profit leader you probably feel under siege at the moment. Covid-19 may be impacting your income, operations and your staff, not to mention your family and friends. The world has turned upside down and – even when this is over – may never be the be the same again.
Read more...
DavidKirby
David Kirby
Apr 15, 2020, 10:00 AM
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Releasing funds in an emergency: what are your options?

I imagine one of the challenges which you might be facing at this time is managing the pressures on your cash flow and finances more generally. One of the ways in which this pressure can be mitigated is by reviewing the various funding pots that you hold, such as reserves, designated funds, restricted funds and endowment funds...
Read more...
markgoldring
Mark Goldring
Apr 8, 2020, 1:00 PM
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Worried about long-term finances? Three actions you need to take

As we face up to the initial challenges – programme, people, financial – of the impact of the virus, we’ve also got to start looking at the longer-term financial implications and how we’re going to manage them.
Read more...
admin
Apr 6, 2020, 11:30 AM
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Stay connected with your team – 3 simple tips

I’d like to talk to you about the importance of connection. So, now we’re all working in a virtual world and it’s really important to keep that connection with your team members when we’re working remotely...
Read more...
markgoldring
Mark Goldring
Apr 2, 2020, 11:00 AM
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Leading through crisis: look at it through three lenses

Having led a number of large charities, most relevantly Oxfam, in responding to disasters around the world, as well as it’s own internal challenges, I want to offer an observation that might help those of us supporting others to rise to the challenge of leading their organisations in the current crisis.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Mar 31, 2020, 3:00 PM
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Coronavirus - How can Boards best support their charities through this crisis?

Every charity situation is different; every individual responds to crisis in different ways; and every individual will be affected by the current crisis in different ways – personally and professionally.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Mar 27, 2020, 10:00 AM
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Arts Council England funding for organisations and individuals

Arts Council England has set up a fund worth £160million to ensure the people and organisations that make up our arts, museums and libraries are protected during the coronavirus crisis.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Mar 27, 2020, 10:00 AM
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London Funders set up Covid-19 fund

A new fund coordinated by London Funders has been set up to support London’s civil society groups affected by covid-19.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Mar 27, 2020, 10:00 AM
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Calor puts up £85,000 for rural community projects

To celebrate its 85th birthday, gas company Calor has increased the value of its Rural Communities Fund to £85,000, which it will divide into 22 prizes.
Read more...
DavidBull
David Bull
Mar 25, 2020, 10:00 AM
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Leadership in the time of corona – 5 things to think about

As a charity CEO for 32 years, I have been through crises before. Here are five things to think about.
Read more...
ClaireCardy
Claire Cardy
Mar 25, 2020, 10:00 AM
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Feeling helpless? Time to dig into those creative reserves

I have just passed the one year anniversary of leaving a permanent role to become a freelance consultant in the charity sector. I didn’t celebrate it in the way I had perhaps expected, as it was the same day the UK went into ‘lockdown’ due to the Covid-19 outbreak.
Read more...
markgoldring
Mark Goldring
Mar 24, 2020, 10:05 AM
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Leading in a crisis: some lessons from personal experience

We might never have seen anything like this; I’ve certainly never lived through anything quite like it. But others have those people hit by famine, earthquakes and tsunamis; those in Syria bombed and besieged by their own government...
Read more...
AndrewMiddleton
Andrew Middleton
Mar 3, 2020, 4:00 PM
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How can virtual meetings help your charity remain effective?

We live in very challenging times. Right now, coronavirus is forcing individuals to self-isolate and organisations to reduce face-to-face contact, both of which could have a real impact on charity productivity and their ability to deliver outcomes.
Read more...
IanOReilly
Ian O'Reilly
Feb 25, 2020, 10:00 AM
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Impact of supporter experience on fundraising

What is supporter experience and why is it so important? Action Planning Consultant Ian O’Reilly explains what supporter experience is all about and why it matters
Read more...
ruthdwight
Ruth Dwight
Feb 20, 2020, 10:00 AM
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Growing a sales mindset in a not-for-profit organisation

Is your organisation looking for new funding streams but knocking up against a cultural resistance to selling? Action Planning Consultant and earned income specialist Ruth Dwight offers her tips for instilling a charitable sales mindset.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Feb 14, 2020, 12:00 PM
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London Marathon fund for physical activity

Can you believe the London Marathon has been running for 40 years? Over that time it has raised millions for charitable causes.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Feb 14, 2020, 10:15 AM
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Funding up to £250,000 for museums and galleries

The Esmée Fairbairn Collections Fund is offering grants worth up to £250,000 to support the development of existing collections, held by an accredited museum or partnership.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jan 31, 2020, 12:08 PM
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Ouseley Trust grants for choral music

If you’re a parish church, choir school, choral foundation or cathedral that maintains a high standard of choral services, you may be eligible for a grant of up to £5,000
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jan 24, 2020, 2:00 PM
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£50k Aviva grants for small charity community projects

Charities with a turnover of under £1m are invited to apply for funding from the Aviva Community Fund
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jan 24, 2020, 10:00 AM
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Co-op funding for youth peer-to-peer support

Co-op Foundation, the charity arm of the grocery chain, is partnering with the #iwill Fund to offer grants of up to £35,000 to support projects that enable young people to provide support for their peers making the transition from primary to secondary school.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jan 10, 2020, 10:37 AM
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Heritage grants for historic buildings

Transforming Places Through Heritage is a £15million grant programme from the Architectural Heritage Fund, aimed at supporting charities and social enterprises to develop projects creating alternative uses for redundant or underused historic buildings in town centres.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Dec 20, 2019, 10:37 AM
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NCT funding for church building projects

The National Churches Trust has three grant programmes currently inviting applications for funding. In each case, grants will be awarded for up to 50% of the project cost.
Read more...
SeanTully
Sean Tully
Dec 20, 2019, 9:00 AM
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Big Society depending on church social action – but where will the money come from?

This past decade of austerity and cuts in publicly funded services has seen churches stepping in to fill the gaps
Read more...
TracyMadgwick
Tracy Madgwick
Dec 19, 2019, 9:43 AM
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It's all about the people! – How can you nurture your human resources in 2020?

Looking back over 2019 as an HR consultant working with a range of different clients, there have been a number of key themes that have driven the people management agenda in the last 12 months.
Read more...
andrewjohnson
Andrew Johnson
Dec 18, 2019, 1:00 PM
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Has insight helped your decision-making this year?

Over the past year I’ve noticed that charities are starting to see the real value and importance of gathering insight and intelligence from their key audiences – whether they are beneficiaries, supporters or stakeholders.
Read more...
AndrewMiddleton
Andrew Middleton
Dec 17, 2019, 9:00 AM
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Review is the word – how did your Governance look in 2019?

One of the great things about being an Action Planning consultant is that I get the chance to talk to many charities about how they operate and what is affecting them.
Read more...
admin
Dec 16, 2019, 10:18 AM
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An exciting time but still big challenges ahead – so how was your fundraising year?

2019 has been a really exciting year for fundraising. Despite the challenges fundraisers face, I feel that they have shown incredible grit and resilience in 2019.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Dec 16, 2019, 10:18 AM
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What chance of 2020 vision in 2020? And then what?

I like to think I was perhaps one of the first people to harness ‘2020 Vision’ as the title of their strategic plan, when I wrote Action Planning’s first strategy in 1996.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Dec 13, 2019, 11:32 AM
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Grants of up to £30,000 for war memorial conservation

The War Memorials Trust is offering grants of up to £30,000 towards the protection and conservation of war memorials throughout the UK.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Dec 6, 2019, 10:06 AM
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Veolia grants for environmental projects

Not-for-profit organisations in England raising funds for environmental or community-based projects can apply for a grant of between £10,000 and £75,000 from the Veolia Environmental Trust.
Read more...
TracyMadgwick
Tracy Madgwick
Nov 29, 2019, 3:42 PM
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How to overcome the recruitment challenge for faith-based organisations

Good directors are hard to find in any circumstances, but for a Christian charity that requires candidates to be practising Christians who accept the organisation’s faith statement, the field is narrowed drastically.
Read more...
AndrewMiddleton
Andrew Middleton
Nov 29, 2019, 2:26 PM
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Reflections on Conference Season

November saw Action Planning set up its stand at both the NVCO Trustees Conference and the ACEVO Conference. Andrew Middleton was at both and has summed up the issues that were being discussed.
Read more...
admin
Nov 20, 2019, 9:14 AM
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Week 4 - Re-energise: Sometimes we all need to switch off and start again

In the last of her four-part series on overcoming the cultural barriers to fundraising, Action Planning Consultant Emily Petty applies the jump leads.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Nov 15, 2019, 12:00 PM
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New vision fund for London’s blind

The Vision Foundation has launched a new fund to address the most pressing issues affecting blind and partially sighted people in London today.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Nov 15, 2019, 11:40 AM
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Toyota funding for disabled sport and activities

Organisations running clubs, activities or events for disabled people can apply for grants to pay for equipment and training from a new fund launched by Toyota, worth £250,000.
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admin
Nov 13, 2019, 9:20 AM
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Week 3 - Grow: Give your team the confidence to tap into their talents

In the third of four articles on overcoming the cultural barriers to fundraising, Action Planning Consultant Emily Petty prepares the ground for growth.
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Nov 8, 2019, 12:40 PM
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Match funding for reviving green spaces

Community groups working to develop public green spaces in their local area are invited to apply for match funding from the Government ‘Pocket Parks’ scheme.
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Nov 8, 2019, 12:25 PM
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New funds for cultural protection in Libya, Syria and Yemen

New grants worth up to £100,000 are being made available to organisations planning to work with locally based partners in Libya, Syria or Yemen on projects of benefit to the local heritage, society and economy.
Read more...
admin
Nov 6, 2019, 12:28 PM
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Week 2 - Reconnect: Overcoming cultural barriers to fundraising

In the second of four articles on overcoming the cultural barriers to fundraising, Action Planning Consultant Emily Petty explains the importance of human connection.
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Nov 1, 2019, 10:06 AM
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Grants of £50,000 available for church conservation projects

The National Churches Trust (NCT) Cornerstone Grants programme provides grants of between £10,000 and £50,000 to help fund urgent structural repairs and modernisation work.
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admin
Oct 30, 2019, 12:28 PM
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Week 1 - Reboot: Overcoming cultural barriers to fundraising

In the first of four articles on overcoming the cultural barriers to fundraising, Action Planning Consultant Emily Petty starts with a clean slate.
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Oct 25, 2019, 9:28 AM
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Windrush Day grants of up to £25,000

The Government has set up a Windrush Day Grant Scheme, with a fund worth £500,000, to support organisations in celebrating and educating their community about the arrival of the MV Empire Windrush
Read more...
FeliciaWillow
Felicia Willow
Oct 22, 2019, 9:28 AM
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Is it worth investing in an interim CEO?

Interim CEO posts can be a high-impact and effective use of resources for charities of all sizes, but the opportunities are sometimes resisted due to the higher costs of skilled interim leaders.
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Oct 18, 2019, 3:00 PM
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£5.75m tech fund to tackle unemployment

A new fund has been launched to support charities that are helping to reskill people whose industries have been affected by automation.
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Oct 18, 2019, 2:00 PM
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£2m fund for organisations tackling loneliness

One year after the publication of the Government’s landmark Loneliness Strategy, which outlined almost 60 commitments to end loneliness, Minister for Civil Society Baroness Barran has announced a new £2million fund to help organisations.
Read more...
SeanTully
Sean Tully
Oct 10, 2019, 4:17 PM
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Reflections from a church capital appeals workshop

Saturday 5th October saw Action Planning deliver the second of three workshops in partnership with the Diocese of Oxford.
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Oct 4, 2019, 12:17 PM
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Match Funding for outer London community projects

The second round of funding from Trust for London and Crowdfunder’s Connected Communities Match Fund is now open for applications.
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Oct 4, 2019, 12:05 PM
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Children in Need Small Grants round open for spring 2020

Charities and not-for-profit organisations that work with disadvantaged youngsters can now apply for grants of up to £10,000 per year for up to three years from the BBC Children in Need Small Grants programme.
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Sep 27, 2019, 12:05 PM
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£40,000 grants available for healthcare charities

Charities working to provide healthcare to disadvantaged adults and children in the UK can apply for one of a number of grants of £10,000 to £40,000 from health plan provider Simplyhealth.
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Sep 27, 2019, 11:44 AM
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Join us at NCVO/Bates Wells Trustee Conference 2019

NCVO/Bates Wells Trustee Conference 2019 is taking place on Monday 4th November in the City of London and we’ll be there, amongst around 400 trustees and executives from across the charity sector.
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TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Sep 27, 2019, 11:38 AM
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We’ve teamed up with Digi-Board™ to solve the governance review conundrum

Action Planning has developed an innovative and effective approach to governance reviews, in partnership with Digi-Board™, that is designed to help not-for-profits overcome the barriers of cost, time and convenience.
Read more...
AndrewRainsford
Andrew Rainsford
Sep 27, 2019, 9:48 AM
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Places of worship VAT grants extended to 2021

The recent Spending Review contained news that the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme will continue until 31st March 2021. This is an extension on the previous expiry date of 31st March 2020.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Sep 20, 2019, 10:00 AM
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£120,000 in new funding for road safety initiatives

Charities working towards the reduction of casualties on the road can join police forces, fire and rescue services and local authorities in applying for funding from the Road Safety Trust.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Sep 20, 2019, 9:30 AM
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High value prizes for healthy ageing projects

The Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund (ISCF) is running a competition for collaborations, including charities, to develop products, services and business models which support people as they age, and demonstrate how they will be adopted at scale.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Sep 13, 2019, 9:30 AM
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New funding for small international development charities

Small UK not-for-profit organisations working on international development projects can now ap-ply for a grant through the latest round of funding from the Department for International Devel-opment’s Small Charities Challenge Fund (SCCF).
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Sep 13, 2019, 9:30 AM
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Leeds community fund invites applications

Charities in the North of England can apply for a share of a £100,000 fund pot from a partnership of Northern Gas Networks (NGN), Northern Powergrid and Leeds Community Foundation.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Sep 6, 2019, 9:30 AM
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Applications for £3 million Dream Fund now open

Applications for the People’s Postcode Lottery Dream Fund opened this week.
Read more...
OndineUpton
Ondine Upton
Aug 30, 2019, 9:30 AM
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Whose eyes are we looking through? Top tips for developing organisational success with major donors

One of the most powerful game-changers for an organisation serious about major donor fundraising is to look at everything through their donors’ eyes
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Aug 30, 2019, 9:30 AM
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Government puts up £30m for 5G projects

The Government’s pledge to roll out 5G to the UK’s rural communities has been backed up by a £30million prize fund. Up to 10 5g research and development projects will be chosen for funding over the next two years.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Aug 30, 2019, 9:30 AM
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Christian distinctiveness: an aid to fundraising, or a hindrance?

Action Planning has worked with hundreds of Christian charities and churches over the years, and one of the themes that frequently emerges is that it is really hard to raise funds for Christian causes.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Aug 23, 2019, 9:30 AM
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New round of community funding from Power to Change

A grant fund worth £60,000 has been made available to charities across the South of England to support community projects.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Aug 16, 2019, 11:00 AM
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New grant fund for community projects across the South

A grant fund worth £60,000 has been made available to charities across the South of England to support community projects.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Aug 2, 2019, 9:29 AM
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The Times 2019 Christmas Appeal opens for applications

Charities can now apply to be part of The Times’ 2019 Christmas Appeal. The successful appli-cants will be featured in articles running in the paper throughout the appeal, which runs over the Christmas period.
Read more...
DavidLoxton
David Loxton
Jul 25, 2019, 8:00 AM
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New Fundraising Code of Practice – Good news, and a helpful reminder

The Fundraising Regulator has released a new Code of Practice that takes effect in October 2019. It is a big step forward in bringing together the existing Code and rule books into one, better written and better organised document.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jul 25, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Climate change initiatives to receive £100m National Lottery funding

Organisations involved in tackling climate change will soon be able to apply for funding from The National Lottery Community Fund. The UK’s biggest funder of community activity has launched a new £100 million Climate Action Fund.
Read more...
SeanTully
Sean Tully
Jul 25, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Church capital appeals - how to improve your chances

One of Action Planning’s regular training seminars, the event focussed on how churches can practically approach a capital fundraising appeal of any size. Here, Sean explains some of the main learning points that arose from the day.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jul 19, 2019, 9:30 AM
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Extra time to apply for The Big Give Christmas Challenge

The UK’s biggest online match funding campaign, The Christmas Challenge from The Big Give, has extended its deadline for applications by a week to next Friday, 19th July.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jul 19, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Connected Communities to match fund London projects

Local community projects in London are being offered the opportunity to apply for match funding of up to £10,000, thanks to a joint initiative between Crowdfunder and Trust for London.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jul 5, 2019, 8:00 AM
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GSK IMPACT Awards supporting health and wellbeing charities in 2020

Nesta Challenges is inviting charities and social enterprises to bid for grants from a £1m fund, called the Tech to Connect Challenge, launched to help the development of tech-based solutions to social isolation.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jun 27, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Nesta Challenges puts up £1m to tackle social isolation through technology

Nesta Challenges is inviting charities and social enterprises to bid for grants from a £1m fund, called the Tech to Connect Challenge, launched to help the development of tech-based solutions to social isolation.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jun 27, 2019, 8:00 AM
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National Heritage fund to hand out £100m over three years

UK heritage organisations are being invited to apply for grants worth £5million and more, as part of a new awards programme from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jun 20, 2019, 8:00 AM
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New funding available for community green energy projects

The Government’s Rural Community Energy Fund (RCEF) is inviting new community projects across England to apply for feasibility study grants of up to £40,000 to support renewable energy initiatives.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jun 20, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Nationwide offers housing project grants in Northern Ireland

The Nationwide Building Society is awarding grants of between £10,000 and £50,000 to local housing projects that; prevent people from losing their home, help people into a home, and/or support people to thrive within the home environment.
Read more...
DavidBull
David Bull
Jun 18, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Leadership teams: you can’t do it all by yourself!

If you are a charity CEO, you know you can’t do it all by yourself. Which is why the Leadership Team is so important. The most effective organisations are led by a committed, unified team sharing responsibility for the whole. Expert David Bull tells us why – and how to make your leadership team the best!
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jun 18, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Futures for Women: The Next Episode

Back in January we published a case study on our work with Futures For Women, helping the 160-year-old charity to examine its relevance today and establish a vision and mission that would carry the charity forward with renewed vigour. Last week, we heard from FFW secretary Jane Hampson with some encouraging news.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jun 13, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Discounted housing grant scheme unveiled

Getting together to give is not new. People have acted collectively to donate their money or time for generations. But over the last decade there has been renewed interest in “giving circles”. Philanthropy specialist Rob John discusses why this is important for the charity sector.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jun 13, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Co-op Foundation invites funding applications from Welsh community groups

Community groups in Wales have two more weeks to apply for funding from the new £1million Co-Op Foundation fund.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jun 13, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Government opens fund to reduce food waste

Organisations that help to cut food waste by redistributing surplus food to people in need are being invited to apply for grants from a new round of DEFRA funding.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jun 13, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Lloyds open last round of Enable grants

Lloyds Bank Foundation has announced its last round of Enable grants, offering up to £15,000 to help charities develop or trial new approaches to service delivery.
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Jun 13, 2019, 8:00 AM
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£5 million fund launched for supporting unpaid carers

A new Carers Innovation Fund has been launched to help finance innovative ways of supporting unpaid carers.
Read more...
RobJohn
Rob John
May 24, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Virtuous Circles: collective giving is a powerful way to develop better donors

Getting together to give is not new. People have acted collectively to donate their money or time for generations. But over the last decade there has been renewed interest in “giving circles”. Philanthropy specialist Rob John discusses why this is important for the charity sector.
Read more...
LaylaMoosavi
Layla Moosavi
May 24, 2019, 8:00 AM
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CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP: PREPARE TO SUCCEED

As fundraisers, we all know how difficult it is to get through the door of a corporate. So when we do, it’s crucial we use the opportunity effectively. Fundraising expert Layla Moosavi Rivers tells us how to prepare to succeed.
Read more...
EleanorMitchell
Eleanor Mitchell
Apr 16, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Management: what, why, and how to do it

While management is often described as the coordination and organisation of business activities to meet a defined purpose, the management of people is not always valued. Yet as Action Planning Consultant Eleanor Mitchell explains, it is the people within an organisation that create its success.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Apr 16, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Action Planning Consultants: introducing Mark Goldring

Action Planning has an extensive team of outstanding and highly-experienced Consultants. This month we are delighted to introduce – and welcome - one of the newest members of our network, former Oxfam CEO Mark Goldring.
Read more...
SallyDenbigh
Sally Denbigh
Mar 14, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Why would anyone be a charity trustee?!

The role carries a lot of responsibility, has legal and financial liabilities, can be extremely hard work, is frequently stressful, often under-valued… and it’s unpaid… So why on earth would anyone be a charity Trustee?! For a number of (very good) reasons, in fact…
Read more...
TracyMadgwick
Tracy Madgwick
Feb 14, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Managing Underperformance

Managing people’s performance is one of the key issues facing any charity. After all, in most cases the people are the charity. If, however, your organisation is faced with underperformance issues, HR professional Tracy Madgwick advises on how to manage these effectively.
Read more...
KarenMorton
Karen Morton
Jan 17, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Awaydays: Holding the Space

New Year is the perfect time to ‘health check’ not just ourselves, but our charities too. And what better way than with an awayday? Action Planning Associate Karen Morton tells us how we can “hold the space”.
Read more...
DavidKirby
David Kirby
Jan 17, 2019, 8:00 AM
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Trading Subsidiaries: Using one, or think you should be?

Recent developments have affected the way in which payments from a trading subsidiary to its parent charity must be shown in the accounts. If your charity has a trading subsidiary – or you think perhaps it should have one – then you need to read this article by charity specialist lawyer David Kirby.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Dec 13, 2018, 8:00 AM
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You Can't Tickle Yourself!

Interviewed at the recent Christian Resources Exhibition, Chairman David Saint speaks candidly about how Action Planning started almost 30 years ago (spoiler alert, he was fired!), and what the organisation can offer to help charities.
Read more...
SallyDenbigh
Sally Denbigh
Dec 13, 2018, 8:00 AM
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Charity at Christmas

Working in the voluntary sector, we spend most of our time thinking about and helping others - it’s in the job description, after all! Just occasionally however, maybe we should take a moment to really think about what we do and the good that we do for charity. And give ourselves a well-deserved pat on the back. Not often of course… maybe just once a year, at Christmas!
Read more...
DavidBull
David Bull
Nov 8, 2018, 8:00 AM
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Protective Organisational Culture

In the wake of the recent crisis in the International Development sector following revelations of unacceptable behaviour by some staff, expert David Bull deliberates culture change to achieve safeguarding objectives, and advocates ten key elements to ensure a protective organisational culture.
Read more...
FionaLewis
Fiona Lewis
Nov 8, 2018, 8:00 AM
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What Is A Content Strategy, And Do You Need One?

Online content is the most cost-effective way to reach large numbers of people. But what is meant by ‘content’, what should it address, and what actually is a ‘content strategy’…and does your charity need one? Marketing professional Fiona Lewis helps explains!
Read more...
FeliciaWillow
Felicia Willow
Oct 9, 2018, 8:00 AM
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Employing Trustees: Navigating The Minefield

One of your charity Trustees (or ex-Trustees) may seem like the perfect candidate to join your staff team. However, as expert Felicia Willow explains as she ‘navigates the minefield’, employing Trustees is not straightforward, and in some cases not even possible.
Read more...
SallyDenbigh
Sally Denbigh
Oct 9, 2018, 8:00 AM
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Salaries and Benchmarking

Determining the appropriate salary for a job is not always easy, and also of course depends on what your organisation can afford to pay. Charity specialists action planning consider how to decide the right remuneration for a role, including salary benchmarking.
Read more...
admin
Oct 9, 2018, 8:00 AM
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Are you a Charity That Helps Women Enter the Workplace?

Are you a charity that helps women enter the workplace? If so, you may wish to join forces with Futures for Women to help disadvantaged women in the UK attain their career ambitions and become financially independent.
Read more...
LaylaMoosavi
Layla Moosavi
Sep 13, 2018, 8:00 AM
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Marketing And Communications In Small Charities

Marketing and Communications in small charities has its own particular challenges and requirements. Expert Layla Moosavi advises that it’s about going back to basics, knowing your audience, reviewing your strengths and resources, focusing and prioritising, and planning, planning, planning.
Read more...
SallyDenbigh
Sally Denbigh
Aug 9, 2018, 8:00 AM
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Finding and Recruiting the Hottest New Candidates

It’s August, it’s Summer and it’s too hot to be thinking about recruitment. Right? Wrong! With one of the peak times of year for recruitment only a few weeks away, charities should already be starting to think about and getting ready to hire the best and hottest new candidates.
Read more...
admin
Aug 9, 2018, 8:00 AM
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Building Meaningful Lifelong Relationships with Supporters

What does relationship fundraising look like in today’s world? And how should charities be balancing short-term need with lifetime value? By putting our supporters first, argues Emily Petty, valuing every way they engage with us and focusing on the experiences that they have.
Read more...
SallyDenbigh
Sally Denbigh
Jul 5, 2018, 10:41 AM
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Legacy fundraising: don’t leave it to luck!

Legacies are an important source of funding, yet more than half of charitable bequests are left by previously ‘unknown’ donors. Lucky? For the charity, yes. But effective legacy fundraising is about much more than luck. We look at the potential for your charity to develop a long-term, sustainable legacy fundraising strategy.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Mar 21, 2018, 10:41 AM
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Where are the Visionaries?

Charities pride themselves on making a difference, yet so often we seem to get caught in the rut of doing the same old same old – usually with fewer resources! How can we lift our eyes from the treadmill, and scan distant horizons?
Read more...
LucindaShaw
Lucinda Shaw
Mar 14, 2018, 10:41 AM
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Focussing on People rather than Performance will get you to Excellence

Almost every organisation will say that its people are its greatest asset. And yet far too many organisations pay lip service to ‘training and development’. Top athletes achieve astonishing feats – often more than they themselves believed possible, and often because of the support of their coach. How much more could your people achieve if properly coached? And what is coaching anyway?
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Mar 14, 2018, 10:41 AM
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The answer’s Yes. What’s the question?

Action Planning gets asked to help with an extraordinarily diverse range of issues, from an equally diverse range of organisations. Take a look through our recent caseload, and see whether any of these resonate with some of the challenges you are facing in your charity.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Feb 8, 2018, 10:41 AM
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Procurement Obscurement?

Does your Procurement Department always get you the best deal? We share some experiences of disastrous procurement processes – and one excellent one! 
Read more...
FeliciaWillow
Felicia Willow
Feb 8, 2018, 10:41 AM
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Five Indications of Failing Trustee Boards

Poor trustees – always being bashed these days! But these observations, from an experienced governance consultant, will help trustees and Chief Executives take an objective look at how they are doing, and take some simple steps today that will help avoid problems tomorrow. 
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Feb 8, 2018, 10:41 AM
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Recruiting your first fundraiser

If your organisation is planning to employ a fundraiser for the first time, here are some essential things to do - and some things to avoid - to maximise the chances of success.
Read more...
RobinHamilton
Robin Hamilton
Feb 8, 2018, 10:41 AM
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Learning lessons from Oxfam - To disclose or not to disclose? That is the question.

It is sad to see so many media outlets and commentators jumping on the Oxfam-bashing bandwagon – mostly with comment and posturing – so instead here is some practical advice about how to set up a framework for dealing with reputational risk – before disaster strikes.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Feb 8, 2018, 10:41 AM
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How to diversify income

Any organisation that is dependent on one source for more than 30% of its income is at risk. Many charities are dependent on one source for 80% - 90% of their income! Diversification is the name of the game – but where to start? And how can we make sure it doesn’t all go horribly wrong? We explore some practical and pragmatic approaches.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Dec 5, 2017, 10:41 AM
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Governance – what could possibly go wrong?

The Charity Commission recently reviewed their ‘problem cases’, and came up with a list of the nine things that trustees most commonly don’t do, that could have prevented most of those cases happening at all
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Dec 5, 2017, 10:41 AM
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How to recruit trustees

Perhaps we should start with ‘how not to recruit trustees’ – because frankly the wrong way is the most common way, yet there are some very good reasons why it’s the wrong way.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Dec 5, 2017, 10:41 AM
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Simple Governance Review – here’s one I prepared earlier!

Andrew Betts, Director of Advantage Africa was very quick off the mark, by turning the piece in our last issue into a self-assessment questionnaire for his trustees.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Dec 5, 2017, 10:41 AM
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How to Recruit a Chief Executive

We turn our attention to the recruitment of a Chief Executive. But surely recruitment is recruitment isn’t it? Well, yes and no. Some posts need to be handled in very particular ways – especially in the early stages.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Dec 5, 2017, 10:41 AM
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'Preference Diversity' The Essential Team Ingredient

First, what is diversity? Diversity is ‘the fact of many different types of things or people being included in something’. So how do we apply this when looking to build a successful team, or board of trustees? How do we know who to include?
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Dec 5, 2017, 10:41 AM
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Downloadable policies – just papering over the cracks?

In our increasingly complex society, we now need an astonishing array of policies to cover every conceivable (and occasionally inconceivable!) eventuality.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Dec 5, 2017, 10:41 AM
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How to recruit a Fundraising Director

In recent issues we have considered the best approach for recruiting trustees, and Chief Executives. Now it is the turn of the Fundraising Director.
Read more...
KateNicholasVilkaitis
Kate Nicholas
Oct 3, 2017, 9:41 AM
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Managing Reputation - Inoculating Against Crisis

It was Warren Buffet who once said “It takes twenty years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it” – a statement that resonates more today than ever before; except these days when a damaging social media post can travel the world in a click of a mouse, it can only take five seconds.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Oct 3, 2017, 9:41 AM
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The £1.19m answer: Einstein’s Theory of Happiness

I was fascinated to read recently that Einstein’s ‘Theory of Happiness’ had been sold at auction for £1.19m. Spoiler alert – at the end of this piece I’m going to tell you what it is!
Read more...
TimGlynneJones
Tim Glynne-Jones
Aug 30, 2017, 10:41 AM
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Website woes? Here’s a solution

When it comes to publicising the work of your charity, a good website is essential. We hear from a lot of people who know this but feel hamstrung by cost, saying it will require £20k or more. Well, you might be encouraged to learn that our new website was designed, built and written for less than £10k.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Aug 30, 2017, 10:41 AM
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When the problem is having too much money

This may seem an extraordinary topic to explore in a charity sector newsletter, but over the past 12 months Action Planning has worked with at least 6 organisations for whom this was a significant issue.
Read more...
DaveTyler
Dave Tyler
Aug 30, 2017, 10:41 AM
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Project management? Never heard of it…

I’ve been a professional project manager for over 20 years and freelance for about 10.  Because of that, I take it for granted that ‘project management matters’ and assume that everyone feels the same way.
Read more...
IanOReilly
Ian O'Reilly
Aug 30, 2017, 10:41 AM
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The Value of a Mentor

The most honest feedback I receive in life is after the final whistle is blown and I’m sitting in the pub with my mates.  For me, the feedback is often brutal as they take turns to analyse my football skills, detailing my ‘lack of pace’ in trying to keep up with the pacey 17-year-old...
Read more...
GavinSpencer
Gavin
Aug 30, 2017, 10:41 AM
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Challenge Events – An Antidote to GDPR - The Great Depression of People Raising (money)

Over the last few years I feel we have been in a ‘great depression’ within the charity sector. This has been fuelled by numerous negative media stories and more recently the introduction of the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Aug 30, 2017, 10:41 AM
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CV Tips – From The Recruiter’s Perspective

Having recently read 79 applications for one role, and 6 for another, I have become a bit blasé about ‘passionate’, ‘committed’, ‘high achiever’, ‘driven’, ‘results orientated’ ….. you see the same words and phrases coming up again and again.
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Jul 12, 2017, 10:41 AM
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How To Plan A Capital Appeal

For most organisations, major capital projects are not common occurrences – they only come along perhaps once every five to ten years. From a fundraising perspective, what’s the best way to prepare for this, in particular to ensure that ongoing revenue...
Read more...
FeliciaWillow
Felicia Willow
Jul 12, 2017, 10:41 AM
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Trustee appraisals – have you got yours in place?

The Charity Governance Code recommends that the Boards of all charities – large and small – review their performance and effectiveness. Do you have a plan in place for doing that? And are you implementing the plan?! Felicia Willow discusses the many benefits of the process.
Read more...
FeliciaWillow
Felicia Willow
Jul 12, 2017, 10:41 AM
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Charity crisis: Do you know what to do when something goes wrong?

All of us, obviously, want things to go smoothly at our charity; but what to do when things go wrong? How we handle a crisis could well mean make or break. Expert Felicia Willow gives her ‘five priorities’ to best manage a crisis – and come out the other side!
Read more...
DavidSaint
David Saint
Jul 12, 2017, 10:41 AM
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When is it the right time to do a capital appeal feasibility study?

An appeal for a major capital project is not an everyday occurrence for most organisations, and if this is outside the experience of all the key people (eg trustees, senior management team) it can be very difficult to know where to start.
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