Categories :: communication strategy and implementation

Ned Wells

Nov 1, 2024, 8:00 AM

Charity marketing - Three surprising differences between charity and commercial marketing

Charities want to know how they can raise their profile, get their message…

Clare McIntosh

Oct 16, 2024, 8:00 AM

Charity marketing - Tactics and relationships

Charities want to know how they can raise their profile, get their message…

David Bull

Oct 10, 2024, 10:00 AM

INGO structure models for a fast-changing world

The emerging “crisis” facing International Non-Governmental Organisations…

Andrew Middleton

Oct 3, 2024, 9:00 AM

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,…

Laura Treneer

Sep 26, 2024, 10:00 AM

Research on Christian giving in the UK

Action Planning was at the launch of ‘The Generosity Report’, a new research…

Kate Nicholas

Sep 26, 2024, 9:15 AM

Putting the Christ back into Christmas

It’s that time of year again when charities put the finishing touches on their…

Andrew Rainsford

Sep 18, 2024, 8:00 AM

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…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Aug 20, 2024, 8:00 AM

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…

Laura Treneer

Sep 14, 2023, 12:00 PM

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…

Dr Diego Arenas and Nicole Holgate

Sep 14, 2023, 9:00 AM

Putting your charity on the map

For charities, mapping is a way to look at your services with a bird's eye view,…

Sep 14, 2023, 9:00 AM

The key to harmonious strategy development

Healthy, effective organisations have one vital thing in common: clarity of…

Kate Nicholas

Sep 13, 2023, 9:00 AM

A time for thanksgiving

There are so many reasons for organisations to celebrate their own ‘Harvest…

Andrew Middleton

Aug 16, 2023, 9:00 AM

Navigating strategic change: Striking the balance in nonprofit organisations

Change, an undeniable force, shapes the journey of nonprofit organisations.…

Sean Tully

Jul 20, 2023, 9:00 AM

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…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jul 20, 2023, 7:00 AM

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…

Eleanor Mitchell

Jul 12, 2023, 12:00 PM

Strategic planning as a foundation for success

The core of a charity is made up of essential components: governance,…

Kate Nicholas

Jul 4, 2023, 8:30 AM

Leadership and the dangers of hubris

Hubris is a puffed up and excessive version of the sin of pride that our creator…

Laura Treneer

Jun 21, 2023, 8:50 AM

Analysing digital performance – tips for small charities

Small charities tend to have a healthy respect for digital communications. If…

Shelley Poole

Jun 14, 2023, 8:30 AM

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…

Kate Nicholas

May 19, 2023, 8:30 AM

Kingdom KPIs – What the Bible tells us about measuring success

One of the most important parts of strategy development is the identification of…

Andrew Middleton

May 18, 2023, 12:12 PM

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…

Laura Treneer

May 17, 2023, 8:50 AM

New personas for UK evangelical Christians

Anyone who works in communications will know that before you can really connect…

Laura Treneer

May 16, 2023, 2:19 PM

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…

Jean Collingwood

May 15, 2023, 10:25 AM

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…

Carol Ward

Apr 19, 2023, 7:15 AM

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…

Emma Goulds

Apr 13, 2023, 7:15 AM

Fundraising review - is it time well spent?

If you’re in the throws of leading a charity or social enterprise, it can feel…

Kathryn Griffiths

Apr 13, 2023, 7:00 AM

How can small charities create bigger impact?

Impact can be a little Marmite: some embrace it as the core of everything they…

Eleanor Mitchell

Apr 12, 2023, 12:00 PM

Consultancy – When and how to make it work for your small charity

Navigating consultancy options is a potential minefield for any sized charity.…

Joy Gascoigne

Mar 24, 2023, 8:30 AM

Leading for the long haul – valuable lessons learned in life

Leadership expert John C Maxwell defines leadership as “influence, nothing more,…

Kate Nicholas

Mar 15, 2023, 8:30 AM

Storytelling: Lessons from the parables

What does Biblical fundraising look like and can asking for funds ever be…

Linda Trew

Mar 15, 2023, 8:00 AM

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…

Shelley Poole

Feb 15, 2023, 9:30 AM

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…

Andrew Rainsford

Feb 15, 2023, 9:00 AM

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…

Kate Nicholas

Jan 16, 2023, 12:00 PM

Investing in the Kingdom; Biblical fundraising

What does Biblical fundraising look like and can asking for funds ever be…

Simon Claridge

Dec 15, 2022, 12:00 PM

Appreciative Inquiry: a positive approach to problem solving

Problem solving is an important attribute for any charity leader, or indeed…

Eleanor Mitchell

Dec 8, 2022, 12:00 PM

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…

Felicia Willow

Dec 5, 2022, 12:00 PM

Charity reviews – how to spot a good one

A good review isn’t as simple as pointing out the differences between best…

Andrew Barton

Nov 16, 2022, 12:00 PM

Five fundraising priorities during the cost of living crisis

Look after yourself and your team. Stay positive. And celebrate every success…

Linda Trew

Nov 16, 2022, 10:00 AM

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…

Linda Trew

Nov 16, 2022, 10:00 AM

An update from the Charity Commission for England and Wales

Colette Bennett from the Charity Commission recently presented at Faith…

Andrew Rainsford

Nov 9, 2022, 2:00 PM

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…

Claire Mathys

Oct 3, 2022, 2:00 PM

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.…

Kate Nicholas

Sep 22, 2022, 9:00 AM

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…

Simon Claridge

Aug 17, 2022, 9:00 AM

What we really need are bicycles

This was the beautifully simple reply from the coordinator of a medium-sized…

Linda Trew

Jul 29, 2022, 9:00 AM

Charities spend £900m a year applying for grant funding, new report reveals

Action Planning provides a trusts bid writing service for many charity clients,…

Shelley Poole

Jul 9, 2022, 10:00 AM

Values in recruitment – How can charities find the ‘right’ employees?

Recruiting the ‘right’ people is an important part of managing a successful…

Mark Billage

Jul 8, 2022, 2:00 PM

Trust crisis – are you meeting the fundamental needs of your team?

As I reflect on where we are as organisations, hopefully having weathered the…

Kate Nicholas

Jul 8, 2022, 9:00 AM

Christian nervousness? How to bear witness authentically

Do you suffer from a level of nervousness when it comes to talking about your…

Michelle Lawrence

May 18, 2022, 2:00 PM

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…

Emma Insley

May 5, 2022, 9:00 AM

Developing a culture of monitoring, evaluation and learning

The benefits of building a culture that values monitoring, evaluation and…

Shelley Poole

Apr 11, 2022, 1:00 PM

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…

Andrew Humphreys

Apr 8, 2022, 1:00 PM

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.…

Linda Trew

Mar 16, 2022, 3:00 PM

Planning a capital project? Where is the money coming from?

Do you need to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds – or perhaps millions – for…

Andrew Rainsford

Mar 16, 2022, 1:30 PM

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…

Emma Insley

Mar 16, 2022, 1:00 PM

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…

Eleanor Mitchell

Mar 15, 2022, 1:00 PM

Managing a hybrid workforce – how are your people coping?

When the world locked down in 2020, we were forced to abandon working practices…

Clare Bamberger

Mar 15, 2022, 10:00 AM

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…

Sean Tully

Feb 9, 2022, 1:00 PM

High Value Grants fundraising: five big challenges in 2022

We identified five of the big challenges facing charities in 2022 – issues that…

Primavera Moretti

Feb 1, 2022, 10:00 AM

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…

Clare Bamberger

Jan 20, 2022, 1:00 PM

Structure your strategic ambition in a well-monitored action plan

An organisational strategy sets the direction and ambition for the future N…

Maurice Adams

Jan 11, 2022, 10:00 AM

Will our organisation survive a(nother) crisis?

During the early stages of Covid disruption, there was a sense of “it will be…

Felicia Willow

Jan 11, 2022, 10:00 AM

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…

Jan 5, 2022, 1:00 PM

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…

Clare Bamberger

Dec 20, 2021, 1:00 PM

Inclusion – a liberating watchword for 2022

Trustees are there to guide, not take the day-to-day decisions. The last two…

Andrew Barton

Dec 8, 2021, 10:00 AM

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…

Andrew Rainsford

Dec 2, 2021, 8:00 AM

2021 – the year that relevance re-emerged

The word “challenging” keeps coming up. If challenging means “different” then it…

Ruth Mulryne

Nov 23, 2021, 10:00 AM

How to succeed as an interim CEO

Talented interim leaders will have a role to play in a range of organisations as…

Felicia Willow

Nov 23, 2021, 10:00 AM

The pros and cons of being an interim CEO

I’ve led six charities through periods of crisis, change and transition – and…

David Bull

Nov 17, 2021, 10:00 AM

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…

Andrew Middleton

Nov 10, 2021, 1:00 PM

3 reasons why charity CEOs need mentors

It is lonely and tough at the top. A charity CEO’s role requires tremendous…

Primavera Moretti

Nov 9, 2021, 1:00 PM

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…

Maurice Adams

Nov 4, 2021, 9:00 AM

Thinking of becoming a charity CEO? Beware your own shadow!

Even though our individual situation is our situation and there is no ‘one size…

Andrew Middleton

Oct 29, 2021, 1:00 PM

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…

Frank Bennett

Oct 25, 2021, 9:00 AM

The key to good governance in times of change

The past two years of disruption have caused much reflection on the way things…

Andrew Rainsford

Oct 20, 2021, 11:00 AM

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…

Tracy Madgwick

Sep 29, 2021, 9:00 AM

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…

Hal Davidson

Sep 8, 2021, 1:00 PM

Recruiting volunteers for charities – How to make sure it works for everybody?

Whenever you’re considering recruiting a volunteer or multiple volunteers, it’s…

Shalini Jain

Aug 16, 2021, 9:30 AM

Charity marketing: two tools to help maximise your appeal

Before the word “pandemic” was a part of everyday conversation, you might have…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Aug 13, 2021, 10:00 AM

7 Good Reasons for Hiring a Copywriter

How many times have you told yourself you’d write that piece of copy to…

Linda Trew

Jul 29, 2021, 1:00 PM

The Christian recruitment challenge

We’ve all been there, haven’t we? – wanting the very best people for our…

Shalini Jain

Jul 28, 2021, 1:00 PM

The art and science of fundraising

Fundraising for a project is both an art and a science – an articulation of the…

Sean Tully

Jul 28, 2021, 1:00 PM

Trusts Fundraising Strategy – learning from the funders

Early in 2021, Action Planning helped a national charity to rethink its grants…

Kathryn Kendall

Jul 13, 2021, 4:00 PM

Five reasons why your grant application was unsuccessful

Kathryn Kendall explores five reasons why your grant application for your…

Linda Trew

Jun 30, 2021, 1:00 PM

Can you really pray in the money?

We can often find ourselves in tricky positions within the workplace, whether…

Ned Wells

Jun 21, 2021, 2:00 PM

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…

Kathryn Kendall

Jun 15, 2021, 1:00 PM

Safeguarding in digital delivery

Before the word “pandemic” was a part of everyday conversation, you might have…

Karen Morton

Jun 9, 2021, 9:00 AM

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,…

Linda Trew

Jun 1, 2021, 12:00 PM

Faithful fundraising

Fundraising can feel alien in a Christian environment. It feels a lot easier to…

Susie Mullen

May 26, 2021, 1:00 PM

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.…

Tracy Madgwick

May 24, 2021, 1:00 PM

Welcoming furloughed employees back into the workplace

Eighteen months is a significant period of time to be away from the workplace –…

Lucinda Shaw

May 11, 2021, 4:00 PM

What is coaching? And how can it help your charity work?

The term ‘coaching’ is used a lot, often incorrectly when people mean mentoring,…

Eleanor Mitchell

Apr 26, 2021, 1:00 PM

Is it possible to innovate within a standard charity model?

To innovate is to make changes within an established structure by introducing…

Andrew Humphreys

Apr 16, 2021, 1:00 PM

How a logic model can help you develop your strategy

Setting organisational strategy is often complex and can seem like an…

Vanessa Swann

Apr 16, 2021, 1:00 PM

Too busy to look at the big picture?

Unsurprisingly at the moment, many charities are finding it hard to devote time…

Maurice Adams

Apr 7, 2021, 10:00 AM

The crucial role of leadership in the capacity development process

Maurice Adams

Apr 6, 2021, 1:00 PM

Capacity Development: what it really means and how to make if effective

Maurice Adams

Apr 6, 2021, 1:00 PM

The value of faith-based organisations

A common narrative is that our society is becoming less religious. Fewer people…

Amy Shepherd

Mar 24, 2021, 1:00 PM

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…

Mat Eason

Mar 22, 2021, 9:30 AM

Solidarity – building employee resilience

The difference between just coping and thriving is determined by how healthy our…

Mar 17, 2021, 2:30 PM

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…

Mark Billage

Mar 15, 2021, 4:30 PM

Realistic Optimism

How do we act as leaders so that we keep our heads up and maintain our…

Mike Taylor

Feb 24, 2021, 4:30 PM

Changes to the Charity Governance Code: Diversity

“We need to continue the journey from seeing diversity as a ‘hygiene factor’ to…

Andrew Rainsford

Feb 24, 2021, 4:00 PM

The future of the office and workspace

There is increasing recognition that the social interaction of the workplace is…

Andrew Barton

Jan 27, 2021, 1:00 PM

Response, recovery and reconstruction: 8 insights on adaptive fundraising during coronavirus

Andrew Barton is used to thinking about the three phases of humanitarian…

Andrew Barton

Jan 27, 2021, 12:00 PM

Fundraising resolutions: coronavirus and beyond

Andrew Barton's six actionable fundraising resolutions that could pay dividends…

David Saint

Dec 16, 2020, 10:43 AM

The post of Christmas past

This year, as families and friends are forced to rethink Christmas, I’m pleased…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Nov 25, 2020, 3:42 PM

Action Planning’s Three Minute Survey for Charity CEOs

See the results here for Action Planning’s Three Minute Survey for Charity CEOs

Karen Morton

Oct 29, 2020, 11:09 AM

Karen Morton – Future Gazing

"Karen Morton – Future Gazing" Seminar Video from Action Planning's 30th…

Carol Akiwumi

Oct 29, 2020, 11:08 AM

Carol Akiwumi – Challenge Your Most Cherished Fundraising Ideas

"Carol Akiwumi– Challenge Your Most Cherished Fundraising Ideas" Seminar Video…

Nick Wilkie

Oct 29, 2020, 11:07 AM

Nick Wilkie – This Much I Think: Musings on Organisational Leadership and Life

"Nick Wilkie – This Much I Think: Musings on Organisational Leadership and Life"…

Tracy Madgwick

Oct 29, 2020, 11:06 AM

Tracy Madgwick –Finding and Keeping Talent Remotely

"Tracy Madgwick –Finding and Keeping Talent Remotely" Seminar Video from Action…

Linda Turton

Oct 29, 2020, 11:05 AM

Linda Turton – Making Your Finance Funder Friendly

"Linda Turton – Making Your Finance Funder Friendly" Seminar Video from Action…

David Bull

Oct 29, 2020, 11:04 AM

David Bull CBE – Top 5 Questions Trustees Should Ask Staff

"David Bull CBE – Top 5 Questions Trustees Should Ask Staff" Seminar Video from…

Emma Insley

Oct 29, 2020, 11:03 AM

Emma Insley – Impact Accelerating Your Fundraising

"Emma Insley – Impact Accelerating Your Fundraising" Seminar Video from Action…

Kate Nicholas

Oct 29, 2020, 11:02 AM

Kate Nicholas – Communicating for Recovery

"Kate Nicholas – Communicating for Recovery" Seminar Video from Action…

Andrew Johnson

Oct 29, 2020, 11:01 AM

Andrew Johnson – Using Campaigns to Drive Engagement

"Andrew Johnson – Using Campaigns to Drive Engagement" Seminar Video from Action…

Felicia Willow

Oct 29, 2020, 11:00 AM

Felicia Willow – Managing Crisis Using an Interim CEO's Approach

"Felicia Willow – Managing Crisis Using an Interim CEO's Approach" Seminar Video…

Anja Batista Sonksen

Oct 28, 2020, 2:26 PM

Cancel the Christmas Party?! No Way!

At the end of what has been a tough year for most charities and an existential…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Oct 21, 2020, 5:00 PM

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…

Felicia Willow

Aug 28, 2020, 2:26 PM

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…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Aug 27, 2020, 3:21 PM

Capital appeals – an online catalyst

Churches looking to rekindle a capital appeal project in the wake of lockdown…

Andrew Rainsford

Jul 30, 2020, 12:00 PM

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…

Andrew Rainsford

Jun 30, 2020, 1:00 PM

10 tips for a successful review of giving?

The lockdown and absence from buildings will have hit some churches harder than…

Andrew Barton

May 27, 2020, 3:00 PM

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…

David Green

May 27, 2020, 3:00 PM

Motivating your remote team

“Remember that not everyone is the same and that some team members may find…

Lucinda Shaw

May 27, 2020, 10:30 AM

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…

Michelle Lawrence

May 26, 2020, 10:00 AM

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…

Sean Tully

May 26, 2020, 10:00 AM

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…

Ruth Dwight

May 7, 2020, 9:30 AM

You're on mute, John...

I have picked up a few practical points from facilitating some Zoom-based…

Amy Shepherd

Apr 21, 2020, 11:00 AM

How are you feeling today? The choice is yours

I’d like to talk to you today about dealing with uncertainty and ambiguity in…

Ian O'Reilly

Apr 20, 2020, 11:00 AM

Impact of supporter experience on fundraising

Part 2: Why we should be focusing on supporter experience more than ever. In the…

Kate Nicholas

Apr 15, 2020, 10:15 AM

Communicating in a crisis: remember your ABCs

As a not for profit leader you probably feel under siege at the moment. Covid-19…

David Kirby

Apr 15, 2020, 10:00 AM

Releasing funds in an emergency: what are your options?

I imagine one of the challenges which you might be facing at this time is…

Mark Goldring

Apr 8, 2020, 1:00 PM

Worried about long-term finances? Three actions you need to take

As we face up to the initial challenges – programme, people, financial – of the…

Apr 6, 2020, 11:30 AM

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…

Mark Goldring

Apr 2, 2020, 11:00 AM

Leading through crisis: look at it through three lenses

Having led a number of large charities, most relevantly Oxfam, in responding to…

David Saint

Mar 31, 2020, 3:00 PM

Coronavirus - How can Boards best support their charities through this crisis?

Every charity situation is different; every individual responds to crisis in…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Mar 27, 2020, 10:00 AM

Arts Council England funding for organisations and individuals

Arts Council England has set up a fund worth £160million to ensure the people…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Mar 27, 2020, 10:00 AM

London Funders set up Covid-19 fund

A new fund coordinated by London Funders has been set up to support London’s…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Mar 27, 2020, 10:00 AM

Calor puts up £85,000 for rural community projects

To celebrate its 85th birthday, gas company Calor has increased the value of its…

David Bull

Mar 25, 2020, 10:00 AM

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…

Claire Cardy

Mar 25, 2020, 10:00 AM

Feeling helpless? Time to dig into those creative reserves

I have just passed the one year anniversary of leaving a permanent role to…

Mark Goldring

Mar 24, 2020, 10:05 AM

Leading in a crisis: some lessons from personal experience

We might never have seen anything like this; I’ve certainly never lived through…

Andrew Middleton

Mar 3, 2020, 4:00 PM

How can virtual meetings help your charity remain effective?

We live in very challenging times. Right now, coronavirus is forcing individuals…

Ian O'Reilly

Feb 25, 2020, 10:00 AM

Impact of supporter experience on fundraising

What is supporter experience and why is it so important? Action Planning…

Ruth Dwight

Feb 20, 2020, 10:00 AM

Growing a sales mindset in a not-for-profit organisation

Is your organisation looking for new funding streams but knocking up against a…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Feb 14, 2020, 12:00 PM

London Marathon fund for physical activity

Can you believe the London Marathon has been running for 40 years? Over that…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Feb 14, 2020, 10:15 AM

Funding up to £250,000 for museums and galleries

The Esmée Fairbairn Collections Fund is offering grants worth up to £250,000 to…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jan 31, 2020, 12:08 PM

Ouseley Trust grants for choral music

If you’re a parish church, choir school, choral foundation or cathedral that…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jan 24, 2020, 2:00 PM

£50k Aviva grants for small charity community projects

Charities with a turnover of under £1m are invited to apply for funding from the…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jan 24, 2020, 10:00 AM

Co-op funding for youth peer-to-peer support

Co-op Foundation, the charity arm of the grocery chain, is partnering with the…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jan 10, 2020, 10:37 AM

Heritage grants for historic buildings

Transforming Places Through Heritage is a £15million grant programme from the…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Dec 20, 2019, 10:37 AM

NCT funding for church building projects

The National Churches Trust has three grant programmes currently inviting…

Sean Tully

Dec 20, 2019, 9:00 AM

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…

Tracy Madgwick

Dec 19, 2019, 9:43 AM

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…

Andrew Johnson

Dec 18, 2019, 1:00 PM

Has insight helped your decision-making this year?

Over the past year I’ve noticed that charities are starting to see the real…

Andrew Middleton

Dec 17, 2019, 9:00 AM

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…

Dec 16, 2019, 10:18 AM

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…

David Saint

Dec 16, 2019, 10:18 AM

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’…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Dec 13, 2019, 11:32 AM

Grants of up to £30,000 for war memorial conservation

The War Memorials Trust is offering grants of up to £30,000 towards the…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Dec 6, 2019, 10:06 AM

Veolia grants for environmental projects

Not-for-profit organisations in England raising funds for environmental or…

Tracy Madgwick

Nov 29, 2019, 3:42 PM

How to overcome the recruitment challenge for faith-based organisations

Good directors are hard to find in any circumstances, but for a Christian…

Andrew Middleton

Nov 29, 2019, 2:26 PM

Reflections on Conference Season

November saw Action Planning set up its stand at both the NVCO Trustees…

Nov 20, 2019, 9:14 AM

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…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Nov 15, 2019, 12:00 PM

New vision fund for London’s blind

The Vision Foundation has launched a new fund to address the most pressing…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Nov 15, 2019, 11:40 AM

Toyota funding for disabled sport and activities

Organisations running clubs, activities or events for disabled people can apply…

Nov 13, 2019, 9:20 AM

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…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Nov 8, 2019, 12:40 PM

Match funding for reviving green spaces

Community groups working to develop public green spaces in their local area are…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Nov 8, 2019, 12:25 PM

New funds for cultural protection in Libya, Syria and Yemen

New grants worth up to £100,000 are being made available to organisations…

Nov 6, 2019, 12:28 PM

Week 2 - Reconnect: Overcoming cultural barriers to fundraising

In the second of four articles on overcoming the cultural barriers to…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Nov 1, 2019, 10:06 AM

Grants of £50,000 available for church conservation projects

The National Churches Trust (NCT) Cornerstone Grants programme provides grants…

Oct 30, 2019, 12:28 PM

Week 1 - Reboot: Overcoming cultural barriers to fundraising

In the first of four articles on overcoming the cultural barriers to…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Oct 25, 2019, 9:28 AM

Windrush Day grants of up to £25,000

The Government has set up a Windrush Day Grant Scheme, with a fund worth…

Felicia Willow

Oct 22, 2019, 9:28 AM

Is it worth investing in an interim CEO?

Interim CEO posts can be a high-impact and effective use of resources for…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Oct 18, 2019, 3:00 PM

£5.75m tech fund to tackle unemployment

A new fund has been launched to support charities that are helping to reskill…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Oct 18, 2019, 2:00 PM

£2m fund for organisations tackling loneliness

One year after the publication of the Government’s landmark Loneliness Strategy,…

Sean Tully

Oct 10, 2019, 4:17 PM

Reflections from a church capital appeals workshop

Saturday 5th October saw Action Planning deliver the second of three workshops…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Oct 4, 2019, 12:17 PM

Match Funding for outer London community projects

The second round of funding from Trust for London and Crowdfunder’s Connected…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Oct 4, 2019, 12:05 PM

Children in Need Small Grants round open for spring 2020

Charities and not-for-profit organisations that work with disadvantaged…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Sep 27, 2019, 12:05 PM

£40,000 grants available for healthcare charities

Charities working to provide healthcare to disadvantaged adults and children in…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Sep 27, 2019, 11:44 AM

Join us at NCVO/Bates Wells Trustee Conference 2019

NCVO/Bates Wells Trustee Conference 2019 is taking place on Monday 4th November…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Sep 27, 2019, 11:38 AM

We’ve teamed up with Digi-Board™ to solve the governance review conundrum

Action Planning has developed an innovative and effective approach to governance…

Andrew Rainsford

Sep 27, 2019, 9:48 AM

Places of worship VAT grants extended to 2021

The recent Spending Review contained news that the Listed Places of Worship…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Sep 20, 2019, 10:00 AM

£120,000 in new funding for road safety initiatives

Charities working towards the reduction of casualties on the road can join…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Sep 20, 2019, 9:30 AM

High value prizes for healthy ageing projects

The Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund (ISCF) is running a competition for…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Sep 13, 2019, 9:30 AM

New funding for small international development charities

Small UK not-for-profit organisations working on international development…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Sep 13, 2019, 9:30 AM

Leeds community fund invites applications

Charities in the North of England can apply for a share of a £100,000 fund pot…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Sep 6, 2019, 9:30 AM

Applications for £3 million Dream Fund now open

Applications for the People’s Postcode Lottery Dream Fund opened this week.

Ondine Upton

Aug 30, 2019, 9:30 AM

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…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Aug 30, 2019, 9:30 AM

Government puts up £30m for 5G projects

The Government’s pledge to roll out 5G to the UK’s rural communities has been…

David Saint

Aug 30, 2019, 9:30 AM

Christian distinctiveness: an aid to fundraising, or a hindrance?

Action Planning has worked with hundreds of Christian charities and churches…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Aug 23, 2019, 9:30 AM

New round of community funding from Power to Change

A grant fund worth £60,000 has been made available to charities across the South…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Aug 16, 2019, 11:00 AM

New grant fund for community projects across the South

A grant fund worth £60,000 has been made available to charities across the South…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Aug 2, 2019, 9:29 AM

The Times 2019 Christmas Appeal opens for applications

Charities can now apply to be part of The Times’ 2019 Christmas Appeal. The…

David Loxton

Jul 25, 2019, 8:00 AM

New Fundraising Code of Practice – Good news, and a helpful reminder

The Fundraising Regulator has released a new Code of Practice that takes effect…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jul 25, 2019, 8:00 AM

Climate change initiatives to receive £100m National Lottery funding

Organisations involved in tackling climate change will soon be able to apply for…

Sean Tully

Jul 25, 2019, 8:00 AM

Church capital appeals - how to improve your chances

One of Action Planning’s regular training seminars, the event focussed on how…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jul 19, 2019, 9:30 AM

Extra time to apply for The Big Give Christmas Challenge

The UK’s biggest online match funding campaign, The Christmas Challenge from The…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jul 19, 2019, 8:00 AM

Connected Communities to match fund London projects

Local community projects in London are being offered the opportunity to apply…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jul 5, 2019, 8:00 AM

GSK IMPACT Awards supporting health and wellbeing charities in 2020

Nesta Challenges is inviting charities and social enterprises to bid for grants…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jun 27, 2019, 8:00 AM

Nesta Challenges puts up £1m to tackle social isolation through technology

Nesta Challenges is inviting charities and social enterprises to bid for grants…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jun 27, 2019, 8:00 AM

National Heritage fund to hand out £100m over three years

UK heritage organisations are being invited to apply for grants worth £5million…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jun 20, 2019, 8:00 AM

New funding available for community green energy projects

The Government’s Rural Community Energy Fund (RCEF) is inviting new community…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jun 20, 2019, 8:00 AM

Nationwide offers housing project grants in Northern Ireland

The Nationwide Building Society is awarding grants of between £10,000 and…

David Bull

Jun 18, 2019, 8:00 AM

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…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jun 18, 2019, 8:00 AM

Futures for Women: The Next Episode

Back in January we published a case study on our work with Futures For Women,…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jun 13, 2019, 8:00 AM

Discounted housing grant scheme unveiled

Getting together to give is not new. People have acted collectively to donate…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jun 13, 2019, 8:00 AM

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…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jun 13, 2019, 8:00 AM

Government opens fund to reduce food waste

Organisations that help to cut food waste by redistributing surplus food to…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jun 13, 2019, 8:00 AM

Lloyds open last round of Enable grants

Lloyds Bank Foundation has announced its last round of Enable grants, offering…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Jun 13, 2019, 8:00 AM

£5 million fund launched for supporting unpaid carers

A new Carers Innovation Fund has been launched to help finance innovative ways…

Rob John

May 24, 2019, 8:00 AM

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…

Layla Moosavi

May 24, 2019, 8:00 AM

CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP: PREPARE TO SUCCEED

As fundraisers, we all know how difficult it is to get through the door of a…

Eleanor Mitchell

Apr 16, 2019, 8:00 AM

Management: what, why, and how to do it

While management is often described as the coordination and organisation of…

David Saint

Apr 16, 2019, 8:00 AM

Action Planning Consultants: introducing Mark Goldring

Action Planning has an extensive team of outstanding and highly-experienced…

Sally Denbigh

Mar 14, 2019, 8:00 AM

Why would anyone be a charity trustee?!

The role carries a lot of responsibility, has legal and financial liabilities,…

Tracy Madgwick

Feb 14, 2019, 8:00 AM

Managing Underperformance

Managing people’s performance is one of the key issues facing any charity. After…

Karen Morton

Jan 17, 2019, 8:00 AM

Awaydays: Holding the Space

New Year is the perfect time to ‘health check’ not just ourselves, but our…

David Kirby

Jan 17, 2019, 8:00 AM

Trading Subsidiaries: Using one, or think you should be?

Recent developments have affected the way in which payments from a trading…

David Saint

Dec 13, 2018, 8:00 AM

You Can't Tickle Yourself!

Interviewed at the recent Christian Resources Exhibition, Chairman David Saint…

Sally Denbigh

Dec 13, 2018, 8:00 AM

Charity at Christmas

Working in the voluntary sector, we spend most of our time thinking about and…

David Bull

Nov 8, 2018, 8:00 AM

Protective Organisational Culture

In the wake of the recent crisis in the International Development sector…

Fiona Lewis

Nov 8, 2018, 8:00 AM

What Is A Content Strategy, And Do You Need One?

Online content is the most cost-effective way to reach large numbers of people.…

Felicia Willow

Oct 9, 2018, 8:00 AM

Employing Trustees: Navigating The Minefield

One of your charity Trustees (or ex-Trustees) may seem like the perfect…

Sally Denbigh

Oct 9, 2018, 8:00 AM

Salaries and Benchmarking

Determining the appropriate salary for a job is not always easy, and also of…

Oct 9, 2018, 8:00 AM

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…

Layla Moosavi

Sep 13, 2018, 8:00 AM

Marketing And Communications In Small Charities

Marketing and Communications in small charities has its own particular…

Sally Denbigh

Aug 9, 2018, 8:00 AM

Finding and Recruiting the Hottest New Candidates

It’s August, it’s Summer and it’s too hot to be thinking about recruitment.…

Aug 9, 2018, 8:00 AM

Building Meaningful Lifelong Relationships with Supporters

What does relationship fundraising look like in today’s world? And how should…

Sally Denbigh

Jul 5, 2018, 10:41 AM

Legacy fundraising: don’t leave it to luck!

Legacies are an important source of funding, yet more than half of charitable…

David Saint

Mar 21, 2018, 10:41 AM

Where are the Visionaries?

Charities pride themselves on making a difference, yet so often we seem to get…

Lucinda Shaw

Mar 14, 2018, 10:41 AM

Focussing on People rather than Performance will get you to Excellence

Almost every organisation will say that its people are its greatest asset. And…

David Saint

Mar 14, 2018, 10:41 AM

The answer’s Yes. What’s the question?

Action Planning gets asked to help with an extraordinarily diverse range of…

David Saint

Feb 8, 2018, 10:41 AM

Procurement Obscurement?

Does your Procurement Department always get you the best deal? We share some…

Felicia Willow

Feb 8, 2018, 10:41 AM

Five Indications of Failing Trustee Boards

Poor trustees – always being bashed these days! But these observations, from an…

David Saint

Feb 8, 2018, 10:41 AM

Recruiting your first fundraiser

If your organisation is planning to employ a fundraiser for the first time, here…

Robin Hamilton

Feb 8, 2018, 10:41 AM

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…

David Saint

Feb 8, 2018, 10:41 AM

How to diversify income

Any organisation that is dependent on one source for more than 30% of its income…

David Saint

Dec 5, 2017, 10:41 AM

Governance – what could possibly go wrong?

The Charity Commission recently reviewed their ‘problem cases’, and came up with…

David Saint

Dec 5, 2017, 10:41 AM

How to recruit trustees

Perhaps we should start with ‘how not to recruit trustees’ – because frankly the…

David Saint

Dec 5, 2017, 10:41 AM

Simple Governance Review – here’s one I prepared earlier!

Andrew Betts, Director of Advantage Africa was very quick off the mark, by…

David Saint

Dec 5, 2017, 10:41 AM

How to Recruit a Chief Executive

We turn our attention to the recruitment of a Chief Executive. But surely…

David Saint

Dec 5, 2017, 10:41 AM

'Preference Diversity' The Essential Team Ingredient

First, what is diversity? Diversity is ‘the fact of many different types of…

David Saint

Dec 5, 2017, 10:41 AM

Downloadable policies – just papering over the cracks?

In our increasingly complex society, we now need an astonishing array of…

David Saint

Dec 5, 2017, 10:41 AM

How to recruit a Fundraising Director

In recent issues we have considered the best approach for recruiting trustees,…

Kate Nicholas

Oct 3, 2017, 9:41 AM

Managing Reputation - Inoculating Against Crisis

It was Warren Buffet who once said “It takes twenty years to build a reputation…

David Saint

Oct 3, 2017, 9:41 AM

The £1.19m answer: Einstein’s Theory of Happiness

I was fascinated to read recently that Einstein’s ‘Theory of Happiness’ had been…

Tim Glynne-Jones

Aug 30, 2017, 10:41 AM

Website woes? Here’s a solution

When it comes to publicising the work of your charity, a good website is…

David Saint

Aug 30, 2017, 10:41 AM

When the problem is having too much money

This may seem an extraordinary topic to explore in a charity sector newsletter,…

Dave Tyler

Aug 30, 2017, 10:41 AM

Project management? Never heard of it…

I’ve been a professional project manager for over 20 years and freelance for…

Ian O'Reilly

Aug 30, 2017, 10:41 AM

The Value of a Mentor

The most honest feedback I receive in life is after the final whistle is blown…

Gavin

Aug 30, 2017, 10:41 AM

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…

David Saint

Aug 30, 2017, 10:41 AM

CV Tips – From The Recruiter’s Perspective

Having recently read 79 applications for one role, and 6 for another, I have…

David Saint

Jul 12, 2017, 10:41 AM

How To Plan A Capital Appeal

For most organisations, major capital projects are not common occurrences – they…

Felicia Willow

Jul 12, 2017, 10:41 AM

Trustee appraisals – have you got yours in place?

The Charity Governance Code recommends that the Boards of all charities – large…

Felicia Willow

Jul 12, 2017, 10:41 AM

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…

David Saint

Jul 12, 2017, 10:41 AM

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…

Charity marketing - Three surprising differences between charity and commercial marketing

Charity marketing - Tactics and relationships

INGO structure models for a fast-changing world

When initiative becomes disruptive: the dangers of "doing it in my own time" for non-profits

Research on Christian giving in the UK

Putting the Christ back into Christmas

Fundraising for a specific project? Why it pays to carry out a feasibility study

5 ways to improve your organisational planning

Small charities need a louder voice

Legacy fundraising: now or never?

Lessons on what we leave behind

Taking the long view on Christian charity leadership

Get that grant! How to add some bang to your bids

Big Give Christmas campaign – now is the time to start planning

Scrabble without the rules – It all spells creativity

How to handle Flexible Working requests

Action Planning and the Stephen Lloyd Awards – incubating brilliant ideas

Christian conferences - to go or not to go?

Charity boards that are short on women are missing out

How to stop repeating your recruitment mistakes?

International Women’s Day – What does it mean to you?

February freebie – what will you do with the extra day?

One from the heart – How to add some love to your fundraising campaigns

Top tips to set you on the road to net zero

Telling research for reaching young people

Five ways to improve your fundraising copy

Building on COP28 – next steps for the charity sector

Planet friendly New Year’s resolutions

Good Governance

12 priorities for 2024

Compelling findings from recent donor research

What does the Bible say about being a charity trustee?

Unlocking the power of customer experience (CX) for non-profit leadership

How charities can bridge the gap in Black and Asian representation on trustee boards

Christmas planning: plan like a church leader if you want to reach churches

Putting your charity on the map

The key to harmonious strategy development

A time for thanksgiving

Navigating strategic change: Striking the balance in nonprofit organisations

Practical steps for keeping your capital appeal spirits high

Charity partner – how to make the most of other people’s events

Strategic planning as a foundation for success

Leadership and the dangers of hubris

Analysing digital performance – tips for small charities

The lonely HR - Who’s looking after the person who looks after everyone else?

Kingdom KPIs – What the Bible tells us about measuring success

The art of attracting a Royal patron: tips and strategies for success

New personas for UK evangelical Christians

The AI debate – Could ChatGPT be the extra resource your charity needs?

The ultimate guide to working with Royal Patrons – Top tips for maximising the benefits, navigating the protocols and avoiding common pitfalls

Fundraising from the Marathon? How to make sure your runners cross the line

Fundraising review - is it time well spent?

How can small charities create bigger impact?

Consultancy – When and how to make it work for your small charity

Leading for the long haul – valuable lessons learned in life

Storytelling: Lessons from the parables

A.R.K. – three little letters that can make a big difference

How to help your people through the cost of living crisis

Unspent budget? Four dynamic ways to make it pay

Investing in the Kingdom; Biblical fundraising

Appreciative Inquiry: a positive approach to problem solving

Getting in shape for 2023 – three focus areas to add to your planning

Charity reviews – how to spot a good one

Five fundraising priorities during the cost of living crisis

Theos Think Tank reveals depth of economic insecurity among people of faith

An update from the Charity Commission for England and Wales

Warm Hubs; Warm Banks; Warm Welcome – is it the right thing for you?

Meeting an MP? The one question you must be ready for

Having a God-sized vision: What the Bible tells us about strategy

What we really need are bicycles

Charities spend £900m a year applying for grant funding, new report reveals

Values in recruitment – How can charities find the ‘right’ employees?

Trust crisis – are you meeting the fundamental needs of your team?

Christian nervousness? How to bear witness authentically

A passion for collaboration – it’s just a case of joining the dots

Developing a culture of monitoring, evaluation and learning

Key HR trends for 2022 and how to prepare for them

Long-term planning: lessons for charity leaders from the pandemic

Planning a capital project? Where is the money coming from?

How to look after everyone’s interests in the post peak-COVID future