Welcome to the December edition.
As we approach the end of another challenging year, it seems a good time to reflect on one or two of the continuing trends we are seeing across the network:
- Increased demand and stretched capacity – inevitably, rising cost of living impacts are impacting our respective beneficiary audiences, and with it a rise in demand (particularly across “in work” applications).
- Financial pressures on charities continue – investment income seems to be recovering but can still be volatile; fundraising remains challenging, and experienced fundraisers remain hot in demand.
- Everybody’s talking about AI – charities recognise the opportunities for digital improvement, but the challenge remains in adoption and implementation. At the same time, cybersecurity risks seem to be escalating, and this is leaving many smaller charities (in particular) particularly exposed.
- Systematic fraud seems to be becoming more prevalent – increasingly sophisticated applications seem to be on the increase, often emanating from specific geographical areas or targeting specific charities. How we can potentially flag these within the network, within the boundaries of GDPR/data privacy, is a challenge we are currently exploring.
- Staffing pressures continue – instances of staff burnout seem to be on the increase, and prioritising employee wellbeing (if it wasn’t already) is clearly paramount in our new working environments (remote/hybrid/office).
However, on the flipside, there is plenty to be positive about as we face the new year. We’re seeing increasing levels of cooperation and collaboration between members (from knowledge sharing to joint support initiatives) and a greater level of awareness of the tangible impact that member charities are having on the lives of individuals/families in significant need. So a big round of applause to all our colleagues throughout the network!
On a completely separate note, we will be analysing the findings from our Salary Survey at the beginning of January, but obviously the wider the responses, the richer the data! If you haven’t had the chance to contribute, we strongly encourage participation.
In addition to invaluable insights around pay award intentions, remuneration levels across charity job functions and employee benefits, there will also be perspectives around current working patterns and the challenges/opportunities different models present. We have extended the deadline to Monday 22 December, and you can access the survey here.
Finally, may I wish all of you, your colleagues and families an enjoyable (and hopefully relaxing) Festive Break, and we look forward to working with you in 2026!
Donal Watkin
Chief Executive
This month’s edition features:
- Upcoming ACO events
- Jobs board
- Member spotlight on The Film and TV Charity
- Guest article from Hope & May
- Member news
- Policy and sector news
- Publications