Welcome to the March edition.
The current conflict in the Middle East is a reminder of how quickly international developments can ripple into everyday life here in the UK. The immediate humanitarian concerns quite rightly dominate the headlines. However, the potential economic impact at home is also something to watch closely. This could include increased energy, fuel and food prices. For charities supporting people already facing financial hardship, this may present further challenges in the months ahead.
On a more positive note, next week will see the publication of our 2026 Salary Benchmarking and Working Patterns Report. The report draws on insights shared by ACO members across the network. It looks at pay awards, remuneration levels, employee benefits and current working patterns. Supported by our colleagues at Merrifield Consultants and Red Stone, we hope it will provide a useful reference point for conversations around attracting, retaining and supporting the people who make our work possible!
Alongside this, our current Frontline Worker Survey has been developed in partnership with Rightsteps. It is gathering valuable insight into the experiences of staff working directly with beneficiaries. The survey explores what is working well, where pressures are being felt and where support is most helpful. The survey is open until the end of March and we would strongly welcome input from frontline colleagues across your organisations.
Finally, some of you may notice that next week’s Salary Benchmarking Report will appear with our refreshed visual identity. This marks the soft launch of ACO’s updated brand identity over the course of the month. Further news will follow soon!
Donal Watkin
Chief Executive
This month’s edition features:
- Upcoming ACO events
- Jobs board
- Member spotlight on caba
- Guest articles from Family Fund Business Services and Law Express
- Member news
- Policy and sector news
- Publications