The last few years of economic difficulty have lead to reduced spending and a lack of disposable income for many individuals and corporates, and charities across the country relying on the generosity of the general public and help from businesses continue to have concern and are deeply affected.
Figures from the NCVO (National Council for Voluntary Donations) show that 8% of donors give half of all donations, and the Budget 2012 introduced a £50,000 cap on personal tax relief, which could signal a reduction in donations from these donors going forward.
The voluntary sector is seeing rising costs and a drop in income at a time when their services are most needed, and must ensure that they take measures to review their operations, in order to reduce risk and protect their valuable assets. This is particularly important in a time when services previously provided by the government will be expected to be provided by charities in the future.
Wilkins Kennedy recently teamed up with the IoD to offer a marketing focused Charities Conference providing support and advice to charity CEOs, trustees and financial directors. A variety of marketing tools and innovative financial ideas were discussed to assist the charities in remaining competitive and to survive and prosper through a recession.
The half-day event at Leeds Castle received positive feedback – it allowed the sharing of fundraising and operative ideas among 70 voluntary sector attendees and I shared my presentation “Using your accounts as a marketing tool”. Too many charities see their annual financial statements as a dreary statutory document rather than an effective marketing tool – which they can be if they are prepared in an appropriate format.
How has the recession impacted your charity, or your charitable donations? How do you give to charity?
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