The new free resource has been created by the Chartered Institute of Fundraising
A new guide to help charities fundraise during Covid-19 has been released.
The Chartered Institute of Fundraising has produced a new booklet to guide charities through the pandemic by increasing focus on the supporter experience.
Fundraising in the Time of Covid, a free resource, has been produced with the Supporter Experience Special Interest Group and outlines six principles and suggested actions to deliver an exceptional supporter experience. The aim is for charities and fundraisers to build on the public’s desire to give during the pandemic by delivering a great supporter experience.
With fundraising events and activities cancelled, reserves depleted and demand for services increasing, it will continue to be a turbulent year for fundraisers due to the coronavirus pandemic. In June, it was estimated the charity sector was facing a £10.1bn funding gap. Since then, almost half (47%) of the UK’s charities have revised down their financial forecasts over the last two months in anticipation of a tough winter ahead.
Throughout these challenges the British public remain incredibly generous. The booklet shares successful case studies on how charities, such as Child Rescue Nepal and GUTS UK, have used the principles to create a lasting difference to their fundraising.
The resource has been reviewed by fundraisers in a range of roles from large and small organisations, across different sectors.
Angela Cluff, chair of the Supporter Experience Special Interest Group, said: “We’re delighted to share the principles and practical suggestions on how charities can put the supporter experience at the forefront of their fundraising in the extraordinary times we all find ourselves in.
“Now is the time to accelerate investment in the supporter experience. It is easy for us to fall into the trap of focusing on the money. If we focus on the experience the money will follow. So, the challenge is to orient ourselves to the experience, despite the pressures.”
Peter Lewis, chief executive of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, said: “The beginning of Covid-19 was devastating for fundraising. Just as we thought we were beginning to return to a new normality, things are getting progressively worse again. The future is uncertain. The services provided by the UK’s causes are dependent on fundraising and that places a huge responsibility on each of us. There is a limit on what we can do.
“The Supporter Experience Special Interest Group has spent considerable time looking at the challenges our sector faces. How can we think about our supporters as partners to help us meet them? Experienced fundraisers have created this booklet to provide practical advice which will help you. There are mountains to climb. But there is hope, possibility and opportunity.”
The guide can be downloaded now for free. Those who are interested can join a webinar on 25 November at 2pm exploring case studies and practical tips for any charity to help inspire your supporters during the pandemic.
