As we continue to respond to the ideological drama around fundraising and the many solutions and challenges being shared, here are my top 10 priorities for a new chapter to get back on the front foot.
Priorities are not an exhaustive list – there are other things we can do. But this list tries to capture the key actions that could make the biggest difference.
- Work to create and promote fundraising expertise and experience at the heart of self-regulation and other key organisations
- Focus on consent, opt out, behaviour, inspiration and impact – and call it consent not opt in
- Build a better and closer relationship and understanding with statutory, regulatory and partner bodies – ICO, DMA etc
- Put the donor at the centre and the heart of each organisation and charity through better leadership
- Train people in charities at all levels and in every role to reframe their job outcomes around the donor and the cause, connecting them with our lifeblood
- Reassert trustees ‘appropriate’ control and governance, and stress ‘appropriate’
- Agree a model of fundraising governance to trustees and train them to a consistent approach
- Create a coalition of key organisations, charities, bodies and individuals to deliver a campaign to defend, educate, promote and inspire the public about fundraising – build a new deal and understanding around a new language or narrative
- Challenge weak and poor leadership at every level
- Look after and inspire with confidence the new wave of fundraisers and protect them and nurture them
We have much to be proud about. But pride needs to flourish from confidence. And confidence comes from getting on the front foot.