Scottish Fundraising Conference

Investing in Our Future: Some Takeaways from the Scottish Fundraising Conference

The world we find ourselves in feels anything but predictable. This holds true for individuals as well as charities like The Well. Running an advice centre, we see how the cost of living crisis is increasing demand for our services. This pressure is compounded by reduced government funding and shrinking trust budgets resulting in a smaller funding pot with increased competition. To say that securing funding for a small charity like The Well is a challenge is a bit of an understatement!

That’s why we want to say a huge thank you to Chartered Institute of Fundraising Scotland (CIoF Scotland) for providing our Head of Partnerships and Communications, Alicia, with a bursary to attend the Scottish Fundraising Conference! 

Securing this bursary  was an invaluable opportunity. Alicia spent two days absorbing new ideas on communication and impact, reflecting on new approaches for regular giving and appeals, and gathering the inspiration to continue championing our community while working towards a sustainable future for The Well. 

It was refreshing to see a series of dedicated sessions for small charities and solo fundraisers. They created a space to learn, share and reflect on practical ways to effectively communicate with both service users and donors that achieve results. A lot of it comes down to how we share our stories.  In one thought-provoking session focused on faith and fundraising, we were challenged to think outside the box: “The resources we need are out there; we just need to inspire people to move them to where they can help us.”

The Scottish Fundraising Conference was a great experience. It was a reminder that fundraising isn’t solely about raising money. It’s about building relationships, championing community and fostering hope in these unprecedented times. While the conference meant time away from The Well, our community was always present in small, subtle ways.   The fantastic mix of cultural dishes at lunch was a lovely (and tasty!)  reminder of the diversity of the community we serve.

Thanks again to CIoF Scotland for the opportunity to attend this conference and take these ideas forward. Your support, along with those of our donors and service users is what allows The Well to be able to continue to serve our community.

How You Can Help Us Grow

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