When I talk to churches or charities about what they do, I am often amazed at the stories of hope and transformaton that they tell me. Yet, when the same organisations come to write funding bids, those stories are too often lost. Yes, it can be difficult to share individual…
An article written for a recent edition of UCAN (UK Church Administrators Network) News I wonder how much money, or the lack of it, has been talked about in your churches in the last few months? A great deal? Not much? Never? Of course, there have been many other pressing…
Many of us are in the midst of planning or implementing the re opening of our buildings or services; as restrictions associated with the Covid 19 pandemic begin to ease in the UK. Much has been written specific to indiviual sectors and circumstances, but I wanted to offer four more…
The current lockdown regulations have meant that many of us have been out of our buildings for a number of weeks, whether they be churches, charity offices or other places from where our projects are run. With the gradual lifting of restrictions you may be preparing to return. Alongside the…
Three reasons to make time for future planning, even in the midst of the current pandemic
Trusts and foundations can be an excellent source of income for smaller organisations, but the process of applying for funding can be both time consuming and intimidating. There are high quality training courses and useful reosurces available from many local and national organistaions such as the Directory of Social Change,…
Many churches I work with are considering a new or improved building. I have written elsewhere about the more practical things to consider when designing or costing such a project, but here I want to share a few thoughts about some of the more unexpected things to look out for…
So you have this idea for a project or service that your church or charity could offer. A few things to consider before you rush into the delivery phase: Have you established the need? Do you know that there is a demand for what you are offering? Have you spoken…
Three tips for improving internal communication
Those contemplating a major building project will need, at some stage, to create a plan and budget for this work, to help their own project planning, and perhaps also to provide information for applications to potential funders. Assuming you now know, broadly, what you want to do, what else should…
