JGP News

The Institute of Fundraising (IoF) has unveiled steps intended to boost levels of payroll donations.

In an action plan released by the organisation, common service standards for all payroll giving agencies is set to be introduced, while the statutory framework within which such organisations operate will be reviewed.

Furthermore, the institute will attempt to gain a commitment from the third sector to make payroll giving a priority, as part of moves to encourage those working for charities, donors and employers to take up the scheme.

Pointing out that the plan follows the culmination of a review into payroll giving, Lee Grant, tax-effective giving project manager for the IoF, states: "We have systematically examined the mechanism, exploring its key drivers and barriers and have now identified actions to overcome the challenges presented by payroll giving in its current form."

He adds that payroll giving is an especially effective form of donating, particularly during the economic downturn, those looking to improve sustainable efficiencies may be interested to hear.

Earlier this week, the IoF announced it is to offer guidance to charities on how to make best use of claiming back tax on donations via Gift Aid.

More about sustainable efficiencies.

A recently-announced government fund has been commended by those working in the third sector.

In a grant worth a total of £750,000, charities will receive cash to help support innovative campaigning methods which look to support those from marginalised sections of society.

Something that may be likely to improve the skills framework of numerous organisations, Ian Leggett, director of People & Planet, tells ThirdSector.co.uk that the fund is a "really good investment in impact and effectiveness".

However, Mr Leggett points out that traditional face-to-face contact will still be required in order to engage with such communities.

Jenny Willott, third sector spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats, states: "It is fundamental to a vibrant democratic society that organisations can speak up for its more vulnerable members and push for political change."

Earlier this month, charities were invited to apply - along with local councils and secondary schools - for grants to help raise aspirations among young people in their communities.

More skills framework information.

Charities are increasingly looking towards experimental investment models.

A ThirdSector.co.uk article reveals that an increasing number of those working in the third sector are incorporating mission-connected investments - where money is placed into assets which actively further an organisation’’s cause as well as offering a return - and other investing vehicles into their portfolios.

Pointing out that this can "make money when traditional asset classes don”t", Sam Collin - charity adviser for the Eiris Foundation - tells the publication that such investment moves can form part of an effective diversification strategy as they plough money into areas such as green energy and microfinance, which are not always linked to mainstream markets.

Despite such interest, she points out there is currently little expertise in the area, those looking to boost their skills framework may be interested to hear.

Last month, Futurebuilders unveiled a £4 million fund offering short-term monetary assistance to those charities which deliver public service contracts.

More skills framework information.

Two charities have announced they are to work closer together to help improve services for blind people.

Moves by the RNIB and Action for Blind People have seen the two organisations enter a formal partnership which will see the former take responsibility for nationwide service provision, while the latter will manage local services.

Such links as network partners come as those working for the charities have already joined forces on several lobbying and fundraising events.

However, both organisations point out that the move is not a merger, as both will continue to retain separate management teams, brand and trustee boards.

Kevin Geeson, chief operating officer for the RNIB, states: "Our prime driver was to re-channel money by shifting regional service provision into the hands of one organisation, so we are not stepping on each others” toes."

Last month, Mike Caudrey, partner at management consultancy firm BlueSpark Consulting, claimed that the financial crisis may see those charities who previously would not have considered working in partnership with other third sector groups being put in a position where a merger is the only way to help them get through tough times.

More about network partners.

Those working in the third sector are being invited to form links with network partners in a bid to help unlock talent within local communities.

In a multimillion pound scheme unveiled by community secretary Hazel Blears, charities are being called on to join forces with their local authority and secondary school establishments - as well as nearby businesses, youth service providers and the wider community - to raise the aspirations of young people.

The project will look to invest in locally conceived and delivered projects which encourage wider communities to support talented young people in their area.

Known as Inspiring Communities, the initiative is worth £10 million.

Ms Blears states: "The communities where young people live should not hold them back; they should be the source of inspiration and practical support that will help them to achieve."

In other news, the Cabinet Office recently revealed that it is to offers grants worth a total of £750,000 to small third sector organisations to assist with their campaigning work.

More about network partners.