NCVO research: Impact of covid-19 on the sector
We’ve published our latest findings from the Response, recover, reset: the voluntary sector and covid-19 November 2020 report. This highlights findings from the second wave of our barometer survey and explores the impact that covid-19 is having on the sector. You will find the link to the next round of the barometer here along with the report findings and interactive dashboard.’
Spending Review
The government has laid out its spending plans for the year ahead. Announcements of interest to charities include more details on the long-awaited UK Shared Prosperity Fund, A ‘levelling up’ fund worth £4bn, and a cut to the overseas aid budget. My blog has more details including a summary of the economic outlook for the months ahead.
Fundraiser Apprenticeships
JGA Group have launched an exciting 18 month Fundraiser Apprenticeship. This new, expert-developed, apprenticeship focused on achieving occupational competence for fundraisers is free for charities.
New research shows charities lose nearly £2bn a year in VAT
New research commissioned by the Charity Tax Group (CTG) and undertaken by London Economics shows that VAT continues to place a significant burden on UK charities, with irrecoverable VAT now costing charities £1.8bn a year. The research also highlights the importance of existing VAT reliefs and exemptions for the charity sector.
Fundraising during covid
The Fundraising Regulator and Chartered Institute of Fundraising have released a statement on fundraising within the new local restriction tier system put in place on Wednesday 2 December 2020. Fundraising organisations are reminded to review the restrictions that apply in each tier before carrying out any public fundraising activity (including door-to-door, street, and private site fundraising).
Impact of covid-19 on the sector
The latest edition of Pro Bono Economics’ monthly covid Charity Tracker shows that almost two thirds (63%) of charities report currently experiencing higher levels of demand compared to this time last year and one-in-seven say they are experiencing an increase of more than 25%. Just under a quarter (23%) are experiencing less demand than this time last year. The increased demand for services is expected to continue over the medium-term.
New social value model
Following the announcement of the new ‘social value model’ in September, the government has now published full details of the model and a ‘Guide to using the Social Value Model’.
Latest updates to our coronavirus guidance
We have redesigned our Knowhow coronavirus guidance making it easier to navigate and allowing us to best support your needs. We have added several new sections including delivering services and activities, safeguarding in voluntary organisations and fundraising and covid-19. We’ve also updated several sections in line with current restrictions such as working safely, supporting staff wellbeing and retaining and engaging volunteers.
Paul joined NCVO over seven years ago after working for a leading public affairs agency. Since then he’s led our policy work on a variety of issues, including welfare-to-work reforms, volunteering, the Compact, public service commissioning and procurement regulations. He now leads our work on funding and finance with a particular focus on charity tax relief and safeguarding EU funding post-Brexit. 
