Without fundraising most charities could not exist, yet there is very little support available for those who do this crucial, yet often invisible, work of bringing in the money to keep good causes in business. The cost of living crisis is increasing demand on charities at the same time as many current donors are struggling to maintain their contributions. Finding new donors, and increasing support from those who can afford it, is the only way many charities will survive the tough times ahead.
The Centre for Philanthropy at Kent is therefore launching a new Fundraiser Apprenticeship to help UK charities respond to these challenging times. The apprenticeship will provide fundraisers with the skills, behaviours and knowledge to develop, build and sustain relationships with donors. The programme draws on the latest research into fundraising and philanthropy, at which the Centre has been at the forefront, since being founded in 2008,
The accelerated 13-month level 3 course, which begins in March 2023, is designed and delivered by academics who were themselves fundraisers before moving into research and teaching. The tutors have extensive practitioner experience and academic knowledge, with a focus on community fundraising, major donor giving and charitable legacies. The course will be particularly relevant to anyone new to fundraising so they can begin their career with a sound knowledge of fundraising, enabling them to perform in their role to a high standard. Practitioners moving into a high value/philanthropy role in a fundraising team will also benefit greatly from this course.
Dr Beth Breeze, Director of the Centre for Philanthropy, said: ‘Charities cannot run on goodwill alone! We know that most philanthropic donations are not spontaneous, they happen because someone asked for support. I am proud that we are marking our Centre’s 15th anniversary with this new initiative to train and support fundraisers. I am confident it will help to increase charitable donations and help more donors to experience the joy of giving, both of which are key to building the culture of philanthropy in the UK. We are looking forward to sharing our knowledge and passion for fundraising and philanthropy with our apprentices. This course is designed to build their capacity and their confidence, and will help to further professionalise this wonderful and crucial profession.’
Working alongside Dr Breeze on the programme is Dr Lucy Lowthian, who joined Kent after a successful career working in a variety of fundraising roles. She said: ‘This programme has been designed for passionate individuals who are looking to progress their career in fundraising. It will be delivered by academics who are experts in the charity sector, so apprentices will benefit from a great wealth of knowledge and experience.’
Employers and potential apprentices interested in learning more about this new Fundraiser Apprenticeship can register to attend a virtual information event taking place on 4 and 24 November. Further information about the apprenticeship and how to register for one of the information days is available on our apprenticeships site.
The Centre for Philanthropy is a leading centre of philanthropy research, teaching and public engagement. The centre conducts robust and relevant research, in partnership with charity sector partners on a range of topics, including fundraising, major donors, giving circles, giving across the life course, corporate philanthropy, and philanthropy’s relationship with social justice.