About Us
We believe that fundraisers are at their best when they’re connected, surrounded by people that ‘get’ them, encouraged by others who face the same challenges, and nurtured to learn more so that they can raise more. That’s why we’ve developed The Fundraisers Forum – a place for you to plug in, connect and be encouraged.
The regions of the UK are full of incredible charities and not-for-profit organisations who transform lives day in day out. But very often they are isolated places when it comes to accessing training, networking opportunities and chances to develop. With limited charity budgets, the cost of the train fares alone can often mean fundraisers can miss out.
That’s where we come in! Since 2022 we’ve been developing a series of accessible virtual networking and learning opportunities for fundraisers under the banner of the South West Fundraisers Forum. But we knew that the reach and impact of our work has been spreading out way beyond the South West - and because much of what we do is online, it seemed silly to limit ourselves by geography. So, we made a little change - but a change that gives us space for even bigger ideas! We're now simply...
The Fundraisers Forum
A network and movement created by fundraisers for fundraisers - wherever you are!
We know there's lots of other networks, industry bodies and training providers out there, but what we continue to hear is that no matter where you look there always seem to be gaps in what's on offer, or insurmountable barriers to access - financial (yes, some of the costs of courses and training really are that eye-watering!!!), geography (we don't think some organisations know there's a world outside the M25!), caring responsibilities and much more besides.
So we're going to keep exploring how we, as a network of fundraisers, can fill the gaps that you continue to find.
A lot of our training and events are completely free, and the rest of it is sensibly and accessibly priced (so you don't have to take out a mortgage to learn what you need to know!) and thanks to the amazing support of sponsors and suppliers in the sector, our 'Fundraising on the Margins' conference also continues to offer heavily discounted and free tickets to those that need them.
We also don't want to duplicate great work that is already happening - so we signpost and shout about others who we know and trust in the sector who are offering great support, events and advice - so you know where to turn and can be confident that you are getting help from certified 'good eggs'. Check out our ‘recommendations and resources’ page for more details (coming soon).
This is a space for you – tell us what you want to see!
Meet the Team
-
Elanor Hoskin
I have spent over 20 years in the third sector working with charities at a local, regional and national level. I am co-founder of The Fundraisers Forum and also own my own consultancy supporting charities
-
Paul Courtney
I’ve been a fundraiser, trainer and consultant for over 20 years, working with great fundraisers in range of charities including hospices, cathedrals, social welfare and many children’s causes, helping to form and deliver robust strategies for sustainable income generation. I’m passionate about fundraisers having access to the support they deserve in order to deliver great results for their charity beneficiaries.