CHRN Conference
Managing and making the most out of your resources in today’s difficult economic environment Is tough enough for every sector, but charities are finding it particularly hard, especially when income is under pressure and the prospect of public sector funding cuts looms ahead.
One of the ways for charity HR Directors to maximise their opportunities is to use their network for good ideas and practice. This is where the Charities HR Network comes into its own, through regular meetings and networking that enable its members to increase their own knowledge and development, whilst sharing information with other members. It provides a platform for HR professionals to exchange ideas and help find innovative solutions.
Steve Wiggins, HR Director of The Prince’s Trust is the current chair and says ‘the Network helps to promote improved standards of HR across a broad range of national charities’.
Recognising that the challenges are acute at the moment, the Network developed, in conjunction with Russell-Cooke solicitors, its first ever conference covering a wide range of topics included Reducing Costs in Difficult Times, Volunteers and the Law, Developing a Mediation Culture and Managing Disputes.
The event held on Monday 14th June 2010 commenced with a key note address by Ruth Spellman OBE, Chief Executive of the Chartered Management Institute and previously of Investors in People UK. Ruth began by saying ‘as a founder of the network I am pleased to know the network is thriving as I found taking part essential to my role as HR Director as NSPCC’ adding ‘the third sector have always seen the importance of networking and sharing ideas and it is important that this continues’.
During her session Ruth stressed that ‘management training is essential if managers are going to add value to the organisation and, at this time of constant cuts to revenue, ensure that every pound is maximised’.
At the conclusion of the conference Steve added ‘We wanted to demonstrate how HR leaders in charities have a great willingness to share their best ideas and practices across the sector. The conference was very successful and helped our colleagues in the charity sector, amongst other things, to think innovatively about their response to the inevitable public spending cuts in the future.’
Delegates came from a wide range of organisations including CPRE, CLIC Sargent, CSV, Friends of the Earth, Mencap, NCVO, Prince’s Trust, WWF.
Further details about the conference and the CHRN can be obtained from the Charities HR Network Co-ordinator, Kim Maidment on 023 80860984 or charhrnet@aol.com
ENDS