Running a Charity: Simple Steps for Bristol Volunteers

Thinking about running a charity? You don’t need a business degree or a fancy office. All you need is a clear purpose, a few practical tools, and a willingness to learn on the job. This guide walks you through the basics so you can start making a difference right away.

Getting Started

First, write down why your charity exists. A short mission statement helps you stay focused and explains your purpose to donors and volunteers. Next, check the legal requirements in the UK. Register with the Charity Commission, set up a bank account in the charity’s name, and make sure you have at least three trustees who can sign off on decisions.

Once the paperwork is done, create a simple budget. List expected income – donations, grants, fundraising events – and estimate the costs for things like supplies, venue hire, and basic admin. Keeping a spreadsheet will save you headaches when it’s time to report to the Commission.

Fundraising Made Easy

Fundraising doesn’t have to be a huge production. Start with what you already have: your network. Send a friendly email or message on social media asking for small, regular donations. Offer a clear reason – for example, “£5 a month funds a weekly youth sport session.”

Community events are another low‑cost option. A bake sale at the local library, a charity run in a park, or a game night at a community centre can bring in cash and raise awareness. Keep the event simple: set a date, promote it with flyers and local group pages, and ask volunteers to help with set‑up and clean‑up.

When you receive money, thank donors instantly. A quick thank‑you email or a handwritten note makes people feel valued and more likely to give again.

Managing volunteers is the heart of most charities. Keep a list of skills and availability for each person. Assign clear tasks – greeting visitors, handing out flyers, or managing social media – and give brief instructions. A short weekly check‑in meeting (even on Zoom) helps everyone stay on track and lets you spot any problems early.

Don’t forget to track your impact. Simple numbers like “20 kids attended our after‑school club” or “10 families received food parcels” show progress and make it easier to apply for grants later.

Finally, stay flexible. If an event isn’t drawing a crowd, try a different format. If a volunteer drops out, have a backup plan. Running a charity is about learning what works for your community and adjusting quickly.

By focusing on a clear mission, simple budgeting, easy fundraising, and organized volunteers, you can run a charity that makes a real difference in Bristol without getting overwhelmed. Ready to get started? Grab a notebook, write your mission, and take the first step today.