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Local charities unite to tackle fundraising challenges at Chichester roundtable

  • 3 hours ago
  • 2 min read

On Thursday 28 May, Jess Brown-Fuller MP hosted a Charity Fundraising Roundtable in Chichester, bringing together over 50 CEOs, fundraisers and volunteers from local charities to share knowledge and strengthen ties across the sector. 


The event, held at One-O-Four Chichester, was born out of Jess's visits to charities across the constituency, during which she heard consistently that fundraising was one of the most pressing challenges facing local organisations. In response, she convened the roundtable as a practical opportunity for charities to learn from one another and from those who have found success in securing funding. 


Jess Brown-Fuller with event speakers Ben Wilkes, Jackie Sumner and Liz Woodsell in-front of a wall of greenery.
Jess Brown-Fuller with event speakers Ben Wilkes, Jackie Sumner and Liz Woodsell.

The evening featured three expert presentations. Ben Wilkes of Children on the Edge spoke on the theme of connection and the role relationships play in effective fundraising. Jackie Sumner from Voluntary Action Arun & Chichester (VAAC) offered practical advice on writing compelling funding bids, while Liz Woodsell of the Chichester Community Development Trust rounded off the presentations with insights into capital funding. Each presentation was followed by questions from the floor, before guests came together for open networking. 


Jess has been a consistent champion for the voluntary sector since her election, and the roundtable reflected her wider commitment to supporting the charities and community organisations that play a vital role in the lives of residents across the Chichester constituency. 


Speaking after the event, Jess said: 


"So many of the brilliant charities I have visited across the constituency told me that fundraising is where they need the most support. I wanted to create a space where they could come together, share what they know, and learn from each other." 
"Tonight showed just how much expertise and goodwill exists within our local charity sector, and I hope the connections made here will make a real difference." 

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