The prime minister Rishi Sunak has called a general election on 4 July, saying that only the Conservatives will be able to keep the country secure and ensure economic stability. Read more

Following yesterday’s announcement of a General Election, the Charity Commission have issued guidance for charities, political activity and campaigning. There is a short 5 minute introductory guide and more detailed guidance if you need it.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/charity-campaigning-in-a-general-election-year

DSC Researcher Kalli Jayasuriya dives into Pro Bono Economics latest report on the sector’s relationship with local government. Read more here.

Here are some simple actions you can take to make sure wellbeing is a priority in your organisation. Take a look here.

Mind has worked with the Black Mental Health Workers Alliance (BMHWA) to produce a new manifesto that seeks to address structural change which must be actioned to close the inequality gap for Black people within mental health services in England.Take a look here.

Benn Keaveney sadly passed away in early April.

Benn was the HFEH Mind CEO from 2018 to 2023. He was receiving treatment for most of last year then came back in October to serve as the HFEH Mind Emeritus CEO. He was hoping to medically retire at the end of March but unfortunately his treatment was unsuccessful.

Many of you had the privilege of knowing Benn personally, and you may already be aware of this sad news. I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge Benn’s unwavering professionalism, hard work, and energy in supporting Mind and the work they do to support local residents with mental health needs.  His presence will be sorely missed.

Our sincere condolences to Benn’s friends and family and to all at H&F Mind.

“The Fundraising Regulator has announced that it will change the way it publicly reports charities that have failed to act on requests to opt-out of marketing communications…” Read more here.

During the cost of living crisis, many more individuals will reach out to charities for vital support. We understand the pressure on services and staff alike, so we’ve put some of our key resources in one place.

Our Cost of living hub contains resources designed to help you to help others, especially those seeking welfare support, including The Guide to Grants for Individuals in Need. Take a look here.

The Hilden Charitable Fund, based at 34 North End Road, is selling it’s office building and relocating to the Sobus Dawes Road Hub.

We have a wide range of office furniture and equipment that we would like to donate to any Hammersmith & Fulham charities that would be interested. Viewing of the furniture is possible (contact our office on 0207 603 1525) and if you wish to have anything, you must arrange to collect by no later than Friday 3rd May.

Ciaran Rafferty, Director

Furniture inventory & photos