Challenge

The charity sector in the UK is currently grappling with significant financial challenges due to inflationary pressures and reductions in public funding. A report by Grant Thornton highlights that, although inflation decreased to 3.2% in March 2024, charities continue to face rising costs and declining income, leading to an unstable financial environment.  

Additionally, the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) notes a decline in charitable donations, with fewer individuals contributing compared to pre-pandemic levels. This reduction in giving further strains the resources of charitable organisations. 

In response to these challenges, digital transformation offers a viable solution for charities to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. The Charity Digital Skills Report 2024 emphasises the importance of digital adoption, highlighting that organisations leveraging digital tools can improve service delivery and operational efficiency.  

Moreover, the Financial Times report that integration of artificial intelligence and data analysis is revolutionising charitable giving by enabling organisations to make informed decisions and effectively track their impact. This technological advancement allows charities to streamline processes and better allocate resources.  

Embracing digital tools not only helps charities mitigate the adverse effects of economic pressures but also positions them to better serve their communities in a sustainable manner. 

Solution

At BJSS, we’re proud to have partnered with the TechForGood Alliance (formerly the Scottish Tech Army) since March 2023, to use our digital skills to help charities and social enterprises to technology to overcome challenges during this tricky economic landscape. 

The TechForGood Alliance connects social enterprises and charities with businesses and volunteers to tackle challenges through tailored digital solutions.  

After an initial scoping session, BJSS selects the projects we’re best equipped to support — choosing causes that align with our values and expertise. 

Through these collaborations, our teams have applied their skills to deliver meaningful solutions, exploring new technologies, roles, and leadership opportunities along the way. From empowering people with vision impairments and addressing homelessness to equipping minority communities with essential digital skills, these projects showcase the tangible social impact we can achieve when innovation meets purpose. 

Outcome

Led by our passionate Scottish team, we’ve delivered eight impactful pro bono projects for third-sector organisations across Scotland, Newcastle, and Manchester. This work represents over 690 days of effort and more than £460,000 worth of donated services.

1. Transforming Volunteer Management with Street Soccer Scotland

We partnered with Street Soccer Scotland, a charity that has transformed over 25,000 lives since 2009 by using sport to tackle issues like homelessness, addiction, and unemployment. To streamline their operations, we optimised their Salesforce CRM, automating volunteer and donated-hours management. This reduced administrative tasks, improved data analytics, and enhanced volunteer recognition. By freeing up resources, the charity can focus more on delivering front-line services and amplifying their community impact.

2. Pioneering Digital Accessibility for Newcastle Vision Support

We helped Newcastle Vision Support, which aids over 1,300 visually impaired individuals, enhance digital accessibility. By integrating Alexa Skills and converting audio files to podcasts, we enabled users to access newsletters, real-time updates, and resources via smart speakers and their website. This innovative solution reduced costs, improved accessibility, and strengthened the charity’s connection with its community. The project showcases the power of technology to foster inclusion and independence. 

Simon Tindall, from BJSS, highlighted the impact: “One of the reasons we get into this industry is to try and make a difference or something. And this is — I’m getting goosebumps — this is the reason we do it. We absolutely love it.”

3. Empowering Greener Travel in Greater Manchester

We supported Harpurhey & Moston Bike Library in promoting affordable, eco-friendly travel through bike loans, training, and maintenance sessions. To help them scale, we developed a user-friendly website featuring service showcases, booking tools, an event calendar, donation options, and analytics. This platform enhances visibility and engagement while preparing the charity for future growth, including CRM integration for inventory management. Our collaboration supports greener, healthier, and more inclusive travel across Greater Manchester. 

"BJSS has developed a strong working relationship with the charity. The team has taken the time to understand both their present needs and ambitions, ensuring that both the website and the systems that sit behind it are sustainable as they grow and scale. The team has also considered how the solution delivered for Harpurhey and Moston Bike Library can apply to other, similar organisations and we look forward to promoting and deploying the solution wherever it is wanted.” 

Kirsty McIntosh, Head of Partnerships, Tech for Good Alliance. 

Learn more about our social value strategy.