Words by Cheyanne Bryan
Today is International Day of Charity, a day that is dear and near to us at Smiley News. On this day we can share our love for the work that charities do all over the world, providing their service users with an understanding shoulder to lean on in times of need or when resources are required.
A recent report has shared that public trust in charities is at a highest it has been in the last 10 years, however various other reports suggest that donations to charities are falling.
We spoke to Leila Hashemi, Associate Strategy Director at Shape History, on their thoughts on changing patterns in the third sector and what can be done to make sure we can look after charities as much as they look after us.
What is your position/role, and why are you passionate about charities and making a positive impact?
I am an Associate Strategy Director at Shape History, where I have worked for over six years. In my role, I craft campaign and communication strategies aimed at driving social and environmental impact. My passion for social and environmental justice is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves to live in a fair, safe, and equitable society. This commitment is deeply influenced by my own life experiences, which have shaped my understanding and empathy for the causes we champion at Shape History. It’s incredibly fulfilling to work on campaigns that make a tangible difference in areas that resonate with me!
Recent reports state that trust in charities is at its highest in the last decade. Do you know the reasons for this? If not, do you have any ideas as to why this is?
Trust in charities has indeed risen, largely due to the increased visibility and proactive role that nonprofits have taken during challenging times in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Charities stepped up to provide crucial support when it was needed most, demonstrating their value to communities. This heightened visibility has played a significant role in restoring and even boosting public confidence in the sector, particularly following notable crises in the past.
However, charity donations seem to be falling. Do you think there are reasons beyond the cost of living for this?
The decline in regular charitable giving is a complex issue that goes beyond just the cost of living crisis. Younger generations, for instance, have a very different approach to giving compared to older folks. Economic factors like the rise of the gig economy and an unstable housing market have left many young people feeling financially insecure, making them less likely to commit to regular donations.
On top of that, the way we interact online has changed how people give. Social media platforms, especially Instagram, have made one-off humanitarian appeals more popular. These types of campaigns often lead to quick, impulsive donations instead of encouraging long-term support. This trend shows how our online habits are shaping our giving patterns, focusing more on immediate, emotional responses rather than consistent contributions.
Question: What other ways do you think people can give back that are similarly beneficial as giving donations?
Volunteering your time and skills is an incredibly valuable way to give back. It allows people to provide hands-on support that can be as impactful as financial donations. For example, you can offer your skills, whether they are in marketing, legal advice, or IT to support a charity’s operations.
Trusteeship is another great option, and there are a lot of initiatives that support younger people or those from marginalised backgrounds who want to get into these roles, I’m a trustee for Brook, a charity focused on young people’s sexual health and well-being – but only came across the opportunity after our managing director put me forward for this. Otherwise, I doubt I would have seen this as a role for me. This role allows me to contribute my expertise and time to a cause I care deeply about, which is another form of giving back that can have a lasting impact.
These alternative ways of giving back not only benefit the charities but also provide valuable experience and personal growth for the volunteers and trustees involved. It’s a win-win situation.
What do you think the future of the charity sector will look like in the next 5 to 10 years? Are there any urgent actions that need to be taken to help the sector?
The future of the charity sector will likely be shaped by the need for innovation and adaptation. As traditional fundraising methods become less effective, charities will need to explore new ways to engage with donors. This might involve embracing digital platforms, offering more transparency, and focusing on short-term projects with clear, measurable outcomes.
Additionally, building and maintaining trust will be crucial. Charities must continue to demonstrate their value to society, especially in a challenging economic climate. Urgent actions are bound to include investing in digital transformation, evolving fundraising strategy, and building authentic, stronger relationships with young people.
By embracing these changes, charities can stay relevant and effective while continuing to make a real impact in a world that's always changing.
Leila and the team at Shape History are currently working on a wide range of exciting projects that are particularly focused on addressing social inequalities, human rights and the climate crisis.
To find out more about the work of Shape History, check out their website for updates on upcoming campaigns: https://www.shapehistory.com/
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities that Leila Hashemi specifically wanted to highlight as they are close to her heart and provide crucial support.
Kurdish and Middle Eastern Women Organisation (KMEWO). This London-based charity is dedicated to improving the quality of life of Kurdish, Middle Eastern, and North African (KMENA) women who have experienced domestic abuse and harmful practices. Find out more.
Latin American Women’s Rights Service (LAWRS). This organisation is run by and for Latin American migrant women living in the UK. LAWRS supports women who are exposed to violations of their fundamental human rights, facing violence and/or exploitation. Find out more here.
Imece Women’s Centre. This organisation works to support Turkish, Kurdish, Cypriot Turkish & BAMER women to improve the quality of their lives free from all forms of violence and discrimination. Support them here.
