Legislative changes
Many organisations do not yet have a strong grasp of all upcoming legislation, what’s required and the implications - particularly those impacted by the replacement of the Incorporated Societies Act and proposed changes from the recent release of the Charities Act Review. There is a very real possibility of exposure to risk if these entities don’t brush up on their responsibilities – and quickly.

Governance and strategy
Many NFPs have the right number of Board members and provide them with relevant training. Board members are also more likely to be paid now than in past surveys. Regular strategic planning is taking place, but engagement with wider stakeholder groups is low. This means some NFPs are overly insular in their decision-making and planning, and they’re missing important opportunities for valuable input from others.

Risk management
Many NFPs are doing too little business continuity planning or failing to share their business continuity plans. This is surprising given the sector has been operating in a fast changing environment for several years. Events like pandemics, changing demographics and economic shocks are common and ongoing. Having said that, we have seen some improvement in NFPs’ overall risk management focus, with most maintaining, at a minimum, a risk register. Like most things, something is better than nothing – progress not perfection.

Technology
There’s some strong spending on digital platforms, but the rewards from these efforts are at risk of being thwarted for the alarming number of organisations who have neglected to invest enough in cyber security. Although unthinkable, charitable organisations are seen as fair game for cybercriminals. Resolving a cyberattack can be a long and costly process which can be minimised by putting the right protections in place.

Team, people and volunteers
NFPs are doing a great job of adapting to suit employees’ and volunteers’ work habits, including flexible hours, working from home and extended annual leave. The historic environment when passion made up for shortfalls in remuneration to full market levels is changing. NFP employees are starting to demand market salaries. This can mean the sector loses many good people to the commercial sector which is particularly problematic in today’s tight labour market and rising living costs.

Funding and financial sustainability sources
Most NFPs are fiscally responsible and carry enough cash reserves to get them through the tough times. However, all organisations need to be aware of the recent Charites Act review which signal an intense focus on reserves and what they are used for. Although there appears to be some risk aversion in terms of new sources of funding, the research revealed setting up a trading operation or social enterprise is becoming increasingly popular in the sector with many organisations already active in this space or seriously considering this in the future.