Ladywell Neighbourhood Network (LNN) was established in 1985 to provide social contact and practical help for community members in Ladywell who may be isolated or vulnerable due to age, health, disability, or any other reason.
LNN’s brief for Pilotlight was straightforward: help develop a robust strategy and business plan so the Network could grow and reach more people.
The charity was confident of the impact on those they worked with, but very aware of those who needed support but weren’t being reached. How could the charity expand to take on more community members but still be sustainable in the long term?
What we did
Early sessions with the Pilotlight business volunteers revealed a need for LNN to step back and critically review what it was offering to its community. The first step was to look at LNN’s purpose and what the future looked like. Through engagement with staff, board, and service-users, a new vision and mission statement were developed.
From here, new plans for service provision were developed and time given to exploring the all-important topics of financial management and income generation.
Outcomes
By the end of the programme, LNN had a new strategic plan, had hired a fundraiser, significantly increased its income, and had enhanced confidence in financial planning and management.
A succession plan was underway for the charity manager, and the board was strengthened through efforts to re-engage trustees in the leadership of the charity.
These outputs helped LNN in the short-term, but the growth in confidence LNN took away will last far longer. Working with their team of Pilotlighters enabled LNN to be excited and ready for the future.