Let's Talk Fundraising

Fundraiser safety takes centre stage in this crucial second episode of Let's Talk Fundraising, the official podcast from the Chartered Institute of Fundraising - the charity that champions a lifetime of impact, a career in fundraising.

Host Tim Beynon is joined by guest co-host Damian Chapman - Chartered Institute of Fundraising trustee, founder of Fundraiser in the Room, and chair of ROGARE fundraising think tank - for an unflinching conversation about inappropriate donor behaviour, power imbalances in fundraising relationships and why donor codes of conduct are essential to creating safer working environments for fundraisers.

The episode features an in-depth interview with Antonia Brownlee, Director of Philanthropy at Scottish Ballet, who shares the organisation's journey in developing and implementing donor guiding principles. Antonia discusses the challenges of addressing inappropriate behaviour, the importance of leadership buy-in, and the positive impact the guidelines have had across the entire organisation - particularly on dancers who engage with donors at events.

Drawing on shocking research from ROGARE showing that 51% of fundraisers have experienced behaviour from donors that made them feel physically or mentally unsafe, and that three quarters have experienced sexual harassment at least once in their careers, this episode makes a powerful case for why the sector must act now to protect fundraisers whilst maintaining strong donor relationships.

The discussion challenges the long-held assumption that fundraisers must simply tolerate inappropriate behaviour as "part of the job", and demonstrates that implementing clear boundaries actually strengthens organisations rather than weakening them.

Guests and contributors

Damian Chapman - https://www.linkedin.com/in/damianchapmanuk/
Trustee, Chartered Institute of Fundraising
Founder, Fundraiser in the Room
Chair, ROGARE fundraising think tank

Antonia Brownlee - https://www.linkedin.com/in/antonia-brownlee-406119395/
Director of Philanthropy, Scottish Ballet


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Produced by The Good Studio - thegoodstudio.co.uk

Creators and Guests

Host
Damian Chapman
Chartered Institute of Fundraising trustee, founder of Fundraiser in the Room, and chair of ROGARE fundraising think tank
Host
Tim Beynon
Tim has spent 20 years heading up charity comms teams and today runs The Good Studio, producing content - including this podcast - for charities and purpose-led organisations.
Guest
Antonia Brownlee
Director of Philanthropy at Scottish Ballet

What is Let's Talk Fundraising?

Let’s Talk Fundraising is the official podcast of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, the charity that champions a lifetime of impact, a career in fundraising. Exploring the issues, ideas and debates shaping fundraising today - it's hosted each month by Tim Beynon, together with a rotating co-host. From sector news and current affairs to ethics, wellbeing, leadership and best practice, each episode brings practical insight and thoughtful discussion with fundraisers and experts from across the UK. Whether you work in fundraising, lead a charity, sit on a board, or simply want to understand how fundraising supports charities to change lives, Let’s Talk Fundraising is your place to listen, learn and be part of the conversation.