Bolton Wanderers has launched a new programme that will help 50 Bolton-based charities develop their digital skills.
The Bolton Digital Skills programme started in November 2022 and will run until March 2023, providing learning and guidance to Bolton-based charities around how to effectively utilise social media to raise awareness of their work.
Via a scoping and mentoring exercise carried out by Bolton CVS, a lack of skills, confidence and resources in how to use digital tools was identified as a leading area of concern for many of the 1,672 organisations operating in the town.
From this research, a partnership was formed between the club, Bolton Wanderers in the Community, Bolton CVS and Lightful - experts in the field of training non-profits with digital skills – and the technology company that will lead the programme.
The Bolton Digital Skills programme is built on Lightful’s flagship BRIDGE programme and will enable charities to access the support needed to transform their approach to digital. With an increased awareness of their work, the hope is that fundraising levels will be raised across the board for the charities taking part.
Sharon Brittan, Chairman of Bolton Wanderers said: “There are so many incredible and inspirational charities operating in Bolton and, as a club, we are passionate to support their vital work where we can.
“We are confident that through this innovative new programme, the organisations involved will gain the tools needed to effectively promote their work online, raise more funds and, in turn, be able to positively impact the lives of even more people in our community.“
Dawn Yates-Obe, Chief Executive Officer of Bolton CVS said: “Bolton CVS is delighted to been able to partner with BWFC and Lightful to bring this incredibly valuable opportunity to Bolton.
“The support of well-established and recognised organisations such as the club, and skills and expertise Lightful can offer, is vital to the continued growth and evolution of our vibrant and diverse voluntary, community, and social enterprise sector.
“It is an example of positive cross-sector partnership in action! Bolton CVS is committed to and excited about supporting a stronger digital presence across the sector.”
Vinay Nair, CEO and Co-Founder of Lightful said: "So many charities in Bolton do vital work - yet they often struggle to convey this effectively online. Lightful has worked with thousands of charities across the UK and around the world, helping them to create a digital strategy, improve their storytelling and raise awareness and funds for their work.
“We are thrilled to be part of this partnership with Bolton Wanderers in the Community and Bolton CVS and we are excited to support these brilliant charities to make the most of the power of digital and deliver even more impact in their communities."
The Bolton Digital Skills programme will culminate in Bolton Wanderers’ Unity Festival in the spring, during which charities will have the chance to showcase their work at the club and celebrate their roles in making Bolton a better place to live.
Sanctioned and funded by Bolton Wanderers’ board of directors, the hope is the programme will act as a blueprint for future, similar initiatives, assisting more organisations to grow their supporter base and deliver positive impact across communities.