On May 23rd the Bone Cancer Research Trust were delighted to receive the 2019 Institute of Fundraising Yorkshire Awards for 'Fundraising Team of the Year' and 'Fundraising Campaign of the Year'.
On winning the awards the Bone Cancer Research Trust's Head of Fundraising & Communications, Mat Cottle-Shaw, said:
There are over 10,000 charities in Yorkshire so it is an absolute honour that we have been recognised by the Institute of Fundraising for not one but two awards! In recent years, the larger UK cancer research charities have dramatically decreased their investment into primary bone cancer research, so it is vital that the Bone Cancer Research Trust generates sufficient funds to support new research projects and research currently underway.
In 2018 we set ourselves an ambitious fundraising aim that would signify a real step-change in our fundraising. We not only met that challenge but exceeded it, all thanks to the incredible support of our community. Our supporters have always been and continue to be the heart of the Bone Cancer Research Trust. These awards are real recognition for the passion and determination of our staff, volunteers and supporters alike. We would like to thank all our community for their continued belief and support for our work. With you by our side we will continue our fight... Until There's A Cure.
The charity's first award 'Campaign of the Year' came as recognition of its 'Special Funds' which were launched in January 2018. In one year they exceeded all expectations and income for the charity's life-saving work surpassed targets by 680%. Not only was the campaign an exceptional example of careful investment and focus on net return, it has become an exemplary example of supporter relationship management and nurturing. Acting not only as an income source for the charity but an excellent way for communities to come together across the country.
The second award 'Fundraising Team of the Year' really recognises the sheer passion and determination of the charity and it's community of supporters, who day in, day out undertake incredible activities to support the Bone Cancer Research Trust's life-saving work.
On January 1st 2018 the Bone Cancer Research Trust launched ‘One In A Million’, an all channel campaign to raise £1million by December 31st. Achievement of this ambitious target would signify a real step change in income and inspirational teamwork. Reaction to the campaign was incredible and focused our community in a united goal to ‘Be One In A Million’. Through dedicated teamwork within the charity and external collaboration, costs were reduced and more support was galvanised for the charity than ever before resulting in £1,413,550 being raised. 41% higher than expected with fundraising expenditure reduced by 17%.
This success directly funded additional charitable activities, including; the award of an additional PhD Studentship Research Grant, a national survey focused on late diagnosis, an additional Explorer Research Grant and the development of a new patient Support & Information Service. More patients and families engaging with the charity across the country than ever before and coverage was gained on regional BBC TV news.
The Bone Cancer Research Trust would like to dedicate these awards to all it's supporters!