Celebrating the power of small charities in York
It’s Small Charity Week (22 – 29 June)! A a national celebration of the vital role small charities play in communities across the UK.
The campaign shines a spotlight on organisations creating connection, opportunity and hope where it’s needed most, while also raising awareness of the challenges many small charities face.
Throughout the week, communities, funders, volunteers and charities come together to celebrate the impact of the sector and advocate for the support small charities need to thrive. Because when small charities are stronger, the communities they serve are stronger too.
Free workshops, training and support for small charities
To mark Small Charity Week 2026, we’re highlighting a range of free opportunities designed to help charities strengthen their skills, grow their impact, and connect with useful resources and support.
Whether you’re a small charity, community group, social enterprise, or part of a larger organisation looking for fresh ideas and practical tools, there’s something here for you.
Media Trust: Campaign Creator – Free 5-day email series
Launching Monday 22 June
Planning a campaign can feel overwhelming when time and resources are limited. Campaign Creator is a free five-day email series designed to help you move from idea to action in just one week.
Across five short, practical emails, you’ll receive tools, templates and guidance to help build a campaign that works. Whether you’re raising awareness, recruiting volunteers, fundraising, or promoting a service, this series will help you get started with confidence.
Media Trust: Moving audiences from 'likes' to action - Tuesday 23 June, 2pm – 3pm (Online)
Social media engagement is valuable, but how do you turn likes and comments into meaningful action?
Join Media Trust and leading media agency MG OMD for a free interactive session exploring how charities can encourage people to donate, volunteer, sign up, or support campaigns.
The session will cover:
- Creating effective user journeys
- Sequencing social media content
- Moving audiences beyond passive engagement
- Practical campaign activation techniques
Perfect for small charity teams looking for expert communications advice.
Using AI responsibly: Greener AI for charities - Thursday 25 June, 2pm–4pm (Online)
Artificial intelligence is becoming part of everyday working life for many charities, but questions remain about how to use it responsibly, ethically and sustainably.
This beginner-friendly webinar will explore how charities can take a thoughtful approach to AI, balancing opportunity with practical considerations around ethics, transparency and environmental impact.
You’ll leave with:
- A clearer understanding of AI in a charity context
- Practical ideas you can apply immediately
- Greater confidence in using AI responsibly
- Simple steps towards developing an organisational approach to AI
No previous AI experience is required.
Charity Excellence #SmallsForSmalls webinars
Throughout Small Charity Week, Charity Excellence is running a series of free training webinars aimed at supporting small charities. While these sessions aren’t part of the official Small Charity Week programme, they offer valuable learning opportunities on topics including:
These practical sessions are designed to help small organisations build resilience and strengthen their foundations.
Free one-to-one support from York CVS
Looking to strengthen and develop your organisation? Our Funding and Development Officer offers free one-to-one support and guidance to voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations across York.
Support is available with:
- Safeguarding
- Policies and procedures
- Training opportunities
- Networking and partnerships
- Setting up groups, charities and social enterprises
- Choosing the right legal structure
- Governance
- Funding searches and bid development
- Organisational health checks
Whatever stage your organisation is at, we can provide tailored support to help you move forward with confidence.
