Southwest & Wales Conference

Tuesday 16 September 2025

John Wesley’s New Room
36 The Horsefair
Bristol BS1 3JE

In-person event

Join us for this CFG Conference tailored for South West and Wales-based charity finance professionals. The day will bring three select sessions, as well as a networking and catered lunch in order to facilitate the sharing of insights and practical strategies with your peers.

 

 

Why should I attend?

The full programme is below, but as a summary of the day, we will be covering:

  • Fundraising and funding in the South West and Wales
  • Tackling workforce and volunteering challenges
  • Access and infrastructure challenges in rural communities

Through expert speakers and shared experiences, we’ll explore how charities can adapt, collaborate, and build stronger foundations for the future. Join us in shaping a more connected, sustainable, and resilient charity sector.

 

When and where?

  • Tuesday 16 September
  • 09:30-14:00
  • John Wesley’s New Room, 36 The Horsefair, Bristol, BS1 3JE

 

Who is this event useful for?

This event would be valuable for finance directors, finance managers, CEOs and Trustees of large charities.

 

About CFG events and membership

Becoming a CFG member gives you access to exclusive benefits including event discounts, so find out more about CFG Membership before you book. Association of Independent Museums members can register for free CFG membership through our partnership.

CFG events, training and members' meetings can count towards your continuous professional development (CPD), and this event could provide you with four hours of CPD. For more details contact your association or email events@cfg.org.uk.

 
Book now
Programme
09:00 – 09:30

Registration and Refreshments 

09:30 – 09:35

Chair's Welcome

09:35 – 10:20

Session 1 – Fundraising and Funding in South West and Wales

Explore the evolving funding landscape for charities in South West England and Wales. This session covers reduced public funding, the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on donations, and strategies for financial resilience. Learn how local organisations are diversifying income, engaging donors, and adapting to economic pressures to sustain vital services.

10:20 – 10:30

Coffee Break

10:30 – 11:15

Session 2 – Tackling Workforce and Volunteer Issues

Charities across South West England and Wales face growing workforce challenges, including volunteer shortages, recruitment struggles, and staff burnout. This session explores how demographic shifts, post-COVID disengagement, and wage pressures are straining service delivery. Speakers will discuss various strategies for attracting and retaining volunteers and staff, discuss the changing role of charity professionals, and share ideas for creating resilient teams with limited resources and infrastructure.

11:15 – 11:30

Coffee Break

11:30 – 12:15

Session 3 – Tackling Access and Infrastructure Challenges in Rural Communities

Many charities in rural and coastal areas are under growing pressure as demand for services grows. This session explores how geographic isolation, poor transport, and digital exclusion limit access to essential support. We’ll discuss innovative approaches to service delivery, infrastructure barriers, and how organisations can adapt to meet increasing need in communities often left behind.

12:15 – 12:30

Address from the Host and Chair's Summary

12:30 – 14:00

Lunch and Networking

Prices
Charities - Members - Early Bird Rate£62.00
Charities - Non-members£125.00
Corporate - Members£210.00