Customer Story: Refugee Council
Refugee Council sees transformative benefits since implementing Access Charity CRM
The Refugee Council is a UK-based charity that works to support refugees and people seeking asylum. Founded in 1951 following the UN Refugee Convention, the organisation was established to support and empower those who have fled conflict, violence and persecution to rebuild their lives in the UK.
Faced with challenges in managing fundraising data across multiple systems, they chose Access Charity CRM to consolidate and streamline their data processes. Alison Strawbridge, Database and Compliance Manager, and Linda Trafford, Data and Insights Officer, share their experiences of using Access Charity CRM across the fundraising team and the significant improvements they have witnessed.
Access Charity CRM
Key takeaways
- Replaced disparate systems, centralised fundraising data and improved efficiency
- Simplified data entry and reporting
- Increased database usage and enhanced data tracking
- MailChimp integration has saved time and reduced manual workload
- Smooth transition supported by responsive and helpful support team
What challenges did the Refugee Council initially face?
Before implementing Access Charity CRM, the Refugee Council faced significant challenges in managing their fundraising data. Information was scattered across various platforms, including Excel spreadsheets, Word documents, and emails. This disjointed approach made it difficult to maintain consistent donor records, especially with staff turnover. Alison Strawbridge noted,
“We were struggling to manage our data efficiently. Having information in multiple places meant things got lost, and continuing relationships with donors was difficult, especially when staff left.”
Why did the Refugee Council choose Access Charity CRM?
The decision to adopt Access Charity CRM was driven by its user-friendly interface and the ability to integrate with other tools.
“We chose Access Charity CRM because it was intuitive and had the potential for long-term integrations.”
The system’s competitive pricing and suitability for mid-sized charities also played a crucial role in the decision-making process.
Which processes did Charity CRM improve?
Since implementing Access Charity CRM, the Refugee Council has seen a substantial transformation in its data management and donor relationship processes. By streamlining operations and enhancing data accessibility, the charity has optimised processes for all fundraising staff, saving time and improving the management of donations.
Charity CRM has supported the following results:
1. Streamlined data management and reporting
Since implementing Access Charity CRM, the Refugee Council has seen vast improvements in data accessibility and reporting. Staff now benefit from a user-friendly dashboard that displays all their reports and charts on one screen, making it easier to visualise and analyse data.
“The system allows us to easily access data and create reports that are simple but very effective.”
This streamlined approach has made operations more efficient, freeing up time for staff to focus on their role.
Linda also highlighted how this change has made a significant difference in her monthly KPI reporting. She explains:
“The data is just sitting there ready, so instead of searching for reports and waiting for them to run, I can now access everything in one place.”
This has drastically reduced the time it takes to complete this task.
“What used to take a whole afternoon can now be done in about an hour.”
This streamlined approach has not only made operations more efficient but has also freed up valuable time for fundraising staff to focus on their core responsibilities, while allowing the database team to concentrate on system development and increasing user engagement.
2. Increased engagement and usage
One of the most significant changes has been the increased usage of the system across teams.
Linda explains:
“One department has increased its database usage dramatically. People are now engaged with the system because they can see the benefits.”
The ease of use and the visible improvements in data management have encouraged more team members to adopt the system fully.
3. Improved fundraising management
Access Charity CRM has dramatically improved fundraising management at the Refugee Council by making vital data readily accessible for Fundraising Managers. With all the information in one user-friendly view, it is now so much easier for managers to track their contacts, review the history of previous conversations, and monitor donations.
This centralised and personalised approach not only enhances efficiency but also ensures continuity. If a team member is absent or leaves the organisation, other team members can seamlessly step in and pick up exactly where they left off, without any disruption to donor relationships.
4. Time-saving integrations
The integrations offered by Access Charity CRM, particularly with tools like MailChimp, have been game-changers for the Refugee Council.
“These integrations will save us so much time. Instead of manually updating multiple systems, everything works together seamlessly, reducing the risk of errors and ensuring consistency. The plan is to automate as much as possible to improve future fundraising efforts.”
How have you found working with Access’ support team?
Throughout the implementation process, the Refugee Council has had a positive experience with the Access team. Alison shares that:
“The customer success team has been incredibly helpful and responsive. They're quick to respond, support and find solutions to our queries. That’s been invaluable in making this transition a success.”
Do you have any advice for other charities who are thinking about working with Access?
For other charities considering Access Charity CRM, Linda advises:
“Take the time to explore all the features. The system has so much to offer, and with the right training, it can really transform how you manage your data.”
She also emphasises the importance of engaging the entire team, from senior leadership and below, ensuring everyone sees the value of the system.
Schedule your Access Charity CRM demo
Access Charity CRM is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of charities, offering an intuitive, user-friendly platform that simplifies data management and enhances donor engagement. It provides a unified system that integrates seamlessly with other tools, saving time and reducing errors. Access Charity CRM allows charities to focus on their mission by automating routine tasks, providing in-depth reporting, and enabling organisations to better manage their donor relationships. Schedule your personalised demo today.