Using Code principles to adapt to remote working
Case Study: VONNE
VONNE used the principles in the Code as a sense check when we went into lockdown. As a result, Deputy CEO Anne Fry told us that:
“We are going to be keeping a lot of the digital tools and ways of working… Through digital we’re increasing reach and impact. Digital can ultimately help us be more adaptable at this time of huge change with improving best practice and strategy, developing partnerships and accessing funding.”
Their work has seen a growing focus on digital in recent years with a programme of work supporting the sector to understand and access digital and innovation opportunities.
"Through digital we’re increasing reach and impact. Digital can ultimately help us be more adaptable at this time of huge change.”
Anne Fry
Deputy CEO, VONNE and Code Champion
The Challenge
VONNE provide support to the sector and they find that their charity often faces the same challenges as others.
When lockdown happened, they realised they had to adapt how they worked, which consisted of lots of face to face events and meetings. They also needed to adapt their governance to meet virtually.
The Solution
VONNE used the leadership, skills and culture principles in the Code as a sense check, which helped give them confidence.
They have now had successful Zoom board meetings and have set up Teams to help make internal communications more efficient and reduce email overload.
The Results
COVID-19 means than VONNE have changed their working practices and incorporated digital into everything they do, using it to add value. They’re also working on where they can support stakeholders with the digital inclusion agenda.
Anne says:
“There have been some really positive outcomes. The North East (where we are based) is a large region and as a small team we struggle to get everywhere. But now we meet people virtually we are talking to stakeholders more regularly, and have had national funders attend some of our forums.
We are going to be keeping a lot of the digital tools and ways of working, including Teams, virtual meetings, and meeting external stakeholders virtually.
We’re always looking to improve so we’ve recently adopted Microsoft Teams to aid internal communications and project management.
Through digital we’re increasing reach and impact. Digital can ultimately help us be more adaptable at this time of huge change.”
