How can funders effectively balance crisis support with long-term systems change?

This question brought together funders and grassroots organisations for a collaborative day of learning convened by The Smallwood Trust in Birmingham on the 12th of March 2025. Participants explored practical strategies for how to meet immediate need through crisis support, whilst maintaining focus on effecting change to the systems that keep women in poverty. The day centred on learning from frontline experiences, exploring our roles in systems change and fostering stronger partnerships.

One key takeaway was the power of collaboration in driving change, in partnership building, funder grantee relationships as well as with other players such as local authority and policy makers. Participants discussed the importance of building shared goals, investing in long-term partnerships, recognising that systems change takes time, and how best to evidence change. The Birmingham No Recourse to Public Funds network provided a compelling case study on how partnerships between frontline services can collectively address systemic barriers faced by marginalised communities at both local and national levels. The network’s work in supporting women with No Recourse to Public Funds who have experienced domestic violence demonstrated the value of coordinated action and helped participants to explore their role in systems change. Attendees described the session as “relatable,” “insightful,” and “energising,” with many noting how hearing these grassroots examples reshaped their understanding of systems change.

In the afternoon, participants explored key questions during breakout sessions and roundtable discussions, including how to evidence systems change, how to bring your board along with you, ways to foster deeper collaboration, and how to navigate challenges when partnerships face difficulties. A key theme that emerged was the importance of demystifying power dynamics and strengthening relationships between funders and grant partners. This strengthened relationship empowers both funders and grant partners in their collaborative work to tackle gendered poverty. By breaking down these barriers, both parties are better equipped to collaborate effectively and tackle gendered poverty together.

A key shift emerged throughout the day in participants’ perspectives on systems change. At the start of the day, many initially associated it with complexity, long-term work, and policy change. Some expressed feelings of overwhelm or uncertainty about where to begin. However, by the end of the learning day, reflections showed a noticeable change in thinking. Participants articulated a greater sense of clarity, with a stronger emphasis on collaboration, power dynamics, and practical steps for influence. The most significant transformation was a shift from viewing systems change as abstract and daunting to understanding it as a navigable process supported by practical tools and peer learning.

Here is what participants who attended the day had to say:

“Great way to bring funders and the sector together to demystify power dynamics and build learning and networking.” – Jessica Kimche, AB Charitable Trust

“Thank you for hosting the day and extending the invite to me. I really enjoyed the day, and it’s a great testament to the design and content of the session when you leave feeling an appetite for more. Thanks to you all for holding the space generously and with deep consideration.” – Michelle Palmer, Paul Hamlyn Foundation

“Really brilliant day, fantastic discussions with some amazing people.” – Mary-Ann Stephenson, Women’s Budget Group

You can read more here.

Learning Circles are a strategic initiative by the Smallwood Trust designed to create spaces for collaborative learning, focusing on tackling gendered poverty and identifying best practices to strengthen both the women’s sector and the funding sector. To learn more or register your interest in future events, please contact Rutendo Ngwena from Smallwood Trust on rutendongwena@smallwoodtrust.org.uk

Attending organisations included:

Funders: Paul Hamlyn Foundation, AB Charitable Trust, West Midlands Funder Network, London Community Foundation, Pilgrim Trust, City Bridge Foundation, Trust for London, National Lottery Community Fund, Barclays and Jabbs Foundation.

Grant partners: Central England Law Centre, Birmingham Solihull Women’s Aid, British Red Cross, Baobab, Roshni, Refugee and Migrant Centre, Zinthiya Trust, Foleshill Women’s Training, Kairos Women Working Together, Transform Together Network, Project 17, The People’s Buddi, Community Led Action Savings Support, Know Africa and Surviving Economic Abuse.

Learning Partners: Renaisi TSIP and Women’s Budget Group.