One in five charities are considering downsizing, as a result of the pandemic, whilst 17% are exploring closing down some, or all, of their offices.

What can PR learn from this? That we can help.

Let’s not hide from the fact, of course, that the PR sector has had its challenges over the past 12 months. Major firms have shrunk, some smaller agencies have folded completed and 50% of freelancers are said to have lost at least 60% of their income.

But things are on the rise, with the PM’s roadmap in place and the nation opening up again. Conversations that have been on hold are being brought back to life, and tenders are flying around again.

There is hope for PR.

With this hope and encouragement comes responsibility. This is what we are striving to act on at NR PR. We are sport and social impact communications specialists, working with some of the biggest sporting events, brands, talent and rights holders in the world – as well as charities and Not-For-Profits – to deliver meaningful, impactful and strategic comms.

Recently, we announced that we will be providing ongoing support for London Youth Rowing, developing its communications strategy, whilst delivering impactful media relations.

London Youth Rowing helps to get young people, aged between 11-18, active in some of London’s most disadvantaged communities. 2021 will mark a significant year for London Youth Rowing’s expansion, with NR PR driving major announcements for the charity as they look to develop new programmes.

We’ve also been supporting NFP Beyond The White Line, pro bono, for the last six months – because it’s a cause we believe in. We want to support their growth, and in return know that at the right time they will be fair to us and enter discussions when they can. There’s no point putting them under financial stress as a self-funded CIC. We are currently at pro bono capacity but always welcome conversations for the future.

NR PR is committed to making a difference to the development of sports, talent and communities through ethical, impactful, and strategic PR. Part of NR PR’s offering includes affordable agreements for all charities whereby we work closely with them to design retainers and campaigns that are reasonable, yet impactful.

When I set up NR PR, I wanted to be able to utilise my skills to demonstrate the positive social impact of sport, highlighting the good news stories that we all need in these times. So, the chance to work with London Youth Rowing is the perfect fit for NR PR and we are all very excited about this relationship.

The likes of London Youth Rowing are real-life examples of the power of sport. It’s a shame that they, like many other charities, have never had the chance to bring in external PR support before, so I am delighted to be able to have worked with Matt and his brilliant team to finally provide them with that access.

London Youth Rowing, despite the incredible work they do, has NEVER been able to afford PR before. They’ve been deprived access, like so many, through large fees and unrealistic targets.

This is why we are committed to having flexible and understanding conversations with all charities and NFPs to come to an agreement that works for the both of us. Of course, as an agency, we have to be careful and not put ourselves in a tricky situation financially – but offering a lower rate for a small bit of strategic support, guidance and some easy media relations is a no-brainer.

It’s time to make PR accessible.