When we think about our favourite charities, we often picture the incredible work they do, whether that’s helping vulnerable individuals, supporting mental health initiatives, protecting our furry friends or offering essential community services. However, what we rarely consider is the growing risk these organisations face from cybercrime. Small charities, just like businesses, are increasingly becoming targets for cyber-attacks. Yet, many don’t have the resources, time, or expertise to defend themselves properly.  

This is where you — and a little bit of cybersecurity support — can make a huge difference. We’re teaming up with businesses who would like to sponsor a charity to receive cybersecurity support from WMCRC.   

Would you like to be a local hero and give a different type of gift that can really make an impact this year? Here’s how business owners can get involved! 

How does it work?

 Many businesses already support a charity as part of their Christmas team initiatives or corporate social responsibility efforts. Whether through donations, volunteering, or fundraising, you’ve likely made a positive impact on a cause close to your heart.  

This year, consider helping to protect that charity from the growing threat of cybercrime. By purchasing our cybersecurity training or services for a charity of your choice, you can equip them with the knowledge and tools to stay resilient against online threats.  

If your company already supports a specific charity, you can nominate them to receive this vital support. If you don’t have a particular charity in mind, we can help match you with a local organisation in need of cyber protection. 

Our services are specifically designed for small organisations, offering affordable and practical solutions tailored to their unique needs. This could include everything from staff awareness programs to vulnerability assessments.  

How to sponsor a charity 

If you’d like to sponsor a charity to receive cybersecurity support or be matched with a charity to support, please get in contact with us.  

Why this matters right now 

As we approach the end of the year, many businesses are looking for meaningful ways to give back. Whether it’s through holiday fundraising drives or team-building activities, there’s a tradition of companies supporting charities during the festive season. 

This year, consider a different kind of gift, one that doesn’t just provide short-term support, but offers long-term protection. By sponsoring cybersecurity support for a local charity, you’ll help them safeguard their work, their supporters, and the people they serve. 

Why charities are at risk 

Recent government data, including the 2024 Cyber Security Breaches Survey, highlights that charities are not immune to cyber threats. In fact, 30% of charities reported experiencing a cyberattack in the past year. Small charities are especially at risk as many of them rely on volunteers who may not have had cybersecurity training, and their IT systems may be more vulnerable due to limited budgets. 

For example, think about a charity that supports vulnerable people or handles sensitive information. If they fall victim to a cyberattack, the impact can go far beyond financial loss. The damage to their reputation could result in lost donations and eroded trust; trust that is essential when working with donors and the people they serve. 

The importance of cybersecurity for charities 

For charities, maintaining trust with their donors and the people they support is so important. A cyberattack can cause significant reputational damage that may take years to rebuild – or may struggle to even recover at all. 

Many charities store sensitive data about beneficiaries, donors, and partners — information that needs to be protected. If this data is compromised, it could lead to fraud, identity theft, or even physical harm to those who rely on their services. Unfortunately, cybersecurity is often an afterthought for smaller charities due to limited funding or awareness. However, with cybercrime on the rise, it’s more important than ever that these organisations understand the risks and how to protect themselves.  

This is where your business can help. It’s a chance to give back in a way that ensures long-term protection for the charity you care about.