# Bright One donates 1,500 hours of comms expertise in first year

- Link: https://fundraising.co.uk/2009/12/02/bright-one-donates-1500-hours-comms-expertise-first-year/
- Published: 2009-12-02T11:04:54+00:00
- Author: Howard Lake

![](https://www.fundraising.co.uk/files/images/news/brightone.jpg)

Bright One Communications, the volunteer-run communications agency for the third
sector, has provided over 1,500 hours of communications work donated by its volunteer
supporters in its first year.

The announcement was made at its Annual General Meeting on 30 November. It estimated
the equivalent financial value of this time as £180,000.

Founded in September 2008 by a small group of PR professionals, Bright One now has
over 30 volunteers and nine clients. In its first year it has helped charitable 
organisations such as Refugee Week, The Pixel Project and What’s Up Information 
to access high quality communications expertise that they would have not otherwise
been able to afford.

## Advertisement

 [⌊Posthub advert. You create the campaign. We'll handle the postal journey. Get started at post-hub.co.uk.⌉](https://fundraising.co.uk/ads/posthub-20261007-300x250/)

Bright One points out that, as well as giving something back to the community, its
volunteers also benefit from learning new skills, receiving coaching, and adding
to their professional and personal experience. A recent survey found that every 
one of its volunteers said that their experience had improved their network and 
contacts within the communications industry and their understanding of the charity
sector.

Ben Matthews, Founder of Bright One Communications said: “Looking back at what we’ve
achieved this year, I’m immensely proud of the contribution to society we have collectively
made, and the changes we have helped to make in people’s lives”.

Matthews’ efforts were recognised by the Future 100 Awards, where he has been included
as one of the Future 100 Young Social Entrepreneurs of the Year 2009 among young
people aged 18-35 who are demonstrating entrepreneurial flair and innovation.

www.brightone.org.uk

 * **[Does research help or hinder?](https://fundraising.co.uk/2010/08/18/does-research-help-or-hinder/)**(
   18 August 2010)
 * **[Acceptable charity and third sector schmoozing](https://fundraising.co.uk/2010/10/29/acceptable-charity-and-third-sector-schmoozing/)**(
   29 October 2010)
 * **[Small print and mismanaging expectations](https://fundraising.co.uk/2011/04/07/small-print-and-mismanaging-expectations/)**(
   7 April 2011)