Cheating politicians, greedy bankers... thank goodness for the charity sector.

MPs, it seems safe to say, are not the most popular people on the planet at the moment. Beyond the individual stories of claims for moat cleaning and floating duck houses, the expenses scandal is an indictment of a public sector that has lost touch with the idea of public service. Trust in our public servants is at an all-time low.

Not that we trust the private sector any better. Bankers would provide stiff competition for politicians at any unpopularity contest. Some of the world's biggest corporations are discovering that their businesses are built on the shakiest of foundations. Millions will feel the effects of redundancy even as the men at the top (and it is overwhelmingly men) continue to pocket jaw-dropping salaries.

Again, thank goodness for the third sector.

Genuine alternative

Charities still enjoy a high degree of public trust for their integrity and the vital work they do day in, day out. Social enterprises offer a genuine alternative to the excesses of capitalism, combining entrepreneurship with a commitment to positive social change.

The economic downturn, recession, impending apocalypse - call it what you will - certainly poses huge challenges for our sector. Charitable donations are likely to fall. Some people will turn away from products made to high environmental and ethical standards in favour of cut-price alternatives.

But we have a tremendous opportunity too. People are hungry for change. For better solutions. For organisations they can trust.

It's never been more important to tell people about what we do.

Communicating impact

At ngo.media, we're here to help charities and ethical businesses do that. Whether you're looking for cost-effective media training, specialist copywriting or a full publications strategy, we'll find the best way to get your message across with the budget you have

Why not give us a call to see what we can do for you?

(We're very transparent about our costs, by the way. We charge by the half-day, and never put in dodgy expenses claims.)