Here's how you can gain experience in fundraising.

Start by volunteering with nonprofits to assist in their fundraising efforts, such as organizing events and managing donor communications. Seek internships or entry-level roles in development departments to learn from seasoned professionals. Enhance your knowledge through online courses, webinars, and certifications in fundraising and nonprofit management. Network with fundraising professionals at conferences, seminars, and on social media for insights and mentorship. Join associations like the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) to access valuable resources and stay updated on industry trends. Combining practical experience, learning, and networking will build a strong foundation in fundraising.

Volunteering for administrative-based tasks, such as database management, builds your skills in an important way, connects you to daily operations, helps you network, and, most importantly, provides resources to the nonprofit.

Fundraising training tends to be very expensive in the UK and often most useful once you have a bit of understanding of the field. If you're starting out, look for workshops offered by organisations in your area of interest or try your local community and voluntary sector support organisation. Then as you develop your skills, focused training on aspects of interest, like individual giving, can be very helpful

There are quite a few useful Facebook groups where you can ask questions and also see what people are talking about. Try Fundraising Chat, Fundraising consultants and freelancers UK or Trust Fundraising Hub

Ensure you're being paid at least minimum wage for your time. Unpaid internships are thankfully becoming much less common in the UK and organisations who value and support their staff and follow good practice will offer paid internships

Think about what other knowledge or skills you could bring and make the most of these when you approach people for opportunities. For example, you might not have fundraising experience but you may have journalism, marketing or sales experience, or knowledge of the sector being fundraised for e.g. health, education or work with young people. Try offering to assist or collaborate with an established fundraiser and be clear about what you can bring. Good luck!