The University's annual telephone campaign is co-ordinated by the University’s Development & Alumni Relations Office which has oversight of fundraising and alumni engagement across the University community. The campaign is focused on contact with alumni from Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield City Polytechnic, Sheffield Polytechnic and associate colleges and is aimed at alumni who have recently been in touch with the University or updated their details.

During the campaign period phone calls are conducted by a team of Student Fundraising and Engagement Ambassadors who represent different backgrounds and are currently studying at the University in a number of subject areas. Students are recruited through a rigorous recruitment process each year (some of the team may be returning callers from previous campaigns). During training sessions our students are trained in best practice around conducting fundraising calls and how to act as an external ambassador for the University. Training encompasses how to communicate constructively, build rapport and also gives an overview on data privacy, GDPR, ethical fundraising and approaches to vulnerable people as outlined in Our Fundraising Promise. The University is also regulated by the Fundraising Regulator and we abide by the Institute of Fundraising Code of Practice.

The phone campaign is a positive way for the University to engage with alumni who we believe have a warm connection to their alma mater and feedback to date has been positive (the first campaign ran in 2016). Students find their involvement on the campaign an enriching experience which enables them to gain perspectives and career tips from former students and to hone their personal skills and build confidence. The University is committed to developing a positive and inclusive community for students and alumni alike and believes the campaign is a powerful way to communicate our work and impact.

The University is an exempt charity and conducts charitable fundraising under these auspices. All funds raised go directly to support priority areas across the University and disbursement is overseen through the governance structures of the University.

Donations make a significant difference to the University in its ambition to offer more support to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Every donation counts and the Development & Alumni Relations Office works with donors to ensure they are aware of the impact of their funding through clear reporting and communications and positive story telling.

The 2022 Hallam Fund telephone campaign will take place between 8 and 29 May. 

The team is always happy to speak with anyone who wishes to discuss this approach and the Hallam Fund Telephone Campaign in more detail.

Please e-mail: alumni@shu.ac.uk or call 0114 225 4454 and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Sheffield Hallam University HMRC Charity Number: XN83410