The Connaught Trust is a small to medium sized UK charity supporting its operations through a largely cloud based IT environment. The organisation relies on Microsoft 365 for email and document management, with files stored in SharePoint. It is supported by a mix of part time staff and volunteer trustees, requiring simple, secure, and accessible systems to enable collaboration across a distributed team.
The charity undertook a review of its IT support following concerns around transparency, communication, and overall value. While systems were functional, there was limited visibility into what was being managed and how effectively services were being delivered.
The Microsoft 365 environment had developed without a clear structure, leading to confusion in SharePoint document libraries, inconsistent access permissions, and issues with file synchronisation. Devices running Windows 10 had reached end of support, increasing security and compliance risks. These endpoints were not encrypted and antivirus coverage lacked consistent management. Backup arrangements were unclear, with no verified protection for Microsoft 365 data.
Overall, the organisation needed clarity, improved security, and a more proactive approach to IT management to support its ongoing operations and governance responsibilities.
A structured onboarding and best practice review was introduced to assess the current environment and define a clear improvement roadmap. The first priority was addressing endpoint security and compliance. Devices running unsupported operating systems were identified and a transition plan to Windows 11 Professional was implemented, ensuring all machines were encrypted and centrally managed.
Attention then shifted to Microsoft 365. SharePoint was redesigned to introduce a logical and scalable document structure aligned to organisational needs. Clear permission hierarchies were implemented to ensure appropriate access for staff and trustees, improving collaboration while maintaining control. Version control and consistent library structures were introduced to reduce confusion and eliminate duplication.
A managed Microsoft 365 backup solution was deployed to protect critical email and document data from accidental deletion or corruption. This ensured the organisation had a reliable recovery process in place.
Ongoing managed support was established, including proactive monitoring, patching, and maintenance across all user devices. A clear support framework was introduced, providing unlimited helpdesk access and regular service reviews. This allowed the charity to benefit from continuous improvement and transparent reporting.
Strategic guidance was also provided to support future plans, including CRM adoption and potential platform considerations, ensuring any future changes align with the organisation’s operational and compliance requirements.
The charity now benefits from a clear, secure, and well governed IT environment. SharePoint improvements have significantly enhanced document accessibility, making it easier for staff and trustees to collaborate and locate information quickly. Structured permissions have improved data security while maintaining ease of use.
The transition to modern, supported devices has reduced risk and improved system reliability. Encryption and central management have strengthened security and ensured compliance with best practice standards. Users now experience a more consistent and dependable working environment.
With a managed backup solution in place, the organisation has confidence that its data is protected and recoverable. This has removed a significant operational risk and supports continuity planning.
The introduction of proactive IT support and clear reporting has improved transparency and trust. The charity now has a defined support structure, enabling quicker issue resolution and better communication. Trustees and staff are supported by a partner that provides both technical expertise and strategic insight, allowing them to focus on delivering their mission.CSF Leak Association now benefits from a reliable and structured IT support model that ensures consistent access to Microsoft 365 services. Trustees and volunteers are able to resolve issues quickly, reducing disruption and improving productivity across the organisation.
The introduction of a centralised service desk has removed reliance on individual trustees, significantly improving resilience and ensuring continuity regardless of volunteer availability. Defined service expectations provide confidence that requests will be handled efficiently and within agreed timeframes.
Improved oversight of licensing and security has reduced operational risk. The Microsoft 365 environment is now better aligned with best practice, with proactive reviews ensuring it continues to meet the organisation’s needs. Backup solutions provide reassurance that critical data is protected and recoverable.
With a clear roadmap in place and ongoing account management support, the charity is well positioned to adapt and grow. Trustees can focus on delivering their core services with confidence, supported by a stable and secure IT environment.
- Improved SharePoint structure with clear document management and permissions
- Enhanced collaboration for staff and volunteer trustees
- Migration to secure, supported Windows 11 devices
- Full device encryption and centralised management
