Case Study
People Change Support
Client: English National Opera
Cause: Performing Arts
The Challenge
Obviously you have seen from afar the funding and existential crisis that we have been and continue to go through at ENO. We want to look at some support and training for the fundraising and marketing teams about developing resilience through this crisis - managing for themselves, their well being, uncertainty and dealing with supporters and their reactions.
And I immediately thought of you and whether you might be any to help in some way? Looking through the website it didn’t seem like an off the shelf thing but I know you have amazing skills and experience in this area and it would be great to know what you could suggest and what might be possible?
The Work
we did
Watching from the sidelines, as events have been unfolding at English National Opera since ACE's shock 2022 announcement that it was removing ENO from its Grants Portfolio, has been traumatic enough.
So imagine therefore how it felt for those working within ENO!! With our own personal and professional background in the performing arts, it was an honour to be approached to support members of the Artistic, Marketing, Technical and Development Teams during this difficult time.
Colleagues were struggling with their own fears and uncertainties while also having to talk through lots of negative press coverage with opera-goers and supporters and try to reassure them whilst feeling far from reassured themselves.
We created a programme of training and coaching work that covered Resilience during crisis management, change management, Arts Fundraising Resilience, Change Management and Emotional Intelligence. It was delivered over a period of six months and allowed us (Claire) to get to know the team members as well as the situation, and therefore tailor suggestions and solutions to meet different needs.
The Outcome
We immediately thought of Claire. And it was the perfect moment to have her by our side. She really was on our side throughout her work with us – shaping it to our evolving needs and the personalities of the team
What made Claire’s approach even more powerful was her background in the Performing Arts. She really gets the unique pressures of fundraising—especially when you’re constantly “on”, and the show must go on and you still need to take care of your wellbeing. As people who are dedicated and love what we do, finding balance and knowing how to truly rest can be a real challenge. But Claire gave us tangible, real-world strategies to recharge and refocus, which we continue to use every day!
What’s even more amazing is that Claire helped us develop a shared language around resilience and wellbeing, which has made these lessons stick. The circles of control, the taps, and the different types of rest—this language has become an invaluable tool for checking in with one another, offering support, and staying grounded during even the most challenging moments.
Claire’s expertise is unmatched. She brings a perfect mix of knowledge, humour, and practical experience that makes learning feel engaging and accessible. We’re so grateful for the lasting impact Claire has had on our team, and the resilience we’ve built together will continue to carry us forward!
Marina Jones
Executive Director, Development & Public Affairs
English National Opera