Foundations has published a communications toolkit for home improvement agencies.

The toolkit is designed with the needs of the sector in mind, and contains tips and practical help with developing a communications strategy, speaking at events and conferences, working with the media, 'packaging' your agency and developing eye-catching leaflets and brochures. It includes practical examples that you can copy, lots of useful suggestions, and guidance on what to do and what to avoid.

The toolkit is available in the resources section of the Foundations website - look under 'Toolkits'. You can either download the full toolkit, or pick and choose from separate bite-sized sections - it's up to you!

Here's a brief guide to what you will find in it:

Developing a communications strategy

This section explains why it's so important to have a communications strategy in place and what to include in a communications strategy, from working out who your target groups are and the tactics you are going to use, to evaluating how effective your strategy has been.

Getting press coverage

The press is a key way to communicate with your target audience, and the toolkit gives you some tried and tested methods for getting coverage in local radio, newspapers, TV and websites, as well as specialist national media. There are tips on how to go about contacting journalists and links to where you can find out what's available in your local area. We've also included story ideas for home improvement agencies, advice on use of images and quotes, and template press releases for you to copy and use.

Speaking at events and conferences

Speaking at events can do wonders in raising awareness of the work you are doing, and provide great networking opportunities. We've given some tips on how to find out about events taking place near you as well as what to do (and what not to do!) when creating a PowerPoint presentation.

Developing leaflets, posters and brochures

Almost every agency uses leaflets, posters and brochures to promote its services. The toolkit provides some ready-made copy, as well as tips on what to include when developing these materials and common mistakes to avoid. Guidelines on clear writing and layout are provided along with some ideas on how you can distribute your literature once it's been produced. Examples of campaign materials are included to help. 

'Packaging' your agency

Do people understand what your agency does, and the values it stands for? The communications toolkit looks at branding and packaging and how this can help you achieve your aims. Branding isn't just about logos - taking a handyvan as an example, we provide tips on all the packaging elements involved.

Help from Foundations and further information

As National Body for the sector, there are plenty of ways that Foundations can help with your communications and PR. Read through some of the ways we can help and get in touch!

We've also provided links to further information so you can find out more about the areas that interest you most and search for media organisations that you could contact. 

If you have any comments or feedback on the communications toolkit, or suggestions for information you would like to see included, please contact Laura Ripper.