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The Charity Hub and BlueboxIT

The third sector is evolving, and charities must keep pace with the latest technological advancements to remain effective. From securing sensitive data to ensuring smooth day-to-day operations, IT is a core component of a modern charity. But with limited budgets and time constraints, staying up to date can feel overwhelming. That’s where BlueboxIT comes in.

Windows 10 Is Ending: What Charities Need to Know and Do Next

The Charity Hub
Jun 12
2 min read

Laptop screen showing a system update progress bar and text "Please wait while we install a system update." Dimly lit room in background.

Microsoft will officially end support for Windows 10 on October 14th, 2025. For many charities, that date might feel far off, but in tech terms, it's just around the corner. Once support ends, devices still running Windows 10 will no longer receive security updates, putting them at significant risk of cyberattacks, data breaches, and system vulnerabilities.

For organisations holding sensitive information, particularly charities working with vulnerable individuals, this is a serious concern.

So, what does it mean for your charity, and what steps should you take now to prepare?

What Happens When Windows 10 Support Ends?

After October 2025, devices running Windows 10:

Will not receive security patches or updates
May no longer be compatible with newer software
They are more vulnerable to malware, phishing and cyber attacks

In practical terms, unsupported systems become a liability, especially if your charity handles donor data, service user information, or manages staff records.

How Can You Tell If Your Devices Are at Risk?

Start with a technology audit. You’ll want to:

List all the devices your charity uses
Identify which are still using Windows 10
Check if they meet the requirements for Windows 11

Not all devices are eligible to upgrade, especially if they’re older than 3–5 years.

Support from BlueBox IT: Your Trusted Partner in Transition

To help charities navigate this change, our trusted partner BlueBox IT is offering dedicated support tailored to the third sector.

Based in Sheffield, BlueBox IT Group has been delivering ICT solutions for over 22 years. While their roots are in supporting schools and education providers, they’ve expanded their expertise to work with charities of all sizes, including those with limited in-house IT knowledge.

Here’s how they can help:

Full IT Audit – They’ll assess your devices to determine Windows 11 compatibility.
Upgrade Pathway – If your hardware can’t handle Windows 11, they’ll offer secure, cost-effective alternatives.
Seamless Transition – BlueBox IT can upgrade your systems with minimal disruption to day-to-day operations.
Cyber Security Peace of Mind – With the end of Windows 10, BlueBox IT ensures your systems remain secure and compliant, protecting your data and reputation.

They understand that in the charity world, budgets are tight and resources are stretched, so their solutions are designed to be both effective and affordable.

What Should Your Charity Do Now?

Don’t Wait – October 2025 might seem a while away, but delays could leave you scrambling last-minute.
Book an Audit – Let a specialist like BlueBox IT assess your setup and advise on your next steps.
Plan for Investment – Whether it’s upgrades or replacements, build the cost into your upcoming budget.
Educate Your Team – Make sure staff know why changes are happening and how to stay secure online.
Look for Funding – Some trusts or funders support digital transformation — it’s worth exploring if your upgrade can be part-funded.