14th August 2024
Cumbria Community Foundation gave away more money in grants per capita than any other community foundation in the UK in 2022/23, according to a recent national survey of grant makers, thanks to incredible support from local people and businesses.
In the year 2022/23, the Foundation distributed the equivalent of £11.53 for every person in Cumbria to good causes, charitable organisations and individuals. This is higher than any of the other 46 community foundations across the country, according to UKGrantmaking, the definitive annual publication on grant funding in the UK.
In total, Cumbria Community Foundation made grants of £5.8 million in 2022/23.
Andy Beeforth, Chief Executive of Cumbria Community Foundation, said: “The findings of this report underline what we have always known – that Cumbrians really are some of the most generous, community-minded people in the country.
“I am incredibly proud that we have been identified as giving out more money per capita than any other community foundation in the UK. That is only possible because local people, businesses and organisations are so kind-hearted, and have confidence in the Community Foundation and choose to channel their charitable giving through us.
“People who want to give to those less fortunate than themselves trust that the Foundation knows where money is most needed. And it really is very much needed now, more than any time in our 25-year history.”
Founding supporter Sellafield Ltd gave an initial donation of £1 million to the Foundation’s endowment funds 25 years ago and continues to be a key supporter today. In 2023/24, more than £1.75 million was awarded in grants funded by the company, through Transforming West Cumbria, part of its social impact programme Social impact multiplied (SiX), which aims to address the causes of inequality in the area’s most vulnerable communities.
Hundreds of projects, organisations and individuals are supported by the Foundation each year, in an effort to tackle issues ranging from child poverty and unemployment to rural isolation and loneliness.
The annual Winter Warmth Appeal raises money to help older people in Cumbria who are in danger of becoming ill or even dying because of the cold, while the Better Tomorrows programme seeks to address the gap in youth work provision.
Often grant making reflects the area of expertise of the fund holder: the Fibrus Community Fund, established by broadband provider Fibrus, aims to address digital poverty and provide access to digital technology for the most vulnerable.
Andy Beeforth said: “The diverse organisations and projects we fund help to drive change and create lasting impact. The range of activities is simply incredible, and I am so proud of everyone involved in helping us to deliver this funding to frontline organisations.”
The Foundation helps individuals, families and businesses manage their charitable giving and philanthropy. As well as creating their own fund to support a particular charitable cause or community, people can also donate to an existing fund, such as the Cumbria Fund which helps those in need around the county.
Others choose to support the Foundation by becoming a member, such as architecture firm Day Cummins.
Jane Clingan, Director and Practice Manager, said: “We have supported the amazing work of Cumbria Community Foundation from inception so that local people can meet the challenges they face and achieve their potential.”
If you’d like to learn more about how the Community Foundation can support your charitable giving and make a real difference to local lives, please get in touch at enquiries@cumbriafoundation.org or call 01900 825760.
Communities or charities interested in applying for funding are encouraged to visit www.cumbriafoundation.org, where they can find guidance on submitting an application.