Helping Established Philanthropists Develop Strategy
Despite community investment forming a cornerstone of his business ethos, and a deep-rooted legacy of advocating for social change, the couple found themselves without the governance and standardised processes required to professionalise their philanthropy. While their desired partnerships were clearly outlined, there was a pressing need for due diligence, back-office support, and the creation of a robust governance structure. They were looking for a supportive partner who could help set up the foundation in a way that provided expert advice, yet allowed them the freedom to follow their own philanthropic instincts.
The Giving Department’s work began with a series of strategy and planning sessions designed to understand the couple’s key motivations and review their ongoing partnerships. We then took care of the practical details—arranging the Companies House registration and securing the necessary Charity Commission registration—ensuring every legal and administrative requirement was met. Alongside creating bespoke policies and procedures, we acted as an extension of their team, vetting and supporting potential charity partners to build a resilient portfolio for their foundation.
The Giving Department has been key in helping to launch our family foundation. They have offered timely and appropriate help when needed and ensured we have been able to dedicate the time we need to a greater focus on philanthropy.
The new charitable foundation was established with comprehensive administrative support, right down to a dedicated mailing address. Portfolio development is already underway, bolstered by thorough due diligence and rigorous contracting for larger grants, including complex support for grants exceeding £1m. For smaller grants, our lighter touch has ensured efficiency without compromising quality. This streamlined framework now allows the couple to focus more fully on the impact of their giving.
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© The Giving Department Ltd. 2018.
Company No. 7352433.
Registered office:
47 Bermondsey street, London, SE1 3XT.
Director
Steve has spent over 20 years in the charity sector. As a successful fundraiser Steve worked for a number of charities in senior roles most latterly as Head of Fundraising at The Prince’s Trust. This experience has given Steve a deep understanding of how companies and private funders can best support charities, how effective relationships can be developed, where value can be delivered and how the right support can deliver genuine and long-lasting change. Steve founded The Giving Department in 2010 with the clear vision of providing expert independent resource to help companies and philanthropists deliver real social impact and achieve their greatest charitable ambitions. Over the subsequent years Steve has developed the business, working with an increasingly wide portfolio of clients from FTSE100 companies to corporate foundations and private HNW philanthropists. Passionate about the sector, Steve is often called to speak on charitable issues and on occasions provides bespoke mentoring to help individuals build capability and impact.
steve@thegivingdepartment.com
+44 (0) 207 680 6587