DONOR ADVISED GIVING IN THE UK

CAF and UK Community Foundations (UKCF), two of the UK's biggest managers of donor advised giving, are delighted to launch our second annual report, looking at how donor advised funds (DAFs) and charitable trusts in the UK have grown strongly in recent years. 

We're proud to have pioneered this way to give in the UK, which accounts for more than half of the donations through donor advised funds and their UK equivalents. Our donors make a tremendous difference to myriad causes and build strong relationships with charities that go far beyond the donation of money.

Download the Philanthropy Comes of Age 2018 report to find out more about the vibrant future of donor advised giving and its potential to build support for charities and causes long into the future.
Philanthropy comes of age report 2018

KEY FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Key findings

  • Donor advised giving funds in the UK continue to grow significantly
  • Contributions into DAFs reached a new high of over £495 million in 2016/17, having grown by 33% since the previous year
  • Grants made from donor advised giving funds to charities grew to over £331 million in 2016/17
  • Charitable assets under management continues to exceed £1billion, with a 24% increase from 2015/16
  • We are projecting that contributions to donor advised giving funds should reach £1 billion in the UK by 2025

Recommendations 

  • Professional advisors should look at DAFs and their equivalents as an essential part of their 'philanthropy toolkit' with clients
  • DAF providers should use their expertise to help restore trust in the charity sector
    Local government should develop philanthropy strategies to address the donor need for local impact
  • Donor advised fund providers should consider widening their offering to include impact investing and social investment
  • More education is needed in the professional advisor sector, to help them discuss philanthropy and serve their clients better

It is very welcome to see strong and continued growth, reflecting the increase in awareness among individuals, organisations and advisers that donor-advised giving funds provide an easy, flexible and effective way to give to good causes.

David Stead, Director of Philanthropy CAF

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Whether you're an individual looking for ways to use your generosity to make a difference in the world or an advisor wanting to provide a better philanthropic experience for your clients, contact us to find out how we can support you on 03000 123 028 or email us at philanthropy@cafonline.org
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WHAT’S THE NEXT BIG THING IN GIVING?

From getting the most out of donating, to the latest in philanthropy and the future of giving, we’ve got articles and videos to inspire your giving.

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Sunday Times Giving List

Read the Giving List, part of the annual Rich List, which celebrates the incredible work of philanthropists in Britain.

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Donor advised giving in the UK

Our Head of Philanthropy, David Stead, explores how donor advised giving is inspiring impact.

Read David's commentary ► 

Wealth, religion and social status: philanthropy in London

Our Head of Policy, Rhodri Davies, talks about how philanthropy has evolved in the capital.

Philanthropy and the City of London ► 

Increase your impact with social investment

Use your philanthropic capital to support charities and social enterprises.

Become a social investor ►