Charities and Fundraising

Browse through these listings of fundraising and charitable organisations to find a good cause you would like to help with. You can donate online to a charity, volunteer or fundraise with the following London and UK charity listings.

Charities and fundraising play a vital role in London’s social and cultural fabric, reflecting the city's diverse population and rich history of philanthropy. With London being home to a mix of high-net-worth individuals, businesses, and grassroots communities, the city has developed a robust ecosystem for charitable activities that support a wide range of causes, from healthcare and homelessness to education, arts, and environmental conservation.

Major Charities in London

Many of the UK’s leading charities have their headquarters in London, leveraging the city’s global connectivity and financial infrastructure. Some of the most well-known charitable organizations based in London include:

• Cancer Research UK: One of the world’s largest independent cancer research organizations, it is headquartered in London and raises significant funds annually for groundbreaking research and treatment development.

• The Prince's Trust: Founded by King Charles III in 1976, The Prince's Trust helps young people gain education, employment, and business opportunities, with much of its fundraising and programming efforts centred in London.

• Shelter: A charity focused on tackling homelessness and poor housing conditions, Shelter has a strong base in London, where housing inequality is a major social issue.

Fundraising Events and Initiatives

London is a hub for major fundraising events, many of which draw international attention and participation. These events range from large-scale annual events to grassroots efforts organized by local communities.

• The London Marathon: One of the most iconic charity fundraising events globally, the London Marathon raises millions of pounds each year for various charities. Runners, including celebrities and everyday people, often take part in supporting causes close to their hearts. The event has become synonymous with charity in London, with participants raising funds through sponsorships.

• The Royal Parks Half Marathon: Held in central London's beautiful Royal Parks, this race attracts both competitive and recreational runners, with participants fundraising for charities like Cancer Research UK, Great Ormond Street Hospital, and Mind.

• Charity Galas and Auctions: London’s high society often participates in exclusive charity galas and auctions, with organizations like the British Heart Foundation, Save the Children, and UNICEF hosting black-tie events to raise significant sums from wealthy donors. These events often feature auctions, raffles, and entertainment to encourage donations.

• Community and Corporate Fundraising: London’s vibrant community sector also organizes smaller fundraising efforts, such as charity fairs, fun runs, bake sales, and street collections. Corporations based in London are key players in the charity scene, with many companies involved in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs that include partnerships with charities, employee volunteering schemes, and matched giving campaigns.

• Digital Fundraising: With the rise of technology, many charities in London now rely heavily on digital platforms for fundraising. Platforms like JustGiving and GoFundMe allow individuals and groups to raise funds for various causes, tapping into global networks.

Impact of Charities in London

London-based charities make a tangible impact on both local and global levels. On the local front, organizations work to address key challenges such as homelessness, poverty, mental health issues, and youth unemployment. Charities like Crisis and St Mungo’s have been instrumental in providing shelter, employment services, and support for homeless individuals, especially in London, where housing affordability is a critical issue.

Globally, charities headquartered in London contribute to international development, humanitarian relief, and environmental protection. For example, Oxfam and ActionAid, which have a strong presence in London, focus on reducing poverty and improving living conditions in developing nations.

Volunteering and Public Involvement

Many Londoners engage with charities through volunteering, providing their time and skills to support various causes. This engagement ranges from corporate volunteering schemes to local community involvement. London’s diverse population also means that there is a broad spectrum of causes supported, from refugee support groups to arts charities.

Charity shops are another popular way for Londoners to get involved. Major charities like the British Heart Foundation and Age UK run second-hand shops across the city, raising funds by selling donated items while promoting sustainability by encouraging recycling and reuse.

Government and Charity Collaboration

The UK government also plays a role in supporting charitable work in London through various grants and incentives. The Gift Aid scheme, for example, allows charities to claim an extra 25p for every £1 donated by UK taxpayers, boosting the impact of individual contributions. Additionally, local councils often collaborate with charities to address issues like homelessness, mental health, and youth services.

Charities and fundraising are integral to the social fabric of London. From large-scale fundraising events like the London Marathon to grassroots community efforts, London’s residents, businesses, and organizations work together to tackle pressing social issues and support causes at both local and global levels. The city’s unique position as a worldwide hub ensures that its charitable activities have a far-reaching impact, touching lives in the UK and beyond.

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