New research highlights importance of local impact and community connection

New national research published by the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), and supported by UK Community Foundations, has highlighted the links between charitable giving, community engagement and people’s connection to the places where they live.

The report suggests that people are more likely to give and get involved when they can see the difference charities and community organisations are making around them, trust the organisations working locally and feel connected to the places where they live.

The findings reflect an approach community foundations have long championed — building local relationships, connecting people with causes that matter and strengthening communities through place-based philanthropy.

Fiona Oliver, Joint Chief Executive of Wiltshire and Swindon Community Foundation, said:

“Across Wiltshire and Swindon, we see every day how the work of local charities, volunteers and community groups inspires generosity, encourages people to get involved and strengthens people’s connection to the places where they live.

“This report reinforces something that community foundations have long understood — that people are more likely to give, volunteer and support their communities when they can see the impact being made around them, trust the organisations working locally and feel part of the communities around they live and work in.

“Community philanthropy is about much more than financial giving alone. People bring not only funding, but also knowledge, relationships, influence, time and long-term commitment to the places they care about.

“As a community foundation rooted in place, our role is to help connect that generosity, knowledge and commitment with the organisations and communities where it can make the greatest difference. By building long-term relationships and understanding local need, we can help create lasting support for local communities and encourage more people to get involved in local life.

“Grassroots organisations are often quietly providing vital support, whether that is helping people facing isolation, supporting young people, improving mental wellbeing or creating opportunities for people to come together. Raising awareness of that work is incredibly important, particularly at a time when many people want to feel more connected to their communities and more involved in local life. That is why community foundations play such an important role in shining a light on the organisations working at the heart of local communities and the impact they have.

“Strong communities are built through trust, long-term relationships and opportunities for people to feel connected to local life. We also welcome CAF’s calls to policymakers for continued investment in local organisations, community infrastructure and place-based giving to help ensure charities and community groups can continue supporting the people and places that rely on them.”

The full UK Local Giving Report 2026 is available from the Charities Aid Foundation website, and can be accessed here.