Philippa Charles, Director of the Garfield Weston Foundation: philanthropy, family, and flexibility in funding

Do One Better with Alberto Lidji in Philanthropy, Sustainability and Social Entrepreneurship

Philippa Charles, Director of the Garfield Weston Foundation, provides an insider’s view into one of the UK’s most impactful philanthropic organisations. Philippa shares the foundation’s approach to granting nearly £100 million annually, emphasising their blend of empathy, flexibility, and strategic funding that characterises their work.

The Garfield Weston Foundation, established in 1958 by Willard Garfield Weston, has grown significantly over the years. It dedicates its resources to supporting charities across the UK, demonstrating an exceptional commitment to societal improvement rooted in family values. Philippa discusses the foundation’s willingness to accept unsolicited applications and its focus on capacity building, partnerships, and research, underlining the organisation's open and responsive nature.

The foundation’s work is powered by a deep sense of family-driven purpose, enabling it to support a wide array of charitable endeavours effectively.

Philippa reflects on the foundation's commitment to responding to the most compelling needs across the UK without strict thematic restrictions. This philosophy ensures the foundation remains a versatile and impactful supporter of the country's charitable sector, embodying the spirit of philanthropy that Garfield Weston envisioned.

This episode offers profound insights into the Garfield Weston Foundation's dedication to making a difference through a thoughtful, family-oriented approach to philanthropy, showcasing the power of flexibility, empathy, and strategic funding in fostering positive societal change.

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