New research highlights importance of local charitable giving
New research has shown that people in the east of England donated just 0.84% of their disposable income to charity in 2025 – a reduction on the year before.
The data comes from Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) ’s Local Giving Report, which shows:
- 58% of people in the east of England donated to charity in the last 12 months
- people in the eastern region donated 0.84% of their disposable income compared with 1.1% nationally the previous year
- just 30% of people engaged with their community last year, while only 16% would like more opportunities to get involved
- 51% feel a sense of local pride
- 48% feel charities have a positive impact in their area
The report compares data across the country and shows that people who engage in their local communities – for example by supporting someone who is vulnerable or maintaining public spaces – are more likely to donate to charity. The research also reveals that people are much more likely to donate or volunteer when they see the positive impact which charities have in their local community.
Suffolk Community Foundation, which is the largest independent grant maker to the voluntary sector in Suffolk, has welcomed the report and the insights it brings.
Chief Executive Hannah Bloom said: “Charities are at the heart of our communities and play a vital role in making Suffolk a better place to live by supporting those in need. They will often quietly respond to local issues away from the glare of public attention, which is why it is so important to continue supporting them wherever possible.
“This could be through making a donation, backing a campaign or taking the time to volunteer. All are equally as important and can make a big difference – especially in the current challenging climate when everyone is being asked to do more for less.”
Mark Greer, Managing Director of CAF, commented: “When we are facing a sustained trend of declining donations, part of the solution to unlocking greater giving lies in understanding the power of place and community. This report shows that when people are engaged in a local area, they tend to give more. It tells us that the people in areas with low levels of engagement and giving aren’t disinterested – they need and want more opportunities.
“We need targeted investment and collaboration from government, philanthropists and businesses to revitalise local cultures of giving and encourage community connections will help to strengthen charities and the places they support, for the future.”