- Overall Finding: Public trust remains strong at 57%, but maintaining it requires active effort beyond basic financial efficiency.
- Impact over Overhead: Donors care less about keeping costs artificially low and more about seeing tangible outcomes and evidence that their money makes a real difference.
- Transparent Spending: Clear breakdowns of fundraising, administrative, and core delivery costs are essential. The public accepts operational costs if leaders clearly explain why those investments are necessary.
- Executive Pay Scepticism: Perceptions around senior leadership remuneration significantly influence public confidence, regardless of financial performance.
- Supporter Engagement: Building local connections and meaningful experiences creates loyal supporters, driving a positive feedback loop of engagement and giving.
- Visible Governance: Regulators recommend proactively explaining how decisions are made, funds are overseen, and risks are managed to build public trust.
Read in full: Public Trust in Charities 2026
If you have any questions or would like any advice, please contact Mike Farrell email mikefarrell@charity-registration.com
