Peers debate philanthropy issues
On 2 December a debate on the case for encouraging philanthropy as moved by Lord Janvin, the crossbencher who is on the governing boards of various charities including being chair of the Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry. 1
Since he originally tabled the motion, the government has confirmed its intention to produce a white paper in March 2011 on charitable giving, philanthropy and social investment in the latest Cabinet Office business plan.2
The debate aired a number of important issues that Lord Janvin hopes ‘will contribute’ to the government’s thinking:
- The government needs to ‘find ways of getting across the idea that philanthropy is fundamentally something to be encouraged, recognised and supported and is not inevitably some form of personal aggrandisement or, at worst, a potential tax scam for the rich.
- Gift Aid does need to be simplified and made more efficient and high rate Gift Aid allowances should be reclaimable by charities.
- Support for new forms of charity financing through “social investment models like the East London Bond, the social impact bond, online giving vehicles and matched funding.”
It was Baroness Pitkeathley, the former chief executive of what is now Carers UK, who made the point that while the government’s focus on encouraging philanthropy is welcomed by foundations and individuals, there is “suspicion about it being politically motivated” and their motivation is to give, not substitute for government funding.
“They give precisely because of their independence of action and their scope to drive their own visions,” she said and then called for the establishment of, “a single body with the overarching purpose of increasing philanthropy in the United Kingdom that would inspire and guide new philanthropists, and help donors make effective choices.”
1. www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld201011/ldhansrd/text/101202-0002.htm#10120240000732
2. www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/about-cabinet-office/plans-performance/business-plan.aspx
Author: Clarissa Dann
Clarissa Dann was the editor of Caritas as well as an HR and management online service,he People Bulletin until July 2011.
She is now the editor of the specialist trade finance magazine, Trade and Forfaiting Review which can be viewed at www.tfreview.com but does write on charity finance and investment from time to time.
Clarissa has a background in legal and professional publishing, as well as business journalism and holds an MBA from
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