Community Foundation serving Tyne&Wear and Northumberland: effective giving, thriving communities and enriched lives

The Community Foundation was established in 1988 as a charity to benefit communities particularly, although not exclusively, in Tyne & Wear and Northumberland. Our purpose is to be the hub for community philanthropy in our area - inspiring and supporting charitable giving that strengthens communities and enriches local life. The history and growth of the Community Foundation is testament to the generosity of individuals, families and businesses in Tyne&Wear and Northumberland. This is just as well because the case for supporting local communities and the excellent groups and individuals that bring people together, provide great services and activities and make our area a better place to enjoy life has never been stronger. To find out about the people who have given and how this has changed lives, visit our website at www.communityfoundation.org.uk

Our communities and their needs

The areas served by the Community Foundation covers six local council areas and both urban and rural communities, including densely populated areas and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Unfortunately national statistics show that residents of Tyne & Wear and Northumberland face many disadvantages and barriers to doing well in life. They face a lack of employment opportunities, low pay, low educational attainment and there are many unpaid carers. Their mental and physical health is disproportionately poor compared to national rates and health problems relating to smoking and alcohol consumption are on the increase.

A changing population

The area is facing a growth in the numbers of people over 60, particularly in Northumberland and a quarter of children under 16 live in households dependent on benefits, even though child poverty levels have improved over the last decade. Although the ethnic diversity of the region's population remains low compared with national figures, this can mean people facing prejudice and misunderstanding from the communities they find themselves living in. They can also find themselves in working conditions that are inferior to their counterparts. Information about lesbian, gay, bi sexual and transgendered communities in the area is poor but homophobic bullying is certainly reported as a serious issue in schools.

Who is out there to help

It is estimated that there are 7000 voluntary and community sector organisations in the region, ranging from the very small and local like the Hebburn Senior Citizens Thursday Club, through to Gateway into the Community working with people with learning disabilities in Northumberland or Them Wifies Theatre Group who help young women and girls cope with eating disorders and other mental health problems. Whatever the size or wherever the group is, all need your help. You can find out how to give through the Community Foundation or how to apply for a grant for your organisation on our website www.communityfoundation.org.uk

Why give locally?

There are important needs and good causes here on your doorstep to inspire your charitable passions and interests no matter what they are. Over 200 individuals, families, businesses and other charities give through us, proving that anyone can be a philanthropist through the Community Foundation. No matter what the size or type of gift you want to make, we will make sure your giving is effective, rewarding, enjoyable and hassle free. You can get involved with groups you support, meet like-minded people among our donors, and get peace of mind from our tried-and tested systems for awarding funds and reporting on results.

Given through the Community Foundation your gift makes a really big difference because our expertise will target precisely the people you want to help; local community and voluntary groups who get to people and problems others cannot reach. Read about the impact our work make on our website www.communityfoundation.org.uk

By pooling your gift with others, you will be building an endowed asset which will provide a permanent fund to make our communities stronger and enrich lives in perpetuity.