Annual report on performance of charitable foundations shows gradual improvement

The Foundation Practice Rating (FPR) is an objective assessment of UK-based charitable grant-making foundations. It looks at foundations’ practices in three key areas – diversity, accountability, and transparency.

The 2024/25 findings show gradual improvements in the sector, with progress across all three categories. However, diversity remains the weakest area, with no foundations receiving an A rating.

The report assessed 100 foundations, with some of the smallest outperforming the largest. Of concern was that 21 of the foundations assessed had no website, making it difficult for applicants to access crucial information. Indeed, none of the 12 foundations that scored a D in all three domains had a website, further highlighting accessibility challenges within the sector.

The FPR was initiated in 2021 by Friends Provident Foundation and is funded by a group of UK grant-making foundations, including Barrow Cadbury Trust.   This year, the ‘Funders Group’ includes: Friends Provident Foundation, City Bridge Foundation, John Ellerman Foundation, Joseph Rowntree Reform Trust, Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust, Paul Hamlyn Foundation, Indigo Trust, Robertson Trust, and John Lyon’s Charity.

For more information, visit foundationpracticerating.org.uk where you can download a copy of the 24/25 report.