Community foundation changes name in bid to keep charity local

Nottinghamshire Community Foundation, a cornerstone of local philanthropy for over two decades, has been renamed Forever Notts to ensure its aims are clear – and to encourage local business support.

Forever Notts says the new name aims to counter the flow of donations from the county to national organisations based in London, where around 47% of the total income of UK charities and 68% of charitable assets are concentrated – despite only 14% of these charities focusing on London-specific issues.

The organisation says the shift is “crucial” for Nottinghamshire, which also has fewer donations per capita compared to areas such as London.

Latest figures from YouGov show that 69% of the public believes businesses have an obligation to support the local communities in which they operate.

Founded in 1997 originally as the Sherwood Coalfield Foundation, Forever Notts has, to date, distributed £30m in grants and helps 3,000 community groups across Nottinghamshire. The organisation says it remains committed to connecting local philanthropists with causes that matter close to home.

From Newark to Chilwell, and Retford to Mansfield, these grants have fuelled a range of inspirational projects, all aimed at improving the quality of life for people across Nottinghamshire.

The Foundation says it helps to build stronger communities by encouraging local giving and all the money it raises supports non-profit, grassroots community groups.

With the number of people slipping into poverty or precarious circumstances increasing, the need for community support services is growing, and the pressure on Forever Notts’ grant-making is increasing and it must raise more money to meet the need.

Forever Notts chief executive, Nina Dauban, said: “Our mission is clearer than ever. We want to ensure that Nottinghamshire’s funds remain local, supporting the projects and people that make this community thrive.

“The heart of Nottinghamshire is its people. We’ve seen the incredible power of community with the £30 million we’ve distributed so far, and we’re excited to continue that journey. As Nottinghamshire’s community spirit continues to flourish, Forever Notts is set to play a vital role in ensuring that local donations fuel the causes that matter most to the people of this great county.”

The unveiling was celebrated at Nottingham’s Stonebridge City Farm, with a £5,000 grant. Stonebridge City Farm chief executive, Peter Armitage, said: “Forever Notts is vital to so many local charities and community groups, and we’re no different at Stonebridge City Farm.

“We have around 400 volunteers from all walks of life with all manner of challenges, being able to continue to give them a purpose, and provide families with a place to go free of charge – is at the heart of what we do. Funding is hard to come by for charities in the current climate, and we’re incredibly thankful for the grant from Forever Notts.”

Over the past year Forever Notts awarded 239 grants worth a total of £570,927, benefiting 230,700 people. Some 64% of grants were directed to charity groups within Nottingham with an average grant size of £2,300. The Foundation manages donor funds, offering invaluable knowledge of Nottinghamshire’s voluntary and community sector.

A key part of this effort is Legacy Trusts, which Forever Notts administers on behalf of individuals, families, and organisations. These trusts allow donors to create a lasting legacy, supporting specific areas of interest such as young artists or environmental initiatives. By managing these trusts, Forever Notts ensures that each donor’s philanthropic vision is realised in a meaningful and sustainable way, providing benefits for years to come. Forever Notts can assist with expert guidance to every donor, helping them achieve their personal and charitable goals while amplifying the impact of their giving through Forever Notts’ local knowledge.

Forever Notts also has a new mascot who has been has been on a tour across the county, taking part in random acts of kindness – and raising awareness of the foundation.