Director's Report
I’ve come to the view that considered philanthropy involves more questions than answers: who to give to? how often? how much? how widespread or deserving or urgent? …and so on. In the four years to 2009, we have continued to focus our resources on those children and young people who are living in the most deprived neighbourhoods in Cumbria and North Lancashire. It is a targeted approach that necessarily excludes other deserving sectors of the population (e.g. the elderly or those with mental health problems), but we believe ‘making a difference’ requires such a focus, delivered consistently and over a decent length of time.
The eight year model
One of the key outcomes from the Trustees’ Policy Review in 2003 was the adoption of a long-term funding strategy. The eight-year model illustrated below was informed by feedback from charities we have supported over many years and our own view of what is a reasonable time to become established and sustainable. It is not a sure-fire formula for success nor does it suit all of our beneficiaries, but Trustees have continued to use it as a guide when making grant decisions.
Six years after adopting the model, we are delighted to have seen several embryonic initiatives blossom into leading charities in their specific area of work. Knowing that FCSCT was with them for the longer term allowed project leaders to divert their attention away from fundraising in order to concentrate on serving the needs of their community and their clients.
| Year 0 | Research/Feasibility Study | …backing a good idea |
| Years 1-3 | Core Revenue Funding | …typically the Project Leader’s salary |
| Years 4-6 | Project Development | …encouraging growth & funding diversification |
| Years 7-8 | Scaling Down | …agreeing a measured end to core funding |
| After Year 8 | Satellite Development? | …replicating best practice by starting a new project (return to Year 0) |
Making a Difference
Through the endeavours of the charities we support, FCSCT funds reach out to benefit over 2,000 local children and young people in any one year. In an attempt to illustrate just how important this funding is to individuals, we have gathered together a series of case studies. Each one tells a very individual story but collectively the message is clear – FCSCT grants are improving the well-being and prospects of thousands of children and young people.