The latest report from the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) and the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) UK Giving series has been released this week and reveals what has happened to charitable giving during the recession.

The annual publication, which seeks to provide an overview of the latest trends in individual charitable giving, reported that the economic downturn has caused an 11% decrease in charitable donations throughout the UK, returning figures to those reported in the 2006/07 financial year.  Currently, 54% of adults donate in an average month, down two percent from 56% in 2007/08.

Some charitable giving factors have not been impacted by the recession, however.  The methods by which people choose to donate to charity have remained relatively stable, with most opting to give cash.  Similarly, the types of causes people are keen to support remain the same – with religion and medical research coming out on top.

In terms of moving forward in order that charitable giving and the third sector as a whole might weather the economic storm, the report points towards the maximizing of Gift Aid to help offset falls in donations and the simplification and improvement of the system of tax relief on donations for higher earners.  Planned giving, which would allow charities to predict their income more effectively and plan strategically, was also flagged up as an important measure and calls were made to government and the sector to enhance and promote these mechanisms.

For further information and to download a copy of the publication visit the NCVO website: http://www.ncvo-vol.org.uk/research/index.asp?id=15262.

Source: NCVO