Expert's choices

THESE SIX ORGANISATIONS specialise in finding good charities. Each has very different interests and ways of choosing - so do read the descriptions before viewing their recommendations.

Expert	Region	Cause

Web link		New Philanthropy Capital - solid research A rigorous, independent research team which follows a strict methodology and focusses tightly on specific causes. It bases its recommendations on site visits and interviews as well as research into public documents. The only team here which updates its recommendations every few months. Read an interview with the Head of Research.

Web link		The Funding Network - well-informed enthusiasts The most successful "giving circle" in the country - composed of members of the public from a variety of backgrounds. The charities it supports are endorsed personally by at least one member - and have been vetted by an experienced approval committee. Read an article by the founder.


Web link		The Impetus Trust - choosy collaborators The ultimate hands-on grant-giver, Impetus spends months tracking down medium-sized charities that "make a demonstrable, significant and sustainable difference to the lives of a substantial number of disadvantaged people" - and which will benefit from the help of their very high-powered advisory team.

Web link		The Joseph Rank Trust - Methodist methodologies A well-regarded Christian trust with an impressive pedigree. Its main area of interest is young people, with a particular emphasis on adapting church properties to provide improved facilities for the local community.

Web link		The Esmée Fairbairn Foundation - true professionals Esmée Fairbairn is one of the largest independent grantmaking foundations in the UK. It makes grants to organisations which aim to improve the quality of life for people and communities in the UK, both now and in the future.


Web link		The Kitchen Tables Trust - John Humphrys' choices Broadcaster John Humphrys set up this trust to support small charities abroad that he endorses; he says, "I have either seen them myself or know someone who has and can offer an independent assessment." More details - and a wider range of non-UK charities are available from the website.