We’ve been updating some unusual charities over the past few weeks – and none is more peculiar than the Institute for Public Policy Research (see profile). This left-leaning think-tank is (like most of its think-tanky peers) a registered charity, and so should use its annual report to demonstrate both its political neutrality and ‘public benefit’. But IPPR’s report left us scratching our heads, wondering what impact the charity’s work has actually had. We’re sure it’s very influential – but we don't know how its work contributes to the public good.

Another improbable charity is Glyndebourne Opera (see profile). This outfit – best known for attracting black-tie-wearing patrons to its sumptuous performances in Sussex – also runs a variety of educational schemes and does work with schools. Compared to IPPR, it does a great job of justifying its charitable status.

Also unusual but more obviously charitable than these two, the Fishermen’s Mission (see profile) makes its first appearance on our charity listings today. Fishing is, it says, by far the most dangerous job in the country – meaning fishermen and their families need more support than most. But this undoubtedly worthy charity’s supporters deserve to know more about some apparently choppy financial waters ahead. Can the charity pull through if it just receives a bit more cash?

A better-known charity we’ve just updated is the Children’s Society (see profile). This CofE-backed outfit tries to distinguish itself from the NSPCC in part by taking transparency extremely seriously. And we think it’s doing a pretty good job.

Capping things off is the perfect charity for the indecisive: Action Medical Research (see profile). This multi-tasking outfit funds research into a bewildering array of medical causes – making it just the job for you, if you don't want to put all your eggs in one medical basket.
 

 

Login or register to comment