The creation of the Open and Trusting grant-making movement was inspired by charities’ calls for fairer grant-making. Today, it remains rooted in their real-life experience, and driven forward by their expertise.
We’re delighted to welcome 10 third sector leaders to our new charity panel. Together, their challenge, insight and experience will support funders to take lasting steps towards the funding reform the sector – and society – urgently needs.
Abby Guilding
Wellchild
“So much of what charities achieve wouldn’t be possible without the backing of trusts and foundations. But by embracing the Open and Trusting principles, there’s even more we could accomplish together. I’m excited to help shape a future that’s more collaborative, transparent, and impactful — for both trusts and charities.”
Barbara Gray
KINARAA
“KINARAA is joining the IVAR panel to ensure Black-led organisations have a strong voice in shaping equitable, responsive funding practices. The Open and Trusting initiative is crucial because it fosters transparent partnerships, removes barriers to funding, and empowers communities to drive meaningful change.”
Fizza Qureshi
Migrants Rights
“Being an Open and Trusting panel member is a valuable opportunity to work collaboratively to advance more trusting, flexible, and impactful funding approaches that benefit both charities and funders alike.”
Jamie Leitch
The Green Team
“An Open and Trusting relationship is essential in maximising the impact that the sector has – a goal that is the heart of everything we do. I’m joining the charity panel to help nurture this relationship by sharing my experiences. I hope to challenge and be challenged, and through that, contribute to positive change.”
Dan Hartland
Saving Lives UK
“This work offers a vital means of bringing together voices from across a diverse and vibrant third sector to create meaningful, informed, practical solutions to shared challenges. It’s an exciting opportunity to work with others to make a coherent, sustainable difference to voluntary organisations and those who fund them.”
Deborah Mccahon
Woodcraft
“I strongly believe that funders and grantees share a common goal: delivering greater impact for communities (locally or globally). By fostering transparency and collaboration, we can reduce duplication, save time and ensure resources are used where they matter most.”
Laura Atyeo
Open Harmony CIC
“I want more openness, equity, inclusivity and a more fertile ground for social innovation – for everyone. This initiative is a great opportunity for me to be a player in that.”
Padmini Ravi
London Gypsies & Travellers
“I’m excited to contribute to the next phase of Open and Trusting, ensuring charity voices shape learning and accountability. With funders engaging positively, this is a pivotal moment to deepen impact and develop more flexible, equitable funding practices across the sector.”
Shelley Hart
Havering Volunteer Centre
“Applying for funding is a daunting experience and by joining collaboratively to understand the process builds trust. I feel privileged to play a part in this worthwhile and exciting venture, helping to shape the future for the greater good of our sector.”
Joseph Jeffers
ASKI
