RS MacDonald Charitable Trust
The RS Macdonald Charitable Trust—a grant-maker in Scotland—approached NPC to support it in undertaking sector landscaping research into its funding themes, starting with visual impairment and child welfare. The end goal was to share the findings with key actors within each of the issue areas, and to use the findings to inform the trust’s own giving strategy.
We produced two reports, which are published on our website so that others can benefit from the content. The Trust have since used these reports to start a conversation about how these issues are funded in Scotland.
Charities have welcomed the discussion, with several organisations using the reports to talk to potential funders about their work. The trust has also shared the research findings with other funders and policymakers. As a result, the Scottish Government became aware of the reports and the relevant departments have been in touch with the trust to consider what the government’s role may be in addressing the issues raised.
Following the success of these reports, RS Macdonald have asked NPC to produce a further two reports on animal welfare and neurological conditions.
We had not anticipated that the reports would have had as wide an impact as they have, but they have proved a useful resource for highlighting key issues with government, funders and other charities. They have helped us build new links and created opportunities to work together better.
Douglas Hamilton
Director , RS Macdonald Charitable Trust
Resources
Visual impairment in Scotland: A guide for funders
On 23 May 2016.
Independent funders can make a big difference to the lives of visually impaired people in Scotland.
Resources
Tackling child abuse in Scotland: A guide for funders
On 23 May 2016.
This report maps the landscape of the issue, and helps funders understand the many different charities and approaches that they could support.
Resources
Neurological conditions in Scotland: A guide for funders
On 25 October 2016.
This report is a guide for funders who want to improve the lives of people with neurological conditions in Scotland.
