UK Centre for Philanthropy Studies Opens Doors

Jenny Harrow and Cathy Pharoah, co-directors of the centre, stressed the necessity of increased understanding of philanthropy in an article written for the launch of the centre. Their research aims to provide insights into the problems facing many philanthropic associations in the current economic climate: “Charities are constantly urged to demonstrate that they are not wasteful and are in tune with the times and so even more attractive to donors,” they wrote.

"They will understandably baulk at external admonitions to tighten their belts and get by on less, yet a recession may be precisely the time when they are encouraged to demonstrate just how many resources they need to perform effectively.”

Of the centre’s three research initiatives, the first will explore the structures of individual and corporate giving, examining the current challenges to traditional patterns of giving as well as the recognition of social returns on charitable investment.

The second initiative will investigate the effect of charitable activity on social and economic inequalities, including the relationship between fundraising and the distribution of resources.

The third will explore the structures of institutionalised giving, including the creation and relevance of charitable institutions, as well as exploring the emergence of new forms of philanthropy and the development of partnerships between the state and charities.