Waltham Forest Giving


‘Supporting People Locally’
Waltham Forest Giving raises and distributes funds and resources to help local organisations support the people in our borough.
It is an independent initiative, hosted by Groundwork London, which connects and enthuses local people, businesses and organisations to address local needs.
We aim to provide a straightforward approach for individuals and businesses to contribute funds, time, knowledge, or skills to support grassroots community projects.
It is led by Charlie Blair who is supported by a steering group of Waltham Forest residents who have informed the strategy and design of the scheme. We have co-designed this giving scheme with stakeholders from the voluntary, statutory and private sectors.
Waltham Forest Giving is part of a wider network of 18 giving schemes in London.
Our Values:
- Equity and Inclusion – ensuring resources reach those most in need
- Community Led – empowering local people to shape the scheme based on evidenced needs
- Sustainability – promoting long-term impact
- Collaboration – working with local charities, businesses and residents to maximise our impact
- Transparency and Trust – making it easy for people to give and receive support without unnecessary barriers
Waltham Forest Giving – Needs Assessment
In 2023, Groundwork London secured funding from the City Bridge Foundation to set up a place-based giving scheme in Waltham Forest – the first of its kind in the borough. Waltham Forest Giving is part of a wider network of 18 other giving schemes across London.
To ensure we understand local needs, complement existing initiatives, and avoid duplication, we commissioned ‘Public Voice’ to carry out a needs assessment. The key focus of the needs assessment was to explore how community groups in Waltham Forest can be best supported by funding, resources and/or time.
The needs assessment included:
- A review of current literature on place-based giving
- Desk research on Waltham Forest and the people who live and work here
- Interviews with community organisations and the local authority
- Surveys with residents and community groups
- Focus groups with residents and community groups

Steering Group Update
We have recruited 9 people to form our steering group, made up of residents, and representatives of local groups and businesses.
The steering group will guide and oversee Waltham Forest Giving to ensure it effectively meets community needs and thrives in the long term.
Interested? Got questions? Speak to Charlie!
Meet Charlie, Waltham Forest Giving’s Project Manager. Find out more about WFG and ask your questions.
Contact: charlie.blair@groundwork.org.uk or 07548 315 149