Charity Bank proudly announces to target £500,000 in grants and loans over the next 12 months with the ambition of supporting 10 organisations from Leicester's vibrant and dynamic charity sector.
The announcement was made today (25th January) at a social sector event organised by the Leicester Social Economy Consortium.
Daniel Wilson-Dodd, Head of Social Investment Solutions, at Charity Bank, said, "We are committed to making a positive and lasting impact in Leicester by supporting the growth and sustainability of charities and social enterprises."
Why Leicester?
“Charity Bank recognises Leicester as a vibrant and dynamic city, known for its diversity, youthful population, high startup density, and yet, pockets of significant deprivation exist. The commitment to invest in Leicester reflects Charity Bank's belief in the city's potential and its dedication to addressing the unique challenges faced by its communities.”
Supporting Underfunded Communities
“The £500,000 investment target aligns with Charity Bank's strategic objective of actively engaging with underfunded communities. Leicester presents an opportunity to bridge the gap and foster financial inclusion in areas that need it most.”
Partnership with Leicester Social Economy Consortium
Charity Bank has developed a strong relationship with the Leicester Social Economy Consortium (LSEC), working with over 160 social enterprises and charities in the region. Through a series of presentations and workshops planned for 2024, Charity Bank aims to reach a diverse group of smaller social enterprises, contributing to the betterment of deprived areas in England including in Leicester.
David Brazier, LSEC Chief Executive, said, "This commitment from Charity Bank is a testament to their dedication to fostering positive change in Leicester. Together, we can amplify our efforts and address the pressing challenges faced by our communities."
For more information about Charity Bank and its approach to loans and savings, please visit Charity Bank.
To discover more about LSEC and its impactful initiatives in Leicester, visit LSE Consortium.
About Charity Bank
Charity Bank is the loans and savings bank for charities, social enterprises and people who want to make the world a better place. It uses its savers’ money to provide much needed loans to UK organisations working to drive positive social change – bringing benefits for people, communities, and the environment.
Since 2002, Charity Bank has made more than 1200 loans totalling over £450m to housing, education, social care, community, and other social purpose organisations. Charity Bank is owned by social purpose organisations and aims to use its expertise, commitment, and flexible approach to lending, to help charities and social enterprises get the support and funding they need.
About LSEC
The Leicester Social Economy Consortium was established on 26th March 1997. The objects of the company are to promote community ownership, enterprise and employment creation, or other purposes beneficial to the community including the prevention and relief of homelessness and an improved environment in particular by working in partnership with other bodies to identify, acquire, and develop under-used, vacant, or derelict buildings or land to further the above objectives. Since 1997 LSEC has donated over £410,000 to the Shelter Housing Advice and Research Project (SHARP). SHARP is a charity – registered no 1000515- that works to prevent homelessness and helps homeless people.