Findings in the new Sunday Times Giving List support Martin Brookes' view that UK fundraisers are not up to standard with high net worth donors, says Vibeka Mair.  

NPC chief Martin Brookes says he is surprised that people found it controversial that he told a select committee of MPs that there was a dearth of good fundraisers who could market effectively to major donors in the UK.

His views, which he says were an “aside” rather than a comment to MPs, have evoked strong reaction in the fundraising community, with readers of our website accusing Brookes of crudity, ignorance and gross misjudgement.

While Brookes’ remark may have been brash, the Sunday Times Giving List which will be out at the weekend does appear to support his view of the major donor sector.

The Sunday Times finds the top 100 UK philanthropists gave £818m less this year than last. A survey of 29 of these top givers found less than two-thirds were satisfied with the level of communication they received from the charities they support. Three of out five said that charities need to improve their communications in order to get the most out of their philanthropy.

Some may say this is just a minute sample of philanthropists, but this small group is giving sums in the dozens of millions of pounds.

Importantly, 89 per cent said they only give to charities which can demonstrate impact - something which Brookes has repeatedly called on the sector to improve.

All of which seems to go some way to vindicating his provocative 'aside', I would venture.