A major milestone was marked on September 17th as the Lloyds Bank Foundation hosted a celebratory reception at the Senedd to honour four decades of supporting local charities and community-led organisations across Wales.
Hosted in the Neuadd and sponsored by Mike Hedges MS, the event brought together leaders from the charity sector, the Welsh Government and the philanthropy community. The reception was not only a chance to reflect on the Foundation’s legacy but also to explore future opportunities for collaboration. It strongly underscored the Foundation’s commitment to empowering grassroots organisations that tackle complex social issues and support vulnerable communities.
Jane Hutt, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, spoke about the crucial importance of supporting the sector and rebuilding trust within communities. “Thank you to The Foundation for its incredible work over the years,” she said. “‘A nation of neighbourhoods’ beautifully captures the spirit of the work we’re helping to support.”
Speakers from the Foundation highlighted the importance of long-term, flexible funding and the power of trust-based social conscience in driving sustainable change. Attendees then shared powerful stories of impact, celebrated achievements. Discussing the sector’s potential in confronting current economic and social challenges.
Matt Hyde, CEO of Lloyds Bank Foundation, emphasised the importance of collaboration for the future. “For four decades, we’ve stood alongside charities doing remarkable work in their communities. This reception was not just a celebration of the past but a renewed commitment to the future,” he said.
“Our communities are full of hopeful, determined, passionate people making the lives of their neighbours better. Community-led organisations are at the heart of this movement but cannot do it alone. It takes philanthropy, businesses and government working together to ensure we achieve this. Partnership and innovation are central to building a stronger, fairer Wales and we are optimistic for future programmes, helping us to make sure everyone in Wales is in a good place.”
The event’s highlight was a performance by the Taking Flight Theatre Company, a Lloyds Bank Foundation charity partner funded through its Deaf and Disabled People’s Programme. Taking Flight is a Welsh charity creating bold, inclusive theatre with a strong focus on accessibility. It works with Deaf, disabled, neurodivergent and non-disabled performers. Which has recently launched Wales’ first youth theatre for Deaf and hard of hearing young people.
To keep up to date with the Foundation’s upcoming funding programmes and partnership opportunities in Wales, visit the website www.lloydsbankfoundation.org.uk.
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