Changes in charity law and 'quiet' philanthropy

Scottish philanthropists may already be aware of the changes to Scottish charity law that come into effect later in the year.

One of those key changes is the new requirement for charity trustee names to be published by OSCR, a move that may challenge those who prefer to give quietly, without public recognition.

For many, the motivation to give comes from a desire to make a difference. These individuals prefer their giving to remain private, guided by the knowledge that their support is helping communities thrive.

At Foundation Scotland, we have long supported this approach. We work with donors who value discretion and privacy, by supporting their ability to contribute meaningfully while remaining out of the spotlight. Whether they seek guidance from our team or come with a clear vision of their philanthropic goals, our flexible approach allows them to be as involved - or as hands-off - as they wish.

Crucially, as regulatory requirements for Trustees continue to evolve, we provide a way for philanthropists to continue giving without the need to establish their own charitable structures.

By working through Foundation Scotland, donors can avoid the administrative and governance responsibilities of running a charity, while still achieving real impact. We preserve the essence of 'quiet philanthropy'. Our model ensures donors can maintain their privacy, while through updates and stories of impact, they know that their giving is making a real difference.