Small charities have been named Britain’s second most trusted support system, according to new research released today.
Four in five people agree that small charities are vital to society and make a real difference in their communities, while nearly half have seen the impact of a small charity in their local area.
They are valued for personal and immediate support in times of crisis. People are benefitting not only from practical support but emotional support too, with over half stating that if a small charity in their area closed tomorrow there would be a negative impact of the welfare of their local community.
Many see small charities as essential to local resilience, filling gaps left by public services and larger organisations. One in two agree that if they needed immediate help, they would feel confident relying on someone or a group in their local community.
The high level of public trust reflects the essential role small charities play in their local communities, where growing demand for their services is placing increasing pressure on organisations already facing rising costs and challenges securing donations and grant funding.
These results come as hundreds of grassroots charities prepare to take part in the Small Charity Week match funding campaign, delivered by Big Give, Global’s Make Some Noise and NCVO.
The campaign will double public donations to 257 small charities, helping local organisations raise vital unrestricted funding to continue supporting people and communities.
Small charities continue to face significant challenges. Research from Small Charity Week 2025 found that only 3% of small charities described their financial position as long-term secure, while nearly half (49%) said they were at risk of closure within a year.
Kate Lee OBE, Chief Executive of NCVO:
"Trusted, local and often shaped by people with lived experience, small charities have a deep understanding of the challenges people face and are relied upon every day to provide vital support. Without them, thousands of people would be left struggling alone and the results of this survey reflect that. Charities are essential and they remain trusted at a time when confidence elsewhere declines. That’s why they need our support, like this match funding programme, to continue delivering vital services."
James Reed CBE, Chair of the Trustees of Big Give:
“Every day, small charities help people facing some of life’s toughest challenges, often with limited resources and little recognition. Through the Small Charity Week match funding campaign, we hope to help hundreds of grassroots organisations raise vital funds, strengthen their resilience and continue making a difference where it matters most.”
Lorraine Kelly, Big Give Ambassador:
“Small charities do extraordinary work every day, often supporting people when they have nowhere else to turn. The findings of this poll reflect just how important these organisations are to communities.
Unfortunately, many small charities are being squeezed more than ever before by cuts in grants, falling donations thanks to the cost of living crisis and increased demands for their services.”
Suzanne Ryder Richardson, Director of Global Goodness at Global’s Make Some Noise:
“Small charities are at the heart of communities across the UK, providing vital support to people when they need it most. Through this campaign, we're shining a spotlight on the organisations making a life-changing difference every day, often with limited resources and funding. We're so proud to support and champion their work."
Learn more about Small Charity Week