David Holdsworth, Chief Executive of the Charity Commission, visited two Cardiff-based charities to spotlight the impact of the regulator’s Revitalising Trusts programme, which has released over £12.3 million in dormant funds across Wales.
Supporting Children and Families at LATCH
Mr Holdsworth began his visit at LATCH, a children’s cancer charity supporting young people and their families receiving care at the Children’s Hospital for Wales. The visit coincided with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a campaign running every September to generate awareness and support for children affected by cancer.
During the tour, he heard from trustees, healthcare colleagues, and families about LATCH’s wide-ranging support services. These include free family hospital accommodation, which ensures parents can remain close to their children during treatment.
Daring to Dream’s Digital Growth
The second visit was to Daring to Dream, a Welsh charity focused on the emotional health and well-being of adult hospital patients. The organisation recently benefited from the Revitalising Trusts programme, using redirected funds to overhaul its digital content.
Barbara Chidgey, founder and Chair of Daring to Dream, explained how the funding allowed the charity to invest in professional photography, graphics, and website design. The improved online presence has since boosted community engagement, increased donations, and broadened the charity’s reach.
Revitalising Trusts Impact in Wales
The Revitalising Trusts programme is designed to identify dormant charitable funds and redirect them to active causes. In Wales alone, the initiative has revitalised £12.3 million, supporting charities, community foundations, and local projects.
Revitalising Trusts in Wales: At a Glance
| Category | Amount/Impact | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Dormant funds revitalised | £12.3m | Redirected to active charities in Wales |
| Charity beneficiaries | Multiple organisations | Including Daring to Dream and community projects |
| Programme partners | Community Foundation Wales | Collaborating with the Charity Commission and Welsh Government |
| Wider UK context | Nationwide initiative | Ensures dormant funds meet original charitable aims |
Leaders Reflect on Charity’s Impact
Reflecting on the visits, Mr Holdsworth praised the resilience and commitment of South Wales charities.
“I’m grateful to everyone at LATCH and Daring to Dream for introducing me to their vital work today,” he said. “It is inspiring to see charities make such a remarkable difference to people across South Wales and beyond.”
He also highlighted the role of Revitalising Trusts in expanding charitable reach:
“It is heartening to know our programme has helped Daring to Dream showcase its services and connect with more supporters.”
Quotes from the Charities
Menai Owen-Jones, Chief Executive of LATCH, said the visit underscored the importance of bespoke family support services:
- Free hospital accommodation ensures families remain together during treatment.
- Engagement with trustees and healthcare staff highlights long-term commitment.
Barbara Chidgey added that financial support was transformative:
“Our online presence is now more engaging and effective. We’ve reached more families and attracted new supporters thanks to the programme.”
Building Trust and Public Engagement
The Charity Commission for England and Wales continues to position itself as an independent regulator committed to fairness and public trust.
By revitalising dormant funds and supporting charities’ growth, the regulator demonstrates how targeted interventions can strengthen society and ensure resources reach communities in need.
Food for Thought
The Cardiff visits reinforced the importance of active, innovative charities in delivering essential support.
With over £12.3 million revitalised in Wales alone, the Charity Commission’s programme provides a model for boosting impact, building trust, and ensuring resources serve the communities for which they were intended.
Sources: The Charity Commission.
Prepared by Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder of THX News™, an independent news organisation delivering timely insights from global official sources. Combines AI-analysed research with human-edited accuracy and context.
