Gift Aid is a transformative UK government scheme that allows charities to reclaim an extra 25p for every £1 donated by UK taxpayers, at no additional cost to the donor. This mechanism significantly amplifies the impact of charitable contributions, providing essential support to numerous organisations across the UK.
In the 2024–2025 fiscal year, The Paul Sartori Foundation demonstrated the profound benefits of Gift Aid. By selling 88,897 gift-aided items, the Foundation’s Retail team generated an additional £89,405 in income. This substantial sum directly funded 29.8 days of nursing care, enabling patients to receive compassionate end-of-life support in the comfort of their homes.
The broader significance of Gift Aid is evident nationwide. According to HM Revenue and Customs, Gift Aid contributes approximately £1.6 billion annually to UK charities, benefiting over 66,000 organisations.
Despite its advantages, the scheme remains underutilised; research indicates that an estimated £560 million in potential Gift Aid goes unclaimed each year, often due to donors forgetting to opt in or being unaware of the program’s existence.
For charities like The Paul Sartori Foundation, every additional pound reclaimed through Gift Aid translates into tangible services – be it nursing care, equipment loans, complementary therapy, or bereavement support. The charity’s ability to provide free, 24/7 care hinges on such supplementary income streams.
Donors can maximise their contributions by completing a simple Gift Aid declaration at the till, affirming that they are UK taxpayers. This small step ensures that their donations have an even greater impact, bolstering the invaluable work of charities nationwide.
In essence, Gift Aid is more than a financial mechanism; it’s a lifeline that empowers charities to extend their reach and enhance their services. By embracing Gift Aid, our donors play a pivotal role in sustaining the vital work of The Paul Sartori Foundation, ensuring that compassionate care remains accessible to those in need.