A new report by Barclays Private Bank and Wealth Management indicates that 98% of high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) in the UK are engaged in charitable giving. The study, based on a survey of 500 UK HNWIs with assets exceeding £1 million, shows that over half began making significant donations before reaching £1 million in investible assets. Another 26% started once their wealth reached this threshold.
The research highlights the potential for increased philanthropy as a third of HNWIs expect to inherit at least £1 million. Despite the high level of giving, there is a gap between donor expectations and adviser engagement. While 81% of donors believe advisers should proactively discuss philanthropy, only 33% have experienced such conversations.
Juliet Agnew, Head of Philanthropy at Barclays Private Bank & Wealth Management, stated: “The view of philanthropy amongst HNWIs in the UK is shifting to become an integral part of wealth planning. As the research shows, once individuals reach key milestones in their wealth journey, they increasingly want their money to carry meaning as well as value.”
She added: “There is a major opportunity for all kinds of financial advisers to play a more proactive role in guiding and supporting donors. As we approach the great wealth transfer, this is a chance to turn this intent to impact, ensuring that donors have the clarity, confidence and structures they need to make real difference.”
The report also notes that confidence plays a crucial role in increasing donations. Many donors hesitate due to feeling under-informed about effective giving strategies or understanding charity operations and impact.
Philanthropy specialists have the greatest influence on large-scale giving among HNWIs at 43%, followed by tax specialists (34%), family offices (33%), and wealth managers (29%).
Charitable contributions from HNWIs are increasing; median annual donations rose from £5,500 in 2019 to £12,000 in 2025. Organisations able to demonstrate clear missions and measurable results are more likely to attract major gifts. Two-thirds of HNWIs prioritize social or environmental impact when choosing causes. Among younger donors aged 18–34, nearly half require evidence of impact before making large donations—almost double the rate among older donors.
Health and social welfare are top priorities for nearly 80% of respondents, with climate and environment (73%) and social justice and development (69%) also ranking highly.
The research found that philanthropic activities are becoming more structured: one-third of HNWIs have set up charitable trusts or included philanthropy in estate plans, while a quarter have established donor-advised funds or plan similar actions soon.
The findings draw on survey data collected online from March to April 2025 among participants broadly representative by asset size, gender, age, and region across the UK. The report partners include The Beacon Collaborative, Bayes Business School, NPC, Pears Foundation, Remember a Charity and Savanta.
Further details can be found at https://privatebank.barclays.com/insights/how-are-modern-philanthropists-making-a-difference-10-2025/
For more information about Barclays PLC’s services and vision as a diversified bank serving various sectors including consumer banking and investment banking visit https://home.barclays/