A major milestone was marked at the Senedd (17 September) as Lloyds Bank Foundation hosted a celebratory reception to honour 40 years of supporting local charities and community-led organisations across Wales.
Hosted in the Neuadd, the event, which was sponsored by Mike Hedges MS, brought together leaders from the charity sector, the Welsh Government, and the philanthropy community to reflect on the Foundation’s legacy and explore future opportunities for collaboration. The reception underscored the Foundation’s commitment to empowering grassroots organisations that tackle complex social issues and support vulnerable communities.
Jane Hutt, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, spoke about the importance of supporting the sector and the need to rebuild trust within communities: “Thank you to The Foundation for its incredible work over the years. ‘A nation of neighbourhoods’ beautifully captures the spirit of the work we’re helping to support.”
Speakers from Lloyds Bank Foundation emphasised the importance of long-term, flexible funding and the role of trust-based philanthropy in driving sustainable change. Attendees shared stories of impact, celebrated achievements, and discussed the sector’s potential in the face of economic and social challenges.
Matt Hyde, CEO of Lloyds Bank Foundation, said: “For four decades, we’ve stood alongside charities doing remarkable work in their communities. This reception was not just a celebration of the past but a renewed commitment to the future. Our communities are full of hopeful, determined, passionate people making the lives of their neighbours better. Community-led organisations are at the heart of this movement but cannot do it alone. It takes philanthropy, businesses, and government working together to ensure we achieve this. Partnership and innovation are central to building a stronger, fairer Wales, and we are optimistic for future programmes, helping us to make sure everyone in Wales is in a good place.”
The highlight of the event was a performance by Taking Flight Theatre Company, a Lloyds Bank Foundation charity partner funded through its Deaf and Disabled People’s Programme. Taking Flight is a Welsh charity creating bold, inclusive theatre with a strong focus on accessibility. It works with Deaf, disabled, neurodivergent, and non-disabled performers and recently launched Wales’ first youth theatre for Deaf and hard of hearing young people.
To keep up to date with the Foundation’s upcoming funding programmes and partnership opportunities in Wales, visit the website www.lloydsbankfoundation.org.uk