Three-quarters of UK firms did not donate time, money or goods to charities last year, according to the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF). The charity’s Corporate Giving report shows 25% of British businesses contributed in some form, and it argues that if firms pledged to give at least 1% of pre-tax profits each year, charities could receive around £5 billion more (€5.8 billion).\n\nCAF’s figures for 2024 show British businesses donated about £4.2 billion, with almost half of that from FTSE 100 companies (€4.9 billion). The amount was broadly the same as in 2023. The report found only 24 FTSE 100 firms donated at least 1% of pre-tax profits last year, down from 28 the year before. Cash donations declined by £300 million (€350 million) compared with 2023, while in-kind gifts rose by £180 million (€208.8 million) in value.\n\nNeil Heslop, CAF chief executive, said: “Corporate giving is not an optional extra. It is a cornerstone of responsible business that employees and customers expect.” He added: “Yet, at a time when charities continue to face severe funding challenges, our research reveals that most British businesses are disengaged from meaningful community investment. Across the country, there are great examples of businesses working hand-in-hand with charities in local areas, and demonstrating that sustained, purposeful giving is certainly achievable.” The charity called on the Government to reintroduce requirements for companies to publicly share their corporate giving to improve transparency and motivate firms to support causes. Mr Heslop said ministers have “a crucial role to play in fostering a renewed culture of giving and encouraging community investment from businesses to the places and communities they are a part of”. Regionally, the North East of England donors 41% while the South East stands at 12%. The Department for Business was contacted for comment.