Willans and accountancy firm Hazlewoods have advised on the successful launch of Fund Gloucestershire, a new registered charity providing a technology platform designed to make it easier for Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) organisations and community groups across the county to access funding.
Founded by charity trustee Paul Hooper and former Barnwood Trust CEO Sally Byng, Fund Gloucestershire acts as an intermediary between Gloucestershire’s VCSE and funders of all kinds, including local authorities, charitable foundations and private donors through its online platform.
“The platform is for anyone who wants to give money to the voluntary sector as well as those looking to apply for funding,” says Hooper, who is a trustee of Barnwood Trust, Hope for Tomorrow and Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust.
“We’re working to make access to funding simpler, faster and more efficient. By simplifying the process of applying for and distributing funding, we want to ensure every £1 donated has the greatest possible impact, with as much of it as possible going directly towards delivering services in Gloucestershire.”
Willans’ charity law specialist Charlotte Cowdell advised on the charity’s legal structure and supported the registration of Fund Gloucestershire as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). She also guided the charity through the Charity Commission application process, advised on governance requirements and helped ensure the governing document reflected the charity’s objectives and future operations.
“Helping charities establish strong legal and governance foundations from the outset is incredibly important,” says Cowdell. “It has been a pleasure to support Paul and Fund Gloucestershire as the organisation has developed, and it’s fantastic to see the platform now live and connecting charities with funding opportunities.”
Reflecting on the support he received, Hooper says: “Charlotte’s expertise in charity law and her understanding of the sector have been invaluable in helping us get to where we are today. Good legal advice is essential, particularly as the Charity Commission’s requirements continue to evolve.”
“We also believe in supporting local organisations wherever we can, which is why we’ve worked with Willans and Hazlewoods.”
Hazlewoods supported Fund Gloucestershire in the initial planning for the charity and the associated accounting implications. Martin Howard, audit partner of Hazlewoods, said: “At our initial meeting with Paul, it was immediately apparent what a great idea this was, and how powerful it could be for the funding landscape in Gloucestershire. We are pleased to have played a part in the establishment of Fund Gloucestershire and are confident Paul and the team will be very successful in delivering the vision.”
With the platform live as of September 2026, Fund Gloucestershire is focused on growing its network of funders and helping more VCSE organisations and community groups across the county access the funding they need to deliver vital services. To find out more, visit: www.fundglos.org.uk
