Skip to main content
Search

CharitEpulse: Mergers, money and motivation

Date: 03 October 2025

CharitEpulse: Mergers, money and motivation

In this episode of CharitEpulse, the trio discuss:

  • A new style of charity merger?: Two leading food charities have announced a merger, underscoring the operational and reputational challenges involved, from staffing and fundraising pressures to the need for decision-making that prioritises the interests of the newly formed organisation.
  • Are charities paying the living wage?: New analysis from the Living Wage Foundation reveals that low pay in the charity sector has increased from 10% to 12%, now exceeding public sector levels but still below the private sector and national average, raising concerns about workforce sustainability.
  • Governance – what do trustees think?: Research by the Association of Chairs highlights divisions among trustees on remuneration and a growing focus on improving board performance, with calls for clearer guidance on behaviours, values, and governance standards.
  • Prize draws – are they encouraging gambling?: Fundraising models like Omaze are under scrutiny for their resemblance to gambling and potential impact on young and vulnerable audiences. While they raise substantial funds, concerns persist around regulation, reputational risk, and the ethical responsibilities of charity partners.

Listen time: 27 minutes

Catch-up with all the CharitEpulse episodes here or subscribe via the platforms below:

apple podcasts logoSpotify logo Spotify logo

 


For questions, feedback, or to suggest topics you’d like the trio to explore in upcoming episodes, please email claire.whiteman-haywood@quiltercheviot.com in the Charities team.

Speakers

Charles Mesquita

Charities Director

Catherine Rustomji

Partner at Shakespeare Martineau

James Saunders

Partner at Moore Kingston Smith

Subscribe to trustEnews

Are you a trustee of a charity, or simply interested in the sector? Our monthly newsletter helps charities and trustees keep on top of news and regulations that may affect them.

Subscribe to trustEnews

The value of your investments and the income from them can fall and you may not recover what you invested.