Almost all (98 per cent) UK high net worth individuals (HNWI) are giving money to charity, but only 33 per cent are getting proactive engagement from financial advisers, a report from Barclays Private Bank and Wealth Management has found.

The report highlighted a gap between HNWIs’ expectations of advisers and their actual experiences, with 81 per cent of donors believing it was crucial for advisers to proactively initiate conversations about philanthropy.

While philanthropy specialists wielded the greatest influence on the giving of HNWIs (43 per cent), they were closely followed by tax specialists (34 per cent), family offices (33 per cent), and wealth managers (29 per cent).

Becoming a millionaire was found to be more than just a financial milestone, as 77 per cent of HNWIs in the UK began making sizeable charitable contributions prior to reaching £2m, while 51 per cent were giving before making their first million.

Barclays Private Bank and Wealth Management noted that the findings were set against the backdrop of the ‘great wealth transfer’, with a third (33 per cent) of HNWIs expecting to receive inheritances of £1m or more, which could accelerate philanthropy in the coming years.

Although the report indicated that wealth was a trigger for giving, confidence was the ‘real opportunity’ to unlock philanthropic activity, as many donors felt hesitant to give more because they felt under informed.

Despite this, HNWIs’ philanthropic activity was rising, with median annual donations increasing from £5,000 in 2019 to £12,000 in 2025.

Barclays Private Bank and Wealth Management said organisations that clearly demonstrate mission, credibility, and measurable results were more likely to attract ‘major’ gifts.

Two thirds (66 per cent) of HNWIs were seeking social or environmental impact, with 44 per cent of younger donors (18-34 year olds) requiring evidence of impact before giving large sums, almost double the rate of older donors.

A third (33 per cent) of HNWIs have already set up charitable trusts, including philanthropy in estate plans, or engaged advisers to organise their giving.

A quarter (25 per cent) had donor-advised funds, while a similar proportion planned to take these steps soon, reflecting philanthropy’s growing role as a core element of wealth strategy.

“The view of philanthropy amongst HNWIs in the UK is shifting to become an integral part of wealth planning,” commented Barclays Private Bank and Wealth Management head of philanthropy, Juliet Agnew.

“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.

“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.”

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