Why philanthropy matters for lawyers and their clients
The landscape is shifting: 87% of next-generation heirs choose a different advisor to their parents, and young investors are twice as likely as boomers to seek advisors who understand charitable and social impact planning. For lawyers, confidence in philanthropy is no longer optional. It is an important part of attracting and retaining high‑net‑worth individuals and younger clients who want their wealth to reflect their values as well as their financial goals.
OCF: your local philanthropy partner
OCF is Oxfordshire’s leading charitable funder, distributing around £2 million each year to grassroots and community organisations. We have deep insight into local needs and long‑standing relationships with thousands of small charities working across the county.
By partnering with OCF, lawyers can help bridge the gap between their clients’ philanthropic ambitions and the real needs of local communities. We support a wide range of giving options, including:
- Charitable legacies
- In‑memoriam giving
- One‑off or regular donations
- Donor‑advised funds
- Collective and themed funds
All approaches are designed to be tailored, tax‑efficient and aligned with individual client goals.
Flexible, hassle-free solutions
For clients who may be considering establishing a charitable trust, OCF’s donor-advised funds offer a simpler, more flexible alternative. These ring-fenced funds are managed by OCF, with all administration, governance and reporting handled on the client’s behalf. This approach removes the burden of ongoing management, safeguards against dormancy and ensures proactive succession planning – making philanthropy accessible and sustainable over time.
OCF also works with legal professionals to revitalise dormant trusts, unlocking assets that might otherwise remain unused, and directs them back into the community. Our collective funds enable multiple donors – businesses, philanthropists and other funders – to pool resources and address local priority issues with greater scale and impact.
Added value for your clients
Professional advisors who work with OCF gain access to specialist philanthropic expertise that strengthens their client offering. As Steve Marker, Chartered Financial Planner, explains:
“The service that community foundations offer is the perfect complement to my firm’s own services. It’s made such a difference to have a philanthropy expert on the team – and OCF make the whole process hassle-free and human for clients.”
Let’s work together
By partnering with OCF, lawyers can enhance their client service, add meaningful value to their offering and help clients build a lasting legacy in Oxfordshire.