The DPO Centre announces the 2026 Charity Fund beneficiaries

Every day, charities and community organisations make a meaningful difference to the lives of people across the UK. This year’s applicants to The DPO Centre’s Charity and Community Fund reflected the breadth, compassion and dedication behind that work. 

Following a thorough review of applications and an independent cross-departmental vote by our charity panel, we are delighted to announce the organisations selected as the latest beneficiaries of our Charity and Community Fund. 

Meet our latest fund winners  

• Battersea Arts Centre – BAC is a creative hub that harnesses the power of art and creativity to inspire positive change for individuals and communities. Through their trailblazing programmes for 11–29-year-olds and various community projects, BAC works to build a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable society.  

• Women’s Aid Luton – By providing safe accommodation and support for women and children escaping domestic abuse, Women’s Aid Luton help survivors rebuild their lives. Alongside their dedicated helpline, they’re committed to raising awareness of domestic abuse and its effects within the community. 

• The Good Shepherd Centre – This Scottish charity supports vulnerable 12-18-year-olds who have experienced trauma or harm. Through specialist care, education, and a range of residential support services, they help young people develop confidence, life skills, and resilience as they prepare for a brighter future. 

• Haig Housing – For almost 100 years, Haig Housing has served the British veteran community with housing needs. Owning over 1,500 properties across the UK, the Trust assists eligible veterans transitioning into civilian life and those simply in need of a helping hand.  

• Carlisle Mencap – This independent charity provides person-centred support to help individuals live fulfilling, active, and inclusive lives. Alongside wellbeing and advocacy support, they deliver respite services and a programme of activities to local children, young people, and adults with learning disabilities. 

• Marches Family Network – Established in 1982, Marches Family Network provides activities, support services, and short breaks for children and young people with disabilities. Their inclusive group sessions help individuals build confidence and develop friendships whilst providing vital respite and support for families. Their inclusive group sessions help individuals build confidence and develop friendships whilst providing vital respite and support for families. 

Lenitha Bishop, CEO of The DPO Centre, said: 

‘Every application we receive is a reminder of the extraordinary work charities and community organisations are doing to support people across the UK. We’re delighted to welcome this latest group of beneficiaries to our Charity and Community Fund and look forward to helping them build strong data protection practices that inspire trust, protect the people they support, and enable them to focus on delivering lasting impact.’ 

Interested in applying for the next round?

The DPO Centre Charity and Community Fund now runs one application round per year. The next round opens on 1 March 2027 and closes on 31 May 2027. 

Eligibility criteria for applying includes: 

• Being a UK-based Charity or Not-for-Profit organisation 
• A management committee made up of at least three unrelated individuals 
• A bank account held in the organisation’s name 
• Willingness to take part in a post-project case study 

Successful applicants receive up to £10,000 worth of consultancy support, contributing just 20% of the standard fee. Organisations that are not selected are welcome to reapply in a future round. 

Read more about The DPO Centre’s Charity and Community Fund. 

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