Founded in 1979 by Dame Hilary Blume, the Charities Advisory Trust (CAT) is driven by a simple belief: practical, thoughtful ideas can help create a more caring and compassionate world.

We combine practical, innovative thinking with a strong social purpose to create initiatives that support communities and deliver lasting change. We focus on what works in the real world by developing sustainable, effective ideas rooted in dignity and supporting their growth into independent, thriving organisations.

For over 40 years, we have played a key role in shaping charity trading in the UK. Our Current Projects include:

Knit for Peace
Among our flagship and most visible initiatives is Knit for Peace, built on a simple but powerful idea: knitting benefits both the maker and the recipient.

What began as a way to bring together people from different, often divided, communities has grown into a nationwide movement. Today, thousands of volunteers across the UK knit items that are distributed to homeless shelters, refugee centres, hospitals, and humanitarian projects in the UK and overseas.
Each year, tens of thousands of items are given to people in need, offering warmth, dignity, and comfort, while also supporting the wellbeing, purpose and connection of those who make them.
A simple act creating a profound human impact.

Good Gifts
Launched in 2003, Good Gifts offers an imaginative alternative to traditional presents, turning gift-giving into something meaningful and lasting.
Supporters can choose gifts such as goats, solar lights, medical care, or tools and training, each one designed to make a real difference to people’s lives.

Every Good Gift funds exactly what it describes, not a general fund. This commitment to transparency has built deep trust and helped raise millions for charities around the world.

A simple idea that shows how thoughtful giving can create real change.

Learn More:
• https://www.knitforpeace.org.uk/
• https://www.goodgifts.org/

Charities Advisory Trust

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