The Ross Foundation

The Ross Foundation (charity number 1121871) is a UK-based nonprofit organisation dedicated to supporting projects that provide greater access to the arts and education, particularly for children and young people. Established in 2007, the foundation operates predominantly through grant-making to charitable organisations and individuals throughout England and Wales.

Mission and Activities

The foundation's core belief is that every child and young person possesses talents and passions that should be nurtured. It aims to help them discover and develop their strengths by offering a wide range of world-class educational opportunities. The Ross Foundation primarily focuses on arts, community, education, music, and sport, with a strong emphasis on enabling disadvantaged people to participate fully in society.

The charity supports various organisations and initiatives across artistic disciplines including music, theatre, and visual arts. A notable example is its role as the major sponsor of Nevill Holt Opera, an opera festival providing young people with access to high-quality arts experiences.

In addition to the arts, the foundation sponsors the David Ross Education Trust, which manages a network of 33 unique and diverse schools and academies. This partnership underscores the foundation’s commitment to increasing student participation in quality sports, delivering competitive sports opportunities, and supporting talented individuals aiming for elite sports success.

Geographical Focus and Impact

While the Ross Foundation operates nationally, many of its activities concentrate on regions connected to its founder, David Ross. The foundation prioritises projects with lasting impact, ensuring meaningful benefits to the communities they serve. Since inception, it has donated over £32 million to various charitable causes.

Governance and Financials

The foundation is governed by a board of six trustees and operates as a private company limited by guarantee without share capital. It engages primarily in grant-making and charitable activities, with its reported total income for the financial year ending March 2023 being approximately £2.16 million, mostly from donations and legacies. Charitable expenditure in the same period amounted to about £2.07 million, supporting its diverse initiatives in education, arts, and sport.

History and Incorporation

Originally incorporated as The David Ross Foundation in July 2007, the organisation changed its name to The Ross Foundation in August 2021. It continues to operate from its registered office in London.

Summary

The Ross Foundation is a significant philanthropic organisation in the UK, championing arts and education access for young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Through substantial funding, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to sustainable community impact, it plays a vital role in enriching cultural and educational opportunities across England and Wales.

[1] http://www.davidrossfoundation.co.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1121871&subid=0 [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4036130/what-who-how-where [4] http://www.davidpeterjohnross.com/research.html [5] https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/06300768