Sustained Support, Real Change: The Sedel-Collings Foundation
The Sedel-Collings Foundation is a powerful example of how strategic, long-term philanthropy can transform local lives. Though not widely known, the Foundation’s partnership with the Community Foundation for Surrey (CFSurrey) is enabling lasting support for vulnerable people across the county, including through flagship programmes such as The Mental Health Scale Up Fund and the Surrey Care Leavers Fund.
A Legacy of Giving
Founded in 2006 by Rae Sedel and John Collings, the Sedel-Collings Foundation was created with a clear mission: to strengthen essential community services and support people facing significant barriers. After both founders sadly passed away in 2021, the foundation received a significant part of their wealth, ensuring their philanthropic vision could endure.
Their long-term adviser, Ross, now volunteers his time as a trustee, working alongside three others to manage the foundation’s assets responsibly and in line with Rae and John’s wishes. Their approach prioritises working with Community Foundations across the UK, leveraging local expertise to direct funding where it will have the greatest impact.
Funding Priorities That Address Real Need
The Foundation focuses on issues where even modest grants can be transformative:
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Supporting children and young people transitioning out of care homes, helping them navigate the challenges of independent living.
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Funding initiatives that prevent violence against women and provide support to survivors.
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Strengthening the capacity of charitable organisations by funding support for volunteers through safeguarding, support and supervision.
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Addressing mental health issues among children and young people, providing access to resources and support.
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Focusing on mental health issues specific to men, providing tailored support and resources to improve their wellbeing.
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Preventing suicide by nurturing community connections and providing mental health support.
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Initiatives aimed at reducing loneliness across all age groups, promoting social inclusion and community engagement.
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Offering support services for individuals grieving the loss of a loved one, helping them cope and heal.
Hands-On Philanthropy That Builds Resilient Charities
The trustees regularly visit funded charities to better understand their work, challenges and opportunities. This direct involvement promotes accountability, strong relationships and deeper insight. Ross explains:
“By visiting charities, we gain a sense of how money is being used and the quality of the organisations the foundation supports. This direct engagement nurtures trust and accountability, ensuring that funds make a real difference.”
The focus on smaller charities—where grants can unlock growth, new services and long-term stability—has proven highly effective.
In Surrey, sustained support of £50,000 per year for several organisations has enabled them to plan confidently and scale their services.
A Model for Future Philanthropy
The Foundation’s outlook is pragmatic and compassionate: even in wealthy areas like Surrey, pockets of deep need remain—particularly for young people leaving care and for those struggling with mental health. By filling gaps left by stretched public services, donors like Rae and John help create safety nets that change life trajectories.
Ross reflects on the mindset that shaped the couple’s philanthropy:
“When donating, it’s important not to view it as giving your money away, but as giving back… Community Foundations are a perfect example because it’s like collaborating with a wealth manager – they know how to maximise the impact of your contributions.”
Looking ahead, the Sedel-Collings Foundation aims to continue supporting charities for at least another 15 years, increasingly partnering with other funders and using match-funding to extend its reach. Its continued investment in programmes like the Mental Health Scale Up Fund and the Surrey Care Leavers Fund reflects a deep commitment to ensuring that young people—particularly those without family support—can access the help, opportunities and hope they deserve.
Find out more about the Mental Health Scale Up Fund and the Surrey Care Leavers Fund