Nairn charities may be able to improve their financial resilience through smarter approaches to saving, despite ongoing pressure from rising costs and uncertain income streams, according to new research from Redwood Bank.
A survey found that many charities hold substantial cash reserves, yet almost half lack confidence in their long-term financial stability. The findings point to a disconnect between balances held and the role those funds play in supporting sustainable operations.
While reserves remain a vital safety net, the research highlights an opportunity for charities to make their money work harder. By reviewing where cash is held and exploring more suitable savings options, charities could strengthen resilience without increasing risk or reducing accessibility.
Redwood Bank was named Best Charity Savings Provider at the MoneyComms Top Performers Awards 2026, alongside Best Notice Business Savings Provider, following the publication of its report, “How Smarter Saving Can Strengthen the UK Charity Sector”. The survey found that 69 per cent of UK charities hold over £50,000 in savings, with almost half (46 per cent) holding more than £100,000. When current accounts are included, 84 per cent hold more than £50,000 and 68.5 per cent hold over £100,000.
Despite these substantial balances, charities are under mounting pressure:
80 per cent reported rising day-to-day costs
73 per cent said they struggle to secure stable donations and funding
62 per cent have seen the value of donations decrease
Almost half (49 per cent) lack confidence in their long-term financial stability
One charity said, “We face increases in demand for our services at the same time as our donations are falling. That combination is unsustainable.”
The research also shows that while 81 per cent of charities review their savings at least annually, many still do not seek alternatives that could improve returns. More than half (56 per cent) do not hold a savings account with a second provider, choosing instead to keep their money in a current account, with over a third of these charities citing lack of awareness of the options available.
The survey highlighted what matters most when choosing a savings account. Alongside competitive interest rates (85 per cent), charities value accessibility and withdrawal terms (72 per cent), bank reputation (60 per cent), digital ease (56 per cent) and ethical or social values (51 per cent).
The findings have prompted the specialist bank to draft its first Redwood Research Report, “How Smarter Saving Can Strengthen the UK Charity Sector”, which sets out practical steps to help organisations make their reserves work harder.
Jessica Darrah, Senior Savings Product Manager at Redwood, said, “Charities are working tirelessly to support communities but are often doing so under financial strain and with limited options. Our research shows that while many have substantial reserves, these funds are not always working as hard as they could or should be. When every pound matters, smarter saving strategies could make a real difference to financial resilience.
“As a specialist business bank, we can provide personal service with consistently competitive savings rates. The Bank has been recognised as the Best Business Variable Rate Deposit Account Provider at the Moneyfacts Awards for seven consecutive years, reflecting our commitment to delivering value and clarity for customers.
“Unlike traditional high street banks, we can focus on understanding the specific needs of charities and smaller organisations. Our dedicated savings products and knowledgeable team aim to make saving simpler, more transparent and better suited to the realities of the sector.”
The Ardersier Port Community Benefit Fund is provided by Haventus and is administered by Foundation Scotland. The Fund provides £100,000 per year, rising in line with inflation, for a period of ten years, representing a commitment of more than £1 million to local communities over its lifetime.
The Fund supports charitable activity that enhances quality of life, promotes community spirit and contributes to vibrant, healthy and sustainable communities. It is open to groups and organisations working to benefit people in the community council areas of Ardersier and Petty, Cawdor, Croy and Culloden Moor, and West Nairn and Suburban.
The Fund operates two tiers of grant-making, small grants of between £200 and £1,000, which can be applied for at any time, and large grants of up to £10,000, which are open for applications four times each year. Full details of how to apply, eligibility criteria and guidance are available at: