Saffron Building Society is proud to announce it has reached a significant milestone of £1 million in its endowment fund with Essex Community Foundation (ECF), far exceeding the five-year target set in 2023.
Friday 6 February 2026 09:25 Press release
This remarkable achievement means that the Saffron Community Fund will now be able to make approximately £50,000 worth of community giving in perpetuity, creating a lasting legacy of support for its heartland communities for years to come.
The Saffron Community Fund is managed by ECF. Grants are awarded by a panel made up of both staff and members from Saffron Building Society. Since the Fund was established in 2011 grants totalling over £300,000 have been awarded to a wide range of charities working in Essex, Hertfordshire and Suffolk.
The endowment fund represents Saffron Building Society’s continual commitment to making a meaningful difference in the communities it serves. By reaching this milestone ahead of schedule, the society has demonstrated the strength of its dedication to local charitable causes and community development.
“Reaching £1 million in our endowment fund is a testament to our values as a mutual” said Colin field, CEO at Saffron Building Society. “We’re incredibly proud to have surpassed our five-year target and to know that this fund will continue to support Essex communities now and in the future. This money will create a lasting positive impact across our heartland.”
ECF works to strengthen communities across Essex by connecting donors with local causes and providing grants to charitable organisations that make a real difference to people’s lives.
Caroline Taylor, CEO of ECF said, “Local charities are facing increasing demand at the same time as funding becomes more uncertain. This remarkable achievement shows what’s possible when a socially responsible business takes a long-term view of community investment. Saffron’s endowment is already supporting local charities tackling some of the most pressing challenges in our communities, and it will continue to do so for generations to come.”
The money will enable sustained support for vital community projects, charitable initiatives and local organisations across Essex, Hertfordshire and Suffolk.
Among the groups to receive support from the Saffron Community Fund is DIG-IT Community Allotment who received £3,000 to support a joint food growing and cooking initiative.
Saffron Walden Mencap Society took part in the project. They said, “Dig It are so welcoming, and so passionate about making the site accessible and safe for our members. We leave every session uplifted and educated, happier and healthier. The benefits of time on that small piece of land are immeasurable.”
Other charities that have received support include:
- Hourglass (Safer Ageing) - £2,750 to contribute towards the delivery of a 24/7 helpline for older people at the risk of abuse across Essex
- Kool Carers South East - £2,000 towards activities and trips for young carers in Brentwood
- Red Kite Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Service - £10,200 to provide costs for an organisation which supports survivors of rape and sexual assault across Hertfordshire and Essex
For more information and to apply for funding contact 01245 355947 and visit essexcommunityfoundation.org.uk
