The Royal Free Charity
The Royal Free began as a pioneering organisation and we continue to play a leading role in the care of our patients. Their mission is to provide world class expertise and local care.
Established in 1828 by William Marsden, a newly qualified surgeon shocked that he could not find treatment for a penniless young woman, they were the first hospital to provide free care and the only London hospital to stay open during the 19th-century cholera epidemics. In the 21st century, they continue to lead improvements in healthcare and are proud to have some of the best clinical outcomes in the country.
The Royal Free Charity supports the hospitals, NHS staff, patients and researchers who make up the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust.
What we did for them
The Royal Free Charity was seeking to raise the funds for a new £30m Institute of Immunology, Virus and Transplantation. We researched their feasibility study, which is a key stage in any capital appeal. The feasibility study set out not only the possible sources of funds from grant-making agencies, wealthy individuals and companies, but also a clear fundraising strategy and realistic action plan to ensure that Royal Free would have the best possible chance of raising the funds it needs.
Our researchers came up with long lists of possible sources in each category, with the contact details, the reasons for inclusion and with individuals their wealth. We also interviewed key people in the charity and the NHS trust to give us important background information and developed a draft 'case for support' and set out a detailed, scheduled and costed strategy.
Then continued advising the Royal Free Charity on developing their committee structure and cultivation events to help them create relationships with potential donors, including a Royal reception at St. James' Palace. The appeal was a success and the new centre was officially opened in 2021.