“I have been proud to serve as Patron of the Community Foundations for Lancashire and Merseyside for nearly twenty years. During that time, I have seen the extraordinary impact that informed, place‑based giving can have on people’s lives.

I know from personal experience how powerful that connection to place can be. I was brought up in Sefton and while my career has taken me far beyond the area I grew up in, my connection to where I come from has never left me. Those early years shape who we become, and they also shape our sense of responsibility to give something back.

Throughout my life, as a lawyer, a campaigner, and through the work of the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, I’ve seen how targeted support can create opportunity, particularly for those who might otherwise be left behind.

Community Foundations are uniquely placed to do exactly that. They understand local challenges, they know where support will make the greatest difference, and they ensure that generosity leads to lasting change. These are characteristics of CFLM that many of you here today will endorse. Your continued support reflects real confidence in CFLM as a trusted long‑term steward of your capital and philanthropic aims.

Together, we can ensure that the places which gave us so much continue to offer opportunity and hope to the next generation. Thank you for your commitment, and for being part of this important conversation.

Community Foundations are uniquely placed to do exactly that. They understand local challenges, they know where support will make the greatest difference, and they ensure that generosity leads to lasting change. These are characteristics of CFLM that many of you here today will endorse. Your continued support reflects real confidence in CFLM as a trusted long‑term steward of your capital and philanthropic aims.

Together, we can ensure that the places which gave us so much continue to offer opportunity and hope to the next generation. Thank you for your commitment, and for being part of this important conversation.”