Funding Local Causes

HCF's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement

Hertfordshire Community Foundation believes in the inherent worth of each individual and the right of all individuals to participate in society and to achieve full potential. We recognise that British society is diverse in race, culture, beliefs and lifestyles. This diversity enriches our community.
We recognise, however, that certain groups and individuals face direct or indirect discrimination because of their race, gender, sexual orientation, cultural background, age, class, disability, (political) or religious beliefs or other factors. We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination.

We are committed to opposing all forms of discrimination and to working with and in support of people whose full participation in society is limited by lack of opportunity through discrimination or prejudice or from economic and/or social disadvantage.

The Foundation is an equal opportunities employer. All job applicants and employees have a right to equal opportunities in employment. We aim to ensure that all volunteers have the same rights. The intention is to ensure no applicant, employee, Trustee or volunteer is placed at a disadvantage as a result of discrimination.

The Foundation is committed to making this policy effective in all spheres of its work and structure and, in particular, to taking appropriate action in areas of employment and voluntary work, management & governance, membership, grant making and service delivery. In order to achieve this we will:

  • Ensure that all our physical spaces, communications and events are accessible to individuals with disabilities, fostering an inclusive environment for everyone.

  • Work in partnership with other organisations and stakeholders to promote equity, inclusion, and diversity within our community, enhancing our collective impact.

  • Establish feedback mechanisms to gather input from employees, volunteers, and community members about our equity, inclusion, and diversity efforts. This feedback will help us refine and improve our practices.

  • Provide training and education opportunities for staff, volunteers and Trustees to ensure everyone is committed to upholding these principles.



The Chief Executive is accountable to the Board of Trustees for ensuring that the terms of the equality and diversity policy are appropriate, are adhered to and implemented.

In terms of our grant making, the Foundation welcomes and actively encourages grant applications from all sections of the community. We are pleased to encourage and support charities and voluntary groups working with those who are disadvantaged in any way, in order to help their client group and would be beneficiaries participate fully in society.

This policy will be reviewed and updated regularly to incorporate best practices and address new challenges in equity, inclusion, and diversity.

Approved by Governance Committee: June 2024

Catch up with our latest news

Our latest Annual Review : A year of impact
We’re excited to share our latest Annual Review, showcasing the incredible work made possible by our generous supporters. .
Announcing our new Sustainability Fund
HCF is proud to announce the launch of The Green Herts Sustainability Fund, a new initiative designed to help VCSE (Voluntary, Community, and Social Enterprise) organisations across Hertfordshire take action against climate change and make their operations more environmentally sustainable. .
Annual Training Event: Your Workforce: Your Future
On Wednesday, 25th September 2024, Hertfordshire Community Foundation (HCF) hosted its annual training event Your Workforce: Your Future at the Focolare Centre in Welwyn Garden City. The event brought together local charities from across Hertfordshire for a day of learning, collaboration and networking.
Successful Private Client Networking Lunch
On Thursday, 19 September 2024, HCF held its second Private Client Networking Lunch of the year at the picturesque Serge Hill Project. The event brought together a diverse group of legal, financial, and advisory professionals from across Hertfordshire, fostering collaboration on philanthropic planning and guidance.