Save the Children was named the Large Fundraising Charity of the Year at the Institute of Fundraising Awards, while Youthscape won the small charity of the year.
John Baguley, founder of the International Fundraising Consultancy, won the lifetime achievement award.
Save the Children won after rolling out a number of intiatives over the year, including a Supporter Promise clearly outlining their guarantee to supporters and a new supporter-focused telephone marketing approach. The charity was also praised for its approach to corporate partnerships.
Youthscape, a small Luton-based community organisation, transformed itself into a national youth charity through a fundraising campaign that raised £3.2m between 2013 and 2016.
The award winning fundraising campaign included raising individual donations, running fundraising events, building commercial partnerships and working with grantmaking organisations. The funds covered the costs of the purchase and renovation of an Edwardian steam mill in the heart of Luton.
Peter Lewis, chief executive of the Institute of Fundraising, said: “We have been celebrating fundraisers’ achievements at the National Fundraising Awards for 26 years and each year the dedication, passion, and commitment they continue to demonstrate is inspirational.
“We should all be very proud of everything we achieve as the fundraising community, and celebrate the contribution we make to society.”
Full list of winners
Best Business-Charity Partnership - The Challenge & Starbucks
Fundraising Charity of the Year - Large - Save The Children
Fundraising Charity of the Year - Small - Youthscape
Most Committed Company to the Sector - Bates Wells Braithwaite
Best Legacy or In-Memoriam Campaign - Friends of the Earth
Most Innovative Fundraising Campaign - Durham Cathedral
Best Individual Giving Campaign - WaterAid Christmas Appeal – Deliver Life
Best Fundraising Newcomer - Martha Huntley
Best Use of Digital - Macmillan Cancer Support
Best Use of Events - The Outward Bound Trust & Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity
Best Use of Insight - Macmillan Cancer Support
Best Young Fundraiser - Isabella Field
The Gill Astarita Fundraiser of the Year - Chris Curtis
Lifetime Contribution Award - John Baguley
Best Volunteer Fundraiser - Julie Guthrie
