FAQs

Will my donation make a difference?
Even relatively small donations to the Edinburgh Fund can be put to very good use. Particularly through our Small Projects Grant scheme we can channel amounts ranging from £100 to £5000 directly to student and staff projects which make a real difference to their work and life here. Other things we have used small donations for include book appeals and student support. What is important is that we have the support of our alumni, at whatever level is comfortable.

How do I know that you will use my money in the way I have indicated?
Using gifts in accordance with donors’ wishes is something we take very seriously. We will send a receipt for your donation and will at the same time confirm that it will be used in the way you have requested. Funds are held in dedicated accounts, and these are an important means of accounting for donations. The Trustees of the Development Trust are legally responsible for ensuring that funds are used in accordance with UK law and they must approve all expenditure. Trustees include some of our most distinguished and respected graduates. An Annual report of the Development Trust’s work is sent to each donor to demonstrate that funds are being spent appropriately.

I give to other charities...why should I give to the University?
Naturally we understand that there are many important charities out there and it is wonderful that you are supporting them as well. Many of our graduates do support a range of charities. We hope that in addition to other important causes you will leave a space for investing in the future of Edinburgh. Even a small contribution can help us provide greater opportunities for a new generation of students.

What is the Development Trust?
The University of Edinburgh Development Trust is a separate body set up by the University Court in 1990 to receive and administer charitable donations to the University. It is run by a group of volunteer Trustees, mainly University graduates, and officers including the President, the Rt. Hon. Sir Malcolm Rifkind. The Trustees ensure that donations are spent in accordance with donors’ wishes.