About Emma
Giving with thought, care and intention
I’m Emma Beeston, an independent philanthropy advisor. I help individuals, families and family foundations make informed decisions about their giving and put them into practice.
Philanthropy offers opportunities to support inspiring people and organisations working for change. It also brings difficult choices. You may know what you care about but be unsure where to focus, how best to contribute or how to involve your family. My role is to help you work through those questions with care and confidence.
Respect is at the heart of my work
What guides my work is respect in two directions.
It means listening carefully to you: understanding your values and goals, and offering the options, ideas, information and challenge you need to make decisions that feel right for you.
It also means respecting the expertise and effort of the people and organisations working for social good, and the communities they serve. Good intentions matter, but so does taking the time to understand the world you hope to make a difference in.
That is why I don’t begin with a preferred cause or a ready-made list of charities. I help you explore what matters to you, learn from the people working in the areas you care about and bring those perspectives together in a practical approach to giving.
Experience from both sides of giving
My background is in the UK charity sector. Before establishing my independent consultancy in 2015, I spent more than 20 years working in charities and grant-making, including managing programmes for BBC Children in Need and Lloyds Bank Foundation.
That experience shapes the advice I give today. I understand the choices facing someone who wants to give well, and the realities for organisations doing the work. Part of my role is to be a bridge between those worlds: helping you navigate an unfamiliar landscape, connect with relevant people and expertise, and decide how you can contribute.
Alongside my client work, I teach on Master’s programmes in philanthropy and train professional advisors. I am a recommended Philanthropy Advisor in the Spear's 500, an accredited member of P150 and the National Network of Consultants to Grant-Makers, a certified Impact Philanthropy Advisor and a 21/64-trained facilitator for multi-generational families.
Working with me
I work closely with a small number of clients each year, so I can give each relationship the time and attention it deserves.
Our work begins with a conversation. You don’t need to arrive with a plan or know exactly what help you need. I’ll take time to understand your situation, ask questions and help you consider a way forward.
Some clients need space to think; others need research, introductions, support with decisions or help putting a plan into action. My role can change as your philanthropy develops. Throughout, you can expect independent advice, discretion and an honest conversation, including thoughtful challenge when it will help you give more effectively.
My book and ideas
I co-wrote Advising Philanthropists: Principles and Practice with Professor Beth Breeze. You can also explore my articles and interviews for further perspectives on philanthropy and the practice of giving well.
Start with a conversation
You don’t need to arrive with a plan or all the answers. Book a free, confidential 30-minute consultation with me to talk about what’s brought you here and explore whether I can help.