5 local charities making a real difference around Devon and Cornwall

Some provide end-of-life care, some respond to life-threatening emergencies, while others support families facing poverty or uncertainty. 

So, continue reading to learn about five local charities making a real difference across the south-west of England.

1. St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth

St Luke’s Hospice Plymouth is a charity very close to our hearts at Hansford Bell. In the past, we’ve supported the organisation by holding a charity quiz night to raise money for its work.

The hospice provides specialist care and support for people with progressive life-limiting illnesses across Plymouth, South-West Devon, and East Cornwall.

Its support can be offered at home, in hospital, and at its specialist unit in Turnchapel.

The charity focuses on dignity, comfort, emotional support, and helping people make the most of the time they have. It also supports families who may be going through one of the hardest periods of their lives.

This kind of care can make a huge difference. For patients, it means being treated with compassion and respect, while for loved ones, it can mean having guidance and reassurance at a time when everything may feel overwhelming.

2. Devon Air Ambulance

Devon Air Ambulance is another charity that many people in the country will recognise, even if they hope they’ll never need its help.

The charity raises the funds needed to keep Devon’s two air ambulances flying and its critical care cars responding to emergencies.

Its helicopters and vehicles help doctors and paramedics reach patients quickly, including in rural and coastal areas.

This can be especially vital across Devon, where road journeys can take time, and some communities are more remote.

From road traffic collisions to medical emergencies in countryside locations, the charity plays an important role in supporting local people and visitors across the county.

3. Devon and Cornwall Food Action

Devon and Cornwall Food Action aims to tackle food poverty across Devon, Plymouth, and Cornwall. The charity was established in 2010 and works to reduce food waste while helping people and families who are struggling.

It does so by collecting surplus food and other goods from industry donations and partners, then redistributing them to individuals, families, and organisations supporting people in need.

This kind of work matters because food poverty can affect many different people. Some may be facing a temporary crisis, while others are dealing with longer-term financial pressures or changes in circumstance.

4. The Wave Project

The Wave Project is a charity that uses surf therapy to support children and young people with their mental health and wellbeing.

Born in Cornwall in 2010, the charity now works across the UK, including in Cornwall and North Devon. Its programmes use the sea, surfing, trained volunteers, and supportive coaching to help young people build confidence, resilience, and social connections.

For children suffering from anxiety, depression, or low confidence, getting into the water can offer something very different from traditional support.

It can give young people a safe space to try something new, feel part of a group, and prove to themselves that they’re more capable than they might think.

5. Cornwall Wildlife Trust

Cornwall Wildlife Trust works to protect the south-west’s wildlife and wild places, both on land and at sea.

The charity has been helping people enjoy and care for nature for more than 60 years. Its work includes managing nature reserves, protecting habitats, supporting conservation projects, and encouraging local people to take action for wildlife in their own communities.

This kind of work is essential as local green spaces, coastlines, and rivers are part of what makes Devon and Cornwall so special.

Whether you volunteer, become a member, or even attend an event, the Cornwall Wildlife Trust could help you feel more connected to your local environment. 

Get in touch

We could help you manage your finances so you can spend more time supporting local charities making a difference.

To find out more, please call us on 01822 617 960, email info@hansfordbell.co.uk, or fill in our online contact form, and we’ll be in touch.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at individuals only.

All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.