For 30 years, Point North has been at the heart of County Durham, working to empower local communities and create meaningful change. Did you know that we’re the accredited community foundation for Tees Valley too?
But what does it mean to be a community foundation, and why is it so important for our region?
Point North is part of a network of community foundations across the UK. At its core, being a community foundation means acting as a bridge: connecting people who care with causes that matter to make our communities better and take care of people when they need it the most.
We bring together those who want to give, whether individuals, businesses, or charitable trusts, with the people and organisations striving to make a difference in the Tees Valley.
As the community foundation for County Durham and Tees Valley, we pride ourselves on addressing local needs, supporting grassroots initiatives, and fostering long-term, sustainable change.
What is a Community Foundation?
A community foundation in the UK is a charitable grant-making organisation focused on supporting a defined geographical area.
This means, we’re a charity and we raise funds through our donors and supporters. We then put those funds back into the local community in the form of grants. Our grants support individuals, voluntary groups and organisations that make a difference in County Durham and Tees Valley.
Each accredited community foundation in the UK Community Foundation (UKCF) network has its own approach and focus, reflecting the region or nation it supports.
Understanding the needs of our community
Tees Valley is a region of contrasts. It’s home to vibrant towns and breathtaking countryside, but it also faces some of the highest levels of deprivation in the country. To create lasting impact, we start by listening.
Point North works closely with local groups and charities to understand the unique challenges faced by communities across Darlington, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland, and Stockton-on-Tees. From tackling food poverty to improving mental health support, we focus on the issues that matter most to the people who live here.
Connecting generosity with opportunity
Community foundations like Point North exist to make it simple for people to give to the local causes they care about.
Not everyone has the time or resources to set up their own charity or manage a complex giving strategy. That’s where we come in.
Point North provides a trusted and effective way for donors to support their community. Whether it’s a family looking to create a legacy, a local business wanting to make a difference, or a national funder seeking local expertise, we make sure that every pound makes the maximum possible impact.
Our aim is to fight poverty and enrich lives in County Durham and Tees Valley.
In practical terms this means we respond quickly and immediately to urgent needs with grants that fight poverty and make today better. While also planning for the future, we support projects and community groups that create opportunities – be that in education, skills development, job readiness. We’re determined that anyone facing poverty in Tees Valley today will have the chance of a brighter tomorrow.
Supporting local changemakers
At the heart of Point North’s work are the small charities, community groups, and social enterprises making a difference, taking care of our communities and offering people hope.
Often, these organisations operate on shoestring budgets, powered by the passion and dedication of local people.
We provide more than just funding. Through grants, advice, and capacity-building support, we help these groups thrive, grow, and create lasting impact. From helping a community centre keep its doors open to funding innovative youth programmes, we ensure that local changemakers have the resources they need to succeed.
"It's a sad reality that 48,648 children in Tees Valley live in poverty. That's enough to fill the Riverside Stadium nearly 1.5 times. A heartbreaking reality that our community faces every day.
Every day, children in Tees Valley face the struggles of poverty: going to school hungry, braving the cold without proper clothing, and missing out on the basics every child needs to learn, grow and dream.
Our mission is to fight poverty today, and enrich lives for tomorrow, so that young people growing up in Tees Valley do not have their future opportunities stolen as a consequence of living in poverty."
Why give to a community foundation?
What sets a community foundation apart is its commitment to place.
At Point North our team are dedicated to the region in which they live, where they grew up and where their children are growing up.
We understand the pride, resilience, and creativity that make our region special, as well as the challenges that hold us back.
This deep connection to our communities drives everything we do. It’s why we’re here for the long term, supporting the people and places that make the region unique.
