A study from Barclays Private Bank and Wealth Management¹ found that for high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), reaching certain wealth milestones often triggers charitable giving. Based on responses from 500 HNWIs, 77% began making significant charitable donations after surpassing £2m in personal wealth, while 51% started giving before reaching £1m. With a third of respondents expecting inheritances of £1m or more, philanthropic activity is likely to accelerate in the years ahead. 

Head of Philanthropy at Barclays Private Bank and Wealth Management, Juliet Agnew, commented on the findings, “The view of philanthropy amongst HNW individuals in the UK is shifting to become an integral part of wealth planning. As the research shows, once individuals reach key milestones in their wealth journey, they increasingly want their money to carry meaning as well as value.” 

Inheritance Tax (IHT) receipts show no signs of slowing, with the latest HM Revenue & Customs² data revealing continued year-on-year growth. Between April and September 2025, IHT receipts totalled £4.4bn, around £100m more than during the same period in 2024, representing a 2.3% increase. If the current pace continues, total receipts for the 2025/26 tax year could reach approximately £8.8bn, setting yet another record. Looking ahead, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) forecasts that IHT revenues could potentially rise to £14bn by the end of the decade. 

¹Barclays, 2025, ²HMRC, 2025 

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