Four in five high net worth (HNW) individuals (81%) believe it is crucial for advisers to initiate conversations about philanthropy, but only one in three (33%) have experienced such engagement, according to new research.

Almost all (98%) UK HNW individuals are making charitable donations, but few are receiving the advice they would like from their financial adviser on the topic, according to new research from Barclays Private Bank and Wealth Management.

Philanthropy specialist advisers wielded the greatest sizeable giving of HNW individuals (43%), closely followed by tax specialists (34%), family offices (33%) and wealth managers (29%).

A third of HNW individuals had already set up charitable trusts or engaged advisers to help shape their giving.

A quarter had donor-advised funds and similar numbers plan to take these steps soon.

Juliet Agnew, head of philanthropy at Barclays Private Bank and Wealth Management, said: “The view of philanthropy amongst HNWIs 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.

“There is a major opportunity for all kinds of financial advisers to play a more proactive role in guiding and supporting donors. As we approach the great wealth transfer, this is a chance to turn this intent to impact, ensuring that donors have the clarity, confidence and structures they need to make real difference.”

HNWI giving is rising, with median annual donations increasing from £5,500 in 2019 to £12,000 in 2025.

Top causes in 2025 included health and social welfare (supported by nearly 80% of HNWIs), followed by climate and environment (73%) and social justice and development (69%).

The research also showed that the majority of HNW individuals began making charitable donations well before beginning estate planning.

Three quarters (77%) began making sizeable charitable contributions before the £2 million mark, with 51% giving before reaching £1 million.

Barclays Private Bank and Wealth Management surveyed 500 high net worth individuals in March and April. All participants held investible assets of £1 million or more.