Record-breaking year for fundraising platform as most generous names revealed

David and Sarah are the most generous names in the UK, according to charity donation data. Annual figures from JustGiving reveal that people called David donated over £8.5 million to good causes in 2025, while those named Sarah took the crown as the most frequent donors - clocking up more than 233,000 donations.

People named John, Paul and James also ranked among the most big-hearted contributors, each donating over £6 million through the platform, while Sarahs collectively gave just over £5.7 million overall. And when it comes to backing fundraising pages, Davids featured prominently again - supporting fundraisers and good causes on over 217,000 occasions. James, Emma and Paul followed closely behind, each making over 169,000 individual donations.

Overall, it has been a record-breaking year for giving with one million fundraising pages created and over 18 million donations made to UK charities via JustGiving in 2025.

Leeds was crowned the most generous city, with donations high enough to equal every resident giving £7.88 each, driven by one in six locals (18%) using the platform.

Edinburgh came next with donations averaging £7.09, followed by Leicester at £6.55 and Bristol at £6.28. London ranked eighth with an average donation of £4.50 - though the capital still contributed more than £44 million in total.

Pascale Harvie, president and general manager of JustGiving, said: "This year, which saw us celebrate our 25th anniversary, has been nothing short of extraordinary for charitable giving.

"People across the UK continue to dig deep for loved ones' fundraisers and causes close to their hearts.

"We've seen countless examples of communities rallying together when it matters most, and it's a powerful reminder that generosity remains a defining part of who we are."

The fundraising platform also revealed 73 million miles were logged via fitness apps by fundraisers taking on running, walking, swimming and cycling fitness challenges in 2025, with £164 million raised by runners alone.

This year, the platform recorded its biggest-ever day for charitable running events, with the London and Manchester Marathons happening on the same day and generating over £45 million in donations.

Elsewhere, nearly 3,000 people shaved their heads for charity raising £2.7 million, while nearly 500 world record attempters raised over £1.2m. In addition, schools across the UK contributed over £31 million in total through their charitable endeavours.

A poll of 2,000 UK adults went on to explore charitable ambitions for 2026, revealing one in four (26%) are likely to set themselves a fundraising goal in the New Year.

And 28% hope to donate more to charity than they did in 2025, while 31% are keen to take on a fundraising challenge next year.

Health and medical research (38%), animal welfare (32%), and children or education causes (31%) are the top categories Brits plan to support.

These were followed by mental-health support (30%), homelessness and housing (29%), and environmental causes (21%).

When it comes to motivation, 30% said they'd be inspired to donate to a charity they've never supported before after seeing real stories of the people helped.

More than a fifth (22%) added friends and family donating or fundraising would spur them on, while the same number said urgent news coverage would also prompt action.

And with the festive season fast approaching, 46% of those polled via OnePoll believe the best way to give back at Christmas is by donating toys, clothes or food to families in need.

A further 41% reckon supporting a local charity or cause is one of the most meaningful ways to make a difference during the holidays.

Pascale Harvie from JustGiving added: "It's incredibly exciting to see so many people eager to step up their fundraising and charitable giving in 2026.

"That level of enthusiasm is what keeps vital causes going - whether you're planning a challenge, supporting a friend or simply giving what you can, every act of kindness adds up.

"If you're not sure where to start, think about a cause that is personal to you or a loved one, and find small or big ways you can show your support.

"And remember, you don't need to run an ultra-marathon to make a difference, every small act of generosity amounts to having a profound impact."