Insights from our response to COVID-19

In this Insights report, we summarise how we responded and what we learned about ourselves as a funder as well as what organisations we support have told us about how they've managed and some of the risks they now face.

To download the report, click the download link in the top left-hand corner. You can also download it from here.

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been focused on supporting organisations we fund. This report reflects on our 545 Fast Response Grants and draws together learning from 323 organisations we support.

Let us know what you think

If there is anything that resonated or seems wrong to you we would love to hear about it.  Get in touch by emailing us at: communications@esmeefairbairn.org.uk.

Latest

You might be interested in

  • MULTISTORY_ENDZ_jul22_1G4A1274

    Pre-application Q&A webinar: 5 February 2026

    We're hosting a pre-application Q&A webinar on 5 February at 2pm to 3.15pm for organisations interested in applying to Esmée for support who have questions about our application process or guidance.

    Read more
  • Groups of people convened by Esmée Fairbairn Foundation and Civic Square sat around tables having a discussion.

    Acting on feedback: what we’ve done in 2025

    After hearing your feedback, we’re sharing the actions we’ve taken in 2025 to improve our processes, make our guidance clearer, and support a more inclusive approach.

    Read more
  • Attendees at The Gathering to discuss No Recourse to Public Funds - event hosted by Migration Exchange

    People seeking asylum in the UK deserve safety and dignity

    Read our statement reiterating our support to organisations welcoming and supporting refugees in the UK. We also share responses from the sector about how the government's proposals on the asylum system will impact people.

    Read more