The family of late Dorset resident Vivien Helen Barnard wanted to use her estate to benefit grass roots groups and charities across the county.

They chose us because of our knowledge of the need across the area and the grooups who are addressing it. Thanks to her generosity, £49,500 was awarded to 16 groups addressing causes including hunger, disability, loneliness, youth aspiration, literacy and carer respite.

“Vivien died last year and her sister Susan told us she was passionate about the community in Dorset so she felt setting up this fund in her name was a way of honouring that,” said community foundation director Grant Robson.

“We are very proud that Vivien’s family chose us to honour what she would have wanted done with her estate and it’s a perfect example of local giving in action. These grants are relatively small on their own but together they will make a world of difference to hundreds and hundreds of older, younger and isolated people facing a whole range of problems.

“I’d love to talk to anyone about a legacy or starting a fund with us, we can tailor it exactly to their needs and wants and really help them make a lasting impact on their community.”