Standing with our community: Action Foundation named Charity of the Year 2026

Standing with our community: Action Foundation named Charity of the Year 2026

We are immensely proud of our North East roots and are committed to giving back to our local community. Our commitment takes many forms, including charitable support, mentoring schemes, sponsorships and volunteering. Supporting causes that make a meaningful difference across the region remains a core part of our culture and values at Hay & Kilner.

Charity of the Year 2026
Following a firm-wide vote, Hay & Kilner has selected Action Foundation as its Charity of the Year for 2026.

Based in Newcastle, Action Foundation supports refugees and people seeking asylum by providing safe accommodation, education and integration services, helping individuals and families rebuild their lives in the North East. The charity plays a vital role in offering practical support and long-term opportunities to some of the most vulnerable members of our community.

Action Foundation was chosen by colleagues after being nominated and shortlisted through a staff-led process, with the final decision made via a firm-wide vote.

Bethany Herbertson, Associate in the Dispute Resolution Team and Chair of Hay & Kilner’s CSR Committee, said:

“We are delighted to be partnering with Action Foundation this year. Their work in supporting those building their lives in the North East is so important for a strong and prosperous community, and reflects H&K’s commitment to supporting and giving back to our local community. We look forward to another year of dedicated fundraising and awareness raising.”

As part of our fundraising and awareness-raising efforts in 2026, a number of activities are already being planned. These include a challenge organised by our Trainees, where volunteers will commit to walking 100 miles over the course of a month. This will feature a group walk to Whitley Bay and back, the equivalent distance of a marathon – giving colleagues the chance to come together while supporting a fantastic cause.

We are also planning an event in coordination with the Women’s Lawyers Division to mark International Women’s Day and plan to run a donation drive during Refugee Week to further support Action Foundation’s work.

A spokesperson from Action Foundation said:

“Support from organisations like Hay & Kilner makes a huge difference to our work. Not only does it help us raise vital funds to continue providing accommodation, education and integration services, but it also shines a light on the experiences of refugees and people seeking asylum in our region. We’re incredibly grateful to be chosen as Hay & Kilner’s Charity of the Year and look forward to working together throughout 2026.”

By partnering with Action Foundation, we are proud to support a charity that aligns closely with our values and our commitment to making a positive impact in the region.

If you would like to find out more about Action Foundation or support their work, please visit their website https:// or keep an eye on our updates throughout the year as fundraising activities get underway.

If you would like to make a donation, head to our donation page.