Talbot Village Trust, a grant-giving charity that supports worthy causes across south-east Dorset, has appointed its first-ever chief executive officer (CEO) as part of plans to increase the charity’s ability to make greater impact with its giving to worthy causes across the area.

Caroline Cooban, who has worked at the Trust since March 2022 as Head of Philanthropy, now leads the registered charity. As CEO, Caroline will work alongside the board of trustees to develop the charity’s long-term strategy to grow the scale and effectiveness of fund giving. The ambition is to deepen the impact and understanding of how the granted funds are making a real difference to individual lives.

Nicholas Ashley-Cooper, chairman of Talbot Village Trust, says: “Caroline’s appointment is hugely significant and comes ahead of plans to further expand our team this year.

“Her role will help us to strengthen our work with our colleagues in local charities and not-for-profit organisations. As a charity, we have recently taken the time to review our processes, practices, and approach to be sure that funds we donate to local causes each year are true to our founding Talbot sisters’ mission and have a direct impact on local people of all ages and abilities.”

Caroline Cooban adds: “I am excited to step into the role of CEO as the charity embarks upon the next phase of its growth journey. The legacy of the Talbot sisters is inspiring and by continuing their exceptional work, our team is helping make a substantial difference to the long-term future of south-east Dorset.

“Through my new role, I am excited to spearhead our combined efforts to address and tackle issues faced by the local community. It remains fundamental that we work in a more coordinated, connected and collaborative way with partners to ensure that we can reduce poverty and inequality in our communities.”

As one of the area’s leading benefactors, Talbot Village Trust supports up to 60 causes each year, with an average grant size of £16,000, awarding grants twice a year to projects promoted by a charity, church, school, college, or university.

Applicants wishing to apply for funding can visit www.talbotvillagetrust.org to find out more information about the charity and how it awards funds.