Why don't charities need royal patrons?

Here are 10 strong arguments on why charities do not need royal patrons:

1. Public Interest Shouldn't Rely on Royal Endorsement

Charities should be valued for their work and impact, not because a royal figure lends them prestige.

2. Modern Fundraising Tools Are More Effective

With social media, crowdfunding, and celebrity influencers, charities now have multiple ways to gain exposure without needing outdated royal backing.

3. Royal Patronage Can Overshadow the Cause

Media focus often shifts from the charity’s mission to the royal’s appearance or personal life, diluting the message.

4. Inconsistent Involvement

Royals often lend their names but appear rarely, providing little meaningful support or engagement in practice.

5. Reinforces Elitism

Linking charities to aristocracy perpetuates the notion that causes are only valid or respectable when approved by the upper class.

6. Charities Should Reflect Democratic Values

Most charities promote equality, fairness, and inclusion — values at odds with a hereditary system rooted in privilege.

7. Undermines Grassroots Leadership

The hard work of charity workers and volunteers is often overshadowed by the symbolic involvement of a royal figure.

8. Risk of Political Sensitivity

Royals are meant to be apolitical, yet their presence can complicate causes that touch on social justice, inequality, or systemic reform.

9. Outdated Symbolism

In a modern, multicultural Britain, royal patronage can feel out of step with the diverse communities many charities serve.

10. Real Support Comes From the Public

Sustainable impact comes from genuine public engagement, donations, and community involvement — not from ceremonial figureheads

Charities can benefit far more from active, relevant, and values-aligned patrons than from symbolic royal figures. Here are several types of patrons that are often more effective:

1. Subject Matter Experts.

2. Celebrities with Genuine Commitment.

3. Influencers and Activists

Digital creators or grassroots campaigners who have real engagement with their followers and are already active in the charity’s area.

4. Local Community Leaders

5. Former Beneficiaries.

6. Business Leaders or Entrepreneurs.

7. Academics and Researchers

If you support a charity with a royal patron (e.g the RSPCA), send a letter to complain about the choice of royal patron and offer alternatives. Let us know if you get any response!