National FASD received a large private donation
This donation frees up our Chief Executive’s time to focus on widespread impact and will help us bring in more funds to achieve our mission
A focus on prevention
National FASD was honoured to receive a generous private donation recently from our long-term supporter John Bothamley.
John previously supported National FASD via the Four Acre Trust (which closed its doors in 2023). His philanthropy has focused on giving children and young people a better start in life and encouraging small charities to become more sustainable.
His support for National FASD has focused on the prevention side of the work we do, and that continues with his recent donation.
John is a strategic thinker. He encourages those he supports to think ahead too, including taking steps to move toward greater financial stability while recognising the challenging times.
Helping National FASD meet its strategic goals
With this donation, and in line with some key aspects of the organisation’s draft five-year strategy, the intention is for National FASD
- to become more sustainable by widening its funding base,
- to continue to make high level connections to help us bring in further funding to help us achieve our prevention goals through an innovative new programme with pubs, bars and restaurants that is under development,
- to develop a new university toolkit for student midwives will ensure new midwives have the latest information on NICE Quality Standard 204 and will provide resources so they can use the latest non-judgemental techniques in discussing the risks of alcohol and pregnancy. It will also help us bring in additional funds,
- to help support collaborative working in the sector, through serving as the secretariat for the FASD UK Alliance.
A donation designed to have impact
“This is such an important cause and an organisation that is doing rather well. The reason why I have given this chunky donation is because I want to inspire others to do the same.”
John Bothamley
"National FASD trustees’ recent review of our strategy showed both how important and impactful our work is and the need for resources if we are to continue to be an effective voice in the field: John’s generous contribution will allow us to take significant steps to further improve the effectiveness and impact of our small team."
Alasdair Bovaird, acting chair
“John has been a friend to the National Organisation for FASD over many years. With each conversation he challenges and supports us to solidify and grow. He understands the urgency and importance of our mission, and we are grateful for his insights and support. John has put forward a challenge with this donation. If anyone out there knows of supporters who might wish to join him and others in contributing to our critical mission and who have the means to help us financially – please do reach out.”
Sandy Butcher, Chief Executive
Please consider a donation of your own
National FASD hopes that if you too value our work, you might consider either a one-off or a regular donation. As we seek to move UK-wide policy on FASD Prevention and Response, we need your support now more than ever. If you would like to support our work, we accept donations in a variety of ways.

