The Tantum Trust, formerly The Bordon Liphook Haslemere (BLH) Charity, has launched its new look. The Charity was established in 1992 by local businessman Carl Tantum who was later awarded an MBE for his charitable work. Carl’s vision was for a local charity which would support the local community and, since its inception, the Charity has granted £1.25 million to those in need, more than fulfilling the original objective.
Starting out as The Bordon Charity with one shop, more shops subsequently opened in Liphook, Haslemere and finally Grayshott and the name of the charity evolved. Now, to allow for continued growth and expansion, a new ‘umbrella’ name has been chosen and, in recognition of its founder, we are now ‘The Tantum Trust’.
When approached about the suggested name change Carl Tantum commented:
“When asked, I was delighted to agree. It is a great honour. I understand the purpose of the change of name is to re-brand the Charity, to create greater awareness, make its work more effective. In 1992/3 the Bordon Charity Shop contributed some £12,800 for distribution for Charitable purposes. From these humble beginnings the amount given so far back to the Community has grown to £1.25m, an astonishing figure. This is a wonderful testament to the support given by the local Community.
My best wishes to the Charity, its amazing volunteers and staff. The mission today remains the same, effective help to those in need.”
"It is a great honour. I understand the purpose of the change of name is to re-brand the Charity, to create greater awareness, make its work more effective....The mission today remains the same, effective help to those in need.”
Jeremy Bonnett, Chairman of Trustees said:
“The Tantum Trust plays a vital role in supporting individuals and families in areas of Surrey, Hampshire and West Sussex; we are unique in that we run four charity shops in local town centres and all the profits are fed back into those communities. We have very low overheads and rely on a dedicated team of staff and volunteers. Requests for help are submitted by agencies such as Citizens Advice, schools, churches, doctors, Social Services and Local Councils. All information is treated with complete confidentiality.
With forecast difficult times ahead, we aim to continue to give support to those in need and will look to expand our operations to adjacent areas where we think our help will be just as valuable.”
"We are unique in that we run four charity shops in local town centres and all the profits are fed back into those communities."
The majority of the funds raised by The Tantum Trust are generated through sales in our four Charity shops but we are also fortunate to benefit from occasional generous donations received from benefactors. At the same time as making their profits available for the local community, the shops also provide affordable clothes, toys and household items. The Charity thus fulfils not one, but two, essential roles for the local community.
Obviously, none of this could be achieved without the support of the public – those who donate items for sale, those who make financial contributions and those who purchase our goods. We are very grateful to all our donors, customers and to our hardworking staff and volunteers.