A Yorkshire businessman has launched a new non-profit platform that connects charities with companies and skilled volunteers offering free support.
Chris Worthington, a father of two from Selby, has created Cause Matcher, a first-of-its-kind online service that allows local charities to post their needs and match with people or businesses ready to lend a hand.
The idea came after Chris spent over two decades working in recruitment. He wanted to give something back to the community but hadn’t found the time. That changed when he realised he could use his experience to bring people and causes together in a new way.
“There are so many charities in Yorkshire that are struggling to keep up with rising costs,” Chris said. “Rather than asking for money, we’re asking people to offer their time or skills, which can sometimes be even more valuable.”
Recent research shows the scale of the challenge: one in five UK charities has cut services due to cost pressures. In Yorkshire alone, over 22,000 charities operate, and many of them face rising demand. In 2024, more than a quarter of people in the region turned to small charities for support.
Cause Matcher hopes to ease the pressure. From IT and marketing to trades like plumbing and electrics, the platform helps charities find the support they need to keep going.
Almost 20 Yorkshire-based organisations and volunteers are already on board, with more joining each week. Chris believes it’s just the start.
“Our goal is for Cause Matcher to become the go-to tool for forming meaningful partnerships between businesses and local charities,” he said. “If we do it right, it could deliver millions of pounds worth of help where it’s needed most.”
To find out more, sign up a charity or volunteer your services, visit www.causematcher.com.
