INTERVIEW: ‘This is what Agents Giving fundraising gives back to me!’

Main pic: Driving forces behind Agents Giving: Vikki Girton, David Newnes (Chairman) and Yvonne Martin.

In an interview with The Neg, Yvonne tells us what attracted her to be part of Agents Giving, how the organisation only amplifies the generosity of the property sector and expectations for the future.

With your extensive experience in charity work, what attracted you specifically to this organisation and its mission to engage agents? 

“Agents Giving was founded to help counter the negative public perception of estate agents, often portrayed unfairly in the media as simply profiting from their clients. The charity set out to showcase the remarkable generosity of the property industry and the incredible work agents were already doing to support charitable causes, both locally and nationally.

“When I was invited to take a leading role within Agents Giving, I was genuinely inspired. Here was an opportunity to amplify the positive contributions being made by agents—contributions that often go unnoticed.

It was clear that agents were raising substantial funds for numerous charities, but this work lacked coordinated visibility.”

“Prior to Agents Giving, it was clear that agents were raising substantial funds for numerous charities, but this work lacked coordinated visibility. Agents Giving created a platform to shine a light on these efforts, uniting agents under one banner and helping them make an even bigger impact. It’s deeply rewarding to be part of a movement that not only elevates their reputation but also makes a real difference in people’s lives.”

What sort of feedback do you receive from estate and letting agents who choose to get involved with Agents Giving? 

“The feedback we receive is overwhelmingly positive. For many agents, charitable initiatives have become a cornerstone of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, helping them forge stronger connections with their local communities. Agents tell us that participating in campaigns not only improves their external reputation but also strengthens team morale and workplace culture.

“There’s something incredibly powerful about a team coming together to host a charity event or organise donations. It builds camaraderie, fosters a sense of purpose, and reminds everyone of the value of giving back.

“Beyond this, agents often find that their involvement in charity work attracts positive attention from clients and local businesses. It sets them apart as community-focused organisations, which enhances trust and strengthens their brand. Charitable initiatives can also be a unique way to engage with clients, suppliers, and community groups, creating long-term relationships that benefit both the business and those they serve.”

What have been some of the most memorable or rewarding moments in your career, and how have they shaped your approach to supporting charitable initiatives within the property industry?

I’ve been fortunate to receive recognition for my work, and while I’m deeply honoured, the most rewarding moments always come from the events and initiatives themselves. Being part of campaigns like Do It For Dom, where I witnessed agents and suppliers take on extraordinary personal challenges to raise funds, has been truly humbling. These moments bring together like-minded individuals, all united by a common goal to help others, and they are incredibly inspiring.

Personally, taking on challenges myself and working side by side with agents who go above and beyond has shaped how I approach charity work. It’s about collaboration, passion, and understanding that even small efforts, when united, can create enormous positive change. The property industry is full of individuals with big hearts, and my role is to ensure their efforts are supported, celebrated, and maximised.

A soar in stocking donations

With the cost of living soaring and food banks bracing for the worst winter yet, the Agents Giving Christmas & Winter Stocking campaign has been in full flow again, supporting local food banks, churches and community collections in the run up to Christmas.

The campaign is supported by the likes of Drivers & Norris, Paramount, Loporto Browne Residential, Walton & Mair, TDS, Dawsons, Relocation Agent Network, M & M Estate & Letting Agents, Thomas Charles Lettings, eXpUk and National Home Move.

Are you anticipating a substantial increase in donations this year? 

“Absolutely, the cost of living crisis is placing immense pressure on families across the UK, with rising energy bills and food costs pushing many into hardship. Unfortunately, this winter is set to be particularly challenging for vulnerable individuals, especially the elderly and families struggling to provide for their children.

“Agents Giving’s Christmas & Winter Stocking Campaign has been running successfully for several years now, and we’re seeing incredible support again this year. Agents across the country are stepping up, opening their offices as donation hubs for winter coats, food supplies, and Christmas gifts. These donations go directly to homeless shelters, food banks, and charities supporting children who might otherwise wake up to nothing on Christmas morning.

“The response from the industry has been overwhelming. We are seeing more agents, suppliers, and networks coming together to make a difference, and I fully expect a significant rise in donations this year as people recognise the urgent need. It’s a testament to the generosity and community spirit of the property sector.”

As the property industry continues to evolve, what strategic role do you envision Agents Giving playing in shaping the future? 

“Agents Giving is well-positioned to be a driving force for positive change within the property industry as it evolves. Sustainability, community engagement, and CSR are no longer optional—they’re essential for businesses that want to thrive in the modern market.

“Our role is to inspire, facilitate, and support agents to embed these principles into their daily operations. Whether it’s partnering with local charities, participating in green initiatives, or running campaigns that directly support their communities, we want to provide the tools and encouragement to make this part of their business DNA.

By aligning their operations with Agents Giving’s mission, agents can make a meaningful impact while positioning their businesses for long-term success.”

“Agents who integrate these values into their practices benefit in multiple ways. Not only does it strengthen their reputation and enhance their appeal to clients, but it also creates deeper, lasting connections within the communities they serve. By aligning their operations with Agents Giving’s mission, agents can make a meaningful impact while positioning their businesses for long-term success in an increasingly socially conscious market.”

This interview is in association with Assist Inventories.