Association of NHS Charities

They fund a wide range of health and wellbeing causes, including physical health, mental health and community resilience. Specific programme priorities include volunteering that improves patient and staff experiences and outcomes, unlocking the power of communities to prevent and respond to crises and emergencies, supporting NHS workforce wellbeing, increasing and improving green spaces for health benefit, and innovative activity to reduce health inequalities for children and young people. All programmes operate across the UK, with a focus on reducing pressures on NHS services and improving outcomes for patients, staff and local communities.

Applications are primarily made by member NHS charities, who then distribute grants to partner organisations. Other organisations, including registered charities, social enterprises and community groups, can participate as partners alongside a lead member charity. The funder supports projects that benefit the general public, with specific programmes targeting children and young people experiencing health or healthcare inequality. There is no religious restriction on who can benefit.

They do not typically accept unsolicited applications from charities outside their membership. Applications must come through a member NHS charity or be made in partnership with one. The funder does not support activities that replace statutory NHS provision.

Grants are made through member charities, who apply and then distribute funds to partners. Some programmes offer multi-year funding. They fund project costs aligned with their programme priorities, and they welcome partnerships between NHS bodies, voluntary organisations and other local partners. Unsolicited approaches from non-members are not accepted unless in partnership.