Axentis Michael Charitable Trust

The Axentis Michael Charitable Trust, established in loving memory of Weston-super-Mare hotelier Axentis Michael who passed away in 2003, is a highly localised funder dedicated to providing swift, compassionate financial support to individuals, families, and community groups facing urgent or exceptional hardship in Weston-super-Mare, North Somerset, and Bristol. Its mission embodies community spirit and generosity, filling critical gaps left by statutory services and mainstream funding, with core values of responsiveness, practical help, and tangible impact—having donated over £2 million since inception, often raised through its annual Memorial Ball at the Grand Pier.

The Trust prioritises children and families with life-limiting illnesses, local NHS and health initiatives (e.g., Weston Hospicecare, children's wards), specialist medical equipment, overseas treatments unavailable via NHS, therapy programmes like Breathe Magic for disabled children, adapted accessibility aids, and support for vulnerable groups post-illness or injury. Grants fund projects, core costs, one-off capital items, emergency aid, and direct personal assistance, targeting acute needs with life-changing potential for local residents.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and community groups (including grassroots ones) based strictly in the specified areas, with no income thresholds or religious restrictions; individuals may benefit via referrals. It does not accept unsolicited applications, relying instead on direct contact, community referrals, or trustee-identified needs, with no formal forms, online portals, or deadlines—decisions made on a responsive, rolling basis for urgent cases.

Typical grants range from £1,000 to £30,000, occasionally larger (e.g., £32,000 for treatments). Distinctively place-based and hands-on, the Trust stands out for its flexibility, speed, support for both people and organisations, and unwavering local focus, eschewing rigid strategies in favour of needs-led intervention where others fall short.