Big Ben Trust

Big Ben Trust is a registered UK charity established in 2007, dedicated to promoting the Jewish faith and relieving poverty, with a primary focus on the Jewish community in Hackney, London. Governed by a volunteer board of trustees adhering to Jewish ethical principles, it blends spiritual advancement with practical social welfare, distinguishing itself as a specialist faith-based funder for local Orthodox Jewish needs rather than a generalist philanthropy. Its values emphasize non-remunerated operations, targeted impact, and integration of religious practice with poverty alleviation, as evidenced in Charity Commission records and annual reports.

The Trust funds religious education and training, resources for Jewish worship and culture, and direct assistance for individuals or organizations addressing hardship, deprivation, or social exclusion. Grants support both project activities (e.g., faith-based programs, community services) and core costs for Jewish religious institutions, community centers, and welfare bodies serving Hackney's Jewish population, including occasional unrestricted funding for grassroots initiatives.

Eligible applicants are limited to UK-registered charities and community groups with a Jewish focus operating in Hackney; it prioritizes small, local entities without strict income thresholds but shows no interest in large national organizations. Unsolicited applications are not accepted—funding is invite-only at trustee discretion, with ad hoc board meetings and no published deadlines or processes. Typical grants range from £500 to £10,000, emphasizing modest, localized impact. Exclusions include commercial activities, trustee benefits, non-Jewish causes, and areas outside Hackney, setting it apart for precise alignment with faith-driven poverty relief.